When it comes to security of your house and property, choosing the right lock is important. Whether you’re moving into a new home, upgrading old lock hardware, or just want better peace of mind, you need to pick the right locks that keep your home safe.
As locksmiths in San Diego County & Riverside County, we are often get this question — what are the best locks for my home? Here are our recommendations for best locks for your homes. Choose what works best for you.
The Right Locks for Your House
In a house, different doors need different level of protection. Before we explore the options, here’s a quick guide to get the right lock for your doors.
| Area | Recommended Lock |
|---|---|
| Front & Back Door | Deadbolt + Keypad or Smart Lock |
| Garage Entry Door | Keyed knob + Deadbolt |
| Sliding Glass Doors | Sliding lock + bar or pin lock |
| Interior Privacy Doors | Keyed lever or privacy knob |
Now, let’s explore the different locks and hardware options that we can use to secure our homes.
Deadbolt Locks
Deadbolts are best suited for securing exterior doors. They’re much stronger than standard knob locks and offer solid protection against break-ins.
A single-cylinder deadbolt lets you lock and unlock with a key from the outside and a thumb turn inside — perfect for most homes. On the other hand, a double-cylinder deadbolt requires a key on both sides, making it more secure. Such locks are better suited for doors with glass panels. However, double-cylinder deadbolt locks are often restricted by fire codes.
High-Security Deadbolts
When you need top-tier protection for your home, high-security deadbolts (Grade 1) are your best bet. These locks are built to resist picking, drilling, bumping, and forced entry. They often come with patented keys that can’t be duplicated without authorization. These deadbolts are ideal for high-risk areas or homeowners who simply want the best lock available. Brands like Mul-T-Lock, Medeco, and Schlage B660 are popular choices.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are ideal for tech-savvy homeowners, Airbnbs, or anyone who’s tired of losing keys. Without the need for physical keys, these locks let you unlock your door using your smartphone, fingerprint, or keypad code. You can also set temporary codes for guests or service providers. Whenever someone unlocks your door, you get alerted. Many smart locks work with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home for added convenience. Popular smart lock brands are August, Yale, Schlage Encode, and Kwikset Halo.
Keypad Locks
Keypad locks are another great option for families, rental properties, or anyone who doesn’t want to carry a key around. You just enter a PIN code using the keypad to unlock the door. You can also set temporary codes for guests or workers, and most models allow multiple users. Since you don’t have keys, there’s no risk of losing the keys. Keypad locks are especially useful for rental properties where you need to change locks frequently. The automatic locking feature make these locks better for security.
Keyed Entry Door Knobs or Levers
These locks are commonly used on side doors, garage entry doors, and interior doors. While they’re not strong enough to be your main defense, they work well when paired with a deadbolt. Look for ANSI Grade 2 or higher if you’re after better durability and pick resistance.
Door Reinforcement Kits
Not exactly a locks, but door reinforcement can drastically improve your house’s security.
Even the strongest lock won’t help if your door and frame are weak. Door reinforcement strengthen your door by reinforcing the strike plate, hinges, and frame with longer screws and tougher materials. You can also have door jamb armor and bars. Door reinforcement kits are an affordable way to make your entry door stronger.
Security Screen Door Locks
Security screen doors give you an additional layer of protection. These are especially useful if you like to keep your main door open for fresh air. These steel doors often come with heavy-duty frames and locks — some even feature multi-point locking systems. They’re a great addition for families looking for an extra barrier against intruders.