A peephole lets you see who is at your door without opening it — a simple, inexpensive security upgrade that takes 10 minutes to install with just a drill.
STEP 1: Mark the Drilling Point
Stand at the door and mark the center of the door at your eye level. For most adults, this is about 58-60 inches from the floor. Use a small level to ensure the mark is centered between the left and right edges of the door.
STEP 2: Drill the Hole
From here, the process moves forward. use a drill bit that matches the peephole diameter — most require a 1/2 inch hole. Drill from the inside of the door toward the outside. To prevent splintering on the exit side, drill slowly as you approach the outside surface, or clamp a scrap board against the outside of the door while drilling.
STEP 3: Insert the Peephole
Here is where the real progress begins. the peephole has two halves — the lens piece (outside) and the eyepiece (inside). Insert the lens half from the outside of the door. Thread the eyepiece from the inside into the lens piece by turning it clockwise.
STEP 4: Tighten By Hand
As you continue building on your progress, hand-tighten the two halves until they are snug against both sides of the door. If needed, use the small wrench or coin slot included with many peephole kits for a final quarter turn. Do not use pliers — they will scratch the finish.
STEP 5: Test the View
To bring everything together and finish strong, look through the peephole from inside. You should have a wide-angle view (160-200 degrees) of your porch and the area in front of the door. If the view is blurry, the two halves may not be threaded together completely — tighten slightly.
PRO TIPS
Q: What size hole do I drill for a door peephole?
A: Buy a peephole rated for your door’s thickness. Standard interior doors are 1-3/8 inches and exterior doors are 1-3/4 inches. Peepholes are adjustable but each model has a thickness range — check before buying.
Q: Can I install a peephole in a metal door?
A: For families with children or wheelchair users, install the peephole at a lower height (48-52 inches) so everyone can use it. Alternatively, install two peepholes at different heights.
Q: What is a digital peephole viewer?
A: A digital peephole viewer with a small screen replaces the traditional lens and gives a clearer, wider view without pressing your eye against the door. Some models record visitors. They cost $25-50 and install in the same 1/2 inch hole.
SUPPLIES NEEDED
Door peephole viewer
Drill and 1/2-inch drill bit
Tape measure and pencil
Small level
Scrap wood to prevent splintering
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