A house is most people’s costliest investment. It is also the place where you keep all your possessions. So, you must safeguard it. One way to secure the house is to invest in a top-end security system. You can buy the latest surveillance cameras and alert devices. But the most basic way to safeguard the home is a simple lock and key. Let us look at the different types of locks and keys available.

Deadbolt locks
These are one of the best locks if you want a high level of protection against burglary or break-ins. You can find three types of deadbolt locks on the market: lockable thumb turn, double-cylinder, and single-cylinder. These locks do not have a spring, so you will operate them by turning a knob that moves a bolt into place. This unique locking mechanism can resist physical attacks, boring, and battering. Deadbolt locks are also safe because trespassers cannot open them with a knife or a tool from the outside. If you are looking for a simple lock, single-cylinder deadbolts are the best.

Knob locks
These are the most popular locks for internal doors. People usually do not prefer them for external use because of their limited security. However, consider installing them on the exterior doors if you already have a deadbolt lock. This way, it will offer an additional layer of safety. Knob locks have a locking mechanism within the door handle. There are knobs on either side of the door, and you can lock them up from both inside and outside.

Padlocks
Padlocks are another popular option. These are not permanently attached to the door, so you can carry them and keep reusing them at different places. You can find padlocks in a plethora of sizes. The two most popular types are combination and keyed. The former has a number dial, so you can open it after entering the correct digit mix. Keyed padlocks come with an independent key. In other words, they come as a lock and key set. People use padlocks for chambers, office cabinets, and doors.

Cam locks
These light-duty locks are ideal for securing desks, cabinets, or small furniture compartments. Cam locks have a cylindrical base with a metal latch and keyhole. So, when you insert the key into the keyhole and turn it, the cam rotates into an unlocked/locked position. Cam locks may not be the best for securing valuable containers, sheds, or homes, as they only offer basic security with a lightweight, simple design. They are easy to break into with equipment like a wrench and screwdriver. You may use it for securing mailboxes and drawers.

Stealth or electronic locks
Stealth or electronic locks are purely electronic! They keep cabinets and doors secure in the most high-priority areas. You can unlock them with a numerical keypad mounted on the cupboard or door being secured. As you might have guessed, these locks are keyless, ideal for when more than one person needs access to the locked container or room. It can be a good pick if you do not like the traditional lock and key sets. Usually, people install these locks in high-security containers, safes, and doors of banks and airports that have restricted access.

Stealth or electronic lock systems are not very expensive. However, you will need a professional locksmith’s services for the installation if you do not have the necessary technical know-how. You can also contact a locksmith if you have problems with other types of locks and keys. Their charges can vary depending on the type of lock you need to open and whether it is an emergency.

Lever-handle type
These are popular for doors and cabinets inside houses or offices and not for the exterior door or the main gate. Lever-handle doors have a sizable pushdown-style handle that helps you open and close the lock seamlessly. You can use them on the bedroom or bathroom door.

Mortise locks
These are robust locks, usually recommended by locksmiths. Mortise locks extend deep into the door frame and are pretty strong in the locked position. They use a complex gear system placed inside a cylindrical body. Typically, these are considered the safest of all the popular lock and key sets. But you will have to call for professional locksmith services for installation. Usually, these locks are standard on glass entry doors and commercial and apartment doors.

If you think any of the above lock and key sets are suitable for your home or office, go online to check their prices. Many retail websites sell locks for different purposes, so do not forget to read the features carefully.