Different Lock Types for Residential Properties

Are you currently in the middle of home renovations? Is increasing your property security on your list of home improvement tasks? If so, know that better security starts with the kind of locks you have on your home. Certain locks perform better for entry and exit doors, while other lock types are best used for interior rooms, bedrooms, and other privacy purposes. In the following article, you will learn about the primary lock types that homeowners install to keep their households safe. You will also learn about some secondary lock options that homeowners often use for added protection and security.

Primary Lock Types

Below you will find descriptions of the most common lock types that are used among homeowners to secure their properties. While you may already be familiar with the lock types described below, you may just learn a thing or two that may prompt you to upgrade your current locks or call in a professional for a replacement. Here are the main lock types you will encounter on residential properties:

• Knob Locks

These locks are some of the most common locks you will see. They are usually paired with a deadbolt lock, especially if they are on entry doors. Knob locks look just like regular doorknobs, except they have a small turn latch in the center that allows homeowners to lock the knob in place. These types of locks are not terribly strong and should never be the only lock used for an entrance or exit door. They are not strong enough to withstand the force of a break-in, but are excellent when used with a deadbolt lock. Some homeowners may also elect to use knob locks on bedroom and bathroom doors within their homes as a way to maintain privacy.

• Single-Cylinder Deadbolts

A single-cylinder deadbolt is a fancy name for a traditional deadbolt. You are already familiar with these kinds of locks, even if you were unsure of the name prior to reading this article. Deadbolts are versatile, easy to use, affordable, and highly effective at maintaining property security and keeping intruders out of your home.

• Double Cylinder Deadbolts

A different type of deadbolt you may not see as often is known as a double cylinder deadbolt. Unlike traditional deadbolts, these deadbolts have a key slot on either side of the lock. This means that a key is required to lock or unlock the door, regardless of which side you are on. Some homeowners may prefer these kinds of locks, especially if their front doors are directly next to windows. Intruders can break a window and easily unlock a door this way, letting themselves inside your home. With a double-cylinder deadbolt, however, you eliminate this possibility since there is no latch to turn to open the door.

• Electronic or Smart Locks

In the last decade or so, electronic locks have skyrocketed in popularity. Homeowners that can afford electronic locks have multiple options to choose from. Electronic, stand-alone deadbolt locks are a great choice if you are on a budget, but if you have money to spend, you may want to consider a smart lock system of some sort. 

Smart locks come with external connectivity capabilities that allow homeowners to stay on top of their home security in ways that weren’t possible several years ago. Homeowners with smart locks can view a remote log on their smartphones or tablets that is directly connected to their home’s smart locks. The dates and times of when certain doors were accessed is recorded and kept in the log. Homeowners can also unlock or lock their doors while on-the-go using an application and can even set timers or specific time periods for when certain doors will be unlocked.

Additional Lock Types 

The following lock types should only be used for additional security or privacy purposes within the interior of your home. They are best used when accompanying a primary lock type, such as a deadbolt. Take a look at the following two additional lock types that are most popular among homeowners for added security purposes:

• Chain Locks

Chain locks are popular for homeowners that do not have any windows near their front door or a peephole to look through when someone comes knocking at their door. Chain locks allow residents to open their doors just a few inches so they can see and talk to whoever may be on the other side without unlocking the door completely. Chain locks are easy to install and extremely affordable. You can try installing one yourself or you can always hire a locksmith to help you.

• Latch Locks

Latch locks are another good option if you want some additional security or privacy around your home. These locks can be placed on entry doors for added protection, or you may opt to use these types of locks for bathroom or bedroom doors. These locks are not particularly strong and will likely break under force, but they are great when used as a support lock or a privacy lock within the interior of your home.

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