Types of Door Locks: Complete Guide for Atlanta Homeowners

A Complete Guide to Door Locks for Your Atlanta Home

Choosing the right door lock is one of the most important security decisions you will make for your home. With dozens of lock types available, understanding the differences helps you pick the best option for your specific needs and budget. Here is a comprehensive guide to the most common door lock types used in Atlanta homes.

Deadbolt Locks

Deadbolts are the gold standard for exterior door security. Unlike spring-bolt locks, a deadbolt extends a solid metal bolt into the door frame, making it extremely difficult to force open.

• Single Cylinder Deadbolt — Key on the outside, thumb turn on the inside. The most common type for residential entry doors. Cost: $50-$150 installed.
• Double Cylinder Deadbolt — Key required on both sides. Provides extra security for doors with glass panels but can be a safety hazard in emergencies. Cost: $60-$175 installed.
• Smart Deadbolt — Keypad, fingerprint, or Bluetooth-enabled deadbolt. Brands like Schlage Encode and August offer keyless convenience. Cost: $150-$350 installed.

Knob Locks

Knob locks have the lock cylinder built into the door knob itself. They are commonly found on interior doors and as secondary locks on exterior doors.

• Entry Knob Lock — Keyed on the outside, button lock on the inside. Should never be used as the sole lock on an exterior door — they can be defeated with pliers or a wrench.
• Privacy Knob Lock — Push-button or turn lock, no key. Used for bathrooms and bedrooms.
• Passage Knob — No locking mechanism. Used for hallways and closets.

Lever Handle Locks

Lever locks operate with a handle rather than a round knob, making them easier to use for people with mobility challenges. They are required by ADA standards in many commercial buildings and are increasingly popular in Atlanta homes for their modern look.

Mortise Locks

A mortise lock is a heavy-duty lock set installed inside a rectangular pocket (mortise) cut into the door edge. These are common in older Atlanta homes, especially in historic neighborhoods like Inman Park, Virginia-Highland, and Grant Park. They provide excellent security but are more complex to install and repair than standard cylindrical locks.

Smart Locks and Electronic Locks

Smart locks are rapidly growing in popularity among Atlanta homeowners. They offer keyless entry via PIN codes, fingerprints, smartphones, or voice assistants.

• Keypad Locks — Enter a code instead of using a key. Great for families and Airbnb/rental properties. Brands: Schlage, Kwikset, Yale.
• Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Locks — Lock and unlock from your phone. Features include remote access, guest codes, and activity logs. Brands: August, Yale Assure, Schlage Encode.
• Biometric Locks — Fingerprint recognition for keyless entry. More common in commercial applications but available for residential use.

Padlocks

Portable locks used for gates, sheds, storage units, and toolboxes. Available in keyed and combination versions. For maximum security, choose a shrouded shackle padlock that resists bolt cutters.

High-Security Locks

High-security locks from brands like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and ASSA Abloy feature pick-resistant pins, drill-resistant housings, and restricted keyways (keys cannot be duplicated at hardware stores). These are recommended for homes in areas with higher property crime rates.

Which Lock Is Right for Your Atlanta Home?

Professional Lock Installation in Atlanta

King Locksmith Atlanta installs all types of residential locks — from standard deadbolts to smart locks and high-security systems. Our technicians help you choose the right lock for each door, install it properly, and ensure it operates smoothly. We serve all of Metro Atlanta including Buckhead, Marietta, Alpharetta, Decatur, and all surrounding areas.

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