Many homeowners or business owners may get confused when it comes to the different types of locking mechanisms. The two most common locks you will run into are the deadbolt and the deadlock.
Both locks will require a key in order to unlock, and both can be used as very effective ways to secure your home from unauthorized entry. But which is better for your specific purpose? And what differences will you notice between the two?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences between the two, and how they can benefit you when it comes to security. We will also touch on the potential risks of that extra security when it comes to your home and family.
Deadbolts
A deadbolt is a common locking option for external doors. They can be fitted onto the same door as a standard doorknob can be, and will offer an extremely high level of security from intruders.
A deadbolt consists of a single heavy duty metal locking bolt that reaches from the door to the wood or metal door frame of the house. It includes a thumb latch on the interior side, and a keyhole on the exterior side.
Normally, a deadbolt is used at night to secure occupants indoors safely. The occupants indoors would simply turn the thumb latch to engage the lock without needing a key.
Deadbolts can also be secured when you exit the house as well, but will require the use of a key to engage the locking mechanism. Since the metal bolt goes from the door into the doorframe, it provides a very secure close while you are away.
Deadlocks
Created in the early 19th century, a deadlock is similar to a deadbolt in that it is made of a single heavy duty bolt that extends from the door and into the framing around it. This provides a very secure closure making it very difficult for intruders to get in.
Deadlocks can be used as a standard locking mechanism, or be placed into “deadlock mode” which adds an extra layer of security, but absolutely requires a key to be used in order to disengage the lock and open the door.
However, this extreme level of security can also be risky. Instead of having a thumb latch like a deadbolt, when in deadlock mode, this lock requires a key to be used on both the exterior and interior sides. This means that during an emergency, it may add additional seconds to your exit time when you have to find the key and unlock the mechanism on the door.
When setting your deadlock into deadlock mode, always be sure keys are nearby and all occupants in the house know where to find them. This can help ensure the door is unlocked and opened in case of an unexpected emergency such as a fire, storm, or unauthorized access from another point of the home or business.
