The front door is the first entryway to your home, so it’s important to pick hardware that complements the overall look and feel of the exterior. You’ll also want to choose locks that provide security and convenience for your family and guests.
Smart locks can be a great option for homeowners who are looking to increase their security without sacrificing the appearance of their front doors. They are available in a variety of styles and finishes to complement any home decor.
They can be controlled through an app or fob, making it easy to lock and unlock doors remotely. They can also be integrated with other home automation features, such as automatic light control or temperature controls.
These locks can be easily paired with traditional keyed deadbolts to create smart locks that combine keyless entry with a higher level of security. They can also be rekeyed easily by simply removing the key and replacing it with a new one.
Choosing the Right Door Lock for Your Home
Every home will have a different set of conditions that determine what type of security locks it needs. You should consult with a professional locksmith for guidance and recommendations. They can help you choose the best lock for your specific situation, whether it’s a single family home with an extensive yard or a multi-family apartment complex in a quiet neighborhood.
The most common type of lock used on exterior doors is the pin tumbler cylinder. It works by restricting an inner cylinder from rotating when a key is inserted in the lock.
If you want a more traditional style of lock, consider a mortise or cylindrical lock. These types of locksets can be more difficult to install, but they are a more secure option for your home because they’re built to resist repeated drilling and bumping.
You should always consider a lock’s ANSI Grade rating when choosing a lock for your home. These ratings indicate how resistant the lock is to picking and how hard it will be to break through a door.
It’s also a good idea to consider the strength of the materials used to make your locks, such as the strength of the cylinders and bolts. For example, a steel lock cylinder with a solid-core bolt is much harder to drill than one with an aluminum core and a pin.
There are a few ways to make your lock more durable, including installing extra pins and using larger bolts. You can also add a locking plate to the interior of your lock to make it more impenetrable to sawing or chiseling tools.
Having a smart lock is a convenient and efficient way to ensure that you never leave the house unlocked, even if your phone battery dies or your power goes out. You can check your app on your smartphone to see who has come and gone, allowing you to let in friends or family quickly and easily.
If you’re considering a smart lock, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a remote or fob that will work with your lock and your smartphone. You may also need to purchase a keypad, which will let you unlock your lock by entering a personal code. Depending on the type of lock you choose, you can also integrate your lock with other home automation devices like light controls or thermostats.