If you have shopped for a lock for your home or business, you will have come across so-called high-security locks, and you may have wondered what a high-security lock is and how it differs from ordinary locks. High-security locks for doors are locks that are a lot more difficult to pick and therefore offer greater security. Some people disregard the term “high-security” as marketing jargon; however, high-security locks earn that designation by more outstanding performance in several critical areas, making life easier for you and more difficult for criminals.
Everything About High-Security Locks
Given that high-end locks are more expensive than ordinary locks, you may be wondering are high-end locks worth it. The answer to this is determined by how much you value the items you are locking up and trying to protect. If you place a high value on the items you are locking up, it is worth paying the extra expense for high-end locks and getting the extra security.
An old maxim states, “if you pay peanuts, you get monkeys,” or put another way, “you get what you pay for.” Both these maxims are undoubtedly true regarding high-security keys and locks. There are cheaper lock systems available, but they often supply only rudimentary security, which is inadequate if you are trying to secure valuable items or your precious property. The bottom line is that if you want to provide high-end security for your valuables and property, you will need to purchase high-security residential locks for your doors, windows, and other entry points.
Many factors must be considered when labeling a lock as “high-security,” with the following being a few of the most important.
Characteristics of High-Security Door Locks
1. Resistant to Drilling
There are two popular strategies to prevent the drilling of a lock. The first strategy is installing high-security deadbolts, which are significantly more challenging for potential thieves to drill because they are often inside the doorway and have thick steel bolts that are much more resistant to drilling.
The second way to prevent the drilling of a lock is to install an anti-drill plate. An anti-drill plate is a steel plate brazen with hardened, rough steel. The brazing process makes the steel plate exceptionally hard and resistant to drilling, and brazen steel plates not only prevent the drill from penetrating the lock but have also been known to break drills.
2. Hardware
You don’t have to be an expert locksmith to tell if a lock is strong. A general rule of thumb is the heavier the lock, the stronger the lock. Strong locks are heavier because they are made from thick, high-quality metal, which offers higher resistance to breakage or drilling.
A lightweight lock will generally be less expensive, but the trade-off is a lack of performance. For example, a lightweight lock may be made of a cheaper, thinner metal and contain plastic parts. As a result, the lock is more easily picked, penetrated, or broken, offering less security.
3. Keyboard Copies
A lockout will occur at some point in everyone’s life. The wise remember this and obtain duplicate keys to avoid the inconvenience of being locked out. However, while it is wise to have a duplicate set of keys made up, it is also important to realize that each duplicated set of keys reduces the security level the lock offers. Each key duplicate increases the likelihood that an unauthorized person may get the key and gain entrance to your home or workplace.
You can safeguard your keys against copying by ensuring that your high-security lock includes patented keyways, which means only the original machine that created the keys in the first place can create duplicate copies.
4. Bolt Tensile Strength
The bolt of a high-security lock must be sturdy, just as the metal components of the lock must be substantial and weighty. The strength of the bolt is critical to the proper functioning of the lock. A sturdy thick bolt will resist impact and tools such as saws and drills. For example, a sturdy, thick bolt can resist impact from a person’s shoulder or a battering ram and resist being penetrated or broken by a saw or drill.
It is estimated there are over 2.5 million home burglaries every year in the United States. Here are some statistics showing the most common entry points for burglaries.
- Front door: 34% of home break-ins happen through the front door. Many people either leave their front door unlocked or have an inadequate locking system, meaning potential burglars can break in simply by turning the front door handle.
- First-floor windows: 23% of home break-ins occur through an open window on the first floor.
- Back door: 22% of burglaries involve the burglar breaking in via the back door.
- Garage doors: 9% of burglaries involve the burglar gaining access through the garage.
- Basement: In 4% of burglaries, burglars enter the house through the basement.
- Any unlocked area: 6% of burglaries will involve the burglar actively searching for any unlocked area.
- Second-floor window: A further 2% of burglaries will involve burglars gaining access to a house through a second-story window.
To reduce the chances of a break-in, it is a good idea to install high-security locks on your front and back doors and sliding doors and windows.
Here are some convenient methods you can use to increase the security of your residential property:
- Install one-way deadbolts (that can only be operated from the inside)
- Upgrading your locks to a better security brand/type.
- Install a complete security system with security cameras, sensors, and an alarm.
- All these methods, when used in conjunction with the installation of high-security locks, will significantly increase your home security and decrease the chance of being burgled and having your property stolen.
The only exception to these guidelines is if you have something of considerable worth to safeguard in your home. If this is the case, installing a safe to hold valuable items when your house is unoccupied is strongly recommended.
Commercial Property with High-Security Locks
A proficient security system is paramount when running a business or commercial venture. All commercial businesses will have cash and valuable items on the premises, which means they will require a security system. Most modern businesses will have a manual and an electronic security system. The manual part will typically be comprised of high-security locks on all the access points of the premises. These locks will be complemented by electronic devices such as security cameras and sensors, and together they form a comprehensive security system.
Here are some of the more popular brands of high-security locks.
- Medeco Locks: This kind of lock is widely available and typically less expensive than other high-security door locks. Medeco locks offer an extensive portfolio of locks that give security at a reasonable price.
- Mul-t-lock: An expensive lock brand that offers some of the highest levels of protection available. Mul-t-lock locks are composed of hardened steel and are complex locks that offer a high level of resistance to picking, drilling, and blunt force.
- Bowley lock: The Bowley lock is all about the tumbler’s intricacy. The lock features an intricate pin pattern which makes it challenging to pick.
Considerations for the Cost of High-Security Door Locks
High-end extra security door locks are intended for customers who are willing to spend more money purchasing a lock because they prioritize security. Security may be desired for peace of mind or, as previously said, to protect valuable belongings. Aside from supply and demand, the price of security locks will vary according to how many safety features the lock contains. When it comes to high-security locks, increased protection almost always costs more. Heavier metals are more expensive, and complex keyways are likewise more expensive.
Conclusion
High-security locks are an essential element of any residential or business security system. A high-security lock on your front and back door substantially increases your level of security and protects whatever is locked behind it. Security locks are made from strengthened steel and are highly resistant to breakage, brute force, drilling, and sawing.
Security locks can protect your home or business, keeping unwanted people out and prying hands away from your valued possessions. High-security locks can be a protection system for your home or business or part of a manual and electronic security system. A large percentage of burglaries are crimes of opportunity; a high-security lock system takes away the opportunity and poses a significant impediment for any authorized person trying to enter your home or business.
Employ an Expert to Upgrade Your Home Security Now
Choosing the right high-security lock for your purposes can be time-consuming and confusing. However, if you require one, we can assist you in selecting the best lock for your needs. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you are seeking a qualified locksmith in Denver who can provide excellent services for your company. We have the best and most thoroughly trained locksmiths who will be at your door in a jiffy to help you select the best locks suitable for your needs.
