If you’re trying to figure out whether to install a deadbolt or stick with a standard doorknob lock, you’re asking the right question.
The short answer: a deadbolt is significantly more secure than a standard lock, and every exterior door in your home should have one. Here’s why that matters and when each type makes sense.
Core Differences: Deadbolt vs Standard Lock
| Feature | Deadbolt | Standard Lock (Spring Latch) |
|---|---|---|
| Locking Mechanism | Solid metal bolt slides into door frame | Spring-loaded latch retracts when turned |
| Force Resistance | Can withstand 300+ pounds of force | Fails under 75-100 pounds of force |
| Pick Resistance | High (especially Grade 1) | Low to moderate |
| Installation Cost | $150-$300 installed | $75-$150 installed |
| Best Use | All exterior doors | Interior doors, secondary security only |
Why Deadbolts Are More Secure
A deadbolt uses a solid metal bolt that extends deep into the door frame when locked. There’s no spring mechanism—you have to physically turn the key or thumb-turn to move it. This makes it extremely difficult to force open with a kick or shoulder hit.
Standard locks rely on a spring-loaded latch. Turn the knob and the latch retracts. Problem is, that spring mechanism is the weak point. A credit card, screwdriver, or moderate force can compress the spring and disengage the latch.
In Dallas-Fort Worth, where property crime rates vary by neighborhood, the difference between having a deadbolt and not having one can be the difference between someone moving on to an easier target and gaining entry.
When a Standard Lock Is Enough
Interior doors like bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets work fine with standard privacy or passage locks. You’re not defending against forced entry there.
If you’re upgrading to smart locks, many electronic options combine both functions into one unit—keypad or app control with a motorized deadbolt built in. In that case, you’re getting the security benefit without needing two separate pieces of hardware.
Deadbolt Grades Matter
Not all deadbolts are created equal. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) rates them on a three-tier scale:
- Grade 1: Highest security, required for commercial buildings, withstands 10 strikes of 75 pounds of force—best choice for exterior doors in high-risk areas
- Grade 2: Residential standard, withstands 5 strikes—sufficient for most homes
- Grade 3: Basic security, minimum legal requirement—better than nothing but not ideal for primary entry points
When customers ask me what to install, I usually recommend Grade 1 for front and back doors and Grade 2 for side or garage entry doors. It’s worth the extra $30-$50 for Grade 1 hardware on your main entry.
Installation Tips for Maximum Security
Even the best deadbolt won’t help if it’s installed poorly. The bolt needs to extend at least one inch into the door frame. The strike plate should be secured with 3-inch screws that reach into the wall studs, not just the trim.
I’ve seen expensive Grade 1 deadbolts defeated because they were mounted with half-inch screws into soft pine trim. One good kick and the entire strike plate rips out. When we install or repair locks, we always replace factory screws with heavy-duty ones.
Can You Use Both on the Same Door?
Yes, and you should. Most exterior doors have both a deadbolt and a keyed doorknob. The knob lock provides convenience for quick exits and basic latching when you’re home. The deadbolt provides the real security when you leave or go to bed.
Some people prefer a single-cylinder deadbolt (key outside, thumb-turn inside) while others want double-cylinder (key on both sides). Double-cylinder prevents someone from breaking a window and reaching through to unlock, but it’s a fire hazard if you can’t find your key during an emergency. Local codes in parts of DFW restrict double-cylinder use for that reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a deadbolt be picked?
Yes, but it takes skill and time. A Grade 1 deadbolt with a quality keyway is far more pick-resistant than a standard lock. Most burglars won’t bother—they’ll find an easier entry point like a window or unlocked side door.
Do I need to replace my door to install a deadbolt?
Usually no. We can drill the necessary holes and install a deadbolt on most doors as long as they’re solid wood or metal. Hollow-core doors won’t support a deadbolt properly and should be replaced entirely.
How long does a deadbolt last?
A quality deadbolt should last 10-15 years with normal use. If your deadbolt feels sticky or hard to turn, it’s worth having us look at it before it fails completely.
Can I rekey a deadbolt to match my doorknob?
Absolutely. We rekey deadbolts and knobs to work with the same key all the time. It’s cheaper than replacing everything and much more convenient than carrying separate keys.
Get Your Deadbolt Installed or Upgraded
If you’re in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and need a deadbolt installed, an existing lock repaired, or all your locks rekeyed to match, we’ll come to you. We’re licensed (B22998201), insured, and available 6 AM to 11:45 PM daily.
Call us at (469) 577-1775. We’ll give you an honest assessment of what you actually need—and if your current hardware just needs adjustment instead of replacement, we’ll tell you that too.
