Locks - A Basic Guide

The choices can be daunting when it comes to updating or changing residential or commercial locks. We know that at Nearby Locksmiths, so we helping our customers with the decision is our major priority. We use all our knowledge about both residential and commercial locks to assist in choosing one that best protects your property.

We begin with an easy-to-follow guide about the four most common kinds of locks: padlocks, levers, deadbolts, and knob locks.

• Padlocks: This kind of lock has the most sizes to choose from, depending upon the object. They are usually not installed permanently, and they work with a shackle for application to the item that needs securing. There is a choice of two styles—keyed or combination—that are each designed with a body, a shackle, and a locking mechanism. Padlocks cannot be relied upon to be the most secure locks since they are easily broken with consistent force or through shimming with a thin card of some kind that can release the locking mechanism without forcing it open.

• Levers: the typical lever lock is a handle and is the usual choice for an internal door on a commercial edifice. The lever lock either swings up or down to release the lock. They have a key cylinder and a knob that rotates, so when the lever is pulled in either direction, it is easily opened. That is why it is best suited for a commercial building.

• Deadbolts: A deadbolt is typically used on residential external doors with a knob lock. They have a rotating cylinder that creates enough energy to push a bold into the door frame. The locking cylinder has to be rotated again in order for the bold to release. Deadbolts are the strongest of the common locks if repeated blunt force is applied to it, and they are resistant to shimming.

• Knob Locks: Both external and internal residential doors usually have knob locks. They are designed like a deadbolt with a key cylinder and rotating knob that controls the lock itself. When using a knob lock on an external residential door, it should also have a deadbolt in use with it because knob locks are not as secure when used alone.

For more about residential and commercial locks, contact your locksmith Mascot locals can count on for expert advice and call Nearby Locksmiths at 1300 625 696.

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