Every 26 seconds, a burglary happens in the U.S., often due to unlocked doors or windows. Your front door lock is a crucial part of home security, and choosing the right one depends on factors like security needs, door type, budget, and lifestyle. This guide covers how to select, install, and maintain the best lock to protect your home and family.
Understanding Lock Types
Deadbolt Locks
Deadbolts represent the gold standard for residential door security. Unlike spring-loaded locks that can be easily manipulated, deadbolts require a key or thumb turn to retract the bolt, making them significantly more secure.
Single Cylinder Deadbolts feature a key cylinder on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside. They’re the most common choice for front doors because they’re convenient and secure. However, if your door has glass panels nearby, an intruder could potentially break the glass and reach the thumb turn.
Double Cylinder Deadbolts require a key on both sides, eliminating the glass panel vulnerability. The downside? You need a key to exit from the inside, which can be dangerous during emergencies like fires. Many building codes restrict their use for this reason.
Knob Locks
Knob locks integrate the locking mechanism directly into the door handle. While convenient for interior doors, they shouldn’t be your only security measure for exterior doors. The lock mechanism sits within the knob itself, making it vulnerable to attacks that target the cylindrical housing.
Most security experts recommend using knob locks only in combination with deadbolts, never as standalone protection for your front door.
Smart Locks
Smart locks have revolutionized home security by offering keyless entry through smartphone apps, keypads, or biometric scanners. Many models allow you to grant temporary access to guests, monitor who enters and exits your home, and control the lock remotely.
However, smart locks come with unique considerations. They rely on batteries or electrical power, meaning you could be locked out during power outages. Additionally, like any connected device, they’re potentially vulnerable to hacking, though reputable manufacturers implement strong encryption protocols.
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks are installed within a pocket (mortise) cut into the door, rather than through cylindrical holes. They’re commonly found in commercial buildings and older homes, offering superior strength because the lock body sits entirely within the door.
These locks typically combine multiple functions—locking, latching, and sometimes even deadbolting—into a single robust unit. While they provide excellent security, installation requires more skill and specialized tools compared to standard deadbolts.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lock
Security Needs
Your security requirements depend largely on your location and personal circumstances. Urban areas with higher crime rates may justify investing in high-security locks, while suburban homes might need only standard-grade protection.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) grades locks from 1 to 3, with Grade 1 offering the highest security. Grade 1 locks withstand more forced entry attempts and operate reliably for longer periods. Grade 2 locks provide good residential security, while Grade 3 locks offer basic protection suitable for low-risk situations.
Door Material and Thickness
Your door’s construction significantly impacts which locks you can install and how secure they’ll be. Solid wood doors provide excellent lock mounting strength, while hollow-core doors may require reinforcement plates to distribute the lock’s stress properly.
Steel doors offer superior security but may require special drill bits during installation. Fiberglass doors combine durability with easier installation but should be reinforced around lock areas to prevent cracking.
Standard residential doors are typically 1¾ inches thick, matching most lock specifications. Thicker doors may require longer screws or extended lock components.
Ease of Installation
Deadbolt installation involves drilling precise holes for the lock cylinder and bolt. While many homeowners successfully complete DIY installations, mistakes can weaken your door or result in poorly functioning locks.
Professional installation ensures proper alignment and security, especially for high-end locks or complex smart systems. Commercial locksmiths like those in Centerville can handle specialized installations and provide warranty coverage for their work.
Consider your skill level honestly—a poorly installed high-security lock provides less protection than a properly installed standard lock.
Budget
Lock prices range from under $30 for basic deadbolts to several hundred dollars for advanced smart locks. However, the most expensive option isn’t always the best choice for your specific needs.
Focus on value rather than just price. A $100 Grade 2 deadbolt from a reputable manufacturer often provides better long-term security and reliability than a $300 smart lock with poor reviews. Factor in installation costs if you’re hiring professionals, and remember that quality locks often last decades with proper maintenance.
Installation Tips
Installing a deadbolt requires careful measurement and drilling. Start by marking the lock height—typically 6 inches above the existing doorknob. Use the manufacturer’s template to mark drill locations accurately.
Essential tools include a drill with appropriate bits (usually 2⅛-inch hole saw for the cylinder and 1-inch spade bit for the bolt), a chisel for mortising the bolt plate, and a screwdriver set.
Common mistakes include drilling holes that aren’t perfectly aligned, failing to account for door swing direction, and inadequately mortising the strike plate. Take time with measurements, and test-fit components before final installation.
The strike plate—the metal plate on the door frame where the bolt extends—requires special attention. Use the longest screws provided to anchor it securely into the door frame’s structural lumber, not just the thin trim.
Maintaining Your Lock
Regular maintenance keeps your lock operating smoothly and extends its lifespan. Clean the exterior monthly with appropriate cleaners—avoid harsh chemicals that might damage finishes or internal components.
Lubricate the lock mechanism every six months using graphite spray or dry lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants that can attract dirt and eventually gum up the works.
Check for loose screws in the lock body, strike plate, and hinges quarterly. Tighten as needed, but don’t over-tighten, which can strip threads or warp components.
Signs that indicate replacement time include keys that stick or require excessive force, visible wear on the bolt or strike plate, or any damage to the lock body itself.
Advanced Security Options
Beyond choosing the right lock, consider complementary security upgrades. Security strike plates with 3-inch screws anchor deep into door framing, making kick-in attempts much more difficult.
Door frame reinforcement kits strengthen the areas around locks and hinges—common failure points during forced entry attempts. These relatively inexpensive additions significantly boost your door’s resistance to physical attacks.
While not locks themselves, security cameras and alarm systems create comprehensive protection networks. Visible cameras deter opportunistic criminals, while alarm systems alert you and authorities to intrusion attempts.
Local Services
Professional locksmiths provide valuable services beyond emergency lockouts. They can assess your current security, recommend appropriate upgrades, and ensure proper installation. Many offer security consultations that identify vulnerabilities you might overlook.
Look for licensed, insured locksmiths with good local reputations. Ask about warranties on both products and installation work, and verify they carry current insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Choose a front door lock by considering security, budget, and maintenance. Assess your needs, pick a suitable lock type, and ensure proper installation and upkeep. Upgrade old or worn locks to maintain home security.
