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Yes, but adding a deadbolt to some door materials, like steel, may make installation a little bit trickier. For these materials, you will want to hire a locksmith to do the work for you, but be aware that they may charge an additional fee of $25 to $50 or more.

Door locks should be changed roughly every seven years. The average lifespan of a door lock is seven to 10 years, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and change them early, especially if they are showing signs of wear and tear. Examples of deterioration include visible rust and difficulty opening or closing the door. Some locks can work safely beyond 10 years, but it depends on how often they are used and whether they are exposed to damaging environmental conditions like precipitation or extreme temperatures.

Keyless locks are often considered safer since they’re protected by passcodes instead of a physical key, making it harder to be picked. However, they are not infallible. And like all electronic devices, outdated models are more prone to problems and safety concerns. If you’ve experienced multiple lockouts in the past year, or your lock is responding slower than usual after you key in the passcode, it might be time to upgrade to a newer one. Even if your lock is working fine, you should still change your access code at least twice a year.

Smart locks offer a similar level of safety to traditional or conventional locks because they often use comparable locking mechanisms, such as deadbolts. The primary difference is the access method: smart locks use a login or code instead of a physical key, which adds convenience. While not inherently safer, some smart locks have added security features that can deter intruders, like shutting down after too many incorrect code attempts or being harder to pick. For the best security, it's recommended to combine any lock with other home safety features like motion-activated lighting, security cameras, and window and door sensors.