Various Kinds of Locks
Your security is only as good as your locks. Although you may not think too much about them, properly functioning, strong locks are a fundamental component of your security from which any additional protection measures have to be built from. There are many kinds of locks on the market, each with their own pros and cons. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home or business security in Marietta, GA, calling a professional locksmith for assistance is the best step you can take to improve your security. If you’re building your home from the ground up, this guide can help you plan the best locks to install as well.
Different Types of Locks
Different lock types exist for different purposes, and they all have their own applications and purposes. While some are more secure than others, it’s still good to consider all of the factors when assessing what type of door lock you want to use. These factors include price, convenience, opening method, and security. A professional locksmith will have the expert knowledge to assist you. Some doors may need a lower level of security than others. There is also the type of door that should be taken into consideration.
Physical locks are made up of a cylinder, where the key is inserted, that has a pin system inside. The pin system must match the specific grooves on your key for the door to open. This basic system has been around for many years in different configurations. Damage or heavy wear to your key can cause it to get stuck or to be unable to open your lock. Physical locks can sometimes be rekeyed to fit different keys if you need to change them.
Doorknob Locks
Doorknob locks are the most commonly found type of lock on exterior doors for both homes and many businesses. They are cheap, easy to install, and simple, so they are a popular choice. However, there are a lot of drawbacks to these types of locks. They operate via a spring-loaded system of pins inside. When you insert your key into the lock, it fits this specific configuration of pins. Usually knob locks have a thumb-turn lever on the inside. Because the lock cylinders are built into only the knob and not the door itself, knob locks are very vulnerable to brute force attacks. They are also easily defeated by criminal methods such as lock-picking and “bumping,” a method that uses an easy-to-obtain bump key to open the lock.
Lever Handle Locks
Lever handle locks are the most common lock and door opening device that you’ll find on interior doors both on residential and commercial properties. Lever handles are not very secure and can be easily defeated, however, they are an excellent option to provide access for those that have limited mobility. Instead of a doorknob to turn, they feature a lever that is usually pushed down as you push open the door.
Handle Locks
Handle locks are sometimes seen on exterior residential doors. They are a fancier type of knob lock that provides aesthetic appeal. These have a keyhole on the outside above the handle and a thumb-turn lever on the inside. Handle locks are generally more secure than regular knob locks because they use a deadbolt system.
Deadbolts
Locksmiths agree that deadbolts are a must-have for the exterior doors of every home. Deadbolts are affordable to install and provide extremely good protection against criminal attacks, including forceful attacks. Luckily, most residential properties come with deadbolts already installed. Deadbolts come in several varieties, including single-sided, double-sided, and keyless entry. Single-sided deadbolts are those most commonly found on homes and have a keyhole on the outside and a thumb-turn on the inside of the door. Double-sided deadbolts have a keyhole on both sides of the door, interior and exterior, and therefore can only be locked and unlocked using a key. This can present a safety hazard in case of emergencies. Keyless deadbolts are usually also single-sided, but use a tactile or digital keypad instead of a key cylinder on the outside into which you put a pin number.
Padlocks
Padlocks are a unique form of lock in that they are freestanding and can be attached to many different things to keep them secure. There are three types of padlocks available: combination locks, digital locks, and keyed locks. Keyed locks come in two varieties—those that can be rekeyed and those that can’t. The latter will have to be cut off by a professional locksmith or similar service to regain access to your property if your key is lost.
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks have been around for many years, and for a good reason. This is an extremely secure type of lock that is set into the door itself. To install the lock, a locksmith needs to create a mortise—a pocket—inside of the door in question to insert the lock mechanism. The outside appears as a flat keyhole.
Key Card Locks
Key card locks have gained popularity over the years at businesses where many employees work. This is a type of access control system that makes granting and revoking access extremely simple. The door is opened by swiping a programmed key card through the slot. Key card systems can have different levels of security clearance depending on the security level of each door.
Keypad Locks
Keypad locks feature a physical or digital keypad instead of a keyhole on the outside. Instead of a key, you input a pin to open the door. Keypad locks are extremely secure since you don’t have to worry about losing your key. Many keypad locks have a keyhole as a backup method in case you forget your code.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are an innovative, state-of-the art type of lock that is controlled via an app on your smart phone. The locks link up with your particular phone and make a connection to open up. These can be very convenient and are an excellent, high-security option.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of lock types, but can give you a general idea of your options. If you’re looking to upgrade or replace your current commercial or residential locks, a qualified locksmith such as Marietta Locksmith Georgia can assist you in determining the best and most cost-effective type of locks.