Lock Types

A deadbolt is the lock of choice for those who desire maximum security, more so than aesthetic appearance. This is because a deadbolt 's unique locking mechanism providing makes it harder to break into a house than an normal key-operated lock; indeed, it's been said that the weight of the deadbolt 's locking bar increases the amount of time needed to break into a house by 10 to 15 minutes. For this reason, many burglars will bypass a house that they know is protected by a deadbolt rather than spend that much time trying to break in.

Typically a deadbolt protects a room via a movable bolt fixed in the door in such a way that it can be extended out. We lock the door when we cause the extended part to fix itself into the frame, thus preventing the door from moving. This extended part, that is now securely within the doorframe, can hopefully only be operated by the assistance of the door key. Only the right key will be able to remove the extended portion of the lock.

There are three main types of deadbolts: the single cylinder, double cylinder, and single cylinder with removable thumbturn. The double cylinder is usually more secure than the single, and the single cylinder with removable thumbturn is usually the most secure of all deadbolt mechanisms. The thumbturn also prevents the owner from accidentally locking the door without having the key.

One variation of the deadbolt is the vertical deadbolt. This one usually rests on top of a door, secured to the top of the door frame.