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How to Take Apart a Peephole

Kenneth Crawford

Peepholes add some security by allowing you to see who is at the door before you open it. Normally peepholes are at eye level in the center of the door. Over time they become cloudy due to moisture, the elements and age.

When this happens it is necessary to replace the peephole with a new one which necessitates taking apart the old peephole before you can insert the new one. Although they appear difficult, peepholes are actually two pieces that screw into each other.

  1. Ask a friend to stand on the outside of the door and press against the peephole with his finger. This helps prevent the outer portion from spinning like a stuck nut on a bolt.

  2. Find the two small notches on the ring of the inside portion of the peephole. The notches are across from each other.

  3. Place the tip of a flat-head screwdriver into one of the notches. Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to begin turning the inside portion of the peephole.

  4. Twist the inner peephole counterclockwise with your fingers once it is away from the door surface enough to grab. Pull the inner portion out of the door.

  5. Ask your helper to remove his finger and gently push the sleeve of the outer portion of the peephole through the door with a screwdriver. Open the door and pull the outer peephole out completely.

  6. Tip

    Replacement peepholes are available at home improvement centers.