Entry door security/lock question
+13
We are buying a home - need to buy new lockset for front entry door which has the full handle type (still need to measure the centers, but its around 9") and it has the separate deadbolt above. Ive seen sets that have the handle as a passage only (no key or lever lock on handle) -- so the only thing that locks is the deadbolt.
Same issue with the patio door, but this is just a knob + deadbolt above.
From a security stand point, wondering if its ok to just have the deadbolt to lock? Or is it best to have the knob/handle also lock?
Same issue with the patio door, but this is just a knob + deadbolt above.
From a security stand point, wondering if its ok to just have the deadbolt to lock? Or is it best to have the knob/handle also lock?
16 answers
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I'm not quite sure what you mean Becky Sue. Do you mean you just want to replace part of the set?
Z
on Sep 16, 2012
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If you are buying a new lock, I would suggest you look into a mechanical or battery operated keypad type lock. I LOVE MINE! We were fortunate enought to purchase an expensive mechanical one when my son worked for a lock company and it has served our garage entrance that is most frequently used for about 20 years! We have a battery operated on on the front door that is a dead bolt (Beautiful brass handle). July 4 is our battery change out date every year. It also has key access so you don't get locked out. I would never go back to keys again!!!!!! You can even get fingerprint code locks! Can add or delete people as they move out! HA!!!
Jeanette S
on Sep 16, 2012
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Ok.. edited my original question :) Jeanette... that sounds like a dream, I will check into the costs, not sure we can swing a luxury item like right now tho :)
Designs by BSB
on Sep 16, 2012
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The dead bolt is the "secure" lock...so just that would be fine in 95% of the market. For the other 5% if a burglar wants in there is not much you can do about it other than install an active security system or sit on couch with a .357 in your lap. When a dead bolt is properly installed with the deep metal cup and the fat long screws that reach into the doors framing elements. It does a fine job.
KMS Woodworks
on Sep 16, 2012
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Thanks Kevin, that is what I thought .. appreciate you sharing your view. We plan to have the security system turned on too :)
Designs by BSB
on Sep 16, 2012
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Well not it makes perfect sense. I'm with Kevin on just needing the dead bolt. We rarely bother to lock the knob, but always lock the dead bolt.
Z
on Sep 16, 2012
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The lock set is only as good as the door frame and the installation. I suggest that you do not go cheap on your security in these trouble times. To many good men have gone bad just to feed their children...Get a locksmith to look at installing the locks and installing a door frame reinforcement. Most door frames are not going to stop a good kick to the door. So get the frame reinforced and use long ( 3" or longer ) screws to secure the lock faces to the door and the frame. Also do not forget about the hinges. Get them reinforced as well. I have seen a kit on the market that is available that you can buy and install yourself just search for "door and frame reinforcement kits".
Warren G.
on Sep 16, 2012
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Warren G. is correct so make sure you use long screws to install whatever you choose...those small 1" screws are not sufficient. Keep in mind that a dead bolt slows down entry which would give you a little extra time to get away...out a window if necessary! The security of a lock is the installation! You can purchase on expensive, time tested lock that is useless unless it is installed to hold against a good kick! As for the keyless, you never get locked out...think about that! And you do not have to hide a key for intruders to find! If you do some investigating, you will find they are not as expensive as you might think!
Jeanette S
on Sep 17, 2012
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The Kwikset Smart Key locks are a great way to go...you can also get the same key mechanism on the new line of Baldwin locks.
HandyANDY - Handyman & All Repairs, LLC
on Sep 20, 2012
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I think it was the Kwikset Smart Key locks that we were looking at Andy. We'll probably get that done before this fall since my hubby hates the style locks we have and I have to admit they are getting harder all the time to open. They are the twist to lock kind. I grew up with them so I didn't have any trouble, but now that we are using our front door more they seem to be getting hard for me to open too. Before I was the only one that could open them without some grumbling.
Z
on Sep 20, 2012
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Now that I have this question answered.. my next big thing is going to be finding a quality unit that will not tarnish in a year! Front door wont be as big of an issue because it is covered. I have wholesale access to several.. any brands that are the biggest bang for your buck ? Want to spend as little as I have to.. but realize this is not a place to skimp.
Designs by BSB
on Sep 20, 2012
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Becky Sue. Our are brass and have noticed that some that the one that is exposed to the elements has turned what looks more like Oil Rubbed Bronze, so when we change them out I'm going to just get the Oil Rubbed Bronze. I guess I'm seeing why that's become so popular. It already has that aged look so no need to worry about it turning old looking after a bit. Granted it's all that color where as my brass knobs are mottled with age and shine.
Z
on Sep 20, 2012
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Finishes have been nearly perfected with lavatory faucets.. lifetime guantee not uncommon, so just yet to figure out which brand does it with exterior. Even ORB finishes could look like crap if the plating process is not quality -- its all subjective
Designs by BSB
on Sep 20, 2012
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Yeah, I guess I didn't think about that, but dulling on ORB wouldn't bother me so much if it stayed mostly the same color.
Z
on Sep 20, 2012
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I have had the same "shiney" brass knobs on my house for 16 years. The secret is NEVER clean them with a ammonia based product (ex.Windex) it will strip the protective finish off and occasioally wipe them with cheap car wax sprayed on a cloth.
Bobbie
on Feb 18, 2015
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For security reasons, I would recommend having a locking handle and the deadbolt. Of course it depends on the neighborhood you are moving too. If you are replacing all the locks in the house, please consider having them made to all have the same key. If you just want to change it so you have new keys, you can just have a locksmith come and reset the tumblers and make you new keys.
Josephine Howland
on Mar 15, 2015
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