Door locks
Hello all,
I apologize I've been away from the hive for a while. I'm trying to find the threads on the high security door locks like Medco and the others. I tried te search function but kept getting no results found, any help would be greatly appreciated. It's good to be back I've missed all the good stuff and discussions here!!!
Strong door jambs are far more important then the lock. Doors usually fail at the frame before the lock fails. Investment in reinforcing your door frame before going all out with expensive locks.
Originally Posted By Dace:
Strong door jambs are far more important then the lock. Doors usually fail at the frame before the lock fails. Investment in reinforcing your door frame before going all out with expensive locks.
This. Choice of lock will not make a big difference. You could get a reinforced steel door and they would just go through the window. Think about the whole package.
Yes very valid points I've already put reinforcing kits on both lock and hinge sides with steel shrouds encasing the frame of the door and all that plus used extra long and extra thick screws in all mounting hardware the locks are all I have left to do to the doors now. Mine are very flimsy and starting to fail from wearing out. Thanks for the advice anyway I always appreciate what I find here.
either buy the top brand (price) at the big box stores or go to a "door Company" in your area.
what you are looking for is quality to last a long time not so much bullet proof strength.
as was stated above, windows and frames are your weak points, locks don't keep criminals out, they keep the honest people out so you might as well have locks that will last and you enjoy.
If I was going to upgrade to Medco locks, I would also have to figure in getting something like the 3M window film for all ground level windows. If they can't get in via the door they'll just go in via the side window.
I know I've been involved in this type of thread before, maybe in Team or DIY section.
Schlage B series:
http://professional.schlage.com/products/pc_hdcp_baux.asp
You can get an interchangeable key cylinder model that has a good rep with locksmiths.
Always remember,
Door Locks and Locks in general are only for HONEST people.
Criminals can almost always get around a lock, window, reinforced jam, etc.....
Start
Here
We installed them and I'm very happy with them.
Forget regular door locks. I'm an ex-street cop and the very best door security bar I have found is the BAR-RICADE that can be found on Ebay right now. It installs in minutes, and it only takes 2-3 seconds to put the super-strong steel bar up or take it down and it looks nice when mounted. Cost = $58 delivered to your door. Look it up on Ebay, there is a video showing everything about it. I have had one for a year and recommend it without reservations of any kind.
I was using schlage primus locks but after about a year and a half the keys would start sticking real bad in the locks and finally it would be almost impossible to work the locks. I talked to a locksmith here who also sold me my safe and he said in an environment where it is dusty and salt air those types of locks are always going to have problems. He took a brand new one apart and showed me the keying mechanism and where the problem was when dust and dirt got in there. I got rid of them and replaced them with these:
http://www.mul-t-lock.com/res/English_Product_files/Locks/L13.pdf
The Hurcular Deadbolt single cylinder made by Mul-T-Lock. One thing I really like about it is when it is engaged there area 2 ball bearings that locks into the strike plate to keep the lock engaged and help prevent prying the bolt out from the strike plate.
But as others have said earlier locks are only one small part of the security needs for your home. We beefed up our doors and jams and had impact glass installed all around our house.
Not to hijack your thread.
I worry about my moms door being kicked in.
It has those stupid windows on either side of the jamb.
How do you secure something like that?
The door is hollow metal and the locks are cheap. I am going to upgrade the locks and add a steel jamb reinforcement, but these windows have me worried about the strength of the jamb.
I have Schlage Grade 1 locks, those metal jamb braces, and am getting the secuity film on all windows once I can afford it.
steel door, extra long hardened strike plate and extra long hardened steel screws for hinges and plates and then film on the windows... doesn't really cost that much but will increase the amount of time it takes a thief to get in your house dramatically!