There are many types of locks and
keys around, each with their own benefits and functions. It’s always useful to
know about the security mechanisms you are installing in your property, whether
you are protecting your residence, automobile or commercial operations. Some locks are
designed to offer more protection than others, and they may not be
suited for certain types of doors. To give everyone a better idea, our experts
will outline the different options out there – from the basic to the most
complex protection mechanisms.
Your standard types of keys
Before we focus on the different types
of locks you will find in a property, let’s look at some of the keys you can
get to accompany them. Keys have a specially-cut component known as the
bitting, which is designed to match the inner parts that enable you to lock and
unlock a door. As you’re about to see, different keys will have different
levels of bitting.
Blank keys are those which have yet to be cut and shaped to fit into a
lock. Often referred in the industry as “blanks”, locksmiths keep these handy
for key duplication requests.
Single bitted keys only include one set of cuts. These are the most common key
type around, often accompanying your basic residential locks.
Multi bitted keys have multiple cuts and are used in high security locks
and/or sidebars.
Convenience keys comprise duplicate cuts in a single bitted surface. The idea
is that these will conveniently unlock a door regardless of the direction in
which they are inserted.
Cruciform keys have four different bittings and a star-shaped tip for
multiple functionality. That being said, not all of these bittings need to be
used in order to activate a lock.
Transponder keys have become a popular choice in the automotive industry. As
the name suggests, these have a transponder chip on the head of the key that
transmit a special signal to the car’s transmitter. Special equipment is needed
to program these in order to match the car’s electronic security mechanisms.
Valet keys are especially designed to be used by a valet driver to park
your vehicle. They come with special restrictions, only enabling the driver to
operate the car’s ignition and doors.
The most common lock types
Now you know the basics about your
keys, let’s move on to the different lock types available.
Padlocks are the only portable lock types you’ll find in a
residential property. They are not attached to any foundations, simply
comprising a shackle, the body and a locking mechanism. The two padlock types
you will see in a property are:
- Keyed padlocks, which can either lodge your key upon activation (key-retaining padlocks) or enable take the key away from position once opened (non-key retaining)
- Combination padlocks which rely on a special numbered code in order to unlatch it
Knob Locks are used to lock internal and external doors. You will
usually find these fitted in residential property doors. They have a key
cylinder on one side and a rotating knob on the other, providing you with basic
protection. Knob locks are not recommended as standalone protection as they can
be easily picked or broken into.
Deadbolts are sturdy locks which usually enhance the protection of
your typical knob lock. As the name suggests, deadbolts provide additional
security by driving an internal bolt into the door frame once you activate its
rotating cylinder. There are different deadbolt types around, offering various
levels of protection:
- Single cylinder deadbolts are the most common. These have a key cylinder on one side, and a thumb turn on the other. Single cylinder deadbolts are not recommended on doors surrounded by glass, which burglars can break and reach around to unlatch the deadbolt from lock position.
- Thumb turn deadbolts are quite similar to single cylinder – the difference is that the latter is fitted with a lock on its rotating knob
- Double cylinder deadbolts use keys on both sides. They offer heightened protection, but can make emergency evacuations more difficult
- Keyless deadbolts rely on a numbered combination in order to open and close. They are highly sophisticated, and tend to be pricier than your standard models.
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Mortise locks have two locking mechanisms: a non-locking spring latch that
is controlled by a lever handle, and a deadbolt. While this dual action design
makes mortise locks more difficult to install in a property, they also come
with enhanced security benefits.
Cam locks are latches for filing cabinets, lock boxes and other
low-level security fittings. A flat metal tailpiece, known as a “cam”, is
locked or unlocked using a key.
Now you know more about the lock and
key types, you can discuss these with a locksmith. Why would you this? Because
a locally-based lock and key expert will help you keep all aspects of your
security in check. You can discuss upgrades to keyless systems, enhancements
like deadbolts, issues with a transponder chip or even something as simple as
rekeying the locks of your residence or commercial building.
Check whether your chosen
professional offers the type of protection you are looking for. Keep a couple
of business names handy and get in touch with these to inquire about their
solutions. Always do some background checking and shop around before hiring on
an expert. Never hire a locksmith company that you can’t trace a physical
address to, or that refuses to provide you with essential information like
license and insurance information and a list of client references in your area.
Locksmith Arvada CO is more than happy to help
property owners and vehicle owners based in Arvada, CO. Our licensed and
insured professionals will guide you throughout your security upgrade
decisions, and will even provide you with a free consultation and price quote
upon request.
No matter where you live, we hope
you understand a little bit more about the different types of keys and locks
you can get for your property.
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