Choosing a Deadbolt for Your Front Door
Guide

Choosing a Deadbolt for Your Front Door

Short answer: What to look for in a front-door deadbolt so it actually holds up to a forced entry.

What to look for in a front-door deadbolt so it actually holds up to a forced entry.

Grades and what they mean

Deadbolts are graded 1, 2, or 3 by ANSI, with Grade 1 the strongest. For an exterior door, a Grade 1 or Grade 2 single-cylinder deadbolt offers a good balance of security and value.

Bolt throw and strike reinforcement

A one-inch bolt throw and a strike plate anchored with long screws into the door framing matter as much as the lock itself. Even a strong deadbolt is weak if the strike pulls loose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grades and what they mean?

Deadbolts are graded 1, 2, or 3 by ANSI, with Grade 1 the strongest. For an exterior door, a Grade 1 or Grade 2 single-cylinder deadbolt offers a good balance of security and value.

Bolt throw and strike reinforcement?

A one-inch bolt throw and a strike plate anchored with long screws into the door framing matter as much as the lock itself. Even a strong deadbolt is weak if the strike pulls loose.

How do I get help with this?

Send a request through the site with your location and what you need, and you will get a straight answer and an honest estimate before any work begins.

Request service — tell us what you need and we will reply with a straight answer and an honest estimate.