Deadbolt Locks: How to Choose the Right One for Your Door

Why a deadbolt?

A spring latch in a knob can sometimes be slipped with a thin tool. A deadbolt’s bolt is solid and only moves when the key or thumb-turn is used, which makes it much harder to force.

ANSI/BHMA grades

• Grade 1: the highest residential and light-commercial rating. A strong choice for front doors and the door into the garage.
• Grade 2: good for most residential doors.
• Grade 3: basic; fine for low-risk interior use.

Single or double cylinder?

A single-cylinder deadbolt has a key outside and a thumb-turn inside. A double-cylinder deadbolt needs a key on both sides. Double-cylinder locks can slow an exit in a fire, and fire codes may restrict them, so most homes use single-cylinder deadbolts. Ask the locksmith what’s allowed for your door.

Smart and keypad deadbolts

Keypad deadbolts let you share codes instead of keys. Choose one with a high grade, keep a mechanical key backup and change the batteries on a schedule.

The strike plate matters

Most break-ins defeat the door frame rather than the lock. A reinforced strike plate with long screws that reach the wall stud makes a big difference. Ask for it when your deadbolt is installed.

Getting it fitted

Lock changes start at $25.00 for basic locks plus the service call fee, and new lock installation on a door without a hole starts at $85.00. See the price list and residential services.