door and window locks that will keep you safe

Whether you just moved into a new house or want to upgrade your current security system, it's important to understand the differences between a latch and deadbolt locks. Although these two locks serve the same purpose of providing security for your home, there are several key differences between them.

This article highlights those differences to help you decide which one is best for you.

Construction Designs

The biggest difference between residential latches and deadbolts is their construction. A residential latch typically has an interior knob that connects to a spring-loaded bolt, while a deadbolt contains an interior knob that attaches to an extended bolt.

The extended bolt provides more security than the spring-loaded bolt because it requires more force to move it out of place. This makes it more difficult for someone to forcibly open the lock from outside your home.

Additionally, many residential latches have a feature known as "lock bumping," which allows someone with the right tools to easily unlock the door without any physical contact with the lock itself. This type of lock bumping is not possible with deadbolts since they do not have any internal mechanisms that can be manipulated in this way.

Installation Techniques

Another difference between residential latches and deadbolts is their installation process. Residential latches require less work since they are mounted directly onto the door frame using screws or bolts. These screws and bolts must be installed properly to ensure that the latch won't come loose and allow someone to easily gain access to your home.

On the other hand, installing a deadbolt requires drilling holes into both sides of the door frame to properly secure it in place. This makes them more time-consuming and potentially more expensive than latches since installing requires additional tools and materials. However, it also makes them much more secure since they are more difficult to remove without the proper tools.

Usually, deadbolts require a locksmith's help to install, so basic DIY skills might not be enough to ensure proper installation.

What Type of Lock Should You Choose?

When deciding between a latch and deadbolt locks for your home, there are several factors to take into consideration, such as price point, ease of installation, and desired level of security.

While residential latches are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, they offer less protection than a deadbolt due to their lack of an extended bolt mechanism and the potential for lock-bumping vulnerability. It's up to you to decide what works best for your needs.

No matter what you choose, make sure that your locks are properly installed and maintained so you can rest easy knowing that your home is secure. Hire a reliable locksmith to handle the installation, and remember to rekey and change the locks periodically to ensure maximum security. 

For more information, contact a locksmith for home locks near you.