Different Lock Types

Whenever you are having a new house built or renovations made to your existing home, you will likely need to have new locks installed. Most locksmiths will agree that your locks are the first defense against intrusion. If you don’t have locks on your exterior doors or you don’t have the right type of locks then this can pose a serious threat to your safety and security. Perhaps up until this point you haven’t given much consideration to your locks. Now that you need to make some decisions, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the various types of locks that are available to you today.

When you are having a house built there are so many decisions to be made that you might feel that something like locks is minor. Despite how minor you may think they are; they have a great impact on the safety and security of your home.

All this simply means is that one of the manufacturer’s decided to do more advertising than the other. This is why you are probably more familiar with their brand. However, if this is the case then it’s safe to assume that the other company used their money to improve the quality of the locks that they sell. If this is important to you then you’ll evaluate the different types of locks offered to you instead of simply relying on a lock because of the advertising that they do. Our locksmiths are capable of showing you what your options are so that you are able to make a good decision about the types of locks that you would like to have installed.

You can never let your guard down as a homeowner. You just never know if your home is going to be targeted by a thief but you can be prepared by having the right locks in place on your doors. Locks typically have a rating on them that indicates its level of durability. Locks with the higher rating offer the most durability. Since a locksmith is familiar with these ratings and what they mean, it would definitely be in your best interest to consult with one before purchasing your new locks. They will be able to explain them to you, in detail, so that you have a better understanding of the rating system. It is possible to make a well-informed decision when you are equipped with all of the necessary information. Do your research before you purchase your locks and you’ll be able to protect your home and loved ones. 

How Locks Are Designed

It may be helpful to know just how locks operate. Knowing this information might help you determine which type of lock you would like. Standard locks have a doorknob lock on them. This requires just one key to be inserted into the keyhole for you to unlock. It isn’t a very complicated lock to install. It is often installed on the interior of a home but if installed anywhere else, another lock should be installed alongside it. This is because it is not a very durable lock and it is the type of lock that can easily be broken by a thief. You may not be familiar with this and that is why it would serve you best to consult with a locksmith when you are in the market for new locks.

Below is a list of some of the most recognized types of locks:

Warded locks have a bolt inside of them that disengages when the right key is placed inside the keyhole. There is a ward that obstructs the bolt when the incorrect key is inserted. 

Pin tumbler locks have pins that have to properly align with the locking mechanism in order for it to open. If the pins don’t line up correctly, the lock will not disengage.

Lever tumbler locks also have a bolt that obstructs the movement of the lock until the right key is inserted.

Do you want a lock that will offer you security and that will not open unless the correct key is inserted or do you just want a lock that will keep a door shut? These are the types of things that you should consider when you are in the market for new locks. They will help you determine which type of lock to purchase and install. Many interior locks are simply designed to keep the doors inside shut, they don’t offer much protection against intruders. Avoid purchasing a lock that uses a passkey, as this would enable anyone with a passkey to gain access inside. In some cases, it is actually illegal to use a passkey unless you have permission. This type of key is typically used in a multi-family facility, such as an apartment building.

Electronic locks are another good option for you when you are in the market for new locks:

Push button locks use a code to lock and unlock them. There is a keypad installed and a code created. The code is programmed to open the lock once it is properly inserted into the keypad. There are some push button locks that have internal motors and magnets that help to engage the lock. 

Biometric locks are what you may be most familiar with when it comes to electronic locks. They are often seen in government buildings and other places where high profile people are or where there may be sensitive information. It uses either a person’s eye retina or fingerprint to give them access. When the programmed feature is recognized, the lock will disengage, allowing access.