By By Staff
There are many types of locks, however, the four most common are padlocks, deadbolts, knob locks, and levers.
No matter where you go, you will find these pesky chunks of metal we like to call locks. If you are trying to figure out which lock is the most secure, we’ve put together this article so you can decide what types of lock is best for your particular needs.
Padlocks
Padlocks are the most common type of lock that is not permanently affixed to an object and is free standing. These types of locks are the most easily recognizable and easy to pick out there on the market.
Of course, these locks do come in two prominent and very different forms. These forms are combination and key-based. The key-style locks have versions that can be re-keyed and others that can not. If the padlock is not able to be re-keyed, then that means that the lock will remain forever locked
Deadbolts
Deadbolts are generally installed on external doors and have a few more options to consider than padlocks. Most people think that when you have a deadbolt you don’t have to worry about someone breaking in, but that is definitely not the case.
These locks are typically found on residential and business doors with the illusion of safety. Deadbolts come in three primary varieties: single, double, and lockable thumb turn.
Knob Locks
Knob locks are frequently installed in residential situations on exterior doors in addition to deadbolts, and are sometimes used as the primary source of security for doors. First and foremost, it should be said that knob locks should virtually never be used for security on external doors.
The problem lies in the fact that the lock cylinder is in the knob itself and not the door. In almost all setups, they can be broken off the door with a hammer or bypassed using pliers or a wrench behind the knob, completely bypassing the locking cylinder.
So, if this is your primary source of security for your home – you should change that right about now. Ditch these door knob style locks and replace them with simple passage knobs paired with lockable thumb turn deadbolt locks. If you decide to go with these anyway, then make sure you get the proper fitting done.
Lever Handle Locks
The lever handle style is used mostly in business places and are even easier to open. One of the main reason these locks are used is because they are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant, which is something that all landlords and businesses must abide by.
Levers can frequently be the target of torque attacks (excessive pressure applied to the handle to try and force the lock). Some levers are “clutch” levers meaning if they are forced they just turn rather than apply pressure to the lock.
If you are looking for one of these to buy, make sure you get the correctly sized backset.
There are still additional types of locks like European locks, Switch locks, and Deposit box locks to name a few. If you have questions about other types of locks, contact Godby Safe & Lock.