Similarly, there are a variety of lock types out there to consider for your home, business or automobile. In today’s post, we’ll take a look at the five most common types of locks and their security features, from deadbolts to mortise and more.

5 Different Types of Locks and Their Security Features

Here are five different types of locks, along with their unique security features:

1. Deadbolts: renowned for their strength and durability, deadbolts come in three primary types: single-cylinder, double-cylinder and keyless. Single-cylinder deadbolts are operated with a key from the outside and a thumb turn from the inside. Double-cylinder deadbolts require a key for both sides, offering increased security but also posing safety concerns in emergencies. Keyless deadbolts use codes or electronic means for access, adding convenience and security.
2. Padlocks: versatile enough for various applications, padlocks come in different sizes and materials, such as brass, steel or aluminum. Some padlocks offer key-retaining features, ensuring the key can only be removed when the padlock is properly locked. Others have shrouded shackles, making them more resistant to cutting or prying.
3. Mortise Locks: Commonly found in commercial settings, mortise locks are installed within the door, offering robust security due to their intricate internal mechanisms. These locks often come with multiple locking points, making them resistant to brute force attacks.
4. Smart Locks: a way to integrate technology into traditional locking systems, smart locks can be controlled remotely via smartphones or connected devices, allowing for convenient access control. Advanced encryption and authentication protocols enhance security and some models offer features like activity logs and temporary access codes.
5. Cam Locks: commonly used in cabinets, mailboxes and furniture, cam locks feature a cylindrical locking mechanism and come with various lengths of cylinder to accommodate different door thicknesses. Some cam locks offer key-retaining options and can be keyed alike for convenience.

Choosing the Right Lock for Your Needs

So, which type of lock is right for you? Selecting the appropriate lock depends on several factors, including the level of security required, the type of door or entry point and personal preferences for convenience or technology integration. Consulting with a professional locksmith, such as A-1 Locksmith, can help assess your specific security needs and recommend the most suitable lock type for your property.

When you’re ready, give us a call to discuss your lock options. Or, even better, stop by one of our Dallas-Fort Worth locations and we’ll be happy to show you how they all work.

Hardware Security and Your Home

There are many components that make up locks in general, and deadbolts are no exception. People often ask us which part of the deadbolt provides the most security. Is it the knob? The lever? The lock above it? The actual deadbolt is what will protect your home, as it helps prevent criminals from breaking in by force. To learn more about the specifics of hardware security and see what components make up a deadbolt, watch our video on the topic here:

Pros and Cons of Standard Deadbolts

Standard deadbolts are the traditional deadbolt option, and they’re often called mechanical deadbolts as well. You’re likely familiar with these types of deadbolts, so let’s just get into some of their advantages:

• Most time-tested and affordable deadbolt option
• More style options and customizability
• Easier to install than keyless deadbolts
• Limited people have access

And here are some of the disadvantages of standard deadbolts

• You have to carry a key around
• A spare key is an additional risk
• Only someone with a physical key has access
• It’s easier to get locked out 
• Not compatible with smart home technology

Pros and Cons of Keyless Deadbolts

Keyless deadbolts are becoming more and more popular these days. There are a variety of brands of keyless deadbolts and features can vary depending on the model. Here are some of the advantages that keyless deadbolts provide:

• Often compatible with smartphones, bluetooth technology and/or other systems
• Can be locked or unlock remotely; easy to give access and change codes
• Great for securing small businesses with few employees
• You don’t have to hide a spare key (though key overrides are available)

And here are some of the disadvantages to keyless deadbolts:

• May require professional installation
• Can be more expensive than standard deadbolts
• Batteries need to be changed at a manufacturer recommended timeline
• Weather may impact functionality depending on model
• Someone can learn the code if it’s written down or there is keypad wear

If you’re deciding on the best hardware security for your home or business, contact us today or visit any of our area locations and we’ll help you out.

Thinking your home lock has been tampered with can give you tremendous anxiety and stress. Here are the signs to look for that your lock has been tampered with, as well as what you should do about it.

Signs of Lock Tampering

When someone tampers with your locks, the signs can be obvious or they can be subtle. If you know what to look for, however, you’ll be under less stress and be more confident about the steps you should take. Here are some common signs of lock tampering:

• Bent deadbolts or framing: If a potential home invader tried to use brute force to gain entry into your home, you’ll be able to tell by looking at the door frame or deadbolts/latches. If there’s any bent metal or warped wood, it could be a sign of tampering. Even wood splinters on the ground can be an indication that someone tried to gain entry via brute force.
• Scratch marks around the keyhole: A sign that someone may have been trying to pick the lock is tiny scratch marks or abnormalities near the keyhole. This entry method doesn’t leave many traces, so it requires some attention to detail.
• Shiny metal edges around the keyhole: A technique known as “bumping” can leave signs similar to picking. The criminals use a dummy key and hammer on the lock until it opens. There can be no signs of picking or bumping attempts if the person has lots of experience, however.
• Lock doesn’t function properly: Regardless of the method, a sign that a lock has been tampered with is that it doesn’t function. This could be because of another reason, but if there are accompanying signs, it’s a good bed someone tried to gain access.

Steps to Take

So, what happens once you determine that someone has been tampering with the locks of your home? Hare are some good steps to consider:

1. Contact the authorities: If the signs are obvious, there is damage to your home or something has been stolen, you may want to file a police report. If there are only subtle signs or you’re not sure, keep a log of when you noticed it for a future report.
2. Be wary about even entering your home: If you suspect your lock was tampered with then there is the possibility that entrance was gained and that the intruder may still be on premise. In this circumstance, follow our first step above and ensure you do not enter the home until authorities arrive. 
3. Call a professional locksmith: Have a residential locksmith check out the lock to confirm whether it looks like it was tampered with and repair it, if necessary. Maintaining security is of utmost importance.
4. Take an inventory of valuables: Go through your home and see if anything valuable was stolen or if any personal items are missing. This will help you with any police reports and you’ll confirm whether the break-in attempt was successful or not.
5. Consider upgrading your lock: You might want to consider upgrading to a high-security lock that is bump-proof or pick-proof. Digital locks are also an option. A professional locksmith can help with this as well.
6. Take other security measures: You might also want to install a security system, digital lock, secondary lock or video doorbell. Peace of mind is a good investment and this can deter future tampering attempts.

If you think someone has tampered with your locks, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at  (972) 284-7500 to repair or replace them.

OK, none of this is true, but it does bring up a great point about deadbolts. 

Deadbolts are the type of lock homeowners depend on most to prevent intruders from entering their home. But what happens when they fail? Let’s take a look at when to repair deadbolts, when to replace them and when to call in a professional.

When to Repair Deadbolts

There are a few situations where it is possible to repair the deadbolt. For example, if the deadbolt keeps getting stuck, it may just need some lubricant like WD-40. Another example is when the strike plate and door jamb need to be realigned. Or, it might not be an issue with the deadbolt at all. For example, if a key is worn down, it may not unlock the deadbolt as effectively as it did in the past. In that case, you might need to get another set of keys made. 

When to Replace Deadbolts

Obviously, it’d be great if your deadbolt issue was an easy issue that you could repair yourself, but that’s not always the case. There are several components involved with deadbolts that aren’t easily visible to an untrained eye. If you tried the solutions mentioned in the section above and they didn’t work, it might be time to replace. Other common signs that a deadbolt needs to be replaced include:

• Overly rusted deadbolts
• Broken locks or deadbolts
• Broken door frames
• Locks that refuse to turn
• Bent tailpieces
• Deadbolts in new homes
• Deadbolts with misplaced keys

When to Call the Professionals

Whether you’d like to attempt a deadbolt repair or need to replace your deadbolt locks, hiring a professional locksmith company to do the job might be the best decision. Home security is of utmost importance, so you need a trustworthy, experienced locksmith to do the job if you want to enjoy peace of mind. Plus, a locksmith will be able to more easily identify the source of the problem and advise on customized solutions that you won’t find online. At the end of the day, investing a little in deadbolts that work properly now can help you avoid bigger investments down the road if the deadbolts fail.
If you need to repair a deadbolt or replace a deadbolt in your home, you can trust the team at A-1 Locksmith Security & Safes to do the job safely and efficiently the first time. Give us a call at 972-284-7500 to schedule an appointment today!

Want to know which is the best lock for your home?  Need the perfect latch for that storage space?  Maybe you want extra security for that room that houses your prized ant-hill collection.  Well never fear!  We at A-1 Locksmith are here to break down some of the most common lock types along with their general uses, pros, and cons, to arm you with some serious safety know-how for your next locksmith service call or lock purchase.

Deadbolts – A Tried and True Classic

If you’ve ever been locked out of your house as a kid, you know the frustration of finding out mom latched the deadbolt on her way out.  Deadbolts are standard issue when it comes to home security in most US houses.  Deadbolts operate by inserting a key into the lock causing the internal mechanism to turn and shift a bolt from the interior of the door to the exterior, latching into the corresponding bolt hole of the door frame.  Inexpensive and commonly used, deadbolts require correct installation to be effective in cases such as forced entry.  Properly installed strike plates are an essential element as well as quality locks themselves as cheaper models are susceptible to even the most novice of lock picks.

Multi-Point Door Locks – The Modern Upgrade

Multi-point door locks are an up-and-coming advancement to the typical deadbolt style lock.  Instead of one central lock structure, multi-point locks are built into the entire vertical height of your door.  This allows for several latching areas along the frame, all controlled by a single keyhole, adding an extra layer of security.  Multi-point door locks are typically seen in newer doors and frames and are limited to composite construction since installation inside a wooden door would weaken the structure.

Keyless Entry – Trendy and Hi-Tech

Keyless entry isn’t as much of a locking mechanism as it is a system for use with an existing lock device.  Keyless entry locks allow you to enter a code, or in some cases use biometrics such as a fingerprint or key fob, to cause the internal locking mechanism to turn, unlocking your door.  Handy and convenient, keyless entry can also be set up with separate codes for various users, great for monitoring employee access or keeping track of when your teenagers come home past their curfew.  Keyless entries are only as safe as their codes, however, and sharing of that information from the less security savvy in your group can undermine the security of your entire office, building or residence.  Low-quality keyless entry systems also have equally as techy overrides by unscrupulous, would-be thieves.

Padlocks – Portable and Durable Security

For more portable lock needs, padlocks are an excellent way to secure property on the go.  From bikes to lockers to storage sheds, padlocks use either a code or key to securely latch the lock arm into the internal mechanism, allowing users to connect to a chain or lock between two pieces of a door mechanism to prevent opening.  Padlocks vary in security and users should ensure their system is lock-pick safe and of high-quality metal and materials.  While you can buy padlocks at low prices in most home improvement stores, for anything in need of serious security, you should consult with an experienced locksmith about more advanced mechanisms.

Cam Locks – Security with Simplicity

The last of our common types of locks is one which you’ve probably never heard of but have seen and used daily.  Cam locks are typically found on drawers, dressers, file cabinets and more.  They work by allowing movement or preventing a metal piece on the rear of the lock (the cam) from turning.  Cam locks are typically partnered with a strike plate that the cam fits into when turned into the locked position, keeping the drawer or door from opening.  Cam locks are generally low security and easily forced open.  When properly installed they provide an adequate level of theft deterrence, but not much in the way for a serious would-be thief.

Which Lock is Right for You?

While we’ve given you a brief overview of the most common lock systems, there are many sub categories to choose from in addition to numerous other types of less common locking systems that may fit your security needs.  For the best fit for your business, home or property security system, call A-1 for a free consultation.  The experienced locksmith professionals can help assess your current locking system and will be able to help you chose the best lock for your job.