Choose The Right Door Lock For Your Security:
Given the right tools and ample time, just about any intruder can eventually break or force a good lock. The key word here is eventually. The National Crime Prevention Institute says intruders generally will work no longer than 60 seconds to gain entry. Quality hardware takes longer than that to crack, so most thieves avoid strong locks. The first indicator of strength is the type of lock. Pictured here are examples of different types of locks, along with information on how they’re best used.
Incidentally, burglars rarely pick locks. Why take the time when they can slip the latch, strip out a poorly made lock with a screwdriver, or pry the door open? Be sure to pick the best locks you can afford and be sure all locks are properly installed.
Look for locks made with solid metal components. For example, the bolt of a dead bolt should be solid as should the key cylinder. That makes the lock heavy, so just picking one up gives you an idea of its strength. And locks with steel components provide added strength.
Think in multiples, too. Most doors are outfitted with key-in-knob locks that are insufficient by themselves. Add a deadbolt lock, and have one of the locks rekeyed by a locksmith to a single key for convenience and security. Or, you can buy combination sets that are designed to work on a single key and look good, too.
Let’s have a look at some of the types of locks available to deter those burglars:
Look for locks made with solid metal components. For example, the bolt of a dead bolt should be solid as should the key cylinder. That makes the lock heavy, so just picking one up gives you an idea of its strength. And locks with steel components provide added strength.
Think in multiples, too. Most doors are outfitted with key-in-knob locks that are insufficient by themselves. Add a deadbolt lock, and have one of the locks rekeyed by a locksmith to a single key for convenience and security. Or, you can buy combination sets that are designed to work on a single key and look good, too.
Let’s have a look at some of the types of locks available to deter those burglars:
Dead bolts let you add security without replacing an existing key in knob lockset. A dead bolt should have a rectangular bolt with at least a 1 inch throw into the door frame. A single cylinder deadbolt opens with a key from the outside and a knob from the inside; a double cylinder model required a key on both sides.
Key in knob locks offer the least protection. Many have a simple beveled spring latch that can be slipped open by inserting a credit card between the door and frame. Better key in knob sets include a separate tongue to help prevent that. Use these only as an extra measure of security or on interior doors.
Vertical deadbolt locks make it impossible for an intruder to gain entry with a pry bar forced between the door and frame-a tactic that works with many horizontal deadbolts. The fingers on a vertical dead bolt won’t separate if pried.
Chain locks make sense only as supplements to a good dead bolt or other lock. They let you open a door far enough to see who’s there. Mount the retainer with screws long enough to penetrate the jamb studs.
Keyless locks let you forget about keys. And if you think someone has learned the combination, you can change it in a snap. And no more hiding your keys under rocks!
Sliding bar locks mount in the center of a door. Turning the key or inside knob drives long dead bolts into each jamb. These are highly jimmy-resistant, and even with the hinge pins out, you can’t get the door open. They’re not very attractive though, and make a clanking noise when operated. A lock like this is for high risk locations or perhaps for extra security on a seldom used cellar door.
Deadbolts
Key In Knob Locks
Vertical Deadbolt Locks
Chain Locks
Keyless Locks
Sliding Bar Locks
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