Mechanical locks are the backbone of your security system. There are three types of tumbler locks: pin-tumbler, disk-tumbler, and lever-tumbler. Pin-tumbler locks are the most common. The tumblers in this type of lock are small pins. The modern door lock is a compact pin-tumbler cylinder lock of the type developed (1860) by the American inventor Linus Yale. Most high-security locks have pin tumblers. Disk-tumbler locks are often used in desks and file cabinets. Lever-tumbler locks employ a series of different-sized levers resting on a bolt pin to prevent the bolt from moving. When the proper key is inserted, all the levers are raised to the same height, enabling the bolt pin to release the bolt. Lever-tumbler locks are often used in briefcases, safe-deposit boxes, and lockers.
Pin-tumbler locks can be keyed to your existing key, master keyed and re-keyed over and over. They come in many architectural styles and finishes to suit your taste and building style.
Deadbolts can be keyed on one side with a turn knob on the other, keyed on both sides, Keyed or turn knob on one side only. Your bolt should extend at least 1 inch from the edge of the door. Many older deadbolts have a much shorter “throw” and it is not enough to prevent the door from being pried open. Deadbolt strength is dependent upon the strength of the JAM, or what the bolt goes into. Jams can be reinforced with many products to make it much more difficult for intruder to bypass the lock.
Latch locks refer to locks that have a beveled, spring loaded bolt that slides past the jam edge and drops into the hole. These locks keep the door shut when closed, generally give you a knob or lever to pull or push the door open/closed and provide some degree of security. But not nearly the security of a deadbolt lock. The newer latches have a pin which, when properly installed does not allow the latch to be pushed back by a credit card or other means when the door is closed and locked. Proper installation is the key here.
LOCK FUNCTION: Knob and lever locks come with many different functions:
- Entry– Standard locks on homes and businesses with key on outside and a small turn button to lock and unlock from inside.
- Storeroom – always locked on the outside and always open on the inside.
- Privacy – not keyed, used on bathrooms and bedrooms,
- Passage – simply a latch with no locking functions
- Asylum – must use key from both sides
- Communicating– Both sides must be unlocked for door to be opened.
- Classroom – Outside key cylinder locks and unlocks, inside is always free. Newer CLASSROOM locks have option to lock and unlock outside knob from the inside, a change made in response need for teachers not having to go into the hallway to lock their door. However, you can always exit the classroom without a key.