Types of Door Locks and How Secure They Are

According to the FBI, despite a ten-year decline, there were more than 900,000 burglaries perpetrated in the US in 2020. Door locks can help keep this trend going by discouraging would-be intruders while also preserving privacy.

But there are many different kinds of locks available. To select the best one for your property, it is a must that you know the distinctions between each type. Discover the most popular door locks, how they operate, and when to use them by reading this post.

Various Types of Door Locks

If you are looking for a wooden door lock, the types of locks mentioned below are some of the best and reliable locks you can consider.

Knob locks

The most widely used form of door lock on the market and the main security measure fordoors are knob locks. The lock cylinder is inside the knob. Therefore, knob locks should not be used on exterior doors since they are simple to pick with a hammer or wrench.

Camlocks

Cam locks are fasteners with a rotating cam arm. They are cylindrical and have a metal tube with a hole to help place the bolt.

These locks restrict unwanted access to vending machines, desks, filing cabinets, and display cases. In most cabinets, they are undetectable. Some cam locks totally secure cabinet doors, making them ideal for protecting sensitive materials.

Deadbolts

Deadbolts give superior burglary security. Lock bolts move without a spring with a knob or key. Their unique locking mechanism makes them less vulnerable to a knife or hand tool.

Single, double, and vertical deadbolts exist. Simple single-cylinder deadbolts are keyed from one side. Double-cylinder deadbolts have two keys. Vertical deadbolts work like single and double deadbolts but move vertically. This orientation resists crowbar intrusion.

Padlocks

Freestanding padlocks. They’re not permanently affixed to a door or container, unlike other locks. Keyed and combination models are available. Keyed padlocks are keyed identically, keyed differently, and keyable.

Padlocks are recognizable by their mobility and looped-handle shackle configuration. Guarded or veiled padlocks have elevated shoulders surrounding the shackle to resist bolt cutters.

Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are available in light-duty and heavy-duty types for external doors. They’re more of a lockset than a lock because of their internal structure.

These locksets give more security than cylindrical locks alone. They’re threaded and use door mortise. The box lock is put in a mortise in the door’s edge and fixed with a set screw and cam. The cylinder comes in different sizes to fit different doors.

Keypad Locks

Keypad door locks can be opened without a key. They can be battery-powered or mechanical and use deadbolt, knob, or mortise locks. These door locks allow increased versatility and keyless entry, while many also include keyholes. Building managers can restrict entry with keypad locks that enable numerous codes.

Smartlocks

Smart locks are electronic door locks with several locking and unlocking options. Many smart locks contain a keypad and keyhole, but the main benefit is that they can be locked and unlocked by phone or key fob. Smart locks can connect to home automation systems via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. These locks need batteries to operate and should be replaced regularly.

Door Lock Tips

Door handedness, or the direction the door opens, is another important component. Some locks are handed, whereas others are not. Deadbolt locks can be fitted on door handedness. Right-aligned hinges indicate a right-handed door and left-aligned hinges indicate a left-handed door.

Home and office door locks are essential. Before choosing a door lock for your institution, conduct your research. It helps you choose the optimal safety, security, and privacy option.

Susanna

Susanna

Susanna is a content marketer and freelance writer with more than five years of experience. She has a passion for creating interesting and engaging content, and has worked with both small businesses and top-tier publications. Sheridan is also an experienced editor and has a knack for finding the most interesting stories to share. When she's not writing or editing, she can be found playing guitar or spending time with her two cats.

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