Q: Will converting my door to a Dutch door affect security?

• <div><p>It can affect security, especially if you don&rsquo;t finish it properly. A Dutch door has more moving parts that can be compromised, so you&rsquo;ll want to use solid hardware and make sure everything lines up and locks cleanly. If the latch is flimsy or the two halves don&rsquo;t sit tight, it&rsquo;s going to be easier to force open.</p></div>

Question 1

What is the best type of deadbolt?

Accepted Answer

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The best type of deadbolt depends on your specific needs. If accessibility is your primary concern, a single-cylinder deadbolt is the easiest to operate. Mortise locks are likely the most secure type of deadbolt you can install, but single-cylinders combined with secondary locking mechanisms like vertical locks are also a great option. Smart locks will give you the most flexibility to open and close your locks whenever and wherever you need to.

Question 2

Will converting my door to a Dutch door affect security?

Accepted Answer

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It can affect security, especially if you don’t finish it properly. A Dutch door has more moving parts that can be compromised, so you’ll want to use solid hardware and make sure everything lines up and locks cleanly. If the latch is flimsy or the two halves don’t sit tight, it’s going to be easier to force open.

Question 3

Do locksmiths provide emergency lockout services?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, many locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency services for business lockouts, broken keys, and security breaches.

Question 4

Which type of lock is the safest?

Accepted Answer

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Any type of dead bolt lock provides the highest level of safety for a single device. However, it’s also important to determine a lock's grade. Locks can come in either Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3, which indicates how durable it is and if it’s constructed solidly. Safety experts recommend choosing locks based on Grade 1, which offers the highest level of durability.

Question 5

What should I do if my key breaks?

Accepted Answer

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You may be able to get a broken key out of a lock by yourself, depending on the situation. If a portion of the key is still protruding from your lock, try lubricating the keyway and using pliers or even a bobby pin to pull the key out of the hole. If you have jigsaw blades handy, you can also try using those to grab onto the stuck key and pull it out.

But, if neither option works or you can’t reach the key, your only option is to call a locksmith for help.