Despite the reduced rate of crime worldwide, the rate of breaking and entering, or should I say burglary, is still pretty high. According to Statista, the burglary rate in the United States as of 2022 was 269.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Door locks can play a huge role in bringing this statistic down while also helping households maintain their privacy.
It’s important to have door locks in place, whether it’s for a house, garage, office, or barn. They provide essential safety and security to lives and properties. Thankfully, with recent technological developments and the need for functionality, there are various types of door locks made available to match various requirements of different individuals or households.
This article aims to provide information about different types of door locks and their security features. So, without taking too much of your time, let’s dive right into the topic.
What are the different types of door locks?
1. Door knobs or knob locks
Door knobs or knob locks are one of the most common types, and you can find them in almost all residents. The lock cylinder for this type of door is located on the knob itself and not the door. So, for this reason, this type of lock is not ideal for front doors or other doors leading outside. However, they are great for doors inside the house.
Advantages
- Quite easy to work with.
- They are very affordable, which is one of the main reasons they are very common.
- It can match any door type.
Disadvantages
- Difficult to operate when your hands are wet.
- Door knobs retain heat in hot weather conditions, making them uncomfortable to use.
2. Cam locks
Another popular kind of door lock is the Cam lock, which should not be confused with any camera-looking locks. They consist of fasteners attached to an arm or cam that rotates to lock. You will not only find this type of lock on doors but also drawers, lids, cabinets, etc. They are not the most high-end security options, but they do provide adequate security.
Advantages
- Easy to install
- Highly resistant to external elements
- Very durable
- Inexpensive
Disadvantages
- Not the most secure, it can be picked open or forced open
- Can be difficult to remove once they have been installed
3. Deadbolt lock
The deadbolt lock features a distinct lock mechanism that makes it harder to break. They can resist battering and physical attacks, making them one of the best protection against a break-in or a burglary. This type of door lock is generally used in combination with door knobs, and you will mostly find this combination in offices or external doors at residents.
Advantages
- They are simple to find
- Installation is relatively easy
- They pair easily with door knobs, maintaining the security of the resident
Disadvantages
- Not ideal for all door types
- Lack of thumb mechanism
- Stronger than regular locks but aren’t entirely impenetrable
4. Rim or Mortise locks
The rim or mortise lock is a powerful lock mechanism used for external or commercial doors. They come in light-duty or heavy-duty models, comprising of an internal system attached or mounted inside the door, making them more of a lockset rather than just a lock.
Advantages
- Very secure
- Available in different models, heavy-duty or light-duty
Disadvantages
- Very costly
- Because of the technical need for this type of door lock, they are relatively harder to install
5. Keypad locks
Another very common type of door lock you will come across in many residential environments is the keypad lock. These locks can only be opened using an attached numerical keypad rather than a regular key like other types of door locks. There are many models of keypad lock available on the market, so you may want to select one that suits your needs and budget.
Advantages
- Enhanced versatility and easy entry without a key
- Relatively easy and straightforward to operate
Disadvantages
- There is the possibility of forgetting your combination
- Difficult to install
- Expensive
6. Smart locks
Smart locks are a modern technological upgrade that not only acts as a high-end security option but also acts as a more convenient option. They have automated systems that are activated via smartphones and biometric readers. This means that you do not have to carry keys around. You can automatically lock and open your door at certain times.
Advantages
- Easy and stress-free door lock mechanism
- Lock and unlock your door from the comfort of your office, bedroom, or garage
- Some feature cameras and alarms, making them very secure
Disadvantages
- It can be hacked, although it is not an easy process and can be done only by a professional
- Very costly
- Power dependency
FAQs
Which type of door lock is most secure for front doors?
In terms of security, the deadbolt lock is the most secure type of door lock.
Can smart lock doors be hacked?
It is possible to hack a smart lock door, but this is not an easy feat for just anyone.
What is the most common house door lock?
The door knob is the most common house door lock, but they are mostly used for internal doors since they are not the most secure.
Can deadbolt doors be opened easily by burglars?
Not easily, most burglars are even discouraged when they come across this door lock, but that doesn’t mean they cannot be picked.
Conclusion – Types Of Door Locks
No one likes hearing news of burglars breaking into their home or that of their neighbors. Properties can be stolen, worst-case scenario, someone could be hurt, and this is why it’s best to avoid cases like these. Thankfully, there are many types of door locks to choose from, and they all fall under the six main categories highlighted in this article.
Remember that the door is one important layer of protection, so ensure you invest properly and select the best door lock that suits your lifestyle, security, and privacy needs. Have questions? Need clarity? Get in touch with us now.
Thanks for reading.