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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.

Changing door locks is a task that most homeowners can accomplish on their own. Standard door knobs are quite straightforward, and even more advanced locks, like electronic or smart locks, generally come with instructions. That said, the process can be time-consuming, especially if you plan to replace multiple locks around the house. It’s also a task that you want to complete correctly, considering that it affects the security of your house. That’s why hiring a pro is often best when changing your door locks.

While a strong conventional deadbolt offers enough security for most homeowners, if you’re looking for extra features beyond just simple locking, smart deadbolts are the way to go. Smart deadbolts allow for keyless entry using your phone or a code, remote access in case someone is locked out, and features like temporary access codes, automatic locking, tamper alerts and entry-exit monitoring. Smart deadbolts also come with downsides: they rely on batteries and wireless networks and are potentially vulnerable to hacking by skilled home intruders.

A deadbolt has a different design, construction, and security level than a regular lock. Regular locks are mostly used for interior doors around the home, like bedrooms and bathrooms, and they usually include a locking mechanism on the inside. While regular locks are easy to use and install, they provide little security. 

A deadbolt adds a layer of security and is most commonly used on exterior doors. The installation is typically more complicated, but they hold up to wear and tear.