When choosing the doors of their homes, many people often overlook one of the most important factors to consider. The type of lock that the door has installed is probably one of the most important decisions that you can make when choosing the door for your home. In all honesty, the lock that you choose for your home can even impact the rates of your home insurance. There are really only four main types of locks that you can choose from. If you have the basics of those firmly in mind, you can better make your final decision. That is where this information can come in handy. Below you will find a basic description of each of the four types of locks.
- Rim Mount. Also known as a vertical dead bolt, the rim mount lock get's it's name because it looks like a dead bolt lock that has been turned sideways. This is perhaps the single easiest lock to install on a door, since it is actually attached to the exterior of the door, rather than inside it. This type of lock is ideal for a secondary lock, but a rather poor choice as a primary one. The rim mount lock is also known for its ability to resist anyone prying it open.
- Full Mortise. A full mortise lock looks an awful lot like the traditional key-in-knob locks. The major difference is that the lock is separate from the knob, but part of the same mechanism that the knob is attached to. Full mortise locks always need to be installed by a professional, and become an integral part of the door when they are finally installed. According to who you ask, this is arguably the most effective lock that you can have installed in your door.
- Dead Bolt. A dead bolt is a relatively inexpensive, and easy type of lock that you can have added to your door. Generally this type of lock is chosen as a secondary option, and usually used in conjunction with a key-in-knob lock. This type of lock is a fairly popular choice as a secondary lock since it is more resistant to prying than the key-in-knob variety, and it is so easy to install.
- Key-In-Knob. Perhaps the single most popular, and traditional type of lock to have in a door. The lock is actually a part of the door itself, and is integral to the knob. In addition, this is perhaps the second easiest type of lock to install since if you change the knob, you can also change the lock. However if this is the type of lock that you have on your door, you should also look into getting a secondary lock option as well.
Author Bio
Lee Wyatt
Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. Learn more about Lee...
Diagnosing Toilet Problems
One of the most basic skills that any do-it-yourselfer should have is how to figure out a problem with their toilet. ...
Discover More
Fireplace Removal
Whether you are looking into getting rid of your old fireplace due to crumbling bricks, a need for new space, or you want ...
Discover More
Restoring Teak Parquet Flooring
Teak is a beautiful exotic wood that is often only seen on boats or patio furniture. It can also be a wonderful hardwood ...
Discover More
More Home Improvement Tips
Installing a Storm Door
During the hotter months of the year, a storm door can be an invaluable asset. But what do you do when you do not ...
Discover More
Refinishing Doors
Instead of completely replacing a door, and spending loads of money that could be better used on a different project, why ...
Discover More
Installing a Prehung Entry Door
Whether you are looking to make your home a little more energy efficient, or you simply want a change, installing a ...
Discover More
Comments