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Different Lock Types You Should Know About

Locks are one of the primary ways we are able to secure our homes, businesses, and other properties. Making sure you have the right locks is important if you want to prevent theft, home invasions, or other disasters. In the following article, you will learn of the three main categories of locks and the different lock models that fit into each. Depending on your needs, budget, and other factors, installing one lock type over another may be preferable. Read on to find out more about deadbolt, secondary, and electronic locks.

Deadbolts

You likely already know what deadbolts are since most of us use them every day, but did you know that there are two different types? That’s right! While most deadbolt locks are single cylinder deadbolts, there is a second type known as a double cylinder deadbolt.

  • Single Cylinder Deadbolts

These deadbolts are the most popular high-security locks that homeowners and businesses use because they are convenient, easy to operate, and able to withstand a great deal of force and tampering. Single cylinder deadbolts are a great way to secure any property and have been trusted for decades to help home and property owners maintain their level of security.

  • Double Cylinder Deadbolts

The second type of deadbolt is known as a double cylinder deadbolt. Unlike a standard deadbolt that has a latch on one side and a key slot on the other, double cylinder deadbolts have a key slot on both sides. This means that when one wants to leave their home or secure their home once they are inside, they will need to use a key for both circumstances.

While double cylinder deadbolts require an extra step and are not as convenient as their single cylinder counterparts, they are ideal for some homeowners. If your front, back, or side doors are near windows and a criminal could easily break it, reach in and unlatch your door, you will want to have a double cylinder deadbolt in place to prevent this from happening.

Secondary Locks

Secondary locks are known as supporting locks and are used to either back-up or reinforce a primary lock, such as a deadbolt. Secondary locks should never be used by themselves to secure any entry or exit ways to your home. These locks are meant to add additional security, rather than be the sole source of it.

  • Latch or Sliding Locks

Latch and sliding locks are great for reinforcing deadbolt locks. They are also used inside of one’s home on bedroom and bathroom doors. If you do decide to use a latch or sliding lock inside of your home, know that they should only be used for privacy purposes or for reinforcement. These secondary locks by themselves can easily be broken with force and you will want to refrain from relying on them to provide anything other than added security or privacy within your home.

  • Chain Locks

Chain locks are preferred by homeowners that do not have peepholes on their front doors or a way to see who may be on the other side of their door before opening it. Chain locks allow homeowners to open their doors a few inches without completely unlocking it. That way, one can see who is on the other side and communicate with any visitors without having to risk unlocking the door completely.
Electronic Locks
The latest and most secure lock models you can purchase are electronic locks. There are several different types of electronic locks on the market today, all of which will vary in price depending on how sophisticated or complex the locking system is.

  • Stand-Alone Electronic Locks

These are the simplest electronic locks you can purchase. As with the majority of electronic lock models, these locks typically use a keypad or combination device instead of a key. Standalone models are the most affordable since they typically do not come with any extra ‘bells and whistles’ and they are not connected to any external monitoring systems.

  • Smart Locks

Smart locks operate similarly to stand-alone electronic lock models, except they offer users the option to connect their home locks to their smartphones. Using a smartphone application, homeowners can remotely view door activity around their home, set timers for when certain doors should lock or unlock, and perform a variety of other functions while away from home.

  • Biometric Locks

The final type of smart locks is known as a biometric lock. These locks use personalized identifiers as keys, rather than traditional keys or one’s smartphone. Biometric locks will either have users gain access through a fingerprint or retina scanner, making them the most secure locks you can purchase.

Always Receive Professional Lock Installations

If you want to upgrade or install new locks around your home, it is always recommended that you work with a professional locksmith. Some locks, such as chain and latch locks, may be easily installed on your own. Other installations, like deadbolts and electronic locks, should always be handled by a professional. Since your locks are the first defense against intruders and home invasions, you will want to ensure that they are placed and installed properly. Call a local locksmith in your area now to discuss your lock installation and upgrade plans.