What is a deadbolt? How do I know which one is best for me?
If you are shopping for new door hardware products, make sure you’re familiar with the different components that protect your exterior doors. Deadbolts are typically used in addition to a lockset on exterior doors to provide extra security for your home.
Bored deadbolts are the most common deadbolt. They sit on the face of a door (in a hole that is “bored” into the door) and must be operated with a key or thumbturn. There are two main types.
- Single-cylinder deadbolts have a keyhole on the exterior and a thumbturn on the interior. This allows you to quickly exit your home in the case of an emergency.
- Double-cylinder deadbolts have a keyhole on both the exterior and interior. They are commonly used on French patio doors where the glass could be broken to gain access. While this adds extra security, it can also make it more difficult to exit in the event of an emergency.
Whether you are shopping on your own or being assisted by an employee at your local hardware store, make sure the products you select have the BHMA® Certified Secure Home™ label. Hardware that has been certified by BHMA has been rigorously tested and meets high performance standards for security, durability and finish.