Home security begins with choosing the right door locks. With a wide variety of locks available, it’s essential to understand the differences to ensure your home is well-protected. Whether you’re upgrading your current locks or installing new ones, selecting the right type of lock for each door can significantly improve your home’s overall security.
In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of door locks commonly used in residential properties and explain their best applications to help you make an informed choice.
1. Deadbolt Locks: The Gold Standard for Security
Deadbolt locks are one of the most secure and widely used locks for exterior doors. They offer a higher level of protection than standard latch-based locks because they cannot be easily forced open. Deadbolts operate by driving a solid metal bolt into the door frame, making it more resistant to break-ins.
Types of Deadbolts:
Single-Cylinder Deadbolt: This type of deadbolt is the most common. It uses a key on the outside and a thumb-turn on the inside, allowing you to quickly lock and unlock the door from inside your home.
Double-Cylinder Deadbolt: This variation requires a key to lock or unlock the door from both the inside and outside, providing an extra layer of security, especially for doors with windows. Even if someone breaks a window, they won’t be able to unlock the door without the key.
Deadbolts are ideal for securing front and back doors, ensuring maximum protection against forced entry. For installation of high-quality deadbolt locks, Locksmith Ninja Perth can help you choose and professionally install the best options for your home.
2. Smart Locks: Keyless Convenience with Enhanced Security
Smart locks have revolutionized home security by offering keyless entry and the ability to control and monitor your locks remotely. Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock doors using a smartphone app, PIN code, fingerprint, or even voice commands. They are perfect for homeowners who want both convenience and control.
Key Features of Smart Locks:
Remote Access: You can lock or unlock your door from anywhere, ideal for letting in guests or service providers when you’re not home.
Temporary Access Codes: Perfect for short-term rentals, guests, or cleaners, you can assign and remove access codes without changing the locks.
Integration with Smart Home Systems: Smart locks can easily integrate with other smart devices, such as security cameras, lighting systems, and alarms, creating a complete smart home security setup.
If you’re looking to upgrade to smart locks, Locksmith Ninja Perth can provide expert advice and ensure seamless installation for enhanced home security.
3. Lever Handle Locks: Easy Accessibility
Lever handle locks are often used on interior doors but can also be found on some exterior doors. They are particularly easy to use, as you simply push down the lever to open the door. Lever handles are great for homes with elderly residents or individuals who may have difficulty gripping traditional doorknobs.
Lever handle locks are usually paired with deadbolts or smart locks for enhanced security on exterior doors. On their own, they provide basic security and are commonly found on interior doors that don’t require heavy-duty locking.
4. Knob Locks: Standard Interior Locking Solution
Knob locks are commonly used on interior doors such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets. While they are easy to operate, knob locks should never be used as the primary lock for exterior doors since they can be easily forced or tampered with.
These locks are designed for privacy rather than security, offering a simple solution to keep certain areas off-limits within the home. They are often paired with deadbolts for exterior doors to provide the necessary protection.
5. Mortise Locks: Durable and Secure
Mortise locks are a durable and reliable locking option, typically used on older homes or commercial buildings. These locks require a pocket, or mortise, to be cut into the door where the lock sits. Mortise locks are extremely sturdy and offer high security due to their complex internal mechanisms.
Features of Mortise Locks:
Built-In Deadbolt: Mortise locks often include a built-in deadbolt, providing added strength and security.
Heavy-Duty Construction: The robust design makes mortise locks a great option for high-traffic areas or doors that require extra protection.
Although they can be more challenging to install, mortise locks offer excellent security for both residential and commercial properties.
6. Barrel Bolt Locks: Simple and Effective for Interior Doors
Barrel bolt locks are commonly used on interior doors or gates. They feature a simple sliding bolt mechanism that can be manually locked or unlocked from one side. While not suitable for exterior doors due to their minimal security, they are great for securing rooms or areas inside your home that need privacy or extra protection, such as storage rooms or home offices.
Barrel bolt locks can also be used on sheds, gates, or garage doors for additional security.
7. Multipoint Locks: Advanced Security for Entry Doors
Multipoint locks are an advanced locking system that secures the door at multiple points along the frame. These locks are often found on modern front doors or sliding patio doors. When you turn the key or handle, the lock secures the door at several locations, providing superior protection against forced entry.
Benefits of Multipoint Locks:
Increased Door Stability: By securing the door at multiple points, this lock helps distribute the force, reducing wear and tear on the door frame.
Enhanced Security: With multiple locking points, these systems make it significantly harder for intruders to force the door open.
Multipoint locks are particularly effective for larger, heavier doors, such as sliding glass doors or French doors. For expert installation of multipoint locks, you can rely on Locksmith Ninja Perth to ensure maximum security for your home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lock for each door in your home is essential for maintaining both safety and convenience. From deadbolts and smart locks for exterior doors to knob locks and barrel bolts for interior spaces, understanding the different types of locks and their specific applications can help you better protect your home.
For professional guidance and installation of any type of lock, Locksmith Ninja Perth is here to help. Our team of experts can recommend the best locks for your home and ensure they are installed to provide optimal security.