Our privacy is of the utmost priority to us. We can only relax in our living space when we know that we are safe.
Our door lock systems are hugely responsible for keeping us safe.
While we pay attention to the designs and aesthetics of our doors, it is more, if not equally, important to ensure that these doors provide maximum security.
The right lock will not only serve that purpose, but it can also provide additional perks depending on the region you live in and your paranoia.
Deadbolt locks
These are conventional locks with a bolt that is triggered by the motion of a key through the keyhole. Due to their high level of security, deadbolt locks are frequently utilized to give an extra degree of security to homes and businesses. They offer homeowners peace of mind with a strong and dependable locking mechanism and are resistant to forced entry.
These locks may be readily replaced if you want to obtain a brand-new set of keys, and they also come with a set of duplicate keys in case they are lost or stolen.
Benefits of deadbolt locks
- They are either single- or double-cylinder-fitted, depending on the level of security you desire.
- They come in multiple designs and materials. This also adds to the aesthetic of the doors.
- Unlike other locks, they are more resistant to lockpicking and breakage by burglars.
- They require very minimal maintenance.
- Because their working mechanism is so simple, they are extremely easy to use.
- They can be used along with other locks for an added layer of security.
- They are extremely cost-effective.
Drawbacks of deadbolt locks
- They come in limited designs and metals, which limits your range of choice.
- Since duplicating keys is a common practice and service, anyone who manages to obtain a key can open the internal door handles because all that’s needed to do so is
- If they aren’t oiled properly or worn out, it might become a hassle to use them, as it increases friction and makes it harder for the key to turn.
- The lock can be easily broken if the surrounding door structure is weak.
- If you are without your keys by accident or forgetfulness, you cannot open the door and may end up stranded on either side.
Biometric locks
These doors require your fingerprints or facial patterns to unlock themselves, much like the newest phones. A simple process records your biometrics and feeds them to the system for future use. It has been popular among establishments that require high security with multiple authorities.
Benefits of biometric locks
- Since no unauthorized individual will be able to access it, this increases security.
- Biometric locks are also convenient because they eliminate the need for real keys to be carried around.
- There is no chance of unwanted access in the event of misplaced or stolen keys because only your distinct biometric information is needed to unlock the door.
- In case of an emergency or a rush, biometric locks allow fast and easy authorization, unlike other locks.
- They keep a log of all the authorizations. This gives you a record of the person who interacted with it, along with the date and time stamp.
Drawbacks of biometric locks
- They are not as cost-efficient as deadbolt locks. They are usually costly, and the maintenance and updates can amount to a hefty bill.
- In the case of a facial or hand injury, it might be difficult to access it normally.
- You also require a continuous power supply to keep the lock working. In the event of a power outage, you might not be able to access it.
- They are not easy to use. An instruction manual or demo is required for a person to be familiar with its workings.
- The surveillance of the data might seem like a breach of privacy.
- These locks might be vulnerable to hacking or being spoofed.
- Since this is technology-based, periodic updates may be required.
Smart locks
Smart locks are innovative security devices that leverage technology to provide convenient and secure access control to homes and businesses. Unlike traditional locks that rely on physical keys or codes, smart locks offer keyless entry and often integrate with smartphones or other smart devices.
Benefits of smart locks
- They do not require keys, which means you can be more carefree.
- They use less energy than biometric locks.
- They sometimes come with security cameras, which allow you to interact with the visitor without opening the matt black door handles.
- You can use the security system on your phone as well.
- They give a sleek, modern look to your door.
- In the event of suspicious activity, you and the concerned parties are notified immediately.
Drawbacks of smart locks
- You are completely reliant on technology, which translates to a lack of manual control.
- Most of these locks require constant internet and power sources, making it difficult to navigate them during a power outage.
- They are less cost-efficient than deadbolt locks.
- They require a demo or a user manual to operate.
By weighing all the pros and cons of each type of lock, you can choose the one that caters to your needs.