When securing your front door, the type of lock you choose directly affects your home’s security. With such a variety of door combination locks on the market, it’s easy to get a little lost. With this article, you will learn how to choose a front door lock that is right for you. Let’s explore some popular front door locks, such as deadbolt locks, knob locks, padlocks, etc.

Types of Front Door Locks

All combination door locks offer unique features that cater to varying security needs, from traditional deadbolts to cutting-edge biometric locks. Let's talk in more detail about door lock parts and discuss their construction, advantages, and ideal use cases.

Deadbolt Locks

Deadbolt locks are known for their robust construction. Parts of a deadbolt lock include a solid metal bolt that extends into the door jamb or strike plate when the lock is engaged. Deadbolt locks are commonly used on external doors, such as front and back doors, where high security is essential. 

Pros:

• Enhanced Security. Deadbolts offer excellent resistance against forced entry and are more secure compared to regular locks like latches and spring bolts.
• Durability. Their solid construction makes them resistant to wear and tear. 
• Various Options. Deadbolts come in standard, vertical, and high-security variants, catering to different security needs.

Cons:

• Safety Concerns. Double-cylinder deadbolts can pose safety hazards in emergencies, as a key is required to exit from the inside.
• Installation Complexity. Proper installation of deadbolts requires precision to ensure optimal security.

Deadbolt locks come in various types, each offering different levels of security. Let's explore the three main types: standard, vertical, and high-security deadbolt locks, along with their differences. 

Standard Deadbolt Locks

Standard deadbolt locks consist of a single-cylinder design. Parts of a lock include a key cylinder on the outside of the door and a thumb turn on the inside. These deadbolts are commonly used in residential settings and offer a basic level of security for exterior doors.

While they provide more security than other types of locks like knob locks, they are considered less secure than high-security deadbolts. On the other hand, standard deadbolts are easier to install compared to high-security variants. They also are generally more affordable than high-security deadbolts.

Vertical Deadbolt Locks

Vertical deadbolt locks, also known as Jimmy-proof deadbolts, have a vertical bolt that interlocks with the strike plate on the door frame. Vertical deadbolts are commonly used on double doors, French doors, or doors with glass panels, where standard deadbolts might be more vulnerable to forced entry.

The vertical bolt provides additional resistance against prying and spreading the door open. However, installing vertical deadbolts may require more effort and modification to the door frame.

High-Security Deadbolt Locks

High-security deadbolt locks are designed with additional features to enhance their resistance to forced entry. They are used in situations where maximum security is required, such as commercial buildings, government facilities, or homes with high-security needs.

High-security deadbolts have reinforced strike plates, heavy-duty screws, and hardened steel bolts. This makes them highly resistant to drilling, picking, and physical attacks. They are designed with anti-pick pins and mechanisms to prevent bump key attacks. Additionally, high-security deadbolts often have restricted key systems. They help ensure that the duplication of keys is tightly controlled, adding an extra layer of security.

Due to their advanced features and materials, high-security deadbolts are more expensive than standard deadbolts.

What Makes A Deadbolt Lock Different Than A Regular Lock?

Deadbolt locks are different from regular locks in their construction and security features. Deadbolt locks have a solid metal bolt that extends deeply into the door jamb or strike plate. This structure provides exceptional resistance against forced entry attempts like kicking or prying. This sturdy bolt, along with reinforced strike plates and heavy-duty screws in high-security variants, makes deadbolts significantly more secure than regular locks like latches and spring bolts.

Now, let’s dive into other types of locks the market has to offer. 

Knob Locks

Knob locks are commonly found in residential settings. They have a doorknob with an integrated locking mechanism inside.

Knob locks are mostly used on interior doors like bedrooms and bathrooms. They are not door lock parts recommended as the sole security measure for external doors due to their vulnerability to break-ins.

Pros:

• Easy to Operate. Knob locks are user-friendly and straightforward to operate.
• Aesthetically Pleasing. They come in various designs, adding to the overall aesthetics of the door.

Cons:

• Low Security. Knob locks are relatively easy to pick or force open, making them less secure for external doors.

Padlocks

Padlocks are portable locks with a shackle that can be opened and closed without attaching permanently to a door. Padlocks are versatile and can be used in various settings, such as securing gates, sheds, or lockers.

Pros:

• Portability. Their detachable nature allows for flexible use in different locations.
• Easy Replacement. If compromised, padlocks can be easily replaced without altering the entire door hardware.

Cons:

• Limited Use for Front Doors. Door padlocks are not secure because they can be vulnerable to attacks.

Spring Bolt Locks

Spring bolt locks use a spring-loaded bolt to keep the door locked, and the bolt is retracted when the knob or lever is turned. They are commonly used in residential interior doors and are not recommended for external doors.

Pros:

• Convenient. Spring bolt locks are easy to use and automatically lock when the door is closed.

Cons:

• Low Security. These locks are relatively simple and not highly secure against break-ins.

Lever Handle Locks

Lever handle locks have a handle instead of a knob, making them easier to operate, especially for people with mobility issues. Lever handle locks are often used in commercial settings but can also be found in residential buildings.

Pros:

• Accessibility. Their design makes them accessible and easier to use, suitable for the elderly and disabled individuals.

Cons:

• Vulnerability to Forced Entry. Some lever handle locks may be susceptible to picking or bypassing.

Cam Locks

Cam locks are cylindrical locks with a metal piece (the cam) that rotates to lock or unlock the door. Cam locks are commonly used in cabinets, drawers, and mailboxes.

Pros:

• Easy Installation. Cam locks are simple to install and use.
• Versatility. They can be used in a wide range of applications.

Cons:

• Limited Security. Cam locks are not as secure as deadbolts and are not suitable for external doors.

Wall-Mounted Locks

Wall-mounted locks are typically installed in walls or doors with cutouts to house the lock. These locks are often used in sliding doors, cabinets, or as secondary locks for added security.

Pros:

• Discreet. Wall- mounted locks can be hidden from view, providing a discreet security solution.

Cons:

• Installation Complexity. Proper installation may require professional help and modification of the door or wall.

Cylinder Locks

Cylinder locks have a cylindrical shape with a keyway for inserting the key to operate the lock.

They are widely used in various applications, including both residential and commercial settings.

Pros:

• Versatility. Cylinder locks come in different forms, such as pin tumbler or wafer tumbler, providing versatile options.
• Rekeying. Many cylinder locks can be rekeyed easily, allowing you to change the key without replacing the entire lock.

Cons:

• Security Vulnerabilities. The security level of cylinder locks can vary depending on the quality and type.

Smart Locks

Smart locks use electronic components, such as keypads, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, to control the locking mechanism. They are used in various settings, offering convenience and remote access control.

Pros:

• Convenience. Smart locks provide keyless entry and remote locking/unlocking capabilities.
• Integration. They can be integrated into home automation systems for seamless control.

Cons:

• Power Dependency. Smart locks require power sources (batteries or electricity), which can be a concern during power outages.

Biometric Locks

Biometric locks use fingerprint, retina, or facial recognition technology to authenticate users. They are commonly used in high-security settings or for personal safes. 

Pros: 

• High Security. Biometric locks provide a high level of security, as they require unique biological identifiers for access. 
• Convenience. Users don't need to remember keys or codes; their biometrics serve as the access method. 

Cons: 

• Cost. Biometric locks can be more expensive than traditional locks. 
• Reliability. Some biometric locks may have issues with accuracy and recognition in certain conditions. For example, fingerprint scanners might struggle to read wet or dirty fingers, or facial recognition systems may struggle in low light or direct sunlight.

Sum Up