When it comes to home security, one of the most common questions homeowners have is whether they should get a single cylinder or double cylinder deadbolt.
A cylinder deadbolt is a great addition to any home. It provides an extra layer of security, keeping intruders from gaining entry. However, the question remains: single cylinder vs double cylinder deadbolt. Which one should you choose?
This is a common dilemma for people who are considering replacing their front door locks. Here’s a complete guide:
Single Cylinder Vs Double Cylinder Deadbolt – What’s the Difference?
As the names suggest, there are two types of cylinder deadbolts:
- Single cylinder and
- Double cylinder
A single cylinder deadbolt is unlocked by a key on the outside of your door while it’s locked (or locked via thumb turn) on the inside. On the other hand, a double cylinder deadbolt requires a key on both the inside and outside to use it.
This is an important distinction, especially if you’re going to be using your deadbolt for business purposes.
A single cylinder deadbolt can be unlocked from the inside with no problem while double cylinder locks require someone on the other side of the door to unlock what’s essentially a second lock.
Double cylinder deadbolts are more secure, especially in business settings where employees may need to open the door from time to time when they’re locking up for the night.
Single Cylinder Vs Double Cylinder Deadbolt – Security Options
Of course, this discussion is moot without considering what type of security options you want for your deadbolt.
Single-cylinder deadbolts can be equipped with several security features such as high-security pins (pin tumbler locks), pick-resistant cylinders, and even electromagnetic locks. They are specially designed to keep your home safe from intruders and burglars.
Double cylinder deadbolts are also equipped with security options. Although they can’t be opened from the outside, they are still designed to keep your home locked up tight at night and when you’re not there. But these have an added layer of security. Not just anyone, even with a duplicate key, can enter your house/business premises.
So, whether you choose a single cylinder or double cylinder lock for your front door is entirely up to you. In general terms, though, a single-cylinder deadbolt will suffice for most home locks.
But if you’re looking for an added layer of security around your place, go with a double cylinder deadbolt. It’s more secure and it’ll give you peace of mind knowing that no one can enter or exit your premises without having to use both sides of the lock.
Pros and Cons of Single Cylinder Deadbolt Locks
Pros:
- Easily accessible from the inside of your home
- No exterior key is required
- Relatively affordable
Cons:
- Are generally less secure than the double cylinder deadbolts
Pros and Cons of Double Cylinder Deadbolt Locks
Overall, Double Cylinder deadbolt locks are more secure than Single Cylinder ones. They are your ideal pick if you’re running a business or require heightened security at your home. Here are a few benefits and disadvantages of double cylinder deadbolts:
Pros
- Are relatively immune to lockpicking attacks because access requires two keys on separate sides of the door
- Require a key on both sides of the door for entry, making it more difficult for intruders/burglars to gain entry
Cons
- You may need a second key or a special locksmith to replace the lock in case one of the keys is lost
- Require more effort and time to enter your home from either side of the door compared with single cylinder deadbolt locks.
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Single Cylinder vs Double Cylinder Deadbolt – Which One to Pick?
You can easily find single-cylinder and double-cylinder locks at your local hardware store. It’s important to know that you can’t replace a single cylinder lock with a double cylinder one, so choose carefully before you purchase.
Take note of the security features offered by the locks you’re interested in, as well. Some deadbolts offer high-security pins (pin tumbler locks), pick-resistant cylinders, and even electromagnetic locks.
If you want extra protection for your home, look for a lock that offers all of these options. Not only will it keep burglars at bay, but it’ll also provide a layer of protection for first responders who may be forced to break down your door in the event of an emergency.
Of course, this discussion is moot without considering what type of security options you want for your deadbolt. Deadbolts can be equipped with several security features such as high-security pins (pin tumbler locks), pick-resistant cylinders, and even electromagnetic locks.
Single Cylinder vs Double Cylinder Deadbolt – Conclusion
If you’ve been wondering which type of deadbolt to pick, you can’t go wrong with choosing a double cylinder deadbolt. Although it’s more expensive, it’s also more secure than single-cylinder locks.
With the extra security features offered by these locks, you can rest assured that your home is safe from burglars and intruders at all times. Plus, if one of the keys is misplaced, your locksmith will easily be able to replace it for you.
But if you’re on a tight budget, don’t fret. Single-cylinder deadbolts are still very secure so long as they offer security features such as pick-resistant cylinders and electromagnetic locks. They may not provide the same level of protection as double cylinder locks, but they are extremely effective at keeping average criminals away.
We hope that you find our article on double cylinder vs single deadbolt lock useful in making your decision. If you have any input or experience to share, feel free to leave a comment below!