You pull into your driveway or your parking space after a long day at work. With keys in hand, you open your front door. Locks have become part of our daily routine, haven’t they? We rely on them, but don’t always think about what it is they do.
There are many different types of locks that are available today. Some are small and portable, while others feature new technologies and advanced security. Which type of lock is right for needs?
What Are the Different Types of Locks?
- Deadbolts Many homes use a deadbolt as an extra layer of security, using a bolt to add a layer of force resistance to the door using a bolt that goes into the frame opposite the door.
- Jimmy-Proof Used as a surface-style deadbolt, this type of lock can be installed on most doors, in most cases requires additional preparationsin lock replacement, because the old keyhole is not always fits. One of the most secure locks on the market.
- Knobs A knob is a simple version of a spring lock. They are often used with additional deadbolt lock for exterior doors, but should never be used on its own as the only exterior lock. Knob locks are generally reserved for indoor locking needs when on their own.
- Rim Cylinder These locks have a long tailpiece which extends through the door and into the locking mechanism on the other side when the installation of the lock has been completed.
- Mortise Cylinder This lock type is visually similar to rim cylinder lock. The main difference is that the cylinders are side threaded and screw into the hardware that’s on the door.
- Combination locks These require a specific number sequence to unlatch the lock. There are single-dial and multiple-dial models.
- Padlocks This portable lock comes in a variety of styles and requires a key to be opened or a code combination . Some advanced models can be rekeyed, while others may not allow the key to be removed while the lock is open.
- Single Cylinder This lock requires a key on the outside and offers a turn on the inside to operate. Most locks that are used in the United States for home security are single cylinder locks.
- Double Cylinder This type of lock requires a key on the inside and the outside of the door instead of offering a turn on the inside. Common in doors with or near a window. Housing codes do not always allow for this type of lock.
- Locking Turn This hybrid type of lock has some features of a single cylinder, while offering the locking improvements of a double cylinder.
- Lever Handle These locks are often used in commercial settings. They operate much like a knob lock and offer a basic level of security.
- T-Handle This type of lock is completely removed when it is unlocked. They come in spring-latch and dead-latch models and are often found on vending machines, garage doors or ATMs.
- Interchangeable Core These locks come with two types of keys. A standard key will operate the lock as if it were a single cylinder lock. A control key will remove the cylinder so that it can be replaced to a new cylinder easily without dismantling or replacing the entire lock.
- Rim Latch This lock has a rim latch on one side of the door and a lock mounted on the other side to lock it. Many of these locks are designed to lock automatically, from the outside can be opened only with a key.
- KIK Cylinders KIK stands for Key in Knob. It is the type of cylinder that is found in most standard locks that are used to improve home security today. They come in many different styles, shapes, and sizes.
- Digital Locks If you’ve ever used a lock at a hotel, then you’ve used a digital lock. They are typically opened by using a PIN or swipe card.
- Single Euro This type of lock allows for operations on only one side of the lock by using a key, very popular in sliding doors and storm doors.
- Double Euro These locks require a key to be used on both sides of the lock, much like a double cylinder lock, very popular in sliding doors and storm doors.
- Furniture Lock This is the type of lock you’ll find on a filing cabinet or desk. It can either be a push-button lock or a bolt-style lock.
- Smart Lock This new technology allows your smart phone to operate your locks through a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. You can often operate your locks from anywhere there is a data connection through a secure app.
Which Type of Lock is Right for You?
Locks provide us with the safety and security we need. Although some options provide more security than others, each of these lock styles adds an extra level of safety for our daily routines.
Your Chicago locksmith can help you find the best type of lock to use for your home or business. We can also help you to choose and install your new locks, whether you’re using a standard deadbolt or a new smart lock. Contact us today and we’ll be happy to send you a licensed locksmith to choose the best lock for your needs and to answer any questions you may have.