As a homeowner, your top priority is to keep your loved ones and valuables safe and secure. To achieve this, you invest in various security measures, such as alarms, cameras, and sturdy doors. When looking specifically at doors, one of the most critical components is the lock. While there are different types of locks available, a deadbolt lock is considered the gold standard for home security.
It’s not enough to have a standard door lock—you need a deadbolt lock. But what exactly is this type of lock? How does it differ from a regular lock? In this blog post, we’ll answer these questions and highlight the importance of having a deadbolt lock for your home.
What is a deadbolt lock?
A deadbolt lock is a type of lock that provides extra security for a door. Unlike standard door locks with spring bolts, deadbolt locks feature a robust metal bolt that penetrates deeply into both the door jamb and the strike plate, significantly enhancing their resistance to forced entry.
While door locks are often operated using a latch or knob, deadbolt locks are typically engaged and disengaged using a key or a thumbturn. The bolt in a deadbolt lock is operated by rotating the key or thumbturn, which moves the bolt into or out of the door frame.
The difference between a deadbolt and a door knob
A deadbolt and a doorknob serve the same purpose of securing a door, but they differ in their mechanisms and level of security. A door knob is a common lock that uses a spring-loaded latch to keep the door closed. It can be turned from both sides, either with a key or by simply twisting the knob.
On the other hand, a deadbolt is a separate locking mechanism, usually installed above or below the doorknob. The primary difference lies in the level of security they offer. A doorknob is susceptible to various forced entry methods, such as picking, bumping, and brute force. Unlike deadbolt locks, which are more resistant to forced entry.
How do I know if I have a deadbolt lock?
Identifying a deadbolt lock is relatively simple. Here are a few characteristics that distinguish it from other types of locks:
1. Separate mechanism
A deadbolt is a separate locking mechanism, typically positioned above or below the doorknob. If you see a separate lock that operates independently of the doorknob, it is likely a deadbolt door lock.
2. Key operation
Most deadbolt locks are operated using a key. If you notice a keyhole near the doorknob or on a separate lock, it confirms the presence of a deadbolt.
3. Thumbturn
Some deadbolt door locks, particularly those used in residential settings, may have a thumbturn on the interior side of the door. This allows you to lock and unlock the deadbolt without a key. If you find a thumbturn and a separate lock, it is a deadbolt.
4. Increased security
Compared to a standard door lock, a deadbolt offers enhanced security features. Look for a lock with a thicker, solid metal bolt that extends deeply into the door frame. The presence of this robust bolt is a clear indication of a deadbolt lock.
What does a deadbolt on a door look like?
A deadbolt on a door can take on various appearances depending on the type of deadbolt and the door’s design. Here are the common types of deadbolt locks you may encounter:
1. Single-cylinder deadbolt
A single-cylinder deadbolt typically features a keyhole on the exterior side and a thumbturn on the interior side of the door. The thumbturn allows you to lock and unlock the deadbolt inside the house without needing a key. On the outside, a single-cylinder deadbolt looks like a standard lock with a keyhole.
2. Double-cylinder deadbolt
Key features of a double-cylinder deadbolt are its keyhole on both the exterior and interior sides of the door. This type of deadbolt is often recommended for doors with glass panels or windows near the lock. The exterior appearance is similar to a single-cylinder deadbolt, while the interior side requires a key to lock or unlock the door.
3. Keyless deadbolt
Keyless deadbolts come in different forms, such as electronic or mechanical push-button variants. The specific appearance will depend on the chosen keyless deadbolt, but they typically lack a keyhole and feature a keypad, touchscreen, or some other means of code entry.
4. Smart deadbolt
Smart deadbolts can have diverse designs, ranging from traditional key-operated deadbolts with added smart features to fully electronic deadbolts with touchscreens. The latter often resemble keyless deadbolts with their touchscreen or keypad interface.
5. Interconnected deadbolt
This type of deadbolt lock is designed to be used with a doorknob. It has a unit that incorporates the deadbolt and the doorknob. The exterior appearance resembles a typical door knob, while the interior side features a thumbturn or a key, depending on the interconnected deadbolt’s specific design.
Is a deadbolt better than a regular lock?
Yes, a deadbolt is generally better than a regular lock when it comes to security. Here are the reasons why:
1. They are more resistant to forced entry
Unlike regular locks, deadbolt door locks are designed to be more resistant to forced entry. The bolt of a deadbolt lock extends deeper into the door frame, making it harder for intruders to kick or force the door open.
2. They offer a higher level of pick resistance
Deadbolt door locks provide a higher level of pick resistance. The mechanisms used in deadbolt locks are different from those in regular locks, making them more challenging to pick, even for experienced burglars.
3. They provide added security against lock bumping
Lock bumping is a technique commonly used to bypass regular locks. However, deadbolt locks are built to withstand such attacks, providing added security for your home.
4. They can be paired with other security devices
If you want to enhance the security of your home, deadbolt locks can be easily paired with other security devices, such as electronic keypads or smart locks. This allows you to have multiple layers of security, making it more difficult for intruders to gain access.
5. They are resistant to lock tampering
Regular locks are more susceptible to tampering, such as drilling or wrenching, but deadbolt locks are designed to resist such attacks. The additional security features of deadbolt locks make them a more reliable choice for protecting your property.
Key Takeaway
Deadbolt locks are a secure type of lock commonly used on exterior doors. Unlike door knobs, they offer enhanced security through their sturdy construction and resistance to forced entry.
If you’re looking for a way to increase the security of your home, consider getting a deadbolt lock. It provides an extra layer of protection, making it more challenging for intruders to gain access.
Secure your home with a deadbolt lock from Alexius Denver’s Locksmiths!
Enhance your home’s security with a dependable deadbolt lock installation by Alexius Denver’s Locksmiths, the most reliable locksmith Arvada has to offer. Our expert locksmiths are here to fortify your home’s protection. Contact us now to schedule your deadbolt lock installation and safeguard your property.
