Door locks are primarily designed to offer protection. Hence, it’s advisable to change them from time to time to help minimize security risks. And since locks are the most underrated home security aspect, most individuals tend to pay less attention to them.
Most home burglaries occur through the front door. Unfortunately, there’s no specific reason why this tends to happen more often. However, you can fix this vital issue by having a reliable lock that’ll enhance security at your homestead.
If you’re in the United States, you can contact dependable locksmith services like Locksmith Plus in Tacoma for assistance with your door locks. With that said, here are things to consider before you replace a home lock.
- Understand The Difference Between Rekeying and Replacing
Changing your home lock can either be rekeying or replacing. Therefore, a clear understanding of their difference is vital. If your goal is to prevent your previous key from opening your lock, then these two methods will do the job.
- Rekeying: Although they prevent your previous keys from opening your door, rekeying and replacing are two different methods. Unlike the replacing method, rekeying is often used in apartment complexes. In the rekeying method, the springs and pins in the lock are realigned to match the new key.
- Replacing: Replacing is more comprehensive when it comes to ensuring top-notch security. Replacing entails removing the existing home lock—including its handle—and replacing it with a new one.
These options can help you identify the most suitable method to enhance your home locks.
- Understand The Features
Understanding the features of a lock system is vital before making any purchase. And since locks aren’t universal, they tend to incorporate different features allowing them to be unique. Therefore, paying close attention to their features is best when replacing your home lock. Keypads, locksets, and smart lock technology are key features you might consider assessing.
Different locks have different features, with some equipped with a tamper prevention system. For example, some home locks incorporate premium features such as anti-pick, anti-drill, and anti-bump that will enhance the security of your home.
As a homeowner, it’s advisable to settle for a home lock system that best suits your needs. When choosing the right lock system for your home, various factors come into play. However, keep in mind that your new lock system should be compatible with the technology used in the construction of your home.
Meanwhile, consider investing in a home lock you can control from your smartphone. Some individuals prefer a smart lock that allows them to control and even monitor activities within their home from a distance. Significantly, a lock system is vital if you own a smart home. And you’ll need to choose one compatible with your home’s technology.
- Determine Your Budget
Lock replacement is more expensive than rekeying. Hence, working within your budget is essential. And if you’ve just purchased a new house, security is critical. You don’t want to jeopardize security by skimping on locks, but you also don’t want to spend more than necessary.
A few elements affect the cost of a lock replacement. Hardware, lock-changing technique, and labor costs are common aspects that contribute to its cost. Therefore, before changing your home lock, it helps to have these aspects in mind to determine your budget.
Furthermore, the price of a home lock tends to vary significantly based on the technology employed and the type of material used. The basic rule when purchasing a home lock is that the higher the price, the better the security.
- Know The Security Grade
Most homeowners undermine home lock systems to the extent they fail to take advantage of different security grades. Lock manufacturing companies have various lock security grades. The rating or grading is done by taking a lock under numerous security tests.
Different grade numbers have different strengths, durability, and security levels. Mostly, the locks are tested by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) or American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The grading is based on the total number of cycles and the maximum force a lock can withstand before it starts deteriorating.
For instance, a deadbolt with ANSI Grade 1 is more robust because it can withstand higher force and last over 600,000 cycles than a Grade 3. Therefore, when purchasing a home lock for outdoor use, it’s best to consider the one with a better grading.
- Learn Where To Install The Lock
Before purchasing a lock system, understanding the location of your new lock is essential. Unfortunately, this is where most homeowners fail. Most homeowners need to realize that a locking system will only achieve its maximum potential if used in the right place and manner.
Meanwhile, if you’re planning on replacing locks on the exterior door, installing locks with good security grades is recommended. Also, a locking system installed on the front door should be different from those used on sliding glass doors at the back of your home.
Always consider where the lock will be installed before purchasing it. Placing high-quality locks in strategic locations can protect your home from intruders and prevent burglary.
- Know The Different Types Of Home Lock
Home locks don’t feature a generic design; they come in different types and functions. When looking for the right home lock, searching for one compatible with your door’s design would be better.
There are different designs to choose from, and they differ significantly from doorknobs to handle sets, smart locks, deadbolts, and even door levers. Each design has a specific purpose; it can be for interior or exterior use.
For instance, a deadbolt lock is ideal for an exterior door lock system since it’s designed to offer superior security. On the other hand, the door lever locking system is best used for the interiors since they don’t provide excellent protection and are less ideal than deadbolt locking systems.
Takeaway
Most homeowners tend to pay more attention to motion sensors and high-tech alarm systems, forgetting about simple locking systems. Nevertheless, finding the right home lock for your home becomes relatively easy by incorporating the tips discussed in this article. With the right locking system, you’ll enhance the security of your home.
