If you still have the same locks on your exterior doors when you moved in, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Today’s locks offer a much greater level of protection. Let’s take a look at the four most popular types of locksets and help you in choosing the right locks for your home as suggested by This Old House.
- Dead Bolts – These are the best line of defense for your home. They are robust and make it very difficult for a burglar to pry open the door since a steel bolt sets in the jamb. There are two types of dead bolts – double cylinder and single cylinder:
Double Cylinder – This requires a key to lock and unlock a door – both inside and out. It prevents a potential intruder from breaking the door window or sidelight and reaching in to unlock the door.The drawback, however, is that it poses a dangerous situation in a fire. Fumbling with a key trying to unlock the door when flames are licking at your heels can make for a bad scene. There are some communities that prohibit double cylinder locks. If you do use this lock, make sure there is a spare key nearby and that everyone knows where it is.
Single Cylinder – These are the most common locks. It has a knob on the inside of the door that is turned to lock or unlock. It is locked or unlocked from the outside with a key.These locks are fine for doors that are not in proximity to windows that can be smashed by a burglar who just has to reach in and turn the knob to unlock the door.
- Keyed–Entry Doorknob – These are doorknobs or levers with a lock in them. They are installed on an exterior door and should be used in tandem with a deadbolt.
- Handle Sets -These are locksets with doorknobs or handles inside and swan-neck handles on the outside. Handle sets always include a deadbolt. There are types where the deadbolt and handle lock are interconnected. These are more convenient since both can be unlocked or locked simultaneously.
- Privacy Locksets -These are also known as nuisance or bed and bath locksets. This lock is generally used on interior doors such as a bedroom or bathroom to prevent accidental entry.
Choose the Right Grade
When choosing locks, quality is utmost. Look for a Grade 2, which is generally for residential use, or Grade 1, for commercial applications. Grade 1 is top quality, but, expensive. Avoid Grade 3 locks since they are of less quality.
Call us at Abington Locksmith and let us help in choosing the right locks for your home.
