Overview of the various types of locks available on the market

What type of lock should you choose for your doors? It all depends on your needs. While the appearance of the lock is an important aspect to consider, you should also evaluate a number of other criteria, including quality, ergonomics, ease of installation, and the level of security provided.

To help you make a choice that will live up to your expectations, here’s a brief overview of the different locks that are available on the market.

From the simplest to the most complex

All locks perform the same basic function. However, three different aspects set them apart: the locking mechanism, the type of installation and the level of security they provide. To find a lock that suits your needs, you only need to categorize them according to their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Deadbolts

The design of a deadbolt makes it a mainstay of door locking technology. When you lock a deadbolt, you cause a metal cylinder with a flat end to slide horizontally from the door into a slot in the frame. Highly resistant and easy to use, deadbolts can easily meet the security needs of many people.

Handle lockse

Used in most homes, handle locks only offer a small degree of security. Generally, they’re used simply to prevent someone from accidentally entering a room, for instance, a bathroom or guest room. Therefore, their primary purpose is to ensure the privacy of people living in the same home. However, if you have valuable objects to protect, it’s better to opt for locks that offer a higher level of security.

Electronic locks

Unlike conventional locks, electronic locks don’t involve the use of a key. The opening mechanism is automatic rather than manual.

You’ll frequently find electronic locks on the doors to commercial buildings, apartment complexes, hotels and cars. They offer numerous advantages: enhanced control of employee comings and goings, the ability to assign people their own personal codes, reinforced security with the addition of a key and more.

You’ll be happy to know that electronic locks are also appropriate for use in private residences. And they can be installed both inside and outside.

Locks for emergency exits

All buildings that are open to the public are equipped with emergency exits. These are essential in order to ensure a quick, easy means of egress in the event of an emergency. The locks used on emergency exits include crash bars and push pads.

Requiring nothing more a simple push on the door, push pads enable quick evacuation of the premises. Their ease of use also makes them accessible to anyone, including children, seniors and people with reduced mobility.

Crash bars consist of a horizontal aluminum bar. It’s built in to the lever arms that are attached to the control mechanism that releases the lock. A crash bar allows the door to open immediately in the event of an emergency. You should be aware, however, that all crash bars must meet EN 1125 standards in terms of security and efficiency.

Do you need advice to help you choose the right kind of lock?

You can entrust the security of your home or business to the specialists at Serruriers Amherst. We offer a vast selection of some of the best locks on the market, as well as incomparable installation and repair services. Contact us to learn more!