A Guide to the Different Types of Door Locks

Understanding the Most Common Door Locks and How I Can Assist

When it comes to securing your home or business, choosing the right type of door lock is crucial. With so many options available, it’s important to understand which locks are not only secure but can also be easily repaired or replaced by a professional locksmith.

In this guide to the different types of door locks, we’ll focus on the three most prominent types of locks that can be serviced by a locksmith: deadbolts, knob locks, and mortise locks. These locks are commonly found in homes, flats, and commercial buildings, offering different levels of security and functionality.

Deadbolt Locks

Ideal For: Exterior doors, front and back entrances

Deadbolt locks are one of the most trusted and widely used locks for securing exterior doors. They are known for their durability and resistance to forced entry, making them a popular choice for both homes and businesses. Deadbolts function by extending a solid metal bolt into the door frame, making it difficult for intruders to pry or kick open the door.

There are two main types of deadbolts:

Single Cylinder Deadbolt: Operated by a key from the outside and a thumb turn from the inside. These are easy to use and common in residential homes.

Double Cylinder Deadbolt: Requires a key for both sides, offering additional security but requiring a key for exit, which can be a concern in emergencies.

Why Use Deadbolt Locks?

Deadbolts are simple, effective, and offer a strong level of security against break-ins. Locksmiths can easily install, repair, or rekey deadbolt locks, making them a reliable choice for both residential and commercial properties.

Knob Locks

Ideal For: Interior doors such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and secondary entrances

Knob locks are another common type of lock, often found in residential homes for interior doors. They can also be used in conjunction with deadbolts on exterior doors. The locking mechanism is located inside the knob itself, which means it’s not as secure as other locks like deadbolts, but it still offers basic protection for less vulnerable areas.

Because knob locks are relatively easy to install and repair, locksmiths can quickly replace broken knobs or rekey the lock if necessary.

Why Knob Locks?

Knob locks are affordable, functional, and easy to fix or replace. While they are not the best choice for primary security on exterior doors, they are perfect for internal doors or as part of a layered security system.

Mortise Locks

Ideal For: High-traffic commercial doors, flats, and older homes

Mortise locks are often found in commercial buildings, flat doors, and older homes. They are more complex and robust than deadbolt or knob locks, featuring both a latch and a deadbolt within the same mechanism. A mortise lock is installed inside a pocket cut into the door, which requires professional installation but provides a higher level of security.

Mortise locks are favoured for their strength and durability, making them a popular choice for areas with heavy traffic or where enhanced security is needed.

Why Mortise Locks?

Mortise locks are highly secure and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. They are also versatile, as they can be fitted with different lock cylinders to suit various levels of security. Locksmiths are experienced in repairing and maintaining these locks, especially since their complexity requires professional attention.

When selecting a door lock, it’s important to consider both the level of security you need and the ease of maintenance. Deadbolt locks, knob locks, and mortise locks are all reliable options that a professional locksmith can service, repair, or replace with ease. These locks provide varying degrees of security, with deadbolts offering excellent protection for exterior doors, knob locks being perfect for internal use, and mortise locks providing superior strength for high-security areas.

If you need help installing, repairing, or upgrading your locks, I’m here to assist. My expertise can provide guidance on the best locks for your property and ensure they are installed for maximum security.

Need Locksmith Services? Call Me Today!

With over ten years of experience, I specialise in fixing, installing, and maintaining all types of door locks in the Wiltshire and Somerset areas. Contact me today for a consultation or emergency services, and I’ll make sure your property stays secure! 

CALL ME TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

07841 842 541 or: 01225 663143

WHY CHOOSE LOCKSMITH MARK?

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Local Expertise

Unlike impersonal national companies, I am deeply rooted in the local communities I service. My familiarity with the area allows me to reach you quickly and efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to your day.

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Experience You Can Trust

With years of experience under my belt, I have encountered and resolved a wide range of property entry challenges. From lost keys to malfunctioning locks, I have the knowledge and expertise to tackle any situation.

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Prompt and Professional Service

When you call me, you can expect prompt and courteous service from start to finish. Above all, I understand the urgency of your situation and strive to arrive promptly, equipped with the tools and skills needed to get the job done right the first time.

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Comprehensive Solutions

Whether you’re locked out of your home, in need of new keys, or looking to upgrade your locks, I have you covered.

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Your Security Is My Priority

I prioritise your safety and security above all else. That’s why I go the extra mile to ensure that every job is completed to the highest standard. In any event, rest assured, your property is in good hands.

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uPVC & Composite Door Specialist

I specialise in uPVC and composite doors. If you’re locked out, simply get in touch and I’ll help you regain access to your property.

What my clients are saying

I take pride in our craft, and these testimonials are a testament to the dedication and expertise I bring to every locksmithing task.

Mark was extremely quick when I locked my car key in the boot of my Audi! He managed to fit me in on the same day and was very helpful. Thanks!

5
Katrina Mastrandrea-Dean

Emailed Mark last week from abroad to replace lock after previous tenants didn’t return all the keys. New tenant wasn’t in situ and I was 8 hours ahead and yet with all that faffing Mark responded in a timely manner, gave a competitive quote and carried out the job really quickly considering how difficult my tenant and I were to get hold of.

Would definitely use Mark again and highly recommend him.

5
Su Mcintosh

Mark was fast friendly and professional and importantly not only was the cost very reasonable the replacement keys work fine. I Highly Recommend Mark as he did exactly what was suggested and quoted accurately.

5
Robert Jeffries

Lost my keys on Saturday night, called Mark in the morning on Sunday and he was with me within an hour and had opened my car. Couldn’t give me a new set of keys due to my car type. But was quick, efficient and very helpful! Thank you!

5
I Smith

Such a lovely man and got to me really quickly! after spending ages trying to find a reasonably priced locksmith I finally found one! thank you so much!

5
Shannon Anthony

Mark was great, wasn’t an emergency call out but he still came first thing the next morning after my call the evening before. He was really helpful and managed to open the lock on the garage within 5 minutes without causing any damage to the door or lock.

5
Emily Hayward

Mark is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
His communication was clear and courteous. He was prompt and his work was professional and efficient.
And Mark’s charges are very reasonable – I was quoted twice as much for the same job by a national company.
Thank You Mark.

5
Vicky Phillips

Brilliant service, honest, genuine, affordable pricing. Would def recommend to my friends and family!

5
Zoe MacDonald

I would certainly recommend Mark as he assisted me promptly when I had an issue with a broken car key. He spent time problem solving when another key did not work due to a manufacturing fault. Mark is friendly and kept good communication to ensure that I was satisfied with his service provided. If I have any future locksmith issues, he will be my first point of call. Thank you Mark.

5
Sorika Nicolson

Mark is fab chap. Down-to-earth, knows his stuff, approachable and efficient. Really liked him. As for the work; door didn’t work, now it does – more than one problems, all fixed within the quote, and on a Sunday due to urgency. Very grateful indeed. Highly recomended.

5
Charlie Case

Great service when we were locked out of our house. Mark came over straight away (on a Saturday) and was able to get into the house within a few minutes with no damage. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend or use again (but hopefully won’t need to!)

5
Jennifer Pittman

Very prompt response to my call – problems with our front door lock spinning. Arrived within 2 hours of contact. Thorough diagnosis and explanation of the issue. Very easy to deal with. Would 100% use again. Thank you so much for your help and expertise.

5
John McHugh

Called up with our problem and everything was resolved next day. Very efficient, friendly, and confident. Would recommend highly 😁

5
Amelia Rickard

Definitely recommend. Fast response to Southwick within three hours on a busy Wednesday. Quick, courteous and friendly service and very fairly priced. Thanks Mark!

5
Simon Tesler

Highly recommended, prompt attendance and Mark explained the problem with the lock, replaced the lock and advised how to minimise reoccurrence of the issue. All completed really quickly at an extremely reasonable price. Also provided with 5 keys which saved the hassle and cost of getting extra keys cut.

5
Christine Wilkinson

Get in Touch Today

If you require a locksmith, don’t let a property or vehicle entry issue leave you feeling stranded or locked out. Trust me to provide the fast, reliable, and professional service you need to regain access and restore your peace of mind. Contact me today for more information or to request a quote.

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Mobile: 07841 842 541
Landline: 01225 663143

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