Your front door is the main entryway into your home, so having a high-quality and secure lock installed is absolutely essential. A good lock helps deter burglars and keep your family safe, but a poor one could make your home an easy target. With so many different lock types, brands, features and options out there these days, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which door lock is the right choice.
Do you go for maximum security or user-friendly access? What lock grade and style best fits your needs? There’s a lot to consider beyond just grabbing something off the shelf.
To help make your decision easier, here are 12 crucial factors to carefully evaluate when selecting a new door lock for your house:
1: Your Door Material
The first thing you need to think about is what your actual door is made out of – wood, metal, glass etc. This will determine what type of lock hardware is most suitable and compatible. For example, you wouldn’t want to install a large, heavy deadbolt on a lightweight wooden door as it could cause structural issues.
2: Entrance Types
Is this a lock for your front door, back door, patio or something else? The level of security needed can vary depending on the entrance point. You’ll likely want a more heavy-duty lock for your main entrance compared to a side gate, for example.
3: Lock Type
There are many different lock types, including deadbolts, lever handles, knob locks and electronic locks. Deadbolts are often considered the gold standard for security, providing a high level of resistance against forced entry. Lever handle locks are typically easier to operate and are often used in commercial settings, but can also be a good option for residential use.
Knob locks are a common choice for interior doors, but they can be less secure if used as the primary lock on exterior doors. Electronic locks offer modern convenience with features such as keyless entry, remote access, and integration with smart home systems. Each type has its own set of advantages and considerations, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your security needs and lifestyle.
4: Lock Grade
Within each lock type, there are different grades indicating the quality and security level. Grade 1 is the highest residential grade, offering the most protection against forces like kicking, prying, picking, etc. Grade 3 is on the lower end in terms of security.
5: Lock Style
Don’t forget to consider both function and aesthetics when selecting your lock style and finish. This includes the lock type itself as well as the door handles, knobs and any other hardware. You want it to operate smoothly but also complement your home’s interior/exterior.
6: Keying Options
How many copies of the key do you need? Do you want the flexibility to re-key the lock yourself in the future if needed? Some locks come keyed alike (all operating from the same key), while others offer key control features restricting unauthorised duplication.
7: Accessibility
Needs If anyone in your household has mobility, dexterity or vision issues, this should factor into your lock choice. For example, lever-style handles are generally easier to operate than knobs, and you may want to consider an electronic lock that can be opened with a keypad code.
8: Skill Installation
Many standard locks can be installed by the average DIYer. But for anything higher-end or requires drilling, your secure door locksmith on the Central Coast would have the expertise to handle more complicated installations properly.
9: Geographical Location
Depending on where you live, you may need to take environmental factors into account when selecting your lock hardware. For coastal areas, purchasing locks with better resistance to corrosion and rust is a wise idea.
10: Forced Entry Protection
Take a look at the lock’s certifications and ratings to see how resistant it is against things like drilling, prying, picking, kicking and other forms of forced attack. Higher security grade ratings will offer better protection.
11: Smart Lock Features
With the increasing popularity of smart home technology, you may want to consider an electronic lock that allows you to control and monitor access from your smartphone. However, make sure to weigh the security risks of a smart lock versus the convenience factor.
12: Brand Reputation
As with any product, not all lock brands are created equal in terms of quality and reliability. Do some research on manufacturing standards and read customer reviews to get a sense of a brand’s reputation before purchasing.
At the end of the day, the lock you choose should make you feel safe and secure in your own home without sacrificing too much in terms of function and affordability. If you need help assessing your security needs or guidance on selecting and installing the right lock system, don’t hesitate to consult a professional locksmith company like AllCoast Locksmiths.
Their experienced team serving the Central Coast can ensure you have a high-quality lock that provides peace of mind. Whether you need commercial, residential, or automotive locks, they’ve got you covered!
