Deadbolts are a common home security choice as they are sturdy, are well-built, and provide double security. Whereas the single-cylinder deadbolt only consists of a locking mechanism that requires a key on one side, the double-cylinder deadbolt has it on both.
Double-sided deadbolts feature many security features. Here is everything you need to know about them.
What Is a Deadbolt Lock?
It’s known for its robust construction and durability. It consists of a solid metal bolt, which is much bigger and stronger than the locking mechanism used for any other lock type.
Double cylinders function with a key from both the exterior and the interior of the door. This means that a home or business owner would need to use a key to engage or retract the lock bolt even from the inside.
This bolt extends further into the door jamb or striking plate when the lock is engaged. Hence, it offers a higher level of security. When the bolt extends into the door frame, it becomes much harder to break in, pick, or manipulate.
Types of Deadbolt Locks
Deadbolts are important for increased security on doors, manufactured in various types. The single-cylinder deadbolt includes a key cylinder outdoors and a thumb turn indoors.
This type is common in residential use because it’s easy to operate. However, it can allow forced entry.
On the other hand, the double-cylinder model has key cylinders on both sides, adding extra layers of security against break-ins. On the negative side, this could become dangerous during emergency situations as you would have to look around for a key to exit.
Relatively modern, keyless deadbolts dispense with the physical keys and work via a keypad or smart interface.
They are definitely convenient as they boast temporary access codes, alerts, and other advanced features. They need batteries to operate, though.
The more advanced options are smart deadbolts that connect either to smartphones or home automation systems to facilitate remote access and monitoring. They provide high-level security with the capability of sending alerts and integrating into other smart devices.
Each type suits different needs and levels of security that enable users to pick one suited best for their exact needs.
Furthermore, a double-cylinder deadbolt lock has more attributes, such as a reinforced strike plate, heavy-duty screws, and a hardened steel bolt.
This prevents drilling, picking, and physical attacks. As a result, it is more often used in commercial buildings and residential settings where high security is required.
Enhanced Security Benefits
The improved security a double-sided lock offers is one of the main reasons why people choose it. As a matter of fact, it has the capacity to stop break-ins through window panes.
Businesses often use such locks because they provide more security on exterior doors that have windows. When intruders attempt to break into a building through a window, the key lock on the inside of the door prevents them from entering.
If an intruder breaks the glass, the lock will still need a key for the other side. Hence, they cannot simply reach in and unlock the door. This function creates an additional barrier to further stop robbers.
A deadbolt is particularly useful for doors that aren’t frequently used, such as garage, basement, or rear doors.
Nonetheless, it is important to note that this extra security can affect your regular door use. You run the risk of getting locked out due to the excellent double-sided protection.
Potential Safety Hazards in Emergencies
Double-sided deadbolts can potentially endanger your safety in emergencies like fires, as their double-unlocking feature can derail your safety exit.
Many building laws and fire safety rules restrict or even forbid the use of double-sided deadbolts on main exit doors. In order to prevent fumbling in an emergency, fasten a key to a chain or in a safe but reachable location.
In addition, safety drills should be practised with family members to learn how to act fast in case of an emergency. It’s imperative to have a well-defined safety plan if you end up installing a double-sided lock.
Compliance with Local Building Codes
Review your local building codes and rules first to ensure whether a double-sided lock fits. In an emergency, building rules are meant to guarantee safe exits from residences.
Refer to local rules or contact a qualified locksmith to ensure your lock matches your city’s legal rules, local building codes, and safety standards in your area.
Finally, test the practicality of double-sided deadbolts on secondary doors. If they are suitable and pragmatic, install them on the main doors.
Convenience and Daily Use
Despite the fact that these locks offer great security, they aren’t as handy as single-sided deadbolts. This is particularly true in heavy traffic locations such as front or side doors. In addition, they can be quite perplexing for houses with guests, elderly family members, or children.
If you put in a double-sided lock, ensure everyone in the house knows where the keys are and how to operate them. An additional thought to bear in mind is whether this degree of security is required on every door, as some secondary doors only require simple single-sided locks or electronic deadbolts.
As a matter of fact, secondary doors would benefit more from other forms of security, such as fingerprint identification, smartphone connectivity, or keypads.
Key Management and Duplication Risks
This poses significant security risks that can lead to unauthorised access and potential breaches.
Unauthorised copies of keys, often made without proper oversight, can give malicious individuals access to sensitive areas, particularly in residential and commercial settings. Insufficient control over key duplication practices increases the likelihood of keys being lost or stolen, further compromising security.
To avoid these issues, you should choose keys that cannot be duplicated. However, with this comes another risk. You need to employ meticulous key management and ensure you have several spare keys at a safe location.
Otherwise, you could end up locked out as you won’t have access to the door, even from the inside. In the unfortunate case that this happens, the right call is to hire an expert locksmith.
Conclusion
Double-sided deadbolts provide definite security, especially for glass doors. However, their use raises significant issues about compliance with local building rules, safety, and convenience.
Hopefully, this article has helped you consider the security advantages against the possible difficulties. Just remember to balance security and practicality for both your safety and comfort.