Protect the Inside From Outsiders

A deadbolt lock is one of the most important investments you can make for each of your home's exterior doors. Deadbolt locks are manufactured in such a way as to provide added security over traditional doorknob locks. They are typically reinforced, which provides greater protection against unwanted intrusion. Here are a few things you should think about when you're choosing deadbolts with your locksmith.

Cylinder Style

Deadbolt locks are available in two different styles. Single-cylinder deadbolts feature a flip control to lock the deadbolt from inside and a key cylinder to unlock it from the outside. Double-cylinder deadbolts, on the other hand, feature a lock cylinder on both sides. If your front door features a window alongside the door on the side where your deadbolt lock is, you may want to invest in a double-cylinder lock so that nobody can break the window and flip the lock open through that opening.

However, you also need to consider fire safety. If you have to escape your home quickly, you don't want to have to struggle with a key to unlock the deadbolt in order to get out the front door. Discuss these options with your locksmith to determine which lock style is going to be best for your home.

Mounting Hardware

Another thing to think about is the hardware that accompanies your deadbolts. In order to get optimal security from your deadbolts, you should invest in models that use long screws for securing the strike plate. The screws should be several inches long to provide sufficient support for the lock, and the screw holes should be offset on the strike plate so that they are inserted in different sections of the doorframe wood. This reduces the chances of anyone being able to break the doorframe and lock with brute force.

Key Structure

The final consideration you need to think about is the key structure for your locks. Do you want your deadbolt lock to have the same key as your doorknobs? Remember that this is a security vulnerability because anyone with a key to the doorknob can access your deadbolt as well. However, having the deadbolt require a separate key will mean that's another key that you could lose. Make sure you think about your organizational skills and ensure that you choose the right key structure for your safety concerns.

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