Here’s What You Need to Consider About Your Locks

Locks are important. They protect your home, your belongings, and most importantly, your loved ones. 

Checking, updating, and investing in high quality locks is one of the most important things you can do for your home. Keeping your home secure means you are well defended against any intruders or burglars. And upgrading your home’s security is essential for giving you and your family peace of mind.

From locks indoors to locks outside, in this blog, we’ll list what you need to consider when it comes to all things locks and security.

Check Your Current Locks

Your first step in improving your home’s security is conducting a full evaluation of your current locks. This can be done by yourself or by searching for a locksmith near me who can conduct a full, professional, and in-depth assessment. 

This might be a good idea if you don’t know a lot about locks or you’re afraid of missing something. A professional can spot issues you can’t, they’ll also be knowledgeable about lock updates or exploits. They’ll be able to let you know if your locks are getting too old or vulnerable to the latest burglary tricks.

If any issues are found, a locksmith can then recommend what to do, whether that’s repairs, replacements, or upgrades.

If doing a DIY evaluation, then make sure you don’t forget any and all access points. This includes doors, windows, and even external areas such as garages and sheds. Ensure they work properly, are in good condition, and are not too worn down, rusted, corroded, or coming loose.

If you do spot an issue, look up the latest in locks. Whether that means upgrading to smart systems or just buying some stronger locks.

Choosing Locks

Choosing new locks might take a little bit of research at first. Look for high quality, durable options. There are various different types of locks, and they also have a rating system.

A specialist shop will likely have the best product information for each type of lock. Don’t be afraid to ask an assistant for help.

Types of Locks

Mortice Locks – These are installed into the doors, with a visible long rectangle of metal visible on the edge of the door when you open it.

Euro Cylinder Locks – as the name implies these are cylinder shaped locks, most commonly available in silver and gold. These are usually installed in UPVC and composite doors. Often, they are used with a multipoint locking system, giving extra security.

Deadbolts – Some might refer to them as “latches”. This is the sort of lock you’d find on a bathroom door or garden gate, but a more heavy-duty version is available for external doors. These can only be unlocked via key, and would require a lot of force to break open. A good choice for enhanced security.

Padlocks – These are portable and best for outside areas like gates, garages, and sheds, as well as gym lockers.

Lock Ratings

Locks are typically given a British Standards Institution (BSI) rating, they are:

BS3621: These are the standard for mortice and rim locks. If locks meet this standard, it means that their durability, strength and key security has been tested. They’ll also usually feature anti-pick, anti-drill and anti-saw measures.

TS007: This rating applies to the euro cylinder locks and has its own star rating system ranging from 1 to 3 stars – with 3 being the highest. The rating measures the locks’ resistance to burglary methods such as snapping, picking, and drilling.

Star System Explained: 

• 1-star will provide a basic level of security against picking and drilling

• 2-star is a moderate level and also resists snapping

• 3-star locks will have additional anti burglary features

BS EN 1303: This applies to all cylinders and considers durability, security, and fire resistance.

Consider Your Doors

As well as your locks, how are your doors fairing? Are they getting old and need an upgrade too? It might be worth investing in new exterior doors at the same time. This makes sure that you can combine your newfound knowledge of locks from the guide above, with a sturdy modern door that will also have its own break-in resistant features.

The right lock will depend on the type of door you have/want and its material. It also depends on the level of security you want or need for your property, so consider how safe your neighbourhood is.

Locking Up

Remember, you can always consult an expert when choosing the right lock for your doors and windows. Don’t forget gates, sheds, or garages either.

There are also plenty of options when it comes to smart locks and devices, things like cameras and motion sensor lights can go a great deal to making your property safer. 

The most important thing besides having the right equipment is remembering to use it, so make sure your locking and security habits are up to scratch too. Always shut windows when going out and don’t leave valuables on display.