There are so many front door residential security options available on the market these days that it can be difficult choosing which one is right for you.
Door locks aren’t an everyday purchase. Locksmiths usually only change them after you move into a new home, have suffered a break-in, one has stopped functioning properly, or are remodeling your home. However, there are many things to consider when you’re buying a new door lock.
First and foremost, our front doors are the first line of defense against home intruders so it’s important to have a quality lock on your door so you are safe and secure.
There are two main types of locks: knobs/levers and deadbolts. Knobs and levers are secondary security, while deadbolts are your key security feature. That’s why it’s essential that you make an informed choice that will give you peace of mind. Affordable Locksmiths can help you decide which deadbolt is right for you.
LOCK GRADE 1
Grade 1 is the top ANSI (American National Standards Institute) lock rating. Commercial locks are all Grade 1 but we are seeing increased use of Grade 1 on the residential front. We recommend Grade 1 deadbolts for residential security.
- Grade 1 locks need to withstand 800,000 cycles and a 10-door-strike hammer test. While they do cost more they will last much longer than lower grade locks. The good news is that quality keypad deadbolts are typically Grade 1.
LOCK GRADE 2
- Grade 2 door knobs are rigorously tested to handle 400,000 cycles, 4 door strikes and a 250-pound weight test. Grade 2 deadbolts must handle 150,000 cycles and a 5-door-strike hammer test..
LOCK GRADE 3
Grade 3 locks are the least secure. If you have a Grade 3 lock on your home, you really should consider upgrading to grade 2 or having a locksmith install anti-bump, anti-pick pins in them in order to improve your lock’s security. These locks are the most easily picked, bumped and least enduring. If you are uncertain as to the grade of lock you have, call a licensed locksmith.
- Grade 3 locks are tested and able to handle 200,000 lock cycles, 2 door strikes and a 150-pound weight test. Grade 3 deadbolts need to be able to handle 100,000 cycles and a 2-door-strike hammer test.
FOUR RULES TO GUIDE YOU IN MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION
While many people choose style before security, or even price, it’s important to put security first. Your lock is only as good as its quality and ability to keep your home safe.
Following these simple rules will guide you to making the right choice:
- Rule #1: 90% of the time you get what you pay for. However, this mainly applies to lower end deadbolts (you can pay a great deal for a Bluetooth lock that is substandard).
- Rule #2 Choose Grade 1 deadbolts. Grade 1 offers the highest level of security and lasts the longest. Schlage deadbolts include industry-leading 1-inch deadbolts with hardened steel spinning pin, anti-drill plates and anti-pick pins to help protect against attacks such as kick-ins, prying, drilling, or picking and bumping. They also come in many styles and colors. But Schlage is not your only option. Kwikset and most other manufacturers make Grade 1 locks – just read the box it comes in or the details of any lock online.That way you can match style and function.
- Rule #3 Provide a chain lock as an added layer of security to your deadbolt. The basic principle of chain lock is to allow you to open the door slightly without having to open the door all the way. Noone will be able to come inside until you close the door and slide the chain off, allowing you to open the door all the way.
- Rule #4 Hire a licensed locksmith like Affordable Locksmiths in Medford, OR to install your deadbolts correctly. Unless you are very handy or a contractor yourself, ensuring smooth operation and proper installation requires a professional. Give us a call to discuss your options today.
