Why Deadbolts Are Important
Any door without a deadbolt lock can easily become a target for burglars. It’s a known fact that about two-thirds of all burglaries involve forced entry, often by kicking the door or prying it open.
While having a metal door or solid core makes it harder for a burglar to break in, adding a deadbolt lock is another important step for security. To effectively protect your home or apartment from thieves, you should have a professional locksmith install a deadbolt lock. Here are some reasons why deadbolt locks offer more security than regular padlocks.
• Grade 1 Rated Lock. To ensure your deadbolt is strong, look for one with a Grade 1 rating from the American National Standards Institute. Locks are rated from 1 to 3, with Grade 1 providing the best home protection.
• Heavy Gauge Metal. Make sure the deadbolt lock installed by your professional locksmith is durable and won’t easily give in to a burglar. Stronger deadbolt locks may cost more, but security experts agree they are worth it.
• Solid Metal Strike Plate. The strike plate secures the deadbolt in the door and isn’t always made of steel, so it’s important to choose the strongest one available.
• Deadbolts Are Saw-Resistant. Most deadbolts feature movable internal pins. If a burglar tries to saw through one, the saw just spins the pins and doesn’t effectively break the lock.
• Deadbolt Throw: This refers to how far the metal bolt extends into the door frame when locked. Most deadbolts are designed with at least a one-inch throw for better security.
In addition to enhancing your home’s security with deadbolt locks installed by a skilled locksmith, you can also ask them to install metal lock guards. These guards surround the lock, making it harder for a burglar to twist the lock out using pliers or a wrench.
