Your Top Guide To Exterior Door Locks

Having proper home security provides a certain peace-of-mind — that everything, and everyone, you value is safe and secure. Keeping your home safe starts with your entry door systems, and the materials and hardware that it’s made up of. Specifically, if your locks aren’t up to the task, your home could be vulnerable to intruders.

That being said, the main factor that will determine a door system’s security value is the type of material it’s made up of. Steel, fiberglass, or wood — there are advantages and disadvantages to each door type and design. Finding a door manufacturer and installer that creates quality products will make all the difference in keeping your home safe. When on the hunt, keep an eye out for companies like Centennial Windows & Doors — they are an example of how quality craftsmanship and materials are the main factors that make up a secure entry door system.

Once you know your door system is well-made and reliable, it’s time to look at your lock set. The reality is that different locks serve different purposes. The same lock you have in your bedroom won’t be effective for your front door, and vice versa. If you’re looking for a door lock for your entry system, there are a few things to consider before you purchase.

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Locks That Make The Grade

If you can’t tell one lock from another, don’t worry — you aren’t alone. There are many factors to take into account, and understanding each lock’s unique purpose can be challenging. Thankfully, there exists a grading system to help define the function of a specific lock. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builder Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) have categorized lock types into 3 categories:

• Grade 1: These locks are top-of-the-line and are some of the most reliable on the market. As such, they are also usually more expensive, meaning they can also be harder to find.
• Grade 2: Most exterior doors are equipped with grade 2 locks. They are reliable, cost-efficient, and commonly stocked in most hardware stores.
• Grade 3: Interior doors are often fitted with grade 3 locks. These locks have basic security, making them a simple and inexpensive lock for interior doors.

Set An Example

Locksets can often be broken down into two types: mortise and cylindrical. These two, while slightly different in design, serve similar purposes and functions. For the record, most homes are outfitted with a cylindrical design, while mortise locks are mostly used commercially. What really matters most with a lock set is the materials it’s made of. For security, either a stainless steel or brass system will work best — after that, it depends on the aesthetic you’re after!

When replacing the doors in your home, be sure to choose the right lock for your needs, and be sure to find an installer you can trust.

If you are interested in even more lifestyle-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels then we have a lot to choose from.

IMAGE: PEXELS