The Most Common Lock Types

We are surrounded by locks and keys every day. The basics of security in any setting start with these two elements, especially when it comes to our homes. The most common lock types available on the market today help us to protect our loved ones and assets. Learn more about these locks and where they are most often used in the following article below.

Most Common Interior Locks

There are certain lock types that only belong on the interior side of doors. The lock types listed below should always be placed inside of a door one wishes to keep private. These types of locks tend to be very affordable, easy to install, and afford homeowners an extra layer of security or necessary privacy. They should not be used as the primary lock on a door leading outside unless they are paired with a deadbolt lock.

Knob Locks

Bathrooms and bedroom doors are the most common places you will find knob locks. These locks look exactly like regular doorknobs, expect they have the ability to lock. The lock is not particularly strong compared to a deadbolt, but it is strong enough to prevent someone using little to moderate force from entering the room or turning the doorknob.

Latch Locks

Latch locks are simple locks that sit near the top of one’s door and door frame. A small latch on the door connects to a slot in the door frame when the door is shut. If someone were to pick the deadbolt lock paired with the latch lock, the latch lock would remain intact. Latch locks come in a couple of different styles, but are generally easy to install and inexpensive.

You can use latch locks on front or back doors as an added security measure or they can be used in place of a knob lock on bathroom or bedroom doors. If you want to add extra security or privacy to a space, but do not necessarily want to change out the doorknob for a knob lock, a latch lock is a good choice.

Chain Locks

Chain locks work similarly to latch locks, expect a chain is used instead of a latch. Chain locks are used almost exclusively for front doors, since they allow you to open your door a couple of inches without unlocking it completely. This mechanism lets homeowners see and speak to whoever may be on the other side of the door without risking their security. You can not only remain behind a locked door while interacting with someone, but close it quickly and swiftly if they begin to approach the doorway.

Most Common High-Security Locks

The lock types below are best for doors leading outside of one’s home. While there may be circumstances in which homeowners may want one of these lock types placed somewhere inside their home, it is not common. Placing either deadbolt locks or electronic locks of some sort on the front, back, and side doors leading to your home will guarantee your home security. For these types of locks, it is always best to have a professional help you with installations. Some interior locks may be easy to install on your own, but when it comes to doors that ultimately protect you from intruders, be sure to call a professional locksmith to help you.

Deadbolt locks

Deadbolts are the standard kind of locks used by homeowners to secure their homes. Deadbolts do a great job at keeping homes secure and safe. They are the standard lock used to secure apartments and residential properties, as well. A single cylinder deadbolt is the proper name for the kind of deadbolts you see every day.

There is also another type of deadbolt you may not be as familiar with, which is known as a double-cylinder deadbolt. Instead of having a turn knob on the interior side of the lock, double-cylinder deadbolts have a key slot on both sides. This means that one must use a key to lock and unlock the door, no matter which side they stand on. These types of deadbolts are more secure, but also far less convenient, which is why they are the least popular choice of the two.

Electronic or Smart Locks

If you are looking for the most secure locks on the market, you will want to look into electronic or smart locks. Smart locks have become exceptionally popular in the past several years, as homeowners have sought to integrate their home security with advancements in technology. There are plenty of smart lock models to choose from that can suit any budget or level of security need.

Homeowners can get a lot of great use out of installing smart locks. Most models can connect to one’s smartphone and allow homeowners access to a variety of features that were impossible on residential properties prior to their creation. Through a smartphone app, homeowners that install smart locks can view when certain doors have been accessed, schedule timers for when certain doors will lock and unlock, and even remotely view live footage from their home security cameras, right from their smartphones.

If smart locks appeal to you and your home security needs, be sure to contact an expert to help you install them. Unlike other kinds of home locks, smart locks will require the expertise of a professional in order to be properly installed. Contacting a locksmith that has experience installing electronic locks is recommended.

Contact a Local Expert Now

Mooresville, North Carolina residents, business owners, and vehicle drivers that need to get in touch with an expert locksmith immediately can contact Locksmith Mooresville. We offer emergency lockout services, lock installations, rekeying services, and much more. Your safety and security are guaranteed when you rely on our experts in Mooresville to oversee your locksmithing projects and installations. We promise to connect you with a certified and insured locksmith you can trust that will provide exceptional repairs and replacements. Reserve your spot now and call our trusted locksmiths today!