Types of Door Locks

Hey, let’s talk door locks, New York style. You know, living in the Big Apple, security is no joke. It’s not just about looking tough—it’s about staying safe. Whether you’re dealing with an apartment door, a front gate, or even a sliding patio door, the type of lock you pick is the first line of defense. Let me break down some of the most common types of door locks you should know, and yeah, I’ll hit you with a few tips on what’s best for your situation.

Types of Door Locks

Deadbolts

Ah, the deadbolt—this is the king of door locks, especially if you’re looking to secure an exterior door. You’ve got two main types: single-cylinder and double-cylinder. A single-cylinder is what most of us have. You turn a key from the outside, and on the inside, you just twist a knob. It’s simple but secure enough for most homes. The double-cylinder version? That one needs a key from both sides—so even if someone busts a window near the lock, they can’t just twist it open from the inside. Trust me, if you’re in a spot with easy window access, you might want to consider this extra layer of security.

For your business or if you’ve got glass panels on your door, this is a no-brainer. Just make sure you’re not scrambling for your keys during a fire drill.

Smart Locks

Welcome to the future, my friends. If you’re into gadgets and tech, then smart locks are where it’s at. These babies let you lock or unlock your door with your phone. Some models even let you give digital keys to your guests remotely. No more handing out spare keys like candy. But, keep this in mind—Wi-Fi-enabled locks rely on power and internet access. If either goes down, you’re toast unless there’s a manual key option built-in.

For example, if you’ve got an Airbnb spot or run a business with multiple entry points, smart locks are convenient, but don’t skimp on the backup. You can combine these with traditional locks for added peace of mind.

Knob Locks

These locks are everywhere. You’ve probably got one on every interior door in your apartment. While they’re cheap and easy to install, they don’t stand a chance against someone with even a basic set of burglary tools. Knob locks are fine for keeping nosy roommates or siblings out, but you wouldn’t trust them to secure your front door—at least not without a deadbolt to back it up.

Pairing a knob lock with a deadbolt is the most common setup for exterior doors, especially in city apartments. On their own? They’re more like decoration.

Mortise Locks

Now we’re getting into some serious business with mortise locks. These are commonly found in commercial spaces, but if you’ve got an older building or a fancy brownstone, you might already have one. They’re more secure than your typical knob lock because they’re set into the door itself, making them harder to tamper with.

If you’re running a business, mortise locks are worth the upgrade. They come in various styles, some even having day/night settings for extra control over who comes and goes during off-hours. Not bad if you ask me.

Keyless Entry Systems

You’re juggling groceries, your phone’s ringing, and you’re late for a meeting. Enter keyless entry systems—open your door with just a code, fingerprint, or even face recognition. These locks are all about convenience, but they don’t slack on security either. You can set up temporary codes for visitors and ditch the key ring.

For a sleek, modern option, a keyless system is hard to beat. Just make sure you’ve got battery backups or another way to get in if the tech decides to take a nap.

Chain Locks and Barrel Bolts

You know those little chain locks you see on hotel doors? Well, they’re okay for letting in fresh air while keeping people out—but let’s be real, they’re not exactly heavy-duty. A chain lock is fine if you want to crack the door open to yell at the delivery guy for being late, but don’t rely on it as your only security measure.

Same goes for barrel bolts. These are more of a second layer of protection, something to slap on the inside of your door for when you’re home and want extra peace of mind. But a thief with a crowbar could bypass them pretty easily.

Sliding Door Locks

Got a patio? You might want to look into a sliding door lock. Standard sliding doors can be a weak point in your security game since they’re easy to force open. Upgrading to a stronger two-bolt system, or even adding a smart lock designed for sliding doors, can make a big difference.

If you’ve got sliding glass doors, consider adding these to keep any unwanted guests from simply sliding their way into your living room.

Common Lock Types

FAQ’S

What are the most secure types of door locks?

The best locks for security are deadbolts, especially double-cylinder deadbolts, and mortise locks. Deadbolts offer high resistance against forced entry, while mortise locks provide multiple locking points. If you’re looking for top-tier security, consider Pick4 Locksmith to install these heavy-duty options. Remember, deadbolts are a must for exterior doors, and mortise locks give you that extra peace of mind if aesthetics and security matter to you.

Can smart locks be hacked?

Yeah, anything with Wi-Fi can be hacked if you ain’t careful. Smart locks are convenient, but if your network isn’t secure, someone with the right skills could find a way in. Use strong passwords, keep your software updated, and if you’re worried, Pick4 Locksmith can offer tips on how to lock down your smart system.

Are keypad locks reliable?

Keypad locks are pretty solid, but they come with their own set of issues. You gotta remember the code, and if the batteries die, you’re in a pickle. But for rental properties or businesses where you need to change access frequently, keypad locks are a good option. Just make sure you got a backup plan for when things go wrong, or give Pick4 Locksmith a call to help you out.

How do I know which lock is right for my door?

It depends on what you’re locking up. For your front door, you can’t go wrong with a deadbolt or a mortise lock. For interior doors, a knob lock or lever handle is fine. And if you want to impress your friends or need remote access, a smart or keypad lock might be your jam. If you’re still unsure, Pick4 Locksmith is here to help you figure out the best fit for your needs.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, your door lock is your first line of defense, so don’t cheap out. Whether you’re going for old-school deadbolts or the latest smart lock, Pick4 Locksmith can handle it. We’re here to make sure you get the right security setup, whether it’s for your home or business. So don’t wait—give us a call and get your security locked down today.

For more info on keeping your place secure, check out our articles on how to pick a lock with a bobby pin or how to open a frozen car door. Stay safe, New York.