What to know about knob locks

Knob locks are those round door handles you see everywhere with the lock built right into the knob. They work by using a latch that sticks out from the door and goes into the frame when closed. There are many different types – from basic passage knobs that don't lock at all, to privacy knobs for bathrooms, keyed entry knobs for more security, decorative dummy knobs, and always-locked storeroom knobs for businesses.

The parts of a knob lock are pretty straightforward. You've got the knobs themselves on both sides, the rose (that metal plate against the door), the cylinder where you put the key, the spindle connecting everything through the door, the latch assembly, and the strike plate on the frame. It's a simple but effective system when all these bits work together.

The security of knob locks is based on how they function. When locked, the knob won't turn, keeping the latch extended into the frame. If it's a keyed lock, only the right key will align the pins in the cylinder correctly so the knob can turn. Pretty clever, but not foolproof.

Knob locks have their good and bad points. They're affordable, easy to put in yourself, and come in loads of styles to match your home. But they're not as secure as deadbolts, can be hard to grip for some people, and since the lock is right in the knob, they can be forced open more easily. That's why many people also use deadbolts, lever handles, smart locks, or mortise locks depending on how much security they need.

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What are knob locks?

Knob locks are those everyday locking devices you turn to open doors. They provide basic security by controlling who can enter a room or building. Each knob lock has round knobs on both sides with the locking bits tucked away inside, all connected by a metal rod through the door.

They work in a really simple way – when you turn the knob, it pulls back a spring-loaded latch from the door frame, letting you open the door. Some have buttons you push to lock them from inside, while others need a key.

You'll spot these locks all over the place – on bedroom and bathroom doors in homes, sometimes on front doors, and in offices and shops too. They're pretty common because they're easy to use and not too expensive.

The thing is, knob locks aren't nearly as secure as deadbolts. Since all the locking parts are inside the knob itself, someone determined enough could break them with enough force. Deadbolts, on the other hand, extend much deeper into the door frame and are harder to force. That's why it's often suggested to use both for outside doors if you want better security.

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What is the main structure of a knob lock?

The main structure of a knob lock is pretty simple when you break it down. You've got the knobs on each side of the door that you grip and turn. Inside one of those knobs is the locking cylinder – that's where all the magic happens with the pins that need to line up when you put your key in. The latch bolt is that springy bit that sticks out from the door edge and pops into the frame to keep things shut. All this sits inside the housing, which is basically the metal shell that holds everything together. And of course, you need fixing screws to keep the whole thing attached to your door.

These parts all work together like a well-oiled machine. When you grab and turn the knob, it spins the inner workings that pull the latch back. The housing keeps everything protected from damage and spreads out the force when you're using the lock. Those fixing screws aren't just holding things in place – they're creating just the right tension so everything moves smoothly. When you lock it, the cylinder freezes up the mechanism so the knob can't turn and the latch stays put until you use the right key.

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What are knob locks components?

When you look at a knob lock, you might just see the knobs themselves, but there's actually a whole team of parts working together inside. Let's break down all the key components that make up a typical knob lock:

• Exterior knob: This is the knob on the outside of your door. It's what visitors use to get in, and it might have a keyhole if it's a locking type.
• Interior knob: This is the knob on the inside of your door. Might have a little push-button or turn-button for locking up when you're inside.
• Spindle: Think of this as the axle connecting both knobs through the door. When you turn one knob, this rod makes sure the other side turns too.
• Cylinder: This is the brains of the lock – it's got all those little pins and springs inside that check if you've got the right key.
• Latch mechanism: This is the springy bolt that pops out from the door edge and into the frame to keep the door shut.
• Strike plate: That metal piece screwed into your door frame with a hole where the latch goes in.
• Screws: The unsung heroes holding everything together on your door.
• Faceplate: That small metal plate on the edge of your door that frames the latch bolt and protects the wood.

Each bit does something important. The knobs give you something to grab onto. The spindle makes sure turning one knob affects the whole mechanism. The cylinder is your security guard, only letting the right key unlock things. The latch is what actually keeps the door closed, while the strike plate gives it something solid to latch into. The screws make sure nothing comes loose over time. And the faceplate protects your door from getting chewed up as the latch moves in and out thousands of times.

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What are the internal mechanisms of knob locks?

The internal mechanism of a knob lock is basically the hidden brain inside that does all the work. You don't see it, but it's the clever bit that turns your twist of the knob into actually opening your door.

Here's how it all works together: When you grab and turn the knob, you're spinning the spindle – that metal rod running through the middle. This spindle is connected to the latch mechanism, so as it turns, it pulls the springy latch bolt back into the door. It's pretty simple when it's unlocked – turn knob, spindle spins, latch pulls in, door opens.

The magic happens when you lock it. Inside the cylinder (where your key goes), there are tiny spring-loaded pins of different lengths. Your key has unique ridges that push these pins up to exactly the right position – what locksmiths call the "shear line." It's like a little puzzle that only your key can solve.

When all those pins line up perfectly, the cylinder can rotate. This rotation either blocks or releases the spindle. If it's blocked, you can wiggle the knob all you want, but the spindle can't move enough to pull back the latch. Pop in the right key, turn it, and the cylinder rotates to free up the spindle again. That's why the right key lets you in, and the wrong one leaves you standing outside.

It's a brilliantly simple system when you think about it – mechanical, reliable, and it's been keeping doors secure for generations with barely any changes to the basic idea.

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What Materials Are Knob Locks Made From?

Knob locks are built from several different materials, each chosen for specific reasons. Let's look at what most knob locks are actually made of:

Brass is the premium choice for many quality knob locks. It's naturally resistant to corrosion, has that warm golden look people love, and stands up well to years of grabbing and turning. You'll find solid brass in higher-end locks, especially for the parts you can see and touch.

Steel brings the muscle to the lock. It's incredibly strong and often used for the internal workings and structural elements. The latch bolt that extends into your door frame, the strike plate, and many of the working parts inside are typically steel because they need to withstand force.

Zinc alloy (sometimes called zamak) shows up in many mid-range and affordable locks. It can be molded into detailed shapes easily, weighs less than brass, and can be plated to look like more expensive metals. A lot of the knobs you see that look like brass or chrome are actually zinc underneath.

Plastic parts appear in the less important areas of the lock. You might find plastic in some interior components, decorative elements, or in budget-friendly options. Modern plastics can be surprisingly tough, and they help keep costs down.

What your lock is made from directly affects how long it lasts, how heavy it feels in your hand, and of course, what you pay for it. The really good ones use more brass and steel, while the budget options lean more on zinc alloy and plastic parts.

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What are the different knob locks types?

There are several types of knob locks you'll find when shopping for your home or business. Privacy knob locks are the ones you typically see on bathroom and bedroom doors – they lock from the inside with a push-button or turn-button for privacy, but don't need a key. You can usually unlock them from the outside with a small emergency tool if someone gets locked in. Passage knob locks don't lock at all – they're just for opening and closing doors where security isn't needed, like hallways or closets. Keyed entry knob locks are more secure, requiring a key to unlock from the outside while having a turn-button inside. These are common on exterior doors but aren't as secure as deadbolts. Dummy knobs don't actually turn or latch – they're just decorative handles mounted on doors that don't need to latch closed, like shallow pantry doors or wardrobes. Each type serves a specific purpose, so knowing where you're installing the lock helps determine which type you need.

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How to Choose a Knob Lock?

Choosing the right knob lock comes down to a few key factors that you should consider before making your purchase. First, think about your security requirements – what are you trying to protect? For external doors where security is important, a keyed entry knob paired with a deadbolt gives the best protection. For internal doors where privacy is the main concern, a simple privacy knob will do the job. Next, check compatibility with your door type – measure the door thickness and backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole), and make sure the lock you choose will fit properly. Don't forget about aesthetics – the lock should match your home's style and other hardware, whether that's modern, traditional, brushed nickel, or antique brass. Finally, consider your budget – prices range from basic models under $20 to premium options over $100. The more you spend, the better the materials and longevity you'll generally get, but even mid-range locks provide good security for most homes. Balance these factors based on where the lock will be used, and you'll end up with the right choice.

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How much does knob locks cost?

The price of knob locks really varies depending on what you're looking for. If you just need basic passage knobs for inside doors, you can pick up simple plastic or zinc ones for about $15-$25 at your local hardware store. They're nothing fancy but do the job for closets and hallways.

For something a bit better, mid-range brass or steel knobs typically run between $30-$60. These are your everyday privacy knobs for bathrooms or keyed knobs that offer some security. They'll last longer and usually look nicer than the budget options.

If you want something really nice, premium solid brass knobs from brands like Schlage, Kwikset, or Baldwin start around $70 and can go up to $150 or more. These are the ones with smoother action, better finishes, and that substantial feel when you turn them.

The type makes a big difference in what you'll pay too. A simple non-keyed passage knob is always cheaper than a keyed entry knob because there's less going on inside. And if you're looking at smart knobs with electronic features, expect to pay anywhere from $100-$300 depending on how fancy they get.

Why such a big range in prices? It comes down to what goes into making them. Locks that meet higher security ratings like ANSI Grade 1 cost more but offer better protection. Features like bump-proof or pick-resistant cylinders add to the price. And things like reinforced strike plates or hardened steel components bump up the cost but make your door more secure. It's usually worth spending a bit more for something that will last longer and keep your home safer.

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Who can install knob locks in Sydney?

If you need knob locks installed in Sydney, you've got a few options, but professional locksmiths are your best bet. These are the folks who deal with locks day in and day out, so they know exactly what they're doing. They can measure everything correctly, make sure the lock fits your door properly, and get it working smoothly from the start.

Sydney has loads of good locksmiths who are properly licensed and insured. Some local hardware stores offer installation too, but they might not have the same level of expertise as someone who specialises in locks.

For a job done right, give Lost Key Locksmiths a call on 0482095238. We're a Sydney-based locksmiths with great reviews and cover all areas of the city. The best part? We have a $0 call-out fee and aim to get to you quickly when you need them. If you want to check us out first, just visit www.lostkeylocksmiths.com.au to see our locksmith services or book an installation. Our mobile locksmith service means they come to you, so you don't have to lug your door anywhere!

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How does knob locks work?

Knob locks work in a pretty simple way that's easy to understand. When you grab and turn a doorknob, you're actually turning a spindle – that's the metal rod that runs through the middle of the lock from one side of the door to the other. This spindle connects to what's called a latch mechanism inside the door.

As you turn the knob, the spindle rotates and pulls back the spring-loaded latch bolt (that's the part that sticks out from the edge of your door). When the latch bolt retracts into the door, you can push or pull the door open. When you let go of the knob, a spring pushes the latch back out so it will catch in the strike plate when you close the door again.

For locking knobs, there's an extra step. When you push the button on the inside knob or use a key on the outside, it activates a small mechanism that blocks the spindle from turning far enough to pull back the latch. The key works by aligning small pins inside the lock cylinder to the right height – only when all pins line up perfectly can the cylinder turn and unblock the spindle. It's like a simple puzzle that only the right key can solve, allowing the knob to turn and the latch to retract.

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What are the security features of knob locks?

Knob locks include several security features that help protect your home. Here's what makes some better than others:

• Key insertion mechanism: The way your key fits into the lock affects security. Basic knobs use simple pin tumblers, while better ones have paracentric keyways - those oddly-shaped openings that make it harder for lock picking tools to work. Some high-end locks use restricted keyways that legally prevent unauthorised key duplication.
• Anti-drill plates: These are like shields inside good-quality knob locks. They're made of hardened steel and sit in front of important parts of the lock. If someone tries to drill through the lock, these plates spin freely, preventing the drill bit from getting any grip. You won't find these in cheap locks, but they're great at stopping a common break-in method.
• Tamper-resistant materials: Better knob locks use hardened steel instead of softer metals, making them harder to break or damage. Some have reinforced housings that can take a beating without failing. Premium locks might use ball bearings in their construction rather than standard screws, making them much tougher to force apart.
• Advanced locking systems: These include anti-bump pins that prevent "bump keys" from working, special anti-pick pins with unusual shapes, and sidebar mechanisms that add extra security layers. Some newer electronic knob locks use encryption that changes each time you use the lock, defeating code-grabbers completely.

The most resistance to forced entry comes from the combination of hardened steel components and anti-drill protection. Reinforced strike plates are also important since they strengthen the doorframe where the latch extends. That said, even with all these features, knob locks have a weakness - their design puts the locking mechanism in the knob itself, which can be vulnerable to gripping tools. That's why serious security often pairs a knob lock with a deadbolt.

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What are the advantages of installing knob locks?

Knob locks bring several benefits that keep them popular in homes and businesses across Australia. Let's look at why so many people choose these familiar locks:

• Easy to use: One of the biggest advantages of knob locks is that practically everyone knows how to use them. There's no learning curve - just grab and turn. This simplicity makes them perfect for homes with children or elderly residents who might struggle with more complex locking systems.
• Affordable: If you're watching your budget, knob locks won't break the bank. You can pick up decent quality ones starting around $20-30, making them much cheaper than fancy electronic locks or high-security deadbolts. This affordability is especially handy when you need to outfit several doors at once.
• Aesthetically pleasing: Looking to match your home's style? Knob locks come in just about every design imaginable - from classic brass to sleek modern chrome, vintage-inspired designs to minimalist options. Whatever your décor, there's a knob lock that'll look right at home on your doors.
• Versatile applications: These locks are like the Swiss Army knife of door security - they work almost anywhere. Bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, pantries, offices - knob locks handle them all with ease. Their adaptability makes them a go-to solution for nearly any door in your house.

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How Secure are knob locks?

When it comes to security, knob locks are kind of middle-of-the-road. They're secure enough for most interior doors but not really what you want as your only protection for outside doors.

For inside your home, where you're mainly looking for privacy rather than serious security, they're perfectly fine. They'll keep the bathroom door closed when you need privacy or give you peace of mind that nobody's wandering into your home office while you're out.

But for exterior doors, knob locks have some weaknesses you should know about. The biggest problem is that all the locking stuff is right there in the knob itself, not deep inside the door. This means someone with a pair of pliers or pipe wrench could potentially grip the knob, twist hard, and break the locking mechanism. Not exactly what you want standing between your valuables and the outside world!

They're also not that tough against lock-picking. Your average burglar probably isn't going to pick your lock (they prefer faster methods), but someone with basic skills and the right tools could potentially work through a standard knob lock without too much trouble.

Many older or cheaper knob locks are also vulnerable to the old credit card trick - sliding a piece of plastic between the door and frame to push back the latch. Better quality modern locks have a feature called a deadlatch (a little plunger next to the main latch) that prevents this, but not all knob locks include this protection.

This is why most security pros will tell you to use a knob lock AND a deadbolt on exterior doors. The knob gives you the convenience for everyday use, while the deadbolt provides the serious security that actually keeps intruders out.

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Can knob locks Be Rekeyed?

Yes, most knob locks can be rekeyed, and it's actually a pretty common service. Instead of replacing the whole lock when you move into a new place or lose a key, a locksmith can just change the pins inside the lock cylinder to work with a new key. It's like giving your lock a fresh start without the hassle of installing new hardware.

Many newer knob locks even come with DIY rekeying features. Brands like Kwikset SmartKey and Schlage SecureKey have made it so you can rekey your own locks in minutes with just the current key and a special tool that comes with the lock. It's surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it.

For regular knob locks without these fancy features, any locksmith can rekey them quickly – usually for a lot less money than buying new locks. This is super handy when you want all your doors to work with the same key or if you've handed out too many copies and want to start fresh with new keys.

Just keep in mind that if you have really old locks, badly damaged ones, or super cheap locks, they might be harder or even impossible to rekey properly. In those cases, you're probably better off just replacing them entirely.

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What are the disadvantages of installing knob locks?

While knob locks are popular, they do come with some drawbacks that are worth thinking about before you install them:

• Lower security than other options: The hard truth is that knob locks just aren't as secure as deadbolts. The entire locking mechanism sits in the knob itself rather than extending deep into the door, which makes them more vulnerable. That's why you'll often see exterior doors with both a knob lock and a deadbolt – the knob lock is for convenience, but the deadbolt is doing the real security work.
• Vulnerability to forced entry: Since all the important bits are in the knob itself, someone with the right tools (like pipe wrenches) can grip the knob and break the locking mechanism with enough force. Unlike deadbolts, where an attacker would need to damage the actual door, the exposed position of the knob makes it an easier target.
• Susceptibility to picking: Your standard knob locks use pretty basic mechanisms inside that skilled people can defeat with lock picking tools. Most burglars don't actually bother with lock picking (they prefer quicker methods), but it's still a weakness compared to more sophisticated lock types.
• Wear issues with frequent use: If you've ever dealt with a loose or sticky doorknob, you know what I'm talking about. The turning mechanism inside knob locks tends to wear down over time, especially on doors you use constantly. This wear and tear means you might need to replace knob locks more often than sturdier lock types.
• Accessibility concerns: Knobs can be genuinely difficult for people with arthritis, limited hand strength, or certain disabilities. Grabbing and turning a knob requires more dexterity and grip strength than pushing down a lever handle. This accessibility issue is so significant that some building codes now require lever handles instead of knobs in commercial buildings.

None of these downsides mean knob locks are a bad choice overall – they're still great for many situations. But they do explain why you might want to think carefully about where you use them and whether you need additional security measures in certain locations.

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What are the common issues with knob locks?

Knob locks might seem simple, but they can develop several annoying problems over time. Jamming is probably the most common headache – that's when you turn the knob, but the latch stubbornly refuses to retract. You end up twisting harder and harder, wondering if you're going to break the thing. This usually happens because dust and grime have built up inside or because the internal springs are wearing out after thousands of uses.

Another frequent problem is misalignment with the strike plate. Your house naturally settles over time, and door hinges can loosen, causing the latch and strike plate to fall out of perfect alignment. When this happens, your door might not latch properly when closed, or you might need to lift or push on the door while turning the key to get it to lock.

The internal components also suffer from normal wear-and-tear. After years of turning, the mechanisms inside get sloppy, leading to inconsistent locking or sticking. And then there's the classic loose knob problem – where the knob itself gets wobbly or even comes off in your hand. Not exactly what you want when you're trying to get inside quickly!

Watch out for early warning signs like knobs that feel stiff when turning, clicking or grinding noises, doors that need an extra push to latch closed, or slight wiggling of the knob itself. Catching these issues early can save you from a complete failure at the worst possible moment – like when you're rushing out the door for work or coming home late at night with your hands full of groceries.

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What are the tips for maintaining knob locks?

Keeping your knob locks working smoothly doesn't take much effort. Here are some simple things anyone can do:

• Regular cleaning: Just wipe down your doorknobs occasionally with a soft cloth and a little mild soap and water. Skip the harsh chemicals that might damage the finish. For the keyhole, a quick blast of compressed air (like what you'd use to clean a computer keyboard) works wonders to blow out all the pocket lint and dust that finds its way in there.
• Lubricate moving parts: Once or twice a year, give your locks a little lubricant. But here's an important tip – don't use WD-40 or other oil-based products. They actually attract dust and eventually gum things up worse than before. Instead, use graphite powder (it comes in little tubes with applicator tips) or silicone-based lubricant made specifically for locks.
• Tighten loose screws: Check and tighten all the visible screws on both the knob itself and the strike plate on the door frame. Every time your door closes, tiny vibrations work these screws loose bit by bit. A quick once-over with a screwdriver every few months keeps everything nice and secure.
• Check alignment: Take a look at how the latch lines up with the strike plate when your door closes. If they're not meeting perfectly, loosen the strike plate screws and adjust its position slightly. Sometimes you might need to add small shims (even a folded piece of cardboard works) behind the strike plate to get it just right.

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How long does knob locks typically last?

The average knob lock lasts about 7 to 10 years in a normal home. That said, there's quite a range depending on quality and use. High-end knob locks made from solid materials like brass might serve you well for 15 years or even longer if they're well maintained. Budget locks from the big box store might start giving you trouble after just 5 years.

How you use the lock makes a huge difference too. A knob lock on your main entrance that gets turned multiple times every day won't last nearly as long as one on a seldom-used closet door. Exterior knobs that face harsh weather will deteriorate faster than interior ones, and regular maintenance like cleaning and lubricating can add years to any lock's life.

When your knob starts getting stiff, requires jiggling to work properly, or makes grinding noises when you turn it, that's usually a sign it's reaching retirement age. Even if it hasn't completely failed yet, these warning signs mean it's probably time to start shopping for a replacement before you find yourself locked out (or unable to lock up) at an inconvenient moment.

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What are the alternatives to knob locks?

If you're thinking about alternatives to standard doorknobs, you've got several good options to consider:

• Deadbolts: These are probably the most common upgrade from knob locks, and for good reason. Instead of that spring-loaded latch that knob locks use, deadbolts have a solid metal bolt that extends a full inch into your door frame. This makes them way harder to force open. There's no exposed knob to grip with tools, and they can't be "shimmed" with a credit card like some knob locks can. You need a key for the outside, and usually there's a simple thumb-turn on the inside.
• Lever handle locks: These swap out the round knob for a lever that you push down instead of twist. They work basically the same way as knob locks internally, but that lever design makes them much easier to use, especially if you have arthritis, are carrying groceries, or have any hand strength issues. That's why they're becoming standard in commercial buildings and many new homes.
• Smart locks: These bring your door into the 21st century with keyless options. Depending on the model, you might unlock your door with a code on a keypad, your fingerprint, your smartphone, or even your voice through a home assistant. Many let you create temporary codes for visitors or dog walkers, check who's been coming and going, or lock/unlock your door remotely when you're not home.
• Mortise locks: These are those chunky, substantial locks you might see in older homes or high-end buildings. The whole mechanism fits into a pocket cut into the edge of your door. They typically combine both a regular latch and a deadbolt in one unit, making them more secure and durable than standard knob locks. They also tend to have a satisfying, solid feel when you operate them.

Each option has its strengths. Deadbolts give you much better security but don't handle the latching function. Lever handles are more accessible but offer similar security to knobs. Smart locks add convenience features but vary widely in how secure they actually are. Mortise locks generally offer the best of everything but cost more and are trickier to install.

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How do knob locks compare with Deadbolt?

Knob locks and deadbolts are like distant cousins – they're both door locks, but they work very differently and serve different purposes.

The biggest difference is security. Deadbolts are simply much more secure than knob locks. A deadbolt uses a solid metal bolt that extends at least an inch into your door frame, creating a strong physical barrier. Knob locks, meanwhile, typically use a spring-loaded latch with an angled edge that extends less than half an inch and isn't nearly as strong.

Their mechanisms are totally different too. With a knob lock, the latch automatically pops out when you close the door – convenient, but not very secure. Deadbolts don't do anything automatically – you have to deliberately lock them by turning a key or thumb-turn. This manual operation actually makes them more secure since they can't be "tricked" into opening.

Installing them is different as well. Knob locks are fairly straightforward – one big hole through the door for the knob mechanism and a smaller hole in the edge for the latch. Many homeowners can handle this themselves with basic tools. Deadbolts need separate holes and more precise alignment. While DIY installation is possible, many people prefer to call a pro for deadbolts to make sure they're secure.

This is why deadbolts are the go-to for exterior doors. That solid bolt can withstand someone kicking or pushing on your door, and since the mechanism is embedded in the door rather than in a grippable knob, it can't be twisted off with tools. Plus, the manual operation means techniques like slipping a credit card between the door and frame won't work.

Knob locks still have their place, though – they're perfect for interior doors where convenience matters more than security. Their automatic latching is ideal for bathroom doors, bedrooms, and other spots where you mainly want privacy rather than serious security. For your front door and other exterior entrances, most security experts will tell you to use both – a knob lock for everyday convenience and a deadbolt for actual security when you need it.

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