The Deadbolt – Do you Need One: A Locksmith’s Perspective

Local LocksmithIf you’re concerned about the security of your home, you may be wondering if you really need a deadbolt. The simple answer is: yes! The longer answer? There are advantages to deadbolt locks that your everyday latch lock simply doesn’t have. A deadbolt presents would be burglars with an additional obstacle that will prevent them from violating your home and offer you peace of mind. Here’s some key information to help you unlock the secrets of the deadbolt.

Why Install a Deadbolt

What makes a deadbolt different? Simple–the solid steel bar that makes up the bolt of the deadbolt is harder to move, making it more difficult to break into your home. While the standard latch lock is easily budged by a clever lock pick with a credit card, a deadbolt requires your key to retract the bolt from the steel plate or some serious force to break the door. Because a key is required to extend and withdraw the deadbolt, you’ll have more peace of mind and tangible security. When you add a deadbolt in addition to your standard lock, you put one more barrier between you and potential disaster. Burglary can be unsettling and heartbreaking–we recommend any measure that can help you avoid it. It’s clear to see why we recommend installing a deadbolt with Advanced Lock and Security.

Deadbolt Design

There are two principle designs of deadbolts; these designs are the single cylinder and dual cylinder. The single cylinder lock has a key lock cylinder on the outside and a thumb knob on the inside. A double cylinder lock has two key cylinders, which means a burglar can’t just break the glass on your door to reach in and turn a thumb knob to open your door. However, a double cylinder lock can cause problems. If there is fire or smoke danger in your house and your deadbolt key has gone missing, you may be unwittingly trapped. For this reason, some counties prohibit their installation for living area security. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each. You can also surface mount your deadbolt, which only requires drilling one hole through your door to mount, preserving the strength of your door to help prevent forceful break ins. Installing a single cylinder deadbolt is an easy and dependable way to keep your home secure.

Choose Stronger Doors and Stronger Locks

While a deadbolt certainly provides a stronger lock, your home is only as secure as the strength of your door and doorjamb. As you consider installing a deadbolt, make sure your door and door hinges are strong enough to withstand the application of force. You should also ensure that your door jamb is tight, secure, and sturdy. Of course, it doesn’t help to install a deadbolt if the quality of your deadbolt is shoddy or subpar. Make sure your deadbolt is an enhancement to your security and not a liability. If you’re looking for additional security, you’ll need a deadbolt as part of the security solutions offered by us at Advanced Lock and Security. So, do you need a deadbolt? The answer is yes.