Choosing the Right
Security for You
Everyone has their
own comfort zone when it comes to Security, but we will explain
levels of security in this section.
A knob or lever
with a key locking feature will offer you minimum security.
These knobs, if installed correctly, will slow down an intruder but
would not offer much protection in a forced entry. There is less
than ½ inch of latch on the edge of the door, and allowing for space
between the door and frame, would probably only go into the strike
plate a ¼ inch. A good kick or a hip against the door will most
likely open the door in short order.
A knob or lever
installed incorrectly will allow an intruder to get in even quicker,
using a thin sheet of metal or a credit card wedged between the
latch and the frame. The latch is the part of the lock that can be
pushed in on the edge of the door.
A deadbolt lock is
also called an auxiliary lock. It is usually located above the
doorknob and offers additional protection against forced entry.
Deadbolts have a 1-inch bolt that goes into the frame and cannot be
forced back with a credit card.
There are 2 types
of deadbolts. Single cylinder (key on one side, thumbturn on the
other) and Double cylinder (key on both sides).
A single cylinder
deadbolt is generally used in a door with no glass.
A double cylinder
deadbolt would be used in a door with glass. If someone were to
break the glass to reach in and undo the lock, they would need to
have a key to unlock the door.
These locks may be
purchased at retail stores, hardware stores and at your local
locksmith. Be careful when purchasing from many large retailers
because they order many of their locks keyed alike. (Locks that
operate on the same key.) The person on line behind you purchasing a
lock may have the same key that operates your lock and vice versa.
Standard keys for
these locks may be made at most mass retailers, hardware stores,
some supermarkets and of course….
locksmiths.
Key restricted
keyways add an additional level of security to your home or
business. These locks have a special key that can only be made by an
authorized dealer and only by an authorized key holder. Medeco, Mul-T-Lock
and Schlage Primus are a few of the companies that offer added
protection by using restricted keyways and keys.
If you have any
questions regarding the type of lock to fit your needs, please call
one of the members of the North Jersey Master Locksmith Association
and they will be happy to assist you in your choice.
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