What Type of Locking Mechanism Is Installed on Your External Door?

One critical detail when filling out your Fortify Form after purchasing your Fortify Plan is the type of locking mechanism installed on your external doors. The security of your home greatly depends on the effectiveness of these external door locking mechanisms. From traditional keyed locks to modern smart locks, the range of available options offers varying levels of security, convenience, and technology. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of door locks to help you identify the locking mechanisms on your external doors and complete your Fortify Form.

1. Chain Lock

A chain lock is a simple security mechanism often found on the inside of a door, used in conjunction with other locks. It allows the door to be opened slightly while still preventing unauthorized access.

Characteristics of Chain Locks:

  • Installed inside the door, with a small chain that attaches to a slider.
  • Allows the door to be opened partially without allowing full entry.
  • Often used for secondary security, not as a primary locking mechanism.

Security Considerations:

  • While a chain lock provides some security, it can be easily broken with force and should not be relied upon as the sole lock.
  • Consider reinforcing the chain or using it in combination with stronger home security locks.

If your external doors are equipped with a chain lock, include this in your Fortify Form to ensure your security plan addresses the limitations of this locking mechanism.

2. Door Bar

A door bar is another secondary locking mechanism that reinforces the door by preventing it from being forced open. This option adds an extra layer of security, often used in combination with other locks.

Characteristics of Door Bars:

  • A metal bar that spans the door and locks into place, typically at the bottom or middle of the door.
  • Blocks the door from opening, even if other locks are compromised.
  • Provides additional security for doors that may be vulnerable to forced entry.

Home Security Locks with Door Bars:

  • Door bars are highly effective in preventing break-ins, especially when used alongside a deadbolt or other primary lock.
  • Easy to install and remove, offering both security and convenience for homeowners.

If you have a door bar installed on your external doors, be sure to include this in your Fortify Form for a comprehensive security assessment.

3. Traditional Keyed Lock

The traditional keyed lock is one of the most common types of door locks used in residential homes. This lock requires a key to open and is often paired with other locking mechanisms, such as a deadbolt.

Characteristics of Traditional Keyed Locks:

  • A standard lock that uses a physical key to lock or unlock the door.
  • Commonly used on front and back doors as the primary locking mechanism.
  • Available in various styles and levels of security, depending on the quality of the lock.

Security Considerations:

  • Traditional keyed locks can be vulnerable to lock-picking or key duplication. Upgrading to a high-security version or pairing it with additional locks, such as a deadbolt, is recommended.
  • Regular maintenance of the lock and key is necessary to ensure smooth operation and avoid wear.

If your external doors are secured with traditional keyed locks, include this detail in your Fortify Form to ensure your security plan addresses any potential weaknesses or the need for enhancements.

4. Deadbolt

A deadbolt is one of the most secure types of door locks, often used in combination with a traditional keyed lock. It provides strong protection against forced entry due to its robust design.

Characteristics of Deadbolts:

  • Operates separately from the door’s main latch, typically installed above or below the primary lock.
  • Requires a key or a thumb turn to lock or unlock, depending on the type of deadbolt.
  • Comes in single-cylinder (keyed on one side) or double-cylinder (keyed on both sides) versions for added security.

Secure Door Locks with Deadbolts:

  • Deadbolts are highly resistant to forced entry and lock-picking, making them an excellent addition to any external door.
  • Ensure your deadbolt is made from high-quality materials and installed correctly for maximum security.

If you have a deadbolt on your external door, be sure to list this in your Fortify Form so your Fortify Plan recognizes the added layer of security.

5. Keypad Entry

Keypad entry systems offer a keyless entry system where a numeric code is used to unlock the door. This type of lock is common in modern homes and offers both convenience and security.

Characteristics of Keypad Entry Systems:

  • Uses a keypad on the exterior of the door where a code is entered to unlock the door.
  • Eliminates the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of losing or duplicating keys.
  • Can be programmed with multiple access codes for different users.

Advantages of Keypad Entry Locks:

  • Keypad entry systems provide enhanced security by allowing homeowners to change codes as needed and monitor who enters the home.
  • Some systems offer automatic locking features after a set period, adding an extra layer of security.

If your home uses a keypad entry system, include this in your Fortify Form for a personalized security plan that takes into account your electronic door locks.

6. Smart Lock

A smart lock is an advanced locking system that connects to your smartphone, allowing you to lock or unlock your door remotely. Smart locks offer convenience, especially for homeowners who want to integrate their home security system with modern technology.

Characteristics of Smart Locks:

  • Operated via smartphone apps, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, allowing remote access to lock and unlock the door.
  • Can be integrated with home automation systems and paired with other security features like cameras or alarm systems.
  • Offers keyless entry and real-time alerts on lock activity.

Advanced Door Lock Options with Smart Locks:

  • Smart locks provide a higher level of convenience and flexibility, but ensure that they are properly secured with encryption and other safeguards to prevent hacking.
  • This lock type is ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who want to control access to their home remotely.

If you have a smart lock installed on your external door, make sure to include this in your Fortify Form so your Fortify Plan can optimize the security of your keyless entry systems.

7. Biometric Lock

A biometric lock uses fingerprint scanning or other biometric data, such as retinal or facial recognition, to unlock the door. These locks offer a high level of security and are commonly used in high-tech homes or for secure areas.

Characteristics of Biometric Locks:

  • Unlocks the door using fingerprint scans or other biometric identifiers.
  • Eliminates the need for keys or codes, providing a high-tech security solution.
  • Can store multiple biometric profiles, allowing access for different users.

Home Security Locks with Biometric Features:

  • Biometric locks are highly secure as they are nearly impossible to bypass without the correct biometric data.
  • These locks are ideal for homeowners seeking the most advanced security solutions for their external doors.

If you have a biometric lock installed, include this in your Fortify Form to ensure your Fortify Plan addresses the advanced security features provided by this type of lock.

8. Multipoint Lock

A multipoint lock offers a higher level of security by locking at multiple points along the door frame. This type of lock is commonly used for larger or more secure external doors, such as metal-clad or solid wood doors.

Characteristics of Multipoint Locks:

  • Secures the door at three or more points along the frame, offering enhanced protection against forced entry.
  • Commonly found on more secure or high-end doors, such as fire-rated or energy-efficient doors.
  • Requires either a key or a handle to lock and unlock all points simultaneously.

Secure Door Locks with Multipoint Systems:

  • Multipoint locks provide superior strength and resistance to break-ins, making them a great option for securing external doors.
  • Ensure that the lock is properly maintained to avoid misalignment or malfunction.

If your external doors feature a multipoint lock, include this in your Fortify Form so your Fortify Plan reflects the enhanced security provided by this system.