When it comes to securing your home, choosing the right type of lock is crucial. Among the many options available, double-cylinder deadbolts are a popular choice for homeowners seeking enhanced security. However, like any security feature, they come with both benefits and drawbacks. In this post, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of double-cylinder deadbolts, helping you decide if they’re the right choice for your home. Let’s get started!
What is a Double-Cylinder Deadbolt?
Before we delve into the pros and cons, it’s essential to understand what a double-cylinder deadbolt is. A double-cylinder deadbolt is a type of lock that requires a key to unlock both the inside and outside of the door. Unlike a single-cylinder deadbolt, which only requires a key on the exterior, a double-cylinder deadbolt has a keyhole on both sides of the door.
These types of locks are commonly used in homes where extra security is needed, such as those with large windows near the doors. They offer a higher level of protection by making it more difficult for burglars to enter, especially if a window is broken and the intruder tries to reach in and unlock the door.
The Pros of Double-Cylinder Deadbolts
Enhanced Security
The most significant advantage of double-cylinder deadbolts is their enhanced security. Since a key is required on both sides of the door, it’s much harder for a burglar to break into your home. If a criminal attempts to break a window near the door and try to reach in, they won’t be able to unlock the door as they would with a single-cylinder deadbolt. This added layer of protection makes it much more difficult for someone to force entry into your home.
Ideal for High-Risk Areas
Double-cylinder deadbolts are particularly useful in homes with entry doors near large windows. If a window is within arm’s reach of the door, a burglar could break the glass and unlock the door from the inside. Double-cylinder deadbolts eliminate this vulnerability by requiring a key to open the lock, even from the inside. This extra measure of security can be particularly important if you live in a high-crime area or if your home is easily accessible from the outside.
Deterrent to Break-ins
While no lock can provide 100% security, double-cylinder deadbolts can serve as an effective deterrent to would-be intruders. The added complexity of needing a key on both sides makes these locks less attractive to burglars who are looking for an easy target. They are more likely to move on to another home that doesn’t have this extra layer of security.
The Cons of Double-Cylinder Deadbolts
Fire Safety Concerns
One of the main drawbacks of double-cylinder deadbolts is their potential impact on fire safety. In the event of an emergency, such as a fire, you may need to evacuate your home quickly. If you or a family member is trapped inside and the key is on the inside of the door, it could delay the escape process. While the extra security is great for preventing break-ins, it can be a significant safety risk in case of emergencies. For this reason, some local building codes even prohibit the use of double-cylinder deadbolts on homes with certain exit requirements.
Inconvenience
Another downside is the inconvenience of needing a key on both sides of the door. If you are carrying groceries, bags, or have your hands full, having to dig out your keys to unlock the door can be a hassle. Furthermore, if you’ve left your keys inside the house or lost them, it can be incredibly frustrating and difficult to get back in. This added inconvenience is something to consider, especially for homes with small children or elderly residents who may not always be able to handle keys quickly.
Legal Restrictions
In some areas, double-cylinder deadbolts are regulated by building codes or fire safety regulations. These codes are in place to ensure that occupants can exit a building quickly in the event of an emergency. As mentioned, double-cylinder locks can delay quick exits in an emergency, and in some cases, they may be deemed illegal to use on certain doors or windows that serve as primary exits. It’s essential to check your local laws and regulations before installing these types of locks on your home.
When to Choose a Double-Cylinder Deadbolt
Given the pros and cons of double-cylinder deadbolts, you may be wondering when they’re the right choice for your home. Here are a few scenarios where a double-cylinder deadbolt might be a good fit:
High-Security Needs
If you live in a high-crime area or have concerns about break-ins, double-cylinder deadbolts can provide that extra layer of security. They are ideal for homes with large windows near the door or areas where burglars could easily break in and reach for the lock.
Protecting Vulnerable Areas
If you have entry doors near a large window or other potential entry points, double-cylinder deadbolts can be a valuable addition to your home security system. They prevent burglars from using broken windows to unlock your door and gain access to your property.
When You Don’t Mind the Inconvenience
If you’re comfortable with the idea of needing a key on both sides of the door, and fire safety is not a concern (e.g., the lock is on a door that isn’t a primary exit), then double-cylinder deadbolts can be a good option. However, if ease of access is a priority for you or your family, you might want to consider other types of locks.
Are Double-Cylinder Deadbolts Right for You?
Double-cylinder deadbolts are a great security option for some homes but may not be suitable for everyone. They offer enhanced security, especially in areas where windows are close to the door, but they also come with potential drawbacks such as fire safety concerns and the inconvenience of needing a key on both sides of the door.
If you’re unsure whether a double-cylinder deadbolt is right for your home, or if you’d like to discuss other security options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Ambassador Locksmiths. We offer expert advice on home security, and we can help you choose the best locks for your needs. You can also learn more about our services, including 24-hour emergency lockout assistance, by visiting our Emergency Lockout Service page.
Your security is our priority, and we’re here to help you keep your home safe!