Deadlock, Deadbolt, or Deadlatch: Which One Do I Need?
Did you know that Australia has the 7th highest rate of burglaries worldwide? Almost 5% of all Australian homes experienced at least a single break-in in the last year alone.
There's nothing more important than your family's health and safety. So investing in the right locks to keep dangerous people out is crucial.
But should you get a deadbolt lock? What about a deadlock or a deadlatch? In this article, we'll tell you the differences between these door lock options so you can make an informed choice for your family's safety.
Keep reading to learn more.
What Is a Deadlock?
Although they might be the most common of the three, many still wonder how deadlocks work.
Deadlocks are door locks that need to be opened with a key when in deadlock mode. Standard versions will have keyholes on both sides, which means you need a key to unlock even if you're inside.
Of all the benefits of deadlocks, the most important is top-tier security.
If your door is in deadlock mode, the lock is inoperable, making it much harder for burglars to get inside and escape.
Although they are great for protection, keeping them locked when you're at home is not recommended. You don't want to be scrambling for your keys in an emergency while a fire breaks out inside. If you're going to keep your deadlock engaged while inside, always have your keys on you or know where to get them.
Escape deadlocks are similar to standard deadlocks, except that a knob or lever is fitted on the inner side of the door. This makes it possible to unlock the door without a key. These are typically used for communal doors that have several occupancy properties. These are much better for straightforward emergency exit routes.
Nowadays, you can get a smart deadlock that allows you to unlock your door in different ways. Certain models even include Wifi or Bluetooth and will enable you to unlock via a fingerprint.
Are you looking for a deadlock in Bunnings? Look no further.
What Is a Deadbolt Lock?
In terms of functionality, deadbolts are very similar to deadlocks. Deadbolts still require a key to function. It can be unlocked and locked from the inside or outside. It's usually installed on doors that already have a doorknob on them.
A deadbolt includes a metal device called a locking bolt that sticks out from the door and attaches to the nearby wall. This can make it nearly impossible for an outside intruder to enter the home.
These deadbolts have very high door security, especially when no one is home. As a result, most people utilise the deadbolt when they leave their homes or are asleep at night.
However, like deadlocks, it's not a good idea to keep the deadbolt locked while you are at home in case of an emergency. For example, if a fire or a flood happens suddenly, you need to be able to get out as quickly as possible.
Like deadlocks, you can also find a smart deadbolt that has electronic features that can give you more automation features.
What Is a Deadlatch?
A deadlatch is the same as a deadlock but with more functionality.
Deadlocks need a key or a knob to set the deadlock mode. However, deadlatches include security latches that lock automatically once the door is closed.
A deadlatch can give owners peace of mind and convenience, knowing they never have to worry about forgetting to lock the door. But, on the downside, it means you must remember to take your keys with you whenever you leave the house.
Deadlatches typically have three different modes:
- Passage mode: The latch is open, and the door can be opened and closed without a key
- Safety mode: In this mode, the lock and handle will automatically lock whenever the door is closed after being opened and requires a key to unlock it
- Secure mode: The door can only be opened from the inside or outside of the door
Nowadays, you can get a modern smart deadlatch that includes anti-deadlock devices. They can unlock the deadlatch system right when you get home and unlock the door.
How Do I Know Which One to Install?
When choosing a deadlock vs. deadlatch vs. deadbolt, it's vital to assess your individual or family security risk and the property on which you fit the lock.
The benefits of a top-quality door lock are numerous. They include:
- Higher levels of security to keep even the savviest burglars out
- Eliminating the use of keys (depending on the type of lock you get)
- Securing your most confidential and essential items
- Tough to impossible to break
- Easy monitoring and access to your properties
Do you need a convenient way to get in and out of the house? How many people live there?
Is there a high level of break-ins in the area? Do you have door locks from Bunnings? The best way to have these questions answered is to see a trusted locksmith. Come and visit The Lock Shop in Blackburn today!
Get the Highest Quality Locks from The Lock Shop
That's everything you need to know about the difference between a deadbolt lock, a dead latch, and a deadlock. Although they are pretty similar, they have key differences that fit the needs of different people, properties, and areas.
When it comes to your family's safety, it's crucial that you only use a reliable and trusted partner to get the highest-quality security supplies. Untrusted businesses may cut corners, which can lead to disaster situations.
If you're looking for a locksmith in Blackburn, look no further. The Lock Shop is the best online supplier in Australia for door handles, door locks, window locks, and more. Come see our products today!