There are different types of locks for protecting your home and office. Which of these, however, suits your needs? Desert Locksmith will guide you on the best options for the security of homes and offices. This blog gives you a fair idea of the types of locks and their applications. Read on.
You cannot think of living in a home without adequate security. It is rare to see a property without a locking system on the main exit doors. Similarly, you secure your commercial premises with locking mechanisms to safeguard your property.
With so many different types of locks for security, it might be difficult to determine which lock type works best for you. Residential or residential locksmith services play a pivotal role in managing the security of your property. They select the best door locks or a combination to keep your homes and offices safe and give you peace of mind.
But isn’t it nice if you know what are the types of locks available to secure your homes and offices? Let’s guide you on this. Here are the top ten different types of lock solutions.
1. Padlocks
A popular and common type of lock is the padlock. It is latched on to the door only when it has to be locked. The padlock comes in various shapes and sizes. They come in two types-
Combination padlock-
It doesn’t require a key. They have a number combination for opening the door lock.
Keypad lock-
It opens only when its specific key is inserted and rotated.
The padlocks are the quickest and easiest tool for home security. But they can be easily broken. They are mostly used for cabinets, outhouses, sheds, and other places where security is not topmost on your mind.
2. Barrel bolt locks
These are traditional locks that can be used as an additional safety measure for main doors. These are generally used for interior doors in homes and offices. A barrel attached to one side of the door slides into its cylindrical socket on the door frame blocking the door from opening. These are also called sliding bolt locks or shoot bolts and it secures the door from only a single side.
3. Chain locks
These are common fixtures in hotel rooms or main doors of apartment residences. They are nothing but an additional layer of security. A chain through the door frame latches onto its socket on the door preventing the door from opening fully. This is useful when you want to open the door slightly to see who is standing outside before opening it fully.
4. Knob locks
The most common in modern locks, the knob lock is used in internal doors. It is because the lock cylinder is located in the knob itself and not on the door. So, they can be easily broken with a basic tool like a hammer and wrench. The knob locks have single-cylinder and double-cylinder mechanisms. You can use them for locking the door but they are not to be counted as secure.
5. Lever handle locks
The lever handle locks have a pushdown style handle to open and close the door. These are frequently used in offices and commercial shops and even for internal doors at homes. Though sturdier than knob locks, these are sometimes risky. It would be better to go with a high-quality lever handle lock for your home. Consult residential locksmith services to know if they match your home security requirements.
6. Deadbolt locks
The lock mechanism in a deadbolt lock is fitted inside the door. They have lock bolts that move when they are turned by a knob or key. They come in three types-
Single-
They are activated from one side through a key
Double-
A key can be used to unlock the door from both sides.
Vertical-
The lock moves up and down instead of horizontally.
The deadbolt locks are not the strongest but offer enough protection against burglary and break-ins.
7. Mortise and rim locks
It is the most preferred for large doors, fancy buildings, and glass doors. In mortise locks, the cylinder locks are safely inserted inside the door in the mortise (hole to insert the lock) while a long metal piece acts as a cover and extends outside. But in a rim lock, the lock body rests outside on the surface of the door. Both the rim and mortise locks can be used for office door lock systems. Commercial locksmith services advise you on what is best for the security of your office. Consult them before you take the final decision on locking solutions for your commercial premises
8. Latch locks
The locking mechanism in a latch lock is similar to the deadbolt lock. The key fits into the cylinder and the inside components move to engage the latch or bolt within the door. The latch moves inside or pulls itself outside the door frame to lock and unlock it.
9. Cam locks Cam locks
The cam locks are simple locking mechanisms used especially for your shelf doors and cabinets. You’ll also find them in the postal service mailboxes. It has a small key that when turned, brings out a metal piece that blocks the drawer or door from being opened. Of course, this cannot be used as a home security system.
10. Smart locks or electronic locks
The advanced smart locks use keyless entry mechanisms. They are more technological and less mechanical. They have a numbered keypad to press in the entry code. Some even have a scanner to swipe and enter. These work best for homeowners and offices when you have to grant access to relatives, employees, or contractors without having to be present to unlock the door each time. Another advantage is such systems can keep track of the number of times the door was opened or locked including the time. Residential locksmith services will guide you on what type of smart lock works best for the security of your home.
End note
Door locks are an essential part of keeping your family and property safe. Isn’t it better that you use the best locks for security then? Worry not, we have you covered.
Desert Locksmith is a professional locksmith service to help you find the right lock solutions for your internal and external doors. They will work with you to design the ideal lock to meet your needs.
Since locks serve a crucial security role, install one wisely.