How to Choose the Right Lock for your Home’s Safety

Guest Blogger #652, Entry #1552, September 3, 2012

If you walk down the door accessories aisle of your local hardware or home improvement store, you’ll see dozens of choices when it comes to door locks. You’ll find locks in various styles and finishes, some with keys and some without. Unless you know exactly what you’re looking for, the choices can be quite overwhelming. While you may be tempted to buy the cheapest lock that the store carries, curb your urge until you understand how well the different types of locks can protect your home and family.

Do you know what kind of lock you need?

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Deadbolts

Deadbolts are the standard lock for most entryway doors. The lock typically works with a key from the outside and a knob from the inside. These locks provide ample security for homes that have solid entry doors. If your door has a window located near the lock, you may want to rethink the traditional deadbolt. An intruder can easily shatter your window, reach inside and turn the mechanism. If your door is solid, a deadbolt lock can be a great value at under $30, depending on the style that you choose.

Keyed Locks

If your entry door does have a window next to the lock, a keyed lock will protect your home and family better than a traditional deadbolt. These locks work in the same manner as deadbolts but utilize keys to open and close the lock on both sides of the door. Although you may find it slightly inconvenient to have to lock your doors with a key before you go to bed at night, you’ll be able to rest easier knowing that your family is safe. Keyed locks can be found for the same price as traditional deadbolts at any home improvement store.

Keypad Locks

Keypad locks are a convenient way to provide security for your home. Keypad locks range in price just over $100 to close to $200. These locks are secured and unsecured by punching in a code that you program after you install the mechanism. Because batteries power these locks, they can also be opened with a key. The locks are convenient for parents who don’t want to worry about their young children losing a house key.

Locks come in different varieties

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Apps

You may not know it, but you can buy a lock for your entry doors that works with your mobile device. These kits typically start at around $200 and come with the mechanism and application. Once downloaded, the app works as a virtual key from anywhere in the world. You can send your children, or anyone else, a “key” to their mobile device, allowing them entry to your home when you are away. The best thing about these virtual keys is the capability you have to designate how long they remain active.

Window Film

Even if you lock your windows before you leave the house or go to bed for the night, any intruder can break the glass and gain entry into your home. For about $9 a square-foot, you can purchase security film for your windows that is able to withstand up to 400 foot-pounds of force. Though the film should be installed by a professional, thus adding to its cost, it is incredibly effective when it comes to protecting your home.

The next time you’re shopping for locks for your home, don’t be tempted to buy the cheapest one that you see. As with many other things in life, you get what you pay for when it comes to locks for your home. The lock you choose should be based on fit, functionality and level of security that it provides. By understanding the types of locks that are available and how they work, you will be better equipped to choose the best lock for your home.

Laura Newkirk is a guest writer for locksmith.net where you can find the best San Diego locksmith.

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