5 Different Lock Types You Should Know About

Locks and keys have changed a lot in the past few decades and especially over the last several years. Innovations in technology have made home security more advanced than ever before. While some properties can benefit from electronic and smart locks, for example, most still use traditional high-security locks. 

Below you will find a list of the top five lock types commonly used today. All of the lock types below can be used for either commercial or residential properties. If you are interested in upgrading your locks or simply want to know more about the locks you currently have on your property, read on!

#1 – Deadbolt Locks

You are likely already familiar with deadbolt locks. The most commonly used deadbolt lock is known as a single-cylinder deadbolt. These deadbolts have a turn knob on the interior side of the lock and a key slot on the exterior side. These are arguably the most popular locks used by home and business owners alike. Deadbolts are convenient and easy-to-use without sacrificing security. Deadbolts are found on nearly all apartments, condos, townhomes, and other rental spaces. Homeowners also prefer deadbolt locks over other types of high-security locks. 

#2 – Double Cylinder Deadbolts

There is a second type of deadbolt lock that you may not be as familiar with. Double cylinder deadbolts are similar to regular deadbolt locks, except they have a key slot on both sides of the lock. This means that homeowners need a key to lock and unlock their door from either side. While these deadbolts are not as convenient as single-cylinder deadbolts, they tend to be more secure.

Double-cylinder deadbolts are recommended for homeowners that have doors near windows. With this type of deadbolt, a criminal will be unable to break a window and reach in and unlock the door. With a single-cylinder deadbolt, a criminal can easily break a nearby window, reach in, and unlock the door. A double-cylinder deadbolt prevents this possibility from happening, adding to your overall security and safety.

#3 – Knob Locks

Another popular type of lock you are likely already familiar with is a knob lock. Knob locks most often accompany deadbolt locks on front, side, and back doors. They look just like regular doorknobs; except they have the ability to lock. Thanks to a small turn knob in the lock’s center, one can quickly secure a room or add additional reinforcement to a door that has a deadbolt lock on it.

It is important to know that knob locks should never be used by themselves to secure entry and exit doors. They are not effective by themselves at stopping break-ins or intruders. A strong enough individual can easily break through a door that is only secured with a knob lock and no other locks.

Knob locks are commonly used for interior rooms on residential properties. While they may not be effective on their own at providing increased security, they are great for privacy purposes. Bathrooms and bedrooms are the most common rooms you will find with knob locks. They allow homeowners to maintain a certain level of privacy within their homes without needing a bunch of heavy hardware on the door to do so. 

#4 – Lever Handle Locks

Lever handle locks work exactly like deadbolt locks, except they are easier to operate. Instead of having to turn a knob and twist as you would with most locks, lever handle locks require a different motion. All one must do is push down on the lever and the door will open. This simplified motion makes lever handles ideal for some individuals compared to other traditional lock types.

You will most often see lever handle locks in and around commercial properties, but you may also find that they are ideal for your home. Especially if you or member of your household have certain disabilities or physical limitations, lever handle locks are a great investment.

#5 – Electronic and Smart Locks

Electronic deadbolts, smart locks, and other advanced locking systems are becoming more and more popular every year. Electronic locks were once only used on business and commercial properties. Now, we are seeing widespread use of electronic locks for homeowners and residential property owners of all kinds. 

Electronic locks come in a lot of different varieties. Most electronic locks that you will see for residential properties come in the form of electronic deadbolt locks. These locks look similar to regular deadbolt locks and some even have the option to use a traditional key. They typically operate through the use of a keypad where residents can enter in a number code, rather than using a key to access their home.

Not all electronic locks have the ability to connect to one’s smartphone, but those that do are referred to as smart locks. Smart locks have exploded in popularity due to their ability to connect home security with the devices we carry with us everywhere. Homeowners that want to stay on top of their home security activity on-the-go now have that option with the help of smart locks. With corresponding smartphone and tablet apps, homeowners with smart locks can remotely view activity in and around their homes and even gain access to live security camera footage of their property.

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