Deadbolts, Levers, and Knobs, Oh My!
As locksmiths we sometimes forget that not everyone is as well versed in products and functions as we are. Quite often we may find ourselves asking a client what type of hardware they have, and we may struggle a bit when the client doesn’t know the difference between a deadbolt and a lever. It would sure make our jobs easier if they did, but sometimes you might find yourself playing twenty questions with a customer before figuring out they’re deadbolt is broken. Today I thought we would go through the three most common residential hardware pieces, they’re functions, advantages, and disadvantages.
Deadbolts
When it comes to the security of your home, this is the first barrier. A locking lever or knob is great and all, but it doesn’t provide nearly as much protection as a deadbolt. This is the little hockey puck looking piece that usually sits above your door knob or lever. The reason a deadbolt provides a higher level of protection than that of a lever, is that you cannot slip a bolt. A latch can be manipulated with various items like a pry bar or coat hanger, and presto the door is opened. A deadbolt however, must be retracted by turning a mechanism that is located inside the door. This is why under normal circumstances you turn a key. The key turns, which rotates this mechanism, and retracts the bolt back into the door. A good quality deadbolt usually sits a bit deeper into the door frame than your typical latch as well, which makes prying the door open a much greater feat than defeating a latch. Every home should have a deadbolt on each exterior door. The only disadvantage to a deadbolt is if you lose your keys, it can potentially be a bit more work to get back into your house.
Levers
While this might seem obvious, a lever is an L shaped handle that you crank up or down to open the door. Levers are far more accessible than a knob, making it the ideal choice for any commercial building. However, levers are generally more expensive than a knob. With the heightened level of accessibility, this also means pets and small children will also have an easier time operating the door.
Knobs
Knobs are by far the most cost effective option when it comes to door hardware. Oftentimes knobs can be half the cost of the same quality in a lever. However, knobs tend to be harder to use for those with disabilities or arthritis. If you’re on a budget, or operating a rental unit a knob might be your best choice. As knobs are harder to use they may be the better option for someone who has children who like the es-cop-eh a lot.
Lever and Knob Functions
Both levers and knobs come in several different functions. Firstly you have the entrance function. These have a locking mechanism that must be unlocked with a key from the exterior, and a thumb button on the interior. A great option for a front door. Next you have privacy, which locks, but can be opened with either a pin, or a screwdriver from the exterior, no key needed! Perfect for a bathroom. There are passages, which do not lock at all, but just simply open anytime. A passage is commonly found on closets or hallway doors. Storeroom hardware is always locked, and will always require a key from the exterior. Ideal for a gas station bathroom. Lastly, you have a double cylinder, or institutional. These require a key from both sides, these are less common and generally found on doors to things like interrogation rooms.
Conclusion
I know this one was a bit more basic, but sometimes it’s good to go over the basics. Door hardware is something we see everyday, and yet we rarely give them any thought. Something we take for granted and only take care of once it’s a problem.
If you’re looking for new door hardware or to repair your existing locks, give us a call. Crono Lock is open everyday from 5am to 11pm. Visit our Lock Installation and Repairs page for more information.
