Different Style Deadbolts

Single Cylinder

• The single cylinder deadbolt lock has a keyed entry on the outside of the door and a thumb turn on the inside of the door. The horizontal throw, which is the standard type, extends one inch into the door jamb. The single cylinder lock provides the best security when mounted on a solid wood door, according to the Orlando Police Department. The lock should be located at least 40 inches from windows.

Double Cylinder

• The double cylinder deadbolt lock is keyed on both sides of the lock and does not have a thumb turn. A key is required to operate the bolt from the inside and outside of the door. The double cylinder lock is used when a glass window is near the door. A double cylinder lock can prevent quick escape during a fire or other emergency. The key should be placed near the door, but away from windows.

Surface Locks

• The surface deadbolt lock, which is also known as a “jimmy resistant” lock, uses a horizontal or vertical deadbolt mechanism. Surface deadbolts are mounted on the interior door surface with carriage bolts and the strike, the lock part with the holes into which the bolts are thrown, is attached to the door jamb with wood screws that are at least two inches long. An interlocking mechanism is the most secure type of surface deadbolt lock.

Keyless Entry

• Keyless entry deadbolt locks, including double-sided locks, use different technologies to operate the lock mechanisms. Electronic keypad deadbolts allow you to select your entry code and block assigned codes. Push-button and combination entry are available for keyless entry. Fingerprint deadbolts open when the technology recognizes authorized fingerprints. Some keyless entry deadbolt models come with backup keys for overriding the keyless system.