Home security begins with your front door. If it looks strong and formidable and has a good lock, it puts off thieves and burglars almost immediately. And vice versa, if it looks weak, it’s a huge risk and will likely make you a target.
Luckily, there are loads of locks to choose from, depending on what you need. But picking the right one for you is really how you boost your home’s security and get peace of mind.
Let’s help you choose the best type of lock for your home and needs!
Deadbolt Locks: Sturdy & Secure
These are great because of their toughness and general durability. You’ve got two main types to choose from here: single and double-cylinder deadbolts.
Single-cylinder ones use a key on the outside and a thumb turn inside, which makes getting out in a hurry super easy.
Double-cylinder locks need a key on both sides, giving extra security, especially if you’ve got glass panels on your door where someone might try to reach in and unlock it.
So, which one do you go for?
For most homes, single-cylinder deadbolts hit the sweet spot between security and ease, especially in homes with large families.
If your door’s near a window or in a dodgy area, however, double-cylinder locks are the way to go. When installing, make sure the bolt goes all the way into the door frame and use long screws for the strike plate to keep it super secure.
If you commit to this choice, it’s best to go for proven brands like Schlage and Kwikset, which are known for making solid and trustworthy deadbolts.
Smart Locks: Security & Convenience
The future is here, and if you want maximum security, these types offer that and more.
Smart locks are quickly becoming a must-have in today’s homes because they’re super secure and really handy.
You can unlock your door with your phone, so you no longer have to fumble for keys. Plus, they have some great features like keyless entry and remote access.
Why is security top-notch with smart locks? The answer is because they use advanced encryption protocols. This ensures only the right people get in and makes tampering with them extremely hard.
Big names like Yale and August offer locks that work smoothly with voice helpers like Alexa and Google Assistant, making them really convenient to use.
Setting up a smart lock is also pretty easy. Most models are made to fit with your existing locks. You could get a pro to set it up for the best results, but lots of models are simple enough to install on your own.
You’ll feel a world of difference if you pick this type of lock, and your home will be much more secure as a result.
Knob Locks
As the name implies, they’re pretty common types of door locks. They work by pulling back a latch when you turn the knob, which lets you open the door.
They’re really affordable and easy to set up, which makes them a great budget buy. However, they’re not great for outside doors because they’re not very secure. Burglars can pick them with the right tools or just smash the knob.
So, it’s a good idea to add a deadbolt on outside doors for extra safety. Brands like Kwikset and Yale have affordable options that do a decent job.
Lastly, make sure knob locks stay in good shape by checking they’re lined up right and whether they work smoothly.
If you go for them, think about how secure you need your place. As we’ve said, they’re perfect where you want privacy, but they don’t offer super strong security.
Lever Handle Locks
This type of lock is both stylish and easy to use, which makes it the most popular choice for homes and offices.
Instead of twisting, you just push or pull, which is great for anyone who finds twisting tricky. You’ll often see them in offices, but they’re popping up more and more in houses now, too, because of their simplicity and convenience.
Lever locks are also pretty tough, especially when paired with a deadbolt. Some even let you ditch the key altogether or hook up to electronic systems, which adds an extra layer of security.
If you opt for them, go for models and brands that are proven and strong. If you’re on a tighter budget, check out brands like Kwikset and Defiant. They offer locks that are both fancy and functional without breaking the bank.
Door Material and Thickness
A great lock sure makes your home more secure, but that won’t help much without a strong frame. If you want maximum security from your new lock, you’ve got to make sure the door is also made of the right materials and has the right thickness.
Whether it’s wood, metal, or fibreglass, each material has different upkeep needs.
Wooden doors might need locks with longer bolts to reach through the frame, while metal doors might require special screws to keep everything snug. Fibreglass doors are tough, but you’ll need to make sure everything fits just right to stay secure.
Checking your door’s thickness is easy and very important when selecting a lock. Most doors are between 1 3/8 and 2 inches thick, so grab a tape measure and double-check. It’s essential that the lock’s bolt and strike plate match your door’s thickness to avoid any weak spots.
You can reinforce your front door with metal, which can really reduce the chances of someone forcing their way in. Using longer screws and hinge bolts can also beef up the frame against break-ins.
If you’re after more budget-friendly ways to boost security, consider adding a strike plate or a door barricade. These are affordable yet effective in enhancing your home’s safety, no matter what kind of door you have.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! You now know how choosing the right lock can make a world of difference when it comes to protecting what matters the most. And, if your neighbourhood has become less secure lately, it might be time to really do something about your home’s protection.
Explore your options, determine your budget, and make the change. If you have trouble, contact a qualified locksmith to help with the installation or personalised advice about how to best upgrade your home security, given your property’s specifics.
Good luck and stay safe!
