Qamar Javed
Along with doors and windows, door locks are essential in safeguarding your house. They act as a barrier to potential intruders while also giving you peace of mind. In the market, you will come across different types of locks with their own levels of protection. The following are the most important features that you should look out for in quality door locks.
1. Strong Locking Mechanisms
Any door lock is designed with a locking mechanism that is at its core. A qualitatively constructed lock is expected to have a strong and tough-to-bypass mechanism which does not allow unauthorized access. The locking mechanism which is widely accepted as some of the most secure is deadbolts. These locks, unlike the average spring bolt locks, necessitate a key to unlock the door. This characteristic makes them picks resistant and much more difficult to forcibly open.
Mortise locks are another reliable mechanism and are commonly used around businesses and places with high-security needs. These locks are fixed to the door for increased strength and are hard to break and tamper with which makes them ideal for these types of locks. When choosing a door lock, it is best to choose mechanisms that resist physical aggression such as kicking and drilling.
2. High-Grade Materials
The material composition of a door knobs highly determines how long lasting and secure the lock is. A high-end lock is usually constructed with solid brass, stainless steel, and hardened steel, which can withstand rust, corrosion, and constant wear. Withstands significant force, ensuring the locks integrity is maintained.
Bargain basement locks tend to be made of low-grade metals or plastic which are far too easy to break or alter. It is also important to choose locks that can withstand outdoor weather environments, for they can endure environmental elements that cause weaken the lock.
3. Key Control and Duplication Prevention
Key control is an important feature for many people because they do not want others to be able to duplicate it. Key duplication has restricted key types that can only be obtained from authorized dealers or manufacturers. This feature is beneficial for rental properties, businesses, or homes where key exclusivity is essential.
Locks that offer this ability also offer rekeying, which allows the user to alter the configuration of the locks internal components so that a new key can be operated without complete replacement of the lock. This is an inexpensive way to replace a lock that has been lost or to change any security breaches.
4. Advanced Security Technology
The advent of new engineering techniques has also ushered in new degrees of perfection in lock security. Nowadays, most good quality locks for doors are automatic, making access not only easy but also safe. Smart locks are a recent breakthrough which allow you to open doors using mobile applications, fingerprint identification, or even a keypad. Now there is no need for the conventional keys.
These locks have additional features such as activity logging, and remote locking as well as unlocking, which increase the security level of the lock. Many modern smart locks incorporate fail-safe measures such as battery back-up systems to guarantee functionality during power cuts.
There are traditional locks available as well which have an anti-pick and anti-bump option. These features dramatically decrease the chances of locks being illegally opened using specialized tools.
5. Certification and Testing Standards
Unlocking a top quality door lock should not present any security loophole besides the established standards and certifications of the lock. Seek for locks which are compliant with British Standards such as B.S. 3621 or those of ANSI American National Standards Institute Grading system which define a certain range of security and durability of the lock.
Locks BBB, A550 and i96 are extensively tested to measure their resistance against picking, drilling and forced impacts. The ANSI system classifies locks into grades, Grade 1 being the most secure lock used in commercial and high risk environments.
For external doors, you should also look into weatherproof and fireproof certifications. These classification guarantees the lock will be functional under extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
Select a door lock model that is optimal not only for the building requirements but also for the safety of your family. Focus on features of the door locks such as strong locking mechanisms, high-grade materials, key control, advanced technology and certification standards. This will ensure that the door lock serves its purpose while being able to withstand the test of time.
At Handles4u we stock a very diverse range of door locks that have unique features while providing you with the security you desire. From traditional style locks to new smart technology, our collection has it all. Our products don’t compromise on durability or elegance, so shop with us today and take the first step towards a safer home.
