You need a reliable locking mechanism and the expertise of a locksmith to keep your home safe and secure at all times. A reliable lock can keep intruders out of your home; and with it, prevent a variety of crimes, including theft.
Two of the most common locking mechanisms are deadbolt and deadlatch. These locking mechanisms are also required by insurance companies when applying for full home insurance cover.
Read on below to find out everything you need to know about deadlocks and deadlatches.
What Is A Deadbolt?
A deadbolt can be described as a lock that requires a key to lock and unlock. These locks are normally installed on doors that also have a doorknob locking set, to increase the security of the door.
What Is A Deadlatch?
Unlike the deadbolt described above, you don’t need a key to lock a deadlatch. A deadlatch is a type of lock that normally deadlocks itself when the door is closed. A key is only needed for unlocking it from deadlock mode. These locks are normally found on front doors that do not have any functional handles.
Types Of Deadbolt Locks
– Rim Deadbolt: Usually installed on the inside of the door, a rim deadbolt lock normally locks automatically when the door is shut. This is not considered to be the best or sturdiest lock since it can be easily pried open.
– Vertical Deadbolt: Similar to the above lock, a vertical deadbolt also locks automatically when the door is shut. However, it provides a higher level of security as it is not easily forced open.
– Keyless Deadbolt: This type of lock comes with a keypad in place of a keyhole. The keypad is used to enter a numerical passkey; thus, making this option more convenient and secure. Keyless deadbolts also come with a variety of additional features, like a built-in alarm.
– Single Cylinder Deadbolt: This lock uses a turning mechanism to lock it from the inside, and a key mechanism to lock and unlock it from the outside.
– Double Cylinder Deadbolt: For added security, this type of deadbolt lock uses a key mechanism to lock and unlock the door from the inside as well as from the outside.
Types Of Deadlatch Locks
– Mortice Deadlatch: Installed on the side of the door, the mortice deadlatch comes with a lock in the form of a rectangular-shaped cavity.
– Bored Deadlatch: Designed to be operated using a key and thumb turn, a bored deadlatch has round bored openings on the door.
Benefits Of Deadbolt Locks
– Enhanced Security: Deadbolts are normally more secure than spring-loaded locks. Their unique design also enables the bolt to extend further into the door frame.
– Lower risk of locking yourself out: Since they do not lock automatically, deadbolts make it harder for you to lock yourself out in case you are in a hurry.
– Lower Insurance Premiums: Deadlocked doors provide enhanced home security. As such, the use of deadbolts can help reduce your insurance premium.
Benefits Of Deadlatch Locks
– Convenience: Since these locks can automatically lock themselves, you don’t have to worry about leaving your home unlocked whenever you rush out.
Deadbolt Or Deadlatch?
If you want to deadlock your door automatically by simply pulling it shut, you should go for a deadlatch. On the other hand, you should go for a deadbolt if you want to add an extra layer of security to a door that already has a knob set in place.
It’s Time To Upgrade Your Home Security
Are you ready to upgrade your home’s security, and with it, enhance your peace of mind? Casey Locksmiths is here to help.
Please call us today on 0416 161 332 or contact us through our enquiry form.