Upgrading your home security system through a thorough examination of your locks works well if you understand locks and the terminology surrounding them. Putting together a plan of action utilising the correct lock for your doors, windows and location will stand you in good stead to reduce the chances of a break-in at your home.
There are a number of different types of locks, so let’s take a look at them and see how they can be effective as a barrier against burglars.
Single Point Locks
A single point lock has a single point where it locks the door into place. This is in comparison with a multi-point locking system, where there may be a number of bolts, hooks and rollers along the face of the door from which you can lock it.
Single point locks come in a number of forms:
Mortice Locks- A mortice lock provides a central locking point, embedded into the door for extra strength against forced entry. A mortice lock can be applied as a deadlock or sashlock. A mortice lock uses levers, with a five lever mortice lock providing British Standard lock security.
Nightlatch- A nightlatch is a lock that has an automatic latch bolt, which is withdrawn externally by a key, and inside through the use of a handle. A nightlatch can be used in combination with a deadlock mortice lock for additional security. Look out for Nightlatches with British Standard security.
Tubular Latch- For use on internal doors, a latch is retracted by the use of a door knob or lever handle.
Multi-Point Locks
A multi-point locking system is one where the door has a number of locking points alongside the edge. The most common way of controlling these locking points is through a central handle that is lifted to throw the locking points and secure the door to the frame.
There are a wide range of latches, hooks, mushrooms, bolts and rollers that can all be used in combination to provide a secure multi-point locking system, and as standard are operated with a Euro Cylinder. Make sure you look for a euro cylinder that has a Kitemark.
Accessories
Once you have fitted a lock to your door, you can accessorise to add a further layer of security. Choose from the following to improve your home security system.
Door Chain- A detachable connection between the door and the frame, to restrict the opening of the door when receiving unknown callers.
Door Viewer- Fitted centrally on the door, this allows you to view the outside of the door without opening it. The lens on a door viewer allows for a wide field of vision.
Security Bolt- A mortice bolt that is fitted to the top and bottom of the inside of the door, providing additional security for doors with single point locks.
As you can see, there are a few methods and applications you can put in place to add to your home security system through the right type of locks.
Jeffrey Wilson- blogger and content writer