What are the differents between doorlocks?
The average home will typically feature two locks: a spring-loaded bolt that is found within the locking mechanism of the doorknob called a latch and a deadbold which is usually placed below or above the doorknob. There is, however, a new kind of lock called the smart lock. Let’s explain the differences and characteristics of these three types of locks.
Latches
This commonly used lock makes uses of spring-loaded latches within it’s typical lockset. Spring latches can be made with two specific designs.
Latchbolts – These latches feature a spring-loaded bolt that is angled off at the top edge. As the door is closed, the angled side of the bolt will engage with the edge or lip of the strike plate and the bolt itself will retract due to the pressure of contact with the strike plate.
Deadlatches – This device can be seen as a slight improvent on the design of the latchbolt. Deadlatches feature what’s known as a guardbolt, which is a smaller cylindrical bolt positioned right beside the latchbolt. The guardbolt is designed to move in unison with the latchbolt up until the point where the latchbolt extends into the strike plate. This improves the safety of your lock and makes it more difficult for burglers to open the lock with lockpicking tools.
Deadbolts
Deadbolts are a lot thicker and heavier than spring latches. They are not rounded at the end. They are normally comprised of steel, bronze or brass, and they extend deeper into the door frame–typically about one inch–than spring latches. You can engage a deadbolt using a key or a turn knob, or by way of an automated motor such as with a keyless device.
Smart locks
With a smart lock you no longer need a key to open or close your door. You can simply open your door with a touch. Easily lock, unlock and manage access for friends, family and guests from anywhere with an app or your fingerprint, depending on the smartlock you have purchased. These locks can also be programmed for multiple users and restrict users accessing after certain hours.
