I have an apartment; why do I need a new lock?
If you’ve just moved into a new apartment or are getting to the end of your current lease, buying a new deadbolt lock might not be the first thing on your mind. Though it seems like an unnecessary step in apartment living, getting a new lock can add an extra layer of security to your home. Locks that have long been in circulation have been used by numerous people and can suffer from durability issues after years of use. However, with a brand new BHMA Certified® deadbolt, you’ll know that your apartment is protected by hardware that’s been rigorously tested.
Before buying a new deadbolt for your apartment, there are a few things you’ll need to know. A deadbolt lock is a piece of door hardware that is commonly placed above a door handle or lockset on an exterior door. Deadbolts are used to provide extra security, and with a new lock featuring the BHMA Certified Secure Home™ label, you’ll be able to tell exactly how well your deadbolt measured up against the industry’s standards. Each certified product receives a rating of Good (C), Better (B) or Best (A) in the categories of security, durability and finish.
Depending on your needs, you may prioritize ratings in particular categories. For example, if you’re looking to buy a lock for your exterior facing door, you’d want to make sure your lock has a high finish rating so that it can stand up to harsh weather conditions. Locks that you know you’ll be using a fair amount should have a high durability rating, and for those that need to be locked up extra tight, you should lean towards a high security rating. Getting a Best (A) rating in the category that fits your needs will often lead to the most satisfactory purchase.
Having your door hardware match the style of your apartment or apartment building is also something to consider when you’re shopping. Consult the BHMA Secure Home Style Guide page to find out everything you’ll need to know.