Deadbolt vs. Door Knob: Which One Offers Better Security?
Deadbolt vs. Door Knob: Which One Offers Better Security?
Choosing between a deadbolt and a doorknob is critical for protecting your home. Though they serve various purposes, the levels of protection differ a lot.
Let the experts from QuickPro Locksmith make a comparison between them. Also, read to learn ways to improve your security with either of the lock types.
What Are Deadbolts and Door Knobs?
Deadbolts provide enhanced security protection against break-ins or forced using a manual locking system. There are two types of deadbolts: double-cylinder (key on both sides) and single-cylinder (key outside and thumb turn inside).
On the other hand, door knobs come with built-in locks for interior doors. They are relatively less secure when used outside because they come with a spring clasp that retracts when twisted.
Key Differences
The basic difference between doorknobs and deadbolts is the level of security and design. Here are other comparisons:
- Durability: Doorknobs are lighter and deadbolts are heavier.
- Common Usage: Interior doors usually have doorknobs, while exterior doors have deadbolt locks.
- Cost: Door knobs cost less than deadbolts and offer lower security.
- Easy to Use: Door knobs are easy to lock and unlock, while deadbolts have to be manually operated with a key or a turn.
The Reasons Deadbolts Are More Secure
If the homeowner intends to provide additional protection to the property, a deadbolt is most appropriate.
- Deadbolts prevent forced entry by withstanding drilling, prying, or kicking. Doorknobs can easily be bypassed.
- Build Quality: When compared with lighter doorknobs, deadbolts are produced from strong materials such as hardened steel.
- Burglars often target houses that are only bolted with a doorknob. A doorknob is standard, but a deadbolt provides added security.
Door Knob Locks: Proper Placement
They are useful in home security despite the fact they offer little security as compared to deadbolt locks.
- Complementary Use: While door knob locks are not as secure as deadbolts, they give an added layer of protection if deadbolts are used.
- Appropriate for Interior Doors: Door Knob locks give only seclusion, not sufficient security, which is good for usage in bathrooms or bedrooms.
Common Break-In Methods, and Deadbolt Effectiveness
Understanding how most burglars gain entry might help highlight the deadbolt as a valuable feature. Here are some techniques employed by burglars and how deadbolts work to stop them:
- Lock Picking: Locks that are considered to be pick-resistant are even harder to unlock with a deadbolt than doorknobs.
- Kicking: Deadbolts have more connection with the door frame, hence, they can resist forceful strikes.
- Credit Card Bypass: Door Knobs can be opened with a credit card, unlike deadbolt locks.
Door Knob or Deadbolt: A Look at Locksmiths’ Perspective
Since they are the initial protection against would-be burglars, professional locksmiths recommend using deadbolts on external doors. Here are the reasons:
Deadbolts are recommended for exterior doors. Compared to doorknobs, they have higher resistance and are more durable.
It is recommended to replace a doorknob with a deadbolt to increase security.
To ensure suitable work, QuickPro Locksmith ensures that the installation is properly done.
Yet to make a decision?
Whether you go with a doorknob lock, deadbolt, or even both, proper installation is crucial, to get the highest level of security.
Even the most suitable deadbolt will not work if not installed properly. Hence, using our locksmith‘s services guarantees an accurate installation of locks, that will improve your security. So, get in touch with us, soon!
