How to choose locks on the front door. Locks for entrance metal doors: how to install, which ones are better, a reliable cylinder, how to choose hidden ones. What kind of locks are better to install on the front door

When the question arises about the safety of one's own home, the price factor involuntarily fades into the background. When purchasing a lock, the buyer is guided by two main criteria. Firstly, it must be a really reliable locking device and, secondly, so that after its installation it would not be easy to enter the house by picking keys or using a master key. Based on this, we will figure out how to choose the right lock for the front door and what to provide.

Classification of locking devices

By way of opening

Biometric. The most expensive models of locks. Identification is done by fingerprints, retinal scanning. Reliability is high, but there is also a minus - it is necessary to ensure continuity of power supply.
Magnetic. The key is a special card. Recoding of such lock is made by the user. It should be noted that such cards must be stored subject to certain conditions. Demagnetization will lead to the fact that at the right time the door will not open.
Push-button. For the lock to work, you need to dial a certain digital combination (code). Such devices are mechanical and electronic. Ease of use is that you can change the lock code at any time. Plus, you don't need to carry the key with you all the time. Minus - experienced burglars by the wear of the buttons quite easily determine the required digital combination.
Mechanical. Traditional, customary and most common locks. They are opened/closed with a key.

According to the specifics of fastening

Overhead. Such models can be installed at the entrance to the apartment. But you need to take into account that fastening the product to the canvas () should be as reliable as possible, and the lock should be large enough. Otherwise, the door will be easy to knock out with a few blows. For country house, given the remoteness and possible absence of neighbors, such locking devices are definitely not suitable.
Mounted. The cheapest, and at the same time reliable locks. But they are no longer placed on the door in our time. It is unlikely that anyone will mount hinges on the frame and canvas and hang such protection.
Mortise. This type of lock is recommended for all entrance doors. For metal, especially bulky, with insulation - the only possible option.

By level of secrecy

Short. Picking up a master key for such a lock is quite simple, since the number of possible combinations of larvae is relatively small.
Average. The best option, especially since the cost of such locks is quite affordable for the average consumer.
High. Expensive models of locks, to which it is almost impossible to pick up a master key or forge a key. Even if you first make a cast, you will need an additional fit of the key to the lock.

By security class

The first is the simplest locks, which will not become a special obstacle for an attacker.
The second one is a more difficult option, although 5 minutes is enough for a professional to pick up a master key and open it.
Third - given the reliability and reasonable price, such locks are considered the best option for you. With a product from a well-known manufacturer, a burglar takes at least ⅓ of an hour. Practice shows that when faced with such a model, most apartment thieves prefer not to experiment.
Fourth - the most reliable, but also the most expensive locks. To open such a device, you need not only to be well prepared, but also to have a special / tool at hand. In this case, it will take, as practice shows, at least 30 - 40 minutes.

According to the configuration of the stops

tongues. The simplest version of the elements fixing the canvas.
Rigel. As a rule, there are at least 3 of them, and such devices are much more reliable.

The reader has already received all the necessary information on locks. But is this enough to correctly choose a truly reliable design? One of the main criteria for the security of the door is the complexity of the “stuffing” of the lock. It is she who is the main safety factor. This is where we should dwell in more detail.

Types of castles

Lever

Such locks are mounted using the tie-in method and are considered one of the most reliable and easy to use. If the key is lost, the door can be opened by selecting a master key, without dismantling the canvas, although it will take quite a lot of time. Cons - a significant key size and massiveness of the product, since the reliability of protection directly depends on the dimensions of the lock. But it is these models that are most often installed on the front doors.

Cylinder

Another most popular version of the castle.

Picking up a key or a master key is quite difficult. But in terms of maintainability, such models are preferable to many others. If the keys are lost, then it is enough to replace the "larva" and make new ones.

electromagnetic

They are known to many, since such models are widely installed on the doors to the entrances of houses.

They have limited use, since in the absence of industrial / voltage, the opening is not protected by anything.

Electromechanical

Such locks are great for private buildings, as it is possible to remotely control the opening of the front door.

But it is advisable to use them only as part of a kit. The call device is installed at the entrance (to the site), and the receiving device is installed in the house. Otherwise, such a lock is no different from a conventional mechanical model. In the absence of electricity, it is the key that opens the door.

Combined models

They combine elements of lever locks (ensure the reliability of constipation) and cylindrical (difficulty of unauthorized entry with a master key).

There are several other designs of locks. For example, disk.

But at the entrance to the dwelling it is not advisable to install them due to the low level of protection provided. The same can be said about cruciform models. In appearance, they are not much different from lever locks.

The difference is in the "stuffing". Such models are less reliable, as they are often opened with cross-head screwdrivers. For the front door of a residential building (apartment), it is advisable not to purchase, especially if such a lock is the only one on it.

According to security experts, the best option the installation of cylinder (pin) and lever locks on the front door is considered.

When choosing a model of a protective device, the material of the web and frame must be taken into account. If the front door is metal, then it is better not to install a latch lock. Otherwise, there is a high probability that the canvas will have to be removed from the hinges (for example, in case of accidental slamming), and this is a rather complicated process.

When buying a lock, you need to focus on the specifics (place) of its installation. Unfortunately, domestic models are still inferior to imported ones in many respects. If we are talking about the door of a country house, then it is better to choose locks from a foreign manufacturer. They are more expensive, but they also provide higher security. For a city apartment, especially since many of our entrances are closed with metal doors (plus neighbors), you can buy a simpler lock.

To increase the level of security of your home, experts recommend not limiting yourself to installing just one lock, even the most reliable one. The best option is two. The peculiarity of the choice is that they do not have to be from the same manufacturer!

Why? It's all about the specifics of production and the desire of the manufacturer to reduce the cost of production. Therefore, even in different types of locks of the same company, there are similar systems, which facilitates the selection of keys (master keys) and opening the door.

If the product is installed on the front door of a country house, then at least one lock of the 4th class must be selected. Security (combined with burglar alarms) will be at the proper level. For buildings within the city, in order to optimize costs, we can recommend the installation of two locks of classes 2 or 3.

When choosing a lock, you need to take into account such a moment as the possibility of making duplicate keys. There are usually 3 to 5 of them in a set. Enough? After all, not only children, but also adults often lose them. If the key configuration is rather complicated, then the lock will have to be dismantled and carried to the workshop. Otherwise, there is no guarantee that the master will make a duplicate so that he will immediately open the door. Therefore, buying a device, focusing only on the unusualness of the key, is hardly worth it. Especially taking into account the fact that in almost all houses (apartments) the owners install at least 2 locks on the front doors.

When choosing a castle, you should not be seduced by an attractive price and try to save money. Reducing the cost of production is ensured, among other things, by the use of low-grade raw materials. With regard to the lock - steel grade. Due to its low quality, cracks often appear in the body of the product, breakage of springs, staples, and the like.

It is very important to find the right answer to the question: “What is the best lock to use for the front door?” This is just as important as choosing the canvas itself.

We can say that your safety, the security of your home will depend on the characteristics of your door lock. So what is the best option for the task at hand?

Security classes

First you need to understand the security classes that apply to door locks. There are the following categories:

Class 1 - these are the most common and simple locks that have a weak mechanism and which can be cracked in just a couple of minutes;
Grade 2 - the mechanism is slightly more complicated than the previous one, however, it will not be difficult for an experienced cracker to open it in 7-10 minutes;
Grade 3 - as a rule, this is a fairly reliable mechanism that requires a lot of effort and time; to open such a lock, you need a professional who could handle it in at least 20 minutes;
Class 4 is the safest and most reliable. Locks of this class of security are very difficult to break even for experienced professionals using specific equipment, and it will take about 30-40 minutes.

Consider the simplest and most unreliable type of lock. This type of locking mechanism is also called a rack lock. How does he work? In order to open such a lock, being inside the room, you just need to pull the 2 levers that protrude. Those, in turn, move the crossbars and unlock the lock. This simplicity can be exploited by hackers. It will be enough for them to use a wire with a loop, putting it through the keyhole.

The key to the crossbar lock looks like a flat long plate with grooves on the sides. We strongly recommend that you do not use this type of lock for your front door. Consider a different model. We also note the significant disadvantages of this castle:

doors with a bolt lock often slam shut, and it will be very difficult for you to enter the room back;
the bolt may stick. And if this happened when the door was closed, then you may not notice how you left and left the door unlocked.

Cylinder locks

These locks from the mid-19th century are very popular today, thanks to their ease of use. The main and important plus is that it is easy to repair and directly replace. In cylindrical locks, it is enough to replace the central mechanism - the “larva”, in which, when the key is turned in the lock, the movement is transmitted to the crossbars and the lock is unlocked. The key to such a lock has only one specific combination. The principle of operation of the lock is very simple - the pins inside the cylinder must be lined up in a certain order. In our time and taking into account the latest technology, the castle has undergone some changes. And now, to replace the pins, washers, blocks, probes are already used in it. The cylinder lock will not open if the pin combination is broken. The secrecy of these locks, of course, depends on the number of pins, the accuracy in their manufacture, the possibility of various combinations in height, and, of course, protection against master keys are also important.

Level lock

Trying to find a great lock and answer our question, it is worth focusing on a good option, like a lever mechanism. What is its feature? Inside this lock there are levers that block the position of the locking bolts. To open the door, you definitely need a "native" key. This key looks like a long rod, which has plates on the sides at the very edge. These plates have special notches and cutouts. It is thanks to these irregularities that movement occurs in the castle. If one of the notches does not fall into its definite place, then the crossbars will not move. Accordingly, the lock will not open.

There will be problems with hacking such a mechanism. You will need to spend a lot of time to pick up the key. Use additional armor plates that will also protect your lock from sawing out with a power tool. This type of lock can be safely recommended for the front door of your home (house, apartment).

cruciform lock

There are other types of mechanisms. Consider a cruciform castle. Looking at the key, you can easily determine that it is a cross-shaped lock. The wrench looks like a Phillips screwdriver. And this is its minus. If you remove the plate, get into the larva, then you can turn it with a screwdriver. Of course, this cannot be called a good defense. Getting into the house for those who are especially interested is not difficult.

Cylinder pin lock

These locks are available in several models. They are also installed on metal entrance doors, and used on interior interior doors.

However, here it is worth paying attention to the difference in modifications when installing the lock on the front door. Usually a cylinder pin lock can be produced under an English key or under a perforated one. The first option is not suitable for the front door, as it has a very low secrecy. Hacking it is not difficult and will take no more than 3 minutes. Often such locks are used only for interior doors. Locks with English keys work on the principle of selecting combinations of pins. However, they are very different in a small number of combinations when compared with a cross-shaped cylinder lock.

Now let's pay attention to cylinder pin locks with perforated keys. In this case, the degree of protection is higher - 2, 3, 4 class, depending on the presence of additional protective mechanisms. Of course, you can crack such a lock, but it is quite difficult and will take a lot of time. The only one fast way- knock out or drill out the "larva". But, given that the lock can be equipped with additional protection, this makes the job very difficult for ill-wishers. With the presence of armor plates and protective plates, hacking will take about 40 minutes, and at the same time it will be very noisy.

Cylinder disc lock

The main difference from other cylinder locks is the presence of movable discs that are used instead of pins. The key has a semicircular section with cuts that are made at a certain angle. Such locks have high secrecy, since they do not use height selection, but the disks line up at a certain angle, which greatly complicates the task of breaking. Another plus is the inability to drill the cylinder, as it rotates.

High protection eurocylinders

In order to provide maximum protection and safety for homes, manufacturers use Newest technologies for the secret mechanism. As a result of their development, eurocylinders of increased protection appeared. It will take the same time to open them as for a cylinder pin with perforated keys, which is 40 minutes. But at the same time, the opening will not do without significant noise. The principle of operation of the lock is similar to the others, however, the lock has unique characteristics, which gives a high level of protection.

Such locks are produced for metal doors of the brands Kale, Cisa, Mul-T-Lock, Mottura, Vachette, Asix, Iseo. And everyone has something unique in the secret mechanism.

For example, Kale and Cisa cylinders have carbide inserts at the end, which protect against drilling. The castles of Cisa and Mottura also have this kind of protection. Their first pin is made of refractory metal. It will also be either very difficult or impossible to drill it out. Other locks are equipped with protective armor inserts, have a titanium case, which protects against the possibility of breaking out. All locks with hole cylinders have the highest degree secrecy, which is from 1.5 million combinations. Nevertheless, as mentioned earlier, such a serious lock is protected from picking, but not from ordinary knocking out. Therefore, if you still settled on eurocylinders, which also cost a lot of money, be sure to make sure that there are additional protective pads.

The protective properties described above are not the only ones that are used in eurocylinders. They can also be equipped with floating elements or have a magnetic insert. Such innovations help to increase the degree of protection and raise it, so to speak, to the highest level. With this lock it will be impossible to pick up the key, and even if you make a cast of the key, this will not work. The price corresponds to the quality and will be approximately $ 100 or more.

Disc lock

Such a lock is reliable, but still belongs to one of the simplest mechanisms. What are they? These are locks with a lock, which is based on a combination of disk positions. The discs are rotated in the lock with a key. The key looks like a short rod, semicircular in section, with cutouts on one side.

Nevertheless, this fairly simple mechanism is well protected from the harmful effects of the external environment. Therefore, it can be used on outdoor extensions that do not have any important things and valuables. For the house it is better not to use such a lock. A disc lock is often used to improve padlocks.

Electromechanical lock

When choosing a lock, be sure to pay attention to more advanced models that will increase the level of protection for your home. We are talking about an electromechanical lock.

This lock is an improved version of the bolt lock model. The main difference will be the lack of a key. To open the door, you must use the remote control, magnetic card or other device. If the lock is equipped with a tool such as a scanner, then you can use the fingerprint recognition function. The downside in the latter case is that burglars can use a photo or fingerprint of the owner's fingerprint. Well, master keys in this version will not help - they are useless. To crack an electromechanical lock, you will need not only time, but also special tools.

Electromagnetic lock

Another representative of our time is an electromagnetic lock. Its principle is that the door is held by an electromagnet, which is controlled by the controller. A similar principle is used in doors with intercom. To open the door you must have a special magnetic key, or you can use the code.

The important thing in this case is that your protection depends on electricity. And if there are problems with it, then the door will stop working and protect your home. Therefore, when using an electromagnetic lock, install an additional one more different type so that in such force majeure situations your home remains protected.

Latch

We refer this device not to the locks themselves, but to additional mechanisms and protection tools. Of course, when you leave the house, the lock plays the role of protection. And at the moment when you and your family are at home, then such a small device as a latch will help you additionally protect yourself from getting inside unwanted guests.

The latch is installed only from the inside. It is only necessary to turn it and the door additionally closes on another crossbar. It is not visible, as it is hidden in the door structure. Hacking it is difficult, because the robber does not see it and does not know where it is. In this case, it is important that the door fits snugly against the box. Otherwise, the crossbar can be identified and cut off. The fit of the door to the box is an important aspect regarding any lock.

It is also important to take this fact into account when choosing and installing a quality door. After all, the door, too, can simply be cut off the hinges. Pay attention to the quality of the metal, if you do not want your door to be opened bypassing the lock with a regular can opener.

Even if you have already chosen a castle that you like and suits your requirements, it is better not to limit yourself to one. Consider options. It would be optimal to use a lever and cylinder mechanism, for example. For greater protection, you can use a hidden electronic lock and a latch from the inside. The ideal option would be the presence of additional means of protection - armor plates, locking bolts on hinges, alarms, etc.

Everyone wants to feel safe in their home and not worry about the safety of property. The front door and a good secure lock are the main barrier to burglars. You can not find the most perfect locking mechanisms. The only question is how much time and what tools will be needed to break the lock and the front door. Therefore, it is always important to know how to choose a door lock in order to protect yourself and your property as much as possible.

Door lock classes

Locks for the front door and their types have their own security classes. Any lock must be accompanied by a passport indicating its class.

There are four in total:

The main types and types of door locks

crossbar lock

The crossbar lock has a rack-and-pinion unlocking mechanism. It barely reaches the I class of safety. The basics of the mechanism: a flat key, along the edges of which grooves are machined at different angles; the lock bolt has identical grooves. The key gets into them and moves the bolt, thereby locking or unlocking the door.

The crossbar (rack) lock is often equipped with handles to open the front doors from the inside. This is a real gift to a burglar. A loop of fishing line, a thin hollow tube and the lock is opened in a couple of minutes. It can be put for an ordinary wooden door.

cylinder lock

This is the most common type of lock. Some of them are opened with an ordinary pin, while others are quite difficult to pick up a master key. Although the thief can inflict a couple of strong blows on the lock cylinder so that it flies into the room. The main feature of this type of lock is the key, shaped like a mushroom with a hollow in the middle.

The cylinder lock is familiar to many. To open it, an attacker will already need a drill with a hardened drill bit. The drill drills the pins that form the lock code. Thieves also use a "fold" for such locks. It has the shape of a key with a lever mount. Thanks to the high-alloy steel, pins are easily cut off.

This does not mean at all that the cylindrical lock and its types are completely hopeless. If you choose a mechanism with additional protection, then no “roll” and a drill will take it. Reinforcing elements include plate armor inlays and embedded hardened steel balls. Knocking down the pins will be very difficult, and the balls will not allow the drill to be installed. The cylinder lock with an armor insert belongs to the III and IV protection classes and is perfect for metal entrance doors.

Level lock

The lever lock, which was invented back in 1818, has not lost its relevance to this day. This locking mechanism uses levers. These are plates that are driven by the teeth of the key. The key is a rod with plates on which notches are cut.

The lock will not open, even if one of the levers fails. A would-be burglar without a key can't move them. The only option is to pick up the key. The security class of a lever lock increases with the number of plates and the metal from which they are made. Additional armor plates also significantly increase the resistance of metal doors to breaking.

Electronic lock

Electronic locks are modern locking mechanisms. They do not have the usual keys, but magnetic cards, remotes or codes are used instead. A kind of additional protection for an electronic lock can be called the moment that an ordinary burglar, seeing such an unusual lock on a metal door, will be confused.

Electronic locks can be opened by fingerprint. This protection can be bypassed by attaching a photo of the owner's fingerprint to the photocell. Electronic locks are good for everyone, but the only negative is the high cost.

What to look for when choosing a lock for the front door

The choice of door locks in specialized stores is very wide and it can be difficult for the buyer to determine how to choose the best door lock for a metal door. Any castle must have a passport in accordance with the rules of the Russian Federation. If the passport indicates a class from II to IV, then a certificate of conformity must be available (except for class I). A good lock should combine strength, reliability and resistance to possible breaking. Inspect the lock, it should not have rust or cracks.

Also, the lock must fit the door and the door frame. Much depends on the thickness of the steel sheets of the iron door. With a metal thickness of less than 4 mm, a massive lock can simply deform the door. Many owners install locking mechanisms with long, heavy crossbars. This, to some extent, increases security, but the weight of the lock, with regular use, quickly wears out the door and frame. For a wooden door, you must also carefully select a lock that will not damage the canvas and the box.

What types of locks are best for front doors

So, how to choose a door lock that will become a real barrier and protector of your property. The best design for a metal door can be called a lever lock. The lock mechanism itself is inside, and it will take a lot of effort to get to it. Experts believe that it is optimal to put two types of locks in tandem at once - cylinder and level. The number of crossbars is recommended from three or more, with armor inserts and a class of at least III.

Also a good option is to install combined locks. They use a double mechanism (lever and cylindrical), which can complement each other. For example, if they try to open one mechanism, the other is automatically blocked. The thief will have to spend a lot of time to "deal" with two systems at once. This is the best option for installation on a metal or wooden door.

In conclusion, it is worth recalling that you never need to advertise the installation of the lock and show its key unnecessarily. For an experienced burglar, a glance at the key is enough to remember its structure and determine the type of locking mechanism.

HOW TO CHOOSE A LOCK FOR THE FRONT DOOR: TYPES, SAFETY, MANUFACTURERS

1. Lock mechanisms

Cylinder locks

Crossbar locks

Lever locks

Electronic locks

Combination locks

2. Locks by installation method

3. Lock security classes

4. Top Producers castles

5 . In conclusion

Even the strongest and most secure front door cannot provide the expected level of security and protection without an appropriate lock. A strong steel and flimsy wooden door become equally vulnerable to intruders if a weak lock is installed on them. So, what kind of lock should you choose for your own apartment so that it is under reliable protection, which mechanism should be preferred, and which manufacturers are considered leaders in this area?

LOCK MECHANISMS

Cylinder locks

A cylinder lock is a common and popular option, but still this is not the best solution for an entrance door, because it is often not difficult for a more or less experienced thief to crack or break this mechanism. The principle of operation of this type of lock is that small cylinders inside the mechanism line up at a certain height. That is why it is believed that it is difficult to open such locks with the help of master keys, because if at least one element does not match, the mechanism will completely jam. But there is another way to open such a lock, and attackers know it very well: a few strong blows on the “larva” of the lock will allow it to be knocked out into the room. To prevent such a course of events, you need to choose a cylinder lock with additional protection. These can be armored pads or balls inside the mechanism. The pads will not allow you to knock out the lock, and the balls will become a reliable barrier if thieves decide to simply drill it out.

Cylinder locks are easy to use and easy to replace. Even if the keys were lost, you do not have to completely change the entire lock, which can be problematic. It is enough just to replace the core, and the lock will still reliably protect the apartment. Based on the combination of the distinctive properties of this type of locks, we can conclude that this is a good option for the entrance doors of an apartment, but attention should be paid to mechanisms with additional protection.

Crossbar locks

Bolt locks are the simplest mechanisms with a minimum level of security, which makes them not very suitable for the front door. The keys to such locks are familiar to many of us: they are flat, and there are grooves on both sides that exactly match the grooves on the lock bolt. To open or close the lock, the key moves the bolt. Such mechanisms, in addition, are often equipped with a handle that is designed to be unlocked from the inside, but such additional convenience may not end up being very good for the owner of the apartment. It is thanks to such handles that burglars, using only a fishing line and a hollow tube, can open the lock.

The key to such locks is not very convenient: not only is it heavy, it is also very easy to copy it. The crossbar lock is a very unreliable protection for the front door, and will not be able to provide sufficient security to the owners and their property. Such a lock cannot be used as an independent element, but paired with a lock of another type, it still has the right to exist.

Lever locks

The lever lock was invented back in early XIX century, but it is still very popular, and for the front door it will be perhaps the best option. The keys have the shape of a round long rod, at the end of which, on one or both sides, there are plates with a certain configuration and size of the grooves. When the key enters the lock, it is these notches that drive the levers or the lock plates into action. There can be a different number of such levers, but reliable protection is provided if there are at least six of them. Even if only one of the plates has not taken the desired position, the lock can no longer be opened, so picking up a master key is very difficult.

A lock of this type is difficult to break even with the help of physical force, since among all other mechanisms they have the best anti-vandal properties. In addition, lever locks can also be equipped with armor plates, which further increase the level of security, providing reliable protection of the front door. True, if the keys are forgotten in the apartment or completely lost, then opening doors with such a lock is not an easy process, but this can hardly be considered a minus, because given fact serves as another confirmation of the reliability of the castle. Another inconvenience that you have to put up with is the need to close the door on both sides only with a key, and this is not always convenient for everyone.

Electronic locks

Electronic locks are not the worst option for the front door, and in some cases even very attractive and reliable. Such mechanisms appeared on the market relatively recently and are still very expensive, so not everyone can afford such protection. They are not very common and are not often found, and therefore most intruders simply do not know how to open such a lock: after seeing such a mechanism, many thieves will simply abandon attempts to illegally enter the apartment, which actually needs to be achieved.

There are no keys to an electronic lock in the traditional sense of the word. It can be opened with a code, a remote control, a card, or even a fingerprint. By the way, the last option is the least preferred, since in this case the lock is very easy to open if you simply attach a photograph of the owner's finger to the photocell, where all papillary lines are clearly visible.

In addition, many electronic locks can be controlled using applications on a smartphone or computer, a unique feature that is not available to other types of mechanisms. All this makes the electronic lock a very good option for the front door.

Combination locks

Combination locks are the best option for the front door, as it will be very difficult to open it. In this case, there are two mechanisms in one lock: there are two-lever, two-cylinder and lever-cylinder locks. At the same time, both mechanisms can work independently of each other, or they can be supplemented, which is much better. In this case, when you try to open the first mechanism, the second one will be blocked, and the thief will not be able to get inside

premises. In any case, it is very difficult to crack such a lock, because each system will need its own “approach”.

An excellent alternative to combined locks is the use of two different types of locks on the front door, and it is better if it is a cylinder and a lever, and with protective lining. In this case, the home also receives an excellent degree of protection.

LOCKS BY INSTALLATION METHOD

According to the method of installing locks on the front doors:

Mortise;

overhead;

Mounted.

Mortise locks for the front door - the best option. The name itself betrays the fact that the mechanism is built into the door leaf, so the appearance of the door does not suffer. In operation, such locks are simple, but repair work is often complicated, as it will require the help of professionals. Too powerful mortise locks can slightly weaken the strength of the door leaf, which cannot be said about inserts. This is a kind of mortise mechanisms, but in this case the lock is installed in a specially prepared pocket of steel doors. The result is that the strength characteristics practically do not decrease, for intruders the lock becomes even more difficult to crack, and in terms of repair, insertion mechanisms are simpler.

Rim locks very easy to install, they are mounted on the inside of the front door, and a hole is made in the door leaf itself for the location of the security mechanism and the passage of the key. Such locks are easy to repair and change, they do not weaken the door leaf, but in terms of strength they are inferior to mortise locks, so they can only be used in combination with them.

padlocks are not suitable for entrance doors to an apartment, but can be used as an auxiliary element when other types of locks are installed. For their operation, it is necessary to install hinges on the door leaf and the box, into which the lock shackle will be inserted. Padlocks can be automatic if they close without the help of a key, or non-automatic. This option can often be found on the doors of cellars, basements, sheds, gates or gates.

LOCKS SAFETY CLASSES

All locks are divided into security classes depending on how easy it is to break them. Naturally, for entrance doors it is better to select mechanisms of the highest possible class.

By security class, locks can be as follows:

1 class. These are the most common serial locks, often with a bolt mechanism. They will not be a reliable barrier for burglars, and it is better not to install them on the front door, because even a novice thief will open such a lock in 5 minutes;

Grade 2 This lock is already more powerful and stronger than the previous one, but still it is not a completely reliable resistance, since an experienced thief will spend about 10 minutes opening it, but a beginner is unlikely to be able to open such a lock;

Grade 3 Such locks will be a good protection for the front door and home, and it will take a professional at least 20 minutes to crack them, and this is already a decent time, during which it is almost impossible to go unnoticed.

4th grade. The most reliable and powerful locks, which are very difficult to open. Even experts in this matter will need at least 30 minutes, and this is with all the necessary tools.

The security class must be indicated in the passport of the lock. And if locks of the first class are not subject to mandatory certification, then for the rest of the products there must be a certificate of conformity, which indicates such main characteristics of the mechanism as reliability, burglary resistance and strength. Except everyone required documents, it is important to pay attention to the lock itself, since defects on it or rust streaks do not indicate its high quality.

When choosing a lock, it is also necessary to build on the design of the door, more precisely on how thick the steel sheets of the door frame are. So, if their thickness is less than 4 mm, then a massive lock will not be the best option in this case, because it will deform the door. If the door is not very thick and powerful, then massive locks that move apart in two or even four directions are also not an option, because with constant handling, the front door leaf will wear out a lot.

BEST LOCK MANUFACTURERS

The name of the manufacturer can say a lot about the product and its quality. Entrance door locks are no exception, and there are companies in this market that have proven themselves to be of high quality, reliability and durability. Which of them should you pay attention to when choosing a castle?

Cisa (Chiza) is a company founded about 90 years ago in Italy. Today it is the European and world leader in the production of locks and control systems. On this moment the company's products are represented in more than 70 countries, the range includes more than 30,000 items, all products undergo mandatory certification and comply with all European standards quality. Among other things, the manufacturer offers a huge selection of a wide variety of locks for all types of doors, as well as electronic locks, which are still not in the assortment of every manufacturer, even a large one. Moreover, the company developed and was the first in the world to use smart card locks, introducing a new level of security to users. All locks are protected from strong blows, with which the door can be opened without breaking. The manufacturer offers a huge selection of various locks for entrance doors, and the range is constantly growing, as its own research center is working on improving technology. I am glad that the company's products are widely represented in the domestic market, and you can choose an option for any budget.

Mottura is another Italian company that has been around for over 50 years. She specializes in the manufacture of locks and various accessories for them. The range includes locks of varying complexity and varying degrees of security, so everyone will be able to choose the product that best meets the requirements, especially since the products are widely represented in Russia. The manufacturer carries out quality control at every stage of production, which made it possible to pass the ISO certification. The company also offers double locks made using its own technology. In addition, the My Key technology is used, which makes it impossible to copy keys. Also in the assortment there are modern electronic locks, so there will be plenty to choose from.

Abus - a German company that specializes in the production of locks, incl. for entrance doors. Products have been on the market since 1924, conquered many countries of the world thanks to their innovations and high quality products. Great attention is paid here to research and new developments, and the famous U-shaped lock was invented within the walls of this company. For entrance doors, the company offers powerful modern mortise locks and armor plates.

Mul-t-lock - Israeli locks, which are known all over the world for their reliability and high quality. They are considered one of the best, therefore they have gained wide popularity. The company has existed since 1973, and has always pursued the main goal - to produce the most secure locks that are impossible to pick. The range includes cylinder locks, lever and vandal-proof locks, and the manufacturer uses its own research to create the most reliable mechanisms.

Kale - Turkish-made locks, which are well known to domestic buyers due to their high quality and affordable price. The manufacturer's assortment includes all the most popular types of locks, incl. level cylinder and combined, as well as padlocks, locks for different types of doors and accessories for them.

Titan - Slovenian company for the production of locks, which offers high-quality and inexpensive mechanisms. A huge part of the company's assortment is made up of locks for entrance doors, which are presented different types mechanisms, with or without additional protection. The company's products are widely represented on the Russian market.

IN CONCLUSION

Choosing a lock for the front door is a very responsible matter, and there is no place for savings, because even a powerful steel door will not protect against burglary if, for example, a simple crossbar lock is installed. Before buying, it is better to decide which mechanism is best suited, familiarize yourself with the pricing policy, and be sure to ask the seller for all the necessary documentation, and then the house will be safe.