It would be no exaggeration to say that we have arrived at a house after a break-in more than once or twice to find the lock was a cheap one that cost 20 dollars in the hardware store. It is frightening how the population tends to undervalue such a thing as a lock. A good lock isn’t just about keeping strangers out – it’s about peace of mind when you close your door at night.
I’ve been in the handyman business for years, and I’ve seen just about every lock situation you can imagine. From doors that jam because the latch is misaligned to “high-security” locks installed backward (yep, that really happens).
What is the Difference Between Deadbolts, Knobs, and Smart Locks?
Homeowners have to work with three major kinds of locks:
- Deadbolts – This is your overall security lock. In case you do not have one, you are required to have one. The protrusion of a good deadbolt must be at least one inch into the door frame. We once helped a client who thought their fancy new door came with a deadbolt… it didn’t. One screwdriver and five minutes later, we added real protection.
- Knob Locks – These are fine for interior doors, but not great for exterior ones. Why? Because a thief with a wrench can twist the knob right off.
- Smart Locks – I’ll be honest – I was skeptical about these at first. But now, after installing dozens of them, I’ve come around. The appropriate brand allows you to open and close your door using your phone, provide temporary passwords to visitors, and even receive a notification when the door is open.
Smart Locks: Cool Tech or Just Hype?
Let’s be real – not all smart locks are created equal. We’ve seen $300 models that jam in the rain, and $150 models that work like a dream. If you go this route, make sure the lock still has a physical key backup. Batteries die, apps crash, Wi-Fi drops – and the last thing you want is being locked out at midnight.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
If you’re not handy, call a door lock installation handyman. It’s not worth struggling for hours with misaligned holes or stripped screws.
Here are a few things we’ve seen over the years:
- The deadbolt is installed too near the edge of the door, which makes the frame weak.
- Using short screws in the strike plate – they pull out with one good kick.
- Leaving old locks unlocked when they were forgotten in a new house. (You know nothing of the number of old keys that are floating about out there.)
- Choosing a lock that doesn’t match the door material. Metal doors and wooden doors need slightly different hardware.
“A good lock isn’t just about strength – it’s about fit. A well-installed mid-range lock can outperform an expensive one that’s crooked or loose.”
Real Case: The “Cheap Lock” Lesson
One of our customers in Irvine called after a break-in. The burglars didn’t even pick the lock – they kicked the door once, and the latch popped. The lock was alright, but the screws that secured the strike plate were not more than half an inch in length. We have changed the 3-inch screws and provided a Grade 1 deadbolt. After another week, she informed us that she was able to sleep better.
That’s why we always say: don’t go cheap on security. A few extra dollars today can save you thousands in damage later.
Final Thoughts
Your lock is your home’s first line of defense. It doesn’t have to be fancy – just strong, properly installed, and suited to your door type. Whether you choose a classic deadbolt or a modern smart lock, do it right from the start.
If you’re unsure which lock fits your home, talk to a local handyman who knows what works in your area. We deal with this stuff daily – we’ve seen what fails and what holds up.
Need help with installation or upgrades? Contact us at Fixi for expert advice and fast, reliable service.
