Finding the Right Locks for Home and Business

With the amount of different locks that there are so choose from, you might find it difficult to find the right lock for your needs. If you live in or around Aurora, CO, you can count on the expert locksmiths of Aurora Master Locksmith to provide you with the help that you need in determining which type of lock to have installed. We would advise you to take some time to at least read about the different types of locks that you can choose from before you decide on a particular type. While we encourage you to do your research, we know that it can be rather time consuming when you have absolutely no idea what is available to you. We have simplified this process for you by highlighting some of the most popular types of home and business locks used today. You might already have lever, deadbolt, knob or padlock lock on your doors but not know how they work. Read below for additional information.

Deadbolt Locks

You’ll be able to choose between three types of deadbolt locks. There is a single, double or thumb turn deadbolt lock. It is the single cylinder lock that you will found installed in most homes. A key cylinder is used on the outside of the door with the thumb turn inside. This is what helps you open the door. You will be required to have a key in order to open either side of the door. This could be problematic if there is an emergency and you need to make a quick exit. The problem would result when you are unable to locate one of the keys. A thumb turn lock has both the single and double cylinder. This type of deadbolt lock can be locked with the use of a key.

Rim Locks/Mortise Locks

This type of lock is usually used on doors of commercial businesses or apartments. The two locks are similar in some regards but they use different hardware. A rim cylinder lock is installed on the inside of a door. There is a long piece that shoots out the back of the lock and connects to the locking mechanism on the other side. The mortise lock uses hardware on the inside. A cam is used to connect the locking mechanism and is kept together with a set of screws. Mortise locks come in different lengths and cams, based on the type of hardware the lock has.

Padlocks

A padlock is made of strong, sturdy materials but is not a permanent lock. This type of lock can be removed and placed on other things, as needed. There are keyed padlocks and combination padlocks. With a combination padlock, you are required to enter a specific set of numbers in order to disengage the lock. They come in rekeyable and non-rekeyable. This means that with the rekeyable lock, it can be changed but the none-rekeyable lock will not enable you to do this (change the lock).

Knob Locks

This is what you’ll find on most home locks. They shouldn’t be used as your main lock. The lock cylinder is not on the inside of the door rather it is inside the knob. This makes it easy to break. While you see this type of lock on the outside of many homes, at Aurora Master Locksmith we suggest you have this type of lock installed on the inside doors of your home. We also recommend that when it is used on your home that there is also a deadbolt lock on the same door.

Wall Mounted Lock

Used for most commercial businesses, a wall mounted lock can be used for storing small items, such as, keys. This type of lock is often installed during the building process. Some even have alarm sensors, which alert you to unauthorized entry.

Interchangeable Core Cylinder Lock

Large businesses have this type of lock installed and is known for their convenience. Re-keying is possible without taking the whole key apart. We only need to change the core to change the lock. Two keys open this type of lock a control key and traditional key. It is also convenient because you don’t have to change the hardware to change the lock. Unlike most other locks, you cannot install a deadbolt lock alongside an interchangeable core cylinder. They simply do not work together.

Lever Handle Lock

We install this type of lock on the inside of a lot of commercial businesses. They give customers or clients easy and convenient access by just pushing down on the handle and opening the door.

Jimmy Proof Deadbolts

This is a lock that is installed on apartment doors. It cannot be modified too much. It isn’t easy to break this type of lock because it connects to the jamb bracket. While it isn’t easy to break, it is simple to have installed. It is screwed to the inside of your door. A hole is made to install the rim cylinder.

Rim Latch Locks

There is a surface mount latch on one side with a rim cylinder on the other. You’ll also find this type of lock in apartments. This isn’t the type of lock that you’ll want to use as your primary lock without using something like a deadbolt along with it.

Don’t take this decision lightly. Let a qualified and experience locksmith help you make your final decision about the type of locks to have installed. It is possible to find a key in your price range that is durable enough to withstand the attempt of a break in. Let a locksmith technician know what you’re looking for in terms of the type of lock that would be best for you and your family. If you need convenience, let the locksmith know that is what is most important to you. If you need locks that can be easily re-keyed, they can steer you in the right direction. You only have to ask and they will be happy to help.