How to Choose the Right Lock for Your Home: A Complete Guide

Choosing the right lock for your home is one of the most important security decisions you'll make. With dozens of lock types, brands, and security ratings available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide will help you make an informed decision that balances security, budget, and convenience.

Understanding Lock Security Ratings

Before shopping for locks, you need to understand ANSI/BHMA grading—the industry standard for lock security:

Grade 1: Highest Security

Best for: Front doors, business entrances, high-risk areas

Durability: 800,000+ cycles, 10+ year lifespan

Force resistance: Withstands 300+ pounds of force

Price range: $100-$300+

Grade 1 locks are built for maximum security and are required by many insurance policies for commercial properties. For homes, they're ideal for primary entry points.

Grade 2: Residential Standard

Best for: Most residential doors, back doors, side entrances

Durability: 400,000+ cycles, 5-7 year lifespan

Force resistance: Withstands 150+ pounds of force

Price range: $50-$150

This is the sweet spot for most homeowners—providing excellent security at a reasonable cost.

Grade 3: Basic Security

Best for: Interior doors, low-risk areas, temporary solutions

Durability: 200,000+ cycles, 3-5 year lifespan

Force resistance: Withstands 120+ pounds of force

Price range: $20-$60

Grade 3 locks meet minimum standards but shouldn't be used on external doors where security is a concern.

Lock Types for Different Applications

Front Door: Maximum Security Required

Recommended: Grade 1 deadbolt + Grade 2 handleset

Top picks: Schlage B660, Medeco Maxum, Mul-T-Lock

Must-have features:

- 1-inch throw bolt minimum

- Hardened steel bolt

- Anti-drill plates

- Pick-resistant pins

- Reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws

Your front door is the most common entry point for burglars. Don't compromise here.

Back and Side Doors: High Security Recommended

Recommended: Grade 1 or 2 deadbolt

Sliding glass doors need specialized locks or security bars

French doors require multi-point locking systems

Hollow-core doors should be replaced with solid-core before installing quality locks

Garage Entry Doors: Often Forgotten, Always Important

Recommended: Grade 2 deadbolt minimum

Many break-ins occur through garage entry doors

Consider smart locks with auto-locking features

Ensure the door is solid-core, not hollow

Interior Doors: Privacy and Basic Security

Recommended: Grade 3 privacy locks

Bedroom and bathroom doors need privacy, not high security

Consider keyed locks for home offices or rooms with valuables

Gun safes and secure rooms need Grade 1 locks

Smart Locks vs. Traditional Locks

When Smart Locks Make Sense:

Rental properties: Remote access for guests and service providers

Vacation homes: Monitor entry activity remotely

Busy families: No more lost keys or lockouts

Package delivery: Secure temporary access for couriers

When Traditional Locks Are Better:

Internet connectivity issues: No WiFi means no smart lock

Security-first mindset: Mechanical locks can't be hacked remotely

Budget constraints: Quality traditional locks cost 50-70% less

Simplicity preference: No apps, no batteries, no complications

Hybrid Approach (Best of Both):

Many homeowners install smart locks on frequently-used doors and traditional high-security locks on less-used entries. This balances convenience with unhackable backup security.

Material Matters: What Your Lock Is Made Of

Solid Brass

Pros: Corrosion-resistant, long-lasting, strong

Cons: Expensive, can be soft depending on composition

Best for: Coastal areas, humid climates, premium installations

Steel

Pros: Extremely strong, drill-resistant, affordable

Cons: Can rust without proper coating

Best for: High-security applications, front doors

Zinc Alloy

Pros: Cost-effective, decent strength, lightweight

Cons: Not as durable as brass or steel

Best for: Budget-conscious installations, interior applications

Warning: Avoid cheap locks with plastic internal components. They're easy to break and provide minimal security.

Special Considerations for Maryland Homes

Climate Concerns:

Humidity: Choose corrosion-resistant finishes

Temperature fluctuations: Avoid locks with plastic parts that can expand/contract

Salt air (coastal areas): Solid brass or marine-grade stainless steel only

Local Security Considerations:

Maryland property crime rates vary significantly by area. Research your neighborhood's crime statistics to determine appropriate security levels.

HOA Requirements:

Some homeowners associations restrict exterior door hardware styles and colors. Check your HOA rules before purchasing.

Brands We Recommend and Install

Premium Tier:

Medeco: Patented key control, pick-resistant

Mul-T-Lock: Israeli engineering, maximum security

Abloy: Finnish quality, virtually pick-proof

Professional Grade:

Schlage Commercial: Industry standard, extremely reliable

Yale Real Living: Smart lock leader, seamless integration

Kwikset Signature Series: Good security, wide availability

Budget-Friendly Quality:

Schlage Residential: Solid Grade 2 security

Kwikset SmartKey: Rekey capability, good value

Defiant (Home Depot): Surprisingly good for the price

Red Flags: Locks to Avoid

Skip these:

Locks without ANSI/BHMA ratings

Brands you've never heard of from unknown manufacturers

Locks under $20 for exterior doors

"Contractor grade" or "builder special" locks

Locks with mostly plastic internal components

Professional Installation vs. DIY

DIY-Friendly Situations:

Replacing an existing lock of the same size

Standard pre-drilled doors

Basic deadbolt installation

Smart lock retrofit on existing hardware

Call a Professional For:

New door preparation (boring holes)

High-security lock installation

Commercial-grade hardware

Multiple lock coordination (keyed alike)

Smart lock integration with home systems

Reinforced strike plate installation

Improper installation can compromise even the best lock. If you're not confident, professional installation is worth the investment.

What We Provide: ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD

Lock Supply and Installation:

All major brands in stock

Grade 1, 2, and 3 options

Smart lock expertise

Traditional and high-security locks

Services:

Security assessments: Free evaluation of your current locks

Lock installation: Professional, code-compliant installation

Lock replacement: Upgrade from builder-grade to security-grade

Lock coordination: Keyed-alike systems for convenience

Smart lock setup: Complete installation and integration

Coverage Area:

Glen Burnie

Crofton

Baltimore

Annapolis

All surrounding Maryland communities

Making Your Decision

Start with these questions:

1. What's my primary concern? (Security, convenience, budget, aesthetics)

2. Which doors need upgrading first? (Prioritize main entry points)

3. Do I want smart features? (Consider lifestyle and tech comfort)

4. What's my realistic budget? (Remember: you get what you pay for with security)

5. Do I need professional advice? (We offer free consultations)

Don't make these common mistakes:

Buying the cheapest option for external doors

Ignoring ANSI grades

Installing high-security locks on weak doors or frames

Choosing style over security for front doors

Forgetting about deadbolt throw length

Ready to Upgrade Your Home Security?

The right locks are a crucial investment in your family's safety. Whether you need help selecting appropriate locks, professional installation, or a complete security assessment, ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD is here to help.

Call (443) 400-5125 for expert locksmith services throughout Maryland.

We'll assess your home's specific needs, recommend appropriate security solutions, and provide same-day installation of high-quality locks you can trust.