Times Have Changed

There was a time when we did not feel the need to lock the doors of our homes. As times have changed, so has the need to use locks for protection and to seek better locking technology for our homes and businesses. Deadbolts emerged on the market during the 1960s and gained popularity through the 1970s as a way to add additional security to a door. Today even newer technologies are available to further enhance security appropriate to the societal risks. According to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), burglars look for homes that are easy targets. More than ever, locks are the most critical element in protecting your family and possessions.

Locks Have Changed

Not all locks are created equally. As you shop the lock aisle at your local hardware store, you quickly become overwhelmed with the options.

There are three things you should consider when buying a lock:

Key Control:
If you give your keys to anyone else, even for a short time, will they be able to make a copy without your knowledge or permission?

High Security - recommended
Keys are protected against unauthorized duplication by utility patents. This offers additional protection against such physical attack as drilling, prying, pulling, wrenching or kicking.

Key Control - acceptable
Keys are protected against unauthorized duplication by patent.

Standard Locks - low security
Offers the minimum level of security available. Keys can be copied at over one million locations in the U.S. Some keys are stamped “do not duplicate,” but offer no legal protection against unauthorized duplication.
 
Physical Strength:
How well will the lock withstand abuse such as kicking or jimmying? In addition to strong locks, the strike needs
to have reinforcement to the door frame with 2" - 3" screws.
 
Durability:
Will the lock stand up to years of use without failing or becoming difficult to operate?
Lock Rating Strength* Life Span**
Grade 1  Grade 1 & 2 test + 2 blows @ 150 ft-lbf 11 years
Grade 2  Grade 3 test +2 blows @ 120 ft-lbf 5 years
Grade 3  2 blows @ 60 ft-lbf +2 blows @ 90 ft-lbf 3 years
Ungraded  Unknown. Generally less than Grade 3 standards  

* Number of blows required to cause lock to fail
** Assuming 10 lock or unlock cycles per day