Locksmiths Newcastle / Lake Macquarie

Deadbolt vs. Deadlatch: A Comprehensive Guide to Secure Your Home

Deadbolt vs. Deadlatch

Home security is a top concern for all homeowners, and selecting the right lock plays a key role in safeguarding your property. Deadbolts and deadlatches are two trusted options, each offering distinct advantages and levels of protection. 

With more than 15 years in the locksmith industry, Ambassador Locksmiths has witnessed how choosing the right lock can make a crucial difference in safeguarding homes and enhancing overall security.

This guide will provide in-depth insights to help you make an informed decision about which lock best suits your needs.

What is a Deadbolt?

A deadbolt is designed to resist forced entry due to its manual operation. Unlike spring-operated locks, it requires a key or thumb turn to engage, making them much harder to manipulate or pry open. 

Ambassador Locksmiths has installed countless dead bolts across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, and we’ve consistently found them to be an excellent choice for robust security.

Types of Deadbolts

There are several types that offer specific benefits based on security needs.

Single Cylinder

This type of deadbolt is the most common in residential settings. With a keyhole on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside, it allows for quick exit during emergencies. It’s suitable for most homes, though if your door has glass panels, you may need to consider additional reinforcements to prevent break-ins.

Double Cylinder

A double cylinder deadbolt provides higher security, especially for doors with glass panels. This lock requires a key on both sides, ensuring that even if the glass is broken, the door cannot be unlocked without a key. However, it’s crucial to keep the key accessible in case of emergencies.

For more information about the dead bolts we offer, visit our dedicated product page.

Keyless

Keyless deadbolts are an increasingly popular option, particularly for homeowners who want to eliminate the need for physical keys. It features a keypad that allows you to enter a code to lock and unlock the door. 

Many models offer smart features, such as alarms and remote locking capabilities, making them a practical choice for tech-savvy households.

Vertical

This type of deadbolt locks into the door frame, making it more resistant to prying or tampering. Often favoured for their robust security, particularly in areas where additional protection is needed.

Rim

While rim deadbolts automatically lock when the door is closed, they are less secure compared to others and are easier to pry open. They are often used on secondary doors where convenience is more important than high security.

What is a Deadlatch?

A deadlatch is a self-locking mechanism that automatically secures the door when it’s closed. It operates using a latch bolt and guardbolt combination, which makes it more resistant to tools like credit cards or knives. 

An excellent option for those who prioritise convenience, as they eliminate the need to manually lock the door.

Types of Deadlatches

Deadlatches come in different types to meet varying security needs. Below are two primary types to consider:

1. Bored Deadlatch

This type of deadlatch is installed by drilling round holes in the door. It features a thumb turn on the inside and a keyhole on the outside. Bored deadlatches are commonly used in residential settings, offering a good balance between security and convenience. They are practical for daily use and provide basic protection for homes.

2. Mortice Deadlatch

Installed into a rectangular cavity, a mortice deadlatch offers greater durability and security compared to bored deadlatches. This design enhances tamper resistance, making it ideal for both residential and commercial properties that require stronger protection.

Mortice deadlatches are often used in locations where higher security is needed due to their robust design.

In addition to these two primary types, other options include:

  • Spring Latch: A spring-loaded bolt that automatically secures the door when closed. This is more common for interior doors and provides basic security.
  • Deadbolt Latch: Offers a more secure option, requiring a key for unlocking, and is often used on exterior doors to resist forced entry.
  • Roller Latch: Uses a cylindrical roller instead of a bolt, typically found in trailers or RVs, where doors may swing open but still need to be securely closed.

For further details on the deadlatches we offer, visit our deadlatch product page to find the right option for your security needs.

Key Differences Between Deadbolts and Deadlatches

Security

Deadbolts are known for their superior strength and ability to withstand forced entry. Since they lack a spring mechanism, it is much harder to manipulate. For homes in high-crime areas, we strongly recommend it for maximum security. 

In contrast, deadlatches, while more convenient, are more vulnerable to picking due to their spring-loaded mechanism. However, they offer automatic locking, which ensures your door is always secured once closed.

Convenience

When it comes to ease of use, deadlatches have the advantage, as they lock automatically without the need to turn a key or engage a thumb turn. This feature makes them ideal for busy households where manually locking the door might occasionally be overlooked. 

However, deadbolts provide more control, allowing you to lock the door when necessary.

Emergency Situations

In emergencies, such as a fire, deadlatches allow for a quick exit without needing to locate a key. This makes them a practical option for homes with children or elderly residents. 

Deadbolts, particularly double cylinder models, require a key to unlock from the inside, which could delay escape if the key isn’t readily available. We often advise clients to weigh this factor carefully when choosing a lock.

Durability and Installation

Deadbolts are generally more durable, especially when made from materials like steel or brass. Mortice deadlatches can be more complex to install compared to bored deadlatches, which is why we advise professional installation to ensure proper security and functionality.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice between a deadbolt and a deadlatch depends on several factors, including your home’s location, security needs, and personal preferences.

  • We recommend deadbolts for homes in high-risk areas. They offer superior protection against forced entry.
  • For those prioritising ease of use, deadlatches are the better option due to their automatic locking feature.
  • Deadlatches allow for quicker exit during emergencies, while deadbolts—especially double cylinder models—offer more security but can slow down exit if a key is required.

Many homeowners opt for a combination of both locks for enhanced protection. A deadbolt provides robust security, while a deadlatch ensures that your home is always locked when you’re in a rush.

Trust the Experts at Ambassador Locksmiths

With over 15 years of experience in securing homes across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, Ambassador Locksmiths has built a reputation for providing reliable, high-quality locksmith services. 

Our team specialises in the installation, repair, and maintenance of all types of locks, including deadbolts, deadlatches, and smart locks. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current security system or need assistance with an emergency lockout, we’re here to help.

We understand that choosing the right lock can be overwhelming, which is why we offer personalised consultations to assess your home’s specific needs and recommend the best solution. 

Our locksmiths are fully licensed, insured, and committed to ensuring that every job is completed to the highest standard.

Final Thoughts!

Both deadbolts and deadlatches have their advantages, depending on your security needs and lifestyle. It provides superior protection against forced entry, while deadlatches offer the convenience of automatic locking. 

By consulting a professional locksmith, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your home is equipped with the best locking system for your safety. For expert advice and professional installation, contact us today. We’re proud to serve the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie regions with locksmith solutions you can trust.