Why Are Deadbolts more Secure?

Overall the towns in Essex County, MA are fairly safe. We are often lulled into a false sense of security because crime rates are lower than in other parts of Massachusetts. However, we must all remain vigilant about protecting our homes and businesses.

The best security that you can have for your home or business is a  high quality locking device that is actually used on a consistent basis. The major difference between locks is the degree  of difficulty in breaking into them, cost, and materials. Investing in High Security Keys and quality deadbolts which are propertly installed by a Certified Locksmith are well worth the long term investment. A deadbolt or deadlock offers a heightened level of home security because a deadbolt cannot be moved to the open position except by rotating the lock cylinder. The more common and less secure spring bolt lock uses a spring to hold the bolt in place, allowing it to be opened by applying shear force to the bolt itself. A deadbolt can therefore make a door more resistant to entry without the correct key.

Types of Door Locks

There are basically 3 different types of door locks; spring bolts with dead latches, and spring bolts without dead latches, and deadbolts.

Spring bolt locks without dead latches  are designed so that you can just shut the door without engaging or retracting the bolt. They are used for passage and considered unlockable. Spring bolts with dead latches are used for entry or security type knobs so when properly installed by a locksmith they  are not able to be retracted without a key.  They cannot be opened by using  a credit card  or other type of sliding tool. Most houses have spring bolts with dead latches and these are much easier for intruders  to maneuver and open with a credit card.

Deadbolts are the most secure because they need to be engaged when the door is shut. They have a unique locking device built into the bolt, that can’t be forced back into the door, thus preventing unwanted entry. The deadbolts sets back into the door 1 inch vs. a Spring bolt which sets back 1/2 inch. This in itself makes it much more challenging to break open.

Cost of Deadbolt vs. Quality

A Schlage deadbolt purchased and installed by a Locksmith costs around $60 and is the best lock for your home. There is a major difference in quality of deadbolts purchased from a Locksmith vs. one purchased in a big box store even if it is the same name brand.   Arrow  makes the best entry level commercial deadbolt and is also about $60.00. If  you are worried about your door being  compromised by electric tools or drilling you can upgrade your commercial deadbolt to a Mul-T Lock deadbolt or a Medeco deadbolt which  are made of hardened steel and cost around $200.

Secure Lock and Alarm is based in Beverly, Ma and is operated by Certified Locksmiths. They have been in business for 17 years and have a Locksmith Store located at 52 Bridge Street in Beverly. They  specialize in deadbolt Installation, lock re-keying, lock repair, and door repair. Emergency Mobile Locksmith Service is available 24 hours a day for the following towns in Essex County; Salem MA, Peabody, MA, Beverly, MA, Lynn, MA, Danvers, MA, Marblehead, MA, Saugus, MA, and Swampscott MA. They can be reached at 978-927-6400 or via email at sales@securelockandalarm.com.