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SHUT THE FRONT DOOR – THEN LOCK IT!

Choosing the Right Lock for your Family’s Safety and Security

When is a door not a door? When its ajar! And when a door is ajar, all sorts of things can happen! At Sure-Fit Security, we believe a quality door lock is the first line of defense when protecting the health & well-being of you and your family. If you are interested in installing or replacing a new front door lock, it is also best to hire an experienced professional who can make sure the lock is seated correctly, operates smoothly and doesn’t jeopardize door security.

At Sure-Fit Security, we believe a quality door lock is the first line of defense when protecting the health & well-being of you and your family. If you are interested in installing or replacing a new front door lock, it is also best to hire an experienced professional who can make sure the lock is seated correctly, operates smoothly and doesn’t jeopardize door security.

But which lock should you choose? The most secure and most effective front door lock is the deadbolt. It comes in four types including the single deadbolt with a keyhole on the exterior and an affixed thumb turn on the interior. Generally installed on doors abutting a door jam, the single deadbolt is without a doubt, the most common and most popular front door lock.

The double deadbolt with a key cylinder on both sides of the door can add an extra layer of protection but has the potential to be dangerous. A key should always be put in a safe yet accessible place where occupants can find it quickly during emergency situations such as a fire.

The captive deadbolt is a hybrid of a single-cylinder and double-cylinder deadbolt. Featuring the ability to convert the lock into a thumb-turn for a safe exit without having to search for a key, it can be switched back to key access for double-sided locking. These locks are somewhat expensive but can be useful in the right setting.

The jimmy-proof deadbolt allows the deadbolt to interlock with a jamb bracket to prevent intruders from pulling apart double doors or removing them from the outside. With lock screws on the inside of the door, only one hole needs to be drilled through the door for the rim cylinder. These locks are very popular for homes with large entryways.

The combination lock is basically a deadbolt that uses a numbered keypad instead of a key. It requires a code to open the door, offers easy access, prevents accidental lockouts as well as worry over losing a key. Alternate codes can usually be added to allow approved visitors such as dog-sitters or house cleaners access to the home. Codes can also be changed or deleted for maximum security.

More expensive than other locks, the keyless entry pad essentially offers the same benefits as the combination lock using either a touchpad or tag system and are often connected to home security systems. Essentially smart technology, other benefits such as entry and exit tracking, remote locking and more may be available depending on which brand you choose.

When choosing a front door lock, it’s also important to decide whether a door-knob or door-lever will complement your ultimate choice. While there is no single reason to pick one over the other, doorknobs in a round, bun or oval shape can lend a touch of classic style, while lever handles have become popular in modern design applications. Aesthetics aside here’s a couple of other things to think about. Levers may be easier to open for people with physical disabilities and can also be utilized by trained service dogs. If you simply have a clever pet who could learn how to pull on a lever handle to gain access outside, a knob might be a better choice.

If you simply have a clever pet who could learn how to pull on a lever handle to gain access outside, a knob might be a better choice. Sure-Fit Security can help you with a security survey of your home.

Questions? As your TRUSTED locksmith, we have the answers at Sure-Fit Security. Serving the Washington Metro Area since 1962, we offer service from Frederick to Baltimore and Annapolis as well as Northern Virginia south to Manassas. Give us a call at 301-585-4595 today!

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