5 Major Consequences of Not Having a Deadbolt on Your Exterior Doors

Person holds giant penny with a lock. cost for a locksmith to change a door lock

Imagine this: you’re cozying up for a movie night, but in the back of your mind, there’s a nagging worry about how secure your front door is. It’s not just paranoia; the kind of lock you have on your doors really does matter. Today, we’re looking at why skipping out on a deadbolt can cost you, and trust us, it’s not just about preventing a break-in. Let’s explore the critical reasons why we at Green Locksmith Services always recommend beefing up your home security with solid deadbolt security.

Close-up of a deadbolt lock on a sturdy door with a blurred silhouette of a person attempting to force the door open, emphasizing the effectiveness of deadbolt security.
Deadbolts block intruders better, providing superior protection for your home.

1. Increased Risk of Break-ins

Think about how much you cherish your home and the peace of mind you feel when everything is safe and sound. That peace, unfortunately, can be shattered if the locks on your doors aren’t up to par. Deadbolts are like the superheroes of locks because they provide that extra layer of security that regular knob locks just can’t match.

Why? Because deadbolts extend deeper into the door frame, making your doors much harder to kick in or pry open. We’ve seen too many cases where homes with basic locks succumb to break-ins. Statistically, homes without deadbolts are more likely to become targets. It’s not just about keeping your stuff safe; it’s about protecting your personal sanctuary.

2. Higher Home Insurance Premiums

Here’s something you might not have thought about: your wallet feels the impact too when you skimp on proper locks. Many home insurance companies give discounts for homes that are considered safer, which includes having deadbolts installed. Without them, you might be looking at higher insurance premiums because, from an insurer’s perspective, your home poses a greater risk.

We’ve talked to insurance agents who tell us that the first things they check for in assessing a home’s security are the types of locks on the doors. So, installing deadbolts could literally save you money on insurance each year. It’s a win-win—more security, less money out the door.

3. Decreased Property Value

Planning to sell your home anytime soon? Or maybe you just want to keep its value as high as possible? Security features, especially deadbolt locks, are a small detail that can make a big difference in how your property is valued. Prospective buyers often consider the level of security in a home as a major factor in their decision-making process.

We’ve seen homes on the market with top-notch security systems, including robust deadbolt locks, sell faster and sometimes for a higher price. It’s about buyer confidence. They want to feel safe in their new home from day one, and seeing deadbolts installed reassures them that the home is secure and well-cared for.

4. Legal Repercussions in Certain Jurisdictions

Did you know that in some places, the law gets involved in what types of locks you should have on your doors? That’s right, certain local or state regulations might require deadbolts for home security, and failing to comply can lead to legal headaches. For instance, if you’re renting out property, some housing codes mandate that landlords install deadbolts for tenant safety.

Staying informed about your area’s requirements is crucial to avoid fines or legal actions. We always stay updated on the latest security regulations so we can advise you accurately. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about ensuring everyone’s safety under your roof.

5. Compromised Personal Safety

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about the personal impact of not having robust locks like deadbolts. There’s a real psychological comfort that comes from knowing you’ve done everything you can to secure your home. Without that, you might find yourself constantly worrying about the safety of your loved ones and your belongings.

We’ve spoken to many customers who have experienced break-ins, and they often tell us that the emotional toll was heavier than the physical losses. Installing deadbolts can provide a significant boost to your peace of mind. Knowing that you have a strong line of defense can help you sleep a little better at night.

Do You Need to Upgrade Your Deadbolt Security? Take This Quiz to Find Out!

  1. Are all your exterior doors equipped with deadbolt locks?
  • A) Yep, every single one. 
  • B) Just a few of them, not all. 
  • C) Nope, none of them do.
  1. What’s the security grade of the deadbolts on your doors?
  • A) Grade 1 – That’s the top-notch, high-security stuff. 
  • B) Grade 2 – It’s decent, offers moderate security. 
  • C) Grade 3 – Pretty basic, but it’s something.
  1. Have you ever had a professional check or install your deadbolt locks?
  • A) Yes, they were installed by a pro and checked up on within the last three years. 
  • B) They’re professionally installed, but it’s been a while since they’ve been checked. 
  • C) Nope, they haven’t been professionally installed.
  • Do your deadbolts come with any extra security features like anti-pick, anti-snap, or anti-bump mechanisms?
  • A) Yep, they’re fully loaded with multiple advanced security options. 
  • B) There’s one fancy feature on them. 
  • C) No, they’re pretty basic; no extra frills.
  1.  How long have the deadbolts been on your doors?
  • A) They’re pretty new, installed within the last 5 years. 
  • B) They’ve been around for a while, say 5 to 10 years. 
  • C) They’re either really old, over 10 years, or honestly, I’m not quite sure when they were put in.

Results:

  • Mostly A’s: Well-Secured. Awesome job! Your place is locked down tight with high-quality deadbolts, which means you’re taking your security seriously. Keep an eye on how those locks are holding up and don’t hesitate to look into newer options as they hit the market. Stay safe and secure!
  • Mostly B’s: Time to Step Up Your Security Game. Your home’s security is pretty decent, but there’s definitely room for beefing things up a bit. Why not take it up a notch? Think about swapping in some higher-grade deadbolts and maybe adding a few locks with those nifty advanced security features. It’s all about making your space safer and giving you a little more peace of mind.
  • Mostly C’s: Urgent Security Upgrade Needed. Looks like it’s high time to give your home’s security a serious boost. We strongly recommend you consider upgrading to high-grade deadbolts equipped with additional security features. It’s essential to fortify your home against potential break-ins and ensure you and your loved ones stay safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late—better safe than sorry!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The importance of deadbolt security goes beyond just keeping unwanted guests out—it touches everything from your financial health to your mental wellbeing. At Green Locksmith Services, we believe in doing everything we can to make sure your home is as secure as can be, and that starts with installing top-quality deadbolts on your doors.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Let’s talk about how we can upgrade your home security today. Remember, it’s not just a lock; it’s your family’s safety and peace of mind. Thanks for hanging out with us, and stay safe!

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is deadbolt security, and how does it differ from other types of locks?

Deadbolt security refers to a locking mechanism that provides superior protection compared to standard latch bolts. Deadbolts extend deeper into the door frame, making doors more resistant to forced entry.

Why is deadbolt security considered more effective for home protection?

Deadbolts are designed to withstand high levels of force, such as kicking or prying, making them significantly more secure than other locks. Their construction and operation make them a crucial element in safeguarding homes from intruders.

How can installing deadbolts improve my home insurance rates?

Many insurance companies recognize deadbolt security as a significant deterrent to burglaries and may offer reduced premiums for homes equipped with these locks. Installing deadbolts can be seen as an investment in lowering your insurance costs.

Can deadbolt security locks be picked or bumped easily?

While no lock is entirely pick-proof, deadbolts are generally more resistant to picking and bumping than other types of locks. High-quality deadbolts come with additional security features that make them tougher to compromise.

What should I consider when choosing a deadbolt for optimal security?

When selecting a deadbolt, consider factors such as the grade of the lock (with Grade 1 offering the highest security), the type of cylinder (single or double), and additional features like anti-snap, anti-pick, and anti-bump technologies. It’s also wise to consult with a professional locksmith to ensure the deadbolt is compatible with your door and properly installed for maximum security.