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When it comes to securing your home or office, deadbolts are something you’ll need for any exterior door – they provide an important layer of protection, so you can have peace of mind whether you're away from home or focused on business security. However, understanding the different types of deadbolts available is important when choosing the right one for your needs.
Differences Between Types of Deadbolts
Securing your doors is an important step in ensuring the safety of your home or business, and deadbolts play a big role in this process. There are many different types available, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences, so choosing the right deadbolt is necessary. From the conventional single-cylinder and double-cylinder deadbolts to the innovative keyless electronic/mechanical options, you have quite a few options to choose from, and understanding the differences between them is necessary if you want to make an informed decision.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the different types of deadbolts:
 | Single-Cylinder Deadbolts: The most common and cost-effective option, single-cylinder deadbolts require a key to unlock and lock the door. A simple turn of the thumbturn from the inside also provides convenient access. |
 | Double-Cylinder Deadbolts: Featuring keyed cylinders on both sides of the door, these deadbolts require a key for unlocking and locking from both the interior and exterior. While not recommended for all doors, they’re great for glass doors because they provide additional security. |
 | Single-Sided Deadbolts: Often confused with single-cylinder deadbolts, single-sided deadbolts have a thumb turn on the inside and remain blank on the outside. These require specific door preparation, so they’re great for doors where the borehole is only halfway drilled through. |
 | Keyless Electronic/Mechanical Deadbolts: Embrace the convenience of keyless entry with electronic or mechanical deadbolts featuring a keypad. All you have to do is program a code, and you can unlock the door without the need for keys. Electronic versions are battery-operated, and mechanical ones operate without batteries or power. |
Best Deadbolts for Residential Properties
The best deadbolt locks for residential properties usually depend on specific needs and preferences. However, the single-cylinder deadbolt is often recommended for residential use. It strikes a balance between security and convenience, requiring a key for external access and featuring a thumbturn for easy locking and unlocking from the inside. Single-cylinder deadbolts are versatile, affordable, and work well for most residential doors. We have plenty of single cylinder deadbolts from Emtek, Schlage, and other brands available to meet your needs.
Best Deadbolts for Commercial Properties
For commercial properties, the choice of the best deadbolt often leans towards higher security options. But in general, the double-cylinder deadbolt is usually preferred for commercial settings. This type of deadbolt requires a key for both exterior and interior access, providing an extra layer of security. It's especially effective for doors that are partially made of glass, as it prevents intruders from easily unlocking the door even if the glass is broken.
Commercial properties often prioritize heightened security measures, and double cylinder deadbolts meet this need. At Direct Door Hardware, we offer double-cylinder deadbolt options from various top brands in the industry, such as Emtek and Sure-Loc. Check out our blog for more recommendations for commercial property hardware – we have a post on business door security systems that’s full of helpful tips and information.
Enhance the Security of Your Doors with the Right Deadbolt
Overall, you want to choose the deadbolt that best suits your needs and preferences, but you also want to upgrade both the security and accessibility of your doors. Whether you go for the traditional single-cylinder deadbolt or the modern keyless/electronic deadbolt, you can shop with confidence knowing you’re prioritizing the safety of your home, office, or business when you buy from Direct Door Hardware. Let us know if you have any questions as you shop!