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A deadbolt lock backs up a lockset on entry doors to provide maximum security. Better units have a stainless steel bolt with a roller insert to resist sawing and cutting. The standard length for a bolt to extend into a door is 1-inch. The bolt locks the door into the frame, therefore the longer the bolt the harder it would be for the door to be pried open. Also, a reinforced strike plate should be fastened with long enough screws (3" is preferred) to attach to the underlying support framing.
Cylinder locks have a pin tumbler locking mechanism in a cylinder. They are most often used in new installations and as replacements because they are mortised into the frame of the door. Because of their wide range of use, they can be installed on heavy entrance doors, apartment buildings and homes with a recommended pin number for the type of door.
Does your deadbolt make the grade? Deadbolts on the outside look alike, but inside is what makes the critical difference. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) subjects all locks and components to attacks by hammers, saws, wrenches and other tools. Then it grades the lock: - Grade 1 (best and toughest): Meets commercial building requirements and provides the best security available against vandalism and heavy usage
- Grade 2: Meets light commercial requirements and exceeds residential building requirements
- Grade 3: Meets residential building requirements by providing standard residential security
Measure before you buy.
Measure the hole that your current cylinder is in. Most new deadbolts require a 2-1/8" cylinder hole, but some of them have inserts to fit a 1-1/2" hole. That way you don’t have to get a wood bit to enlarge the hole. Measure the backset distance - it's usually either 2-3/8" or 2-3/4", so make sure the new deadbolt has the same backset. Most can adjust to fit either backset dimension. The box or installation instructions will have this this information.
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