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There are many types of locks and keys around, each with their own benefits and functions. It’s always useful to know about the security mechanisms you are installing in your property, whether you are protecting your residence, automobile or commercial operations. Some locks are designed to offer more protection than others, and they may not be suited for certain types of doors. To give everyone a better idea, our experts will outline the different options out there – from the basic to the most complex protection mechanisms.
Your standard types of keys
Before we focus on the different types of locks you will find in a property, let’s look at some of the keys you can get to accompany them. Keys have a specially-cut component known as the bitting, which is designed to match the inner parts that enable you to lock and unlock a door. As you’re about to see, different keys will have different levels of bitting.
Blank keys are those which have yet to be cut and shaped to fit into a lock. Often referred in the industry as “blanks”, locksmiths keep these handy for key duplication requests.
Single bitted keys only include one set of cuts. These are the most common key type around, often accompanying your basic residential locks.
Multi bitted keys have multiple cuts and are used in high security locks and/or sidebars.
Convenience keys comprise duplicate cuts in a single bitted surface. The idea is that these will conveniently unlock a door regardless of the direction in which they are inserted.
Cruciform keys have four different bittings and a star-shaped tip for multiple functionality. That being said, not all of these bittings need to be used in order to activate a lock.
Transponder keys have become a popular choice in the automotive industry. As the name suggests, these have a transponder chip on the head of the key that transmit a special signal to the car’s transmitter. Special equipment is needed to program these in order to match the car’s electronic security mechanisms.
Valet keys are especially designed to be used by a valet driver to park your vehicle. They come with special restrictions, only enabling the driver to operate the car’s ignition and doors.
The most common lock types
Now you know the basics about your keys, let’s move on to the different lock types available.
Padlocks are the only portable lock types you’ll find in a residential property. They are not attached to any foundations, simply comprising a shackle, the body and a locking mechanism. The two padlock types you will see in a property are:
Knob Locks are used to lock internal and external doors. You will usually find these fitted in residential property doors. They have a key cylinder on one side and a rotating knob on the other, providing you with basic protection. Knob locks are not recommended as standalone protection as they can be easily picked or broken into.
Deadbolts are sturdy locks which usually enhance the protection of your typical knob lock. As the name suggests, deadbolts provide additional security by driving an internal bolt into the door frame once you activate its rotating cylinder. There are different deadbolt types around, offering various levels of protection:
Lever handle locks are quite common in commercial properties. These have a special lever, designed to easily open and close the door, that is swung up or down in order to release its bolt. Lever handle locks are there to make it easier to evacuate a building with a high amount of foot traffic.
Mortise locks have two locking mechanisms: a non-locking spring latch that is controlled by a lever handle, and a deadbolt. While this dual action design makes mortise locks more difficult to install in a property, they also come with enhanced security benefits.
Cam locks are latches for filing cabinets, lock boxes and other low-level security fittings. A flat metal tailpiece, known as a “cam”, is locked or unlocked using a key.
Now you know more about the lock and key types, you can discuss these with a locksmith. Why would you this? Because a locally-based lock and key expert will help you keep all aspects of your security in check. You can discuss upgrades to keyless systems, enhancements like deadbolts, issues with a transponder chip or even something as simple as rekeying the locks of your residence or commercial building.
Check whether your chosen professional offers the type of protection you are looking for. Keep a couple of business names handy and get in touch with these to inquire about their solutions. Always do some background checking and shop around before hiring on an expert. Never hire a locksmith company that you can’t trace a physical address to, or that refuses to provide you with essential information like license and insurance information and a list of client references in your area.
Locksmith Arvada CO is more than happy to help property owners and vehicle owners based in Arvada, CO. Our licensed and insured professionals will guide you throughout your security upgrade decisions, and will even provide you with a free consultation and price quote upon request.
No matter where you live, we hope you understand a little bit more about the different types of keys and locks you can get for your property.