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Yes, it’s possible a burglar can get through a deadbolt. Some types of deadbolts are harder for an intruder to get through, though. For example, a single-cylinder lock only requires breaking a window nearby and simply turning it. While other locks, such as a double-cylinder lock, may offer greater protection and make it harder for an intruder, no deadbolt is 100 percent effective.

One of the best tools for removing a stripped bolt is a handy pair of locking pliers. Locking pliers can usually grip onto screws with a broken, rounded, or stripped head and lock in place so that you can loosen even the most stubborn bolt that would otherwise remain hopelessly jammed.

Smart deadbolts are a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking more convenience, flexibility, and advanced features than a traditional deadbolt can provide. While a strong conventional deadbolt offers sufficient security for most, smart deadbolts provide significant upgrades.

Key benefits include keyless entry via smartphone, keypads, or biometric sensors, and the ability to lock or unlock your door remotely. You can also manage access for guests by creating temporary codes, eliminating the need for physical keys and the risk of them being lost or duplicated. Many models integrate with smart home systems and offer features like automatic locking, entry-exit monitoring, and tamper alerts with encryption for enhanced security.

However, there are downsides to consider. Smart deadbolts are more expensive than their traditional counterparts and rely on batteries and wireless networks to function. This dependency introduces potential vulnerabilities, such as hacking by skilled intruders and privacy concerns. Installation can also be more complex. Despite these drawbacks, the added layer of convenience and protection makes them a compelling option for many.

Rekeying a lock changes the internal mechanism so that a new key works, while replacing a lock involves swapping out the entire hardware. Rekeying is a good, cost-effective option when you want to ensure old keys no longer work, such as after moving into a new home or losing a key. It's also ideal if you want to keep your existing lock hardware. You should opt to replace the locks entirely if you want to upgrade to a more secure or different style of lock, if the current lock is old or damaged, after a break-in, or if too many copies of the old key exist.