WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS TYPES OF LOCKS?
Locksmiths work with a variety of locks, each serving different security purposes. Some of the main types include, but are not limited to
Pin Tumbler Locks are commonly found in residential settings, these are the standard locks where a key lifts pins to align with a shear line. They’re often used in house doors and safes.
Deadbolt Locks provide an added layer of security beyond a regular doorknob lock, with a bolt that extends into the door frame when locked. They come in single and double-cylinder varieties. A jimmy-proof deadbolt is a type of deadbolt lock designed to resist tampering, particularly from techniques like "jimmying," which involves using a crowbar or similar tool to force open a door. The jimmy-proof deadbolt is often used in apartment buildings or commercial settings where added security is needed.
Here's what makes it different from a standard deadbolt. The lock has a unique design with the deadbolt located inside a protective housing that extends over the strike plate. This makes it harder to pry the bolt out of its
position or force the lock open from the outside.
The strike plate for a jimmy-proof deadbolt is usually reinforced and designed to prevent tampering. It fits securely around the bolt to make it more difficult for someone to bypass.
Unlike regular deadbolts, where the bolt is exposed on the outside of the door when locked, a jimmy-proof deadbolt typically has a housing around the bolt, making it more difficult for an intruder to manipulate or cut through the lock. The design is meant to give a higher level of protection by preventing common break-in methods, making it a solid choice for residential or commercial doors in need of extra security.
Our Locksmith in Astoria frequently works with deadbolts on both residential and commercial buildings.
Lever Locks are typically found on commercial doors or older homes, these locks use a set of levers to prevent the door from being opened without the correct key.
Mortise Locks are built into the door itself and are often used in commercial and high-security applications. They usually have a latch and deadbolt as part of the same mechanism.
Electronic/Smart Locks. These modern locks operate via keypads, biometrics, or smartphones, providing keyless entry. They're common in businesses or high-tech homes.
Combination Locks, these don’t require a key but instead use a numerical code. They’re often used on safes, lockers, or storage units.
Padlocks. These portable locks are typically used for securing gates, sheds, or lockers. They can come in various designs, such as combination or keyed versions.
Cam Locks are often used in cabinets, file drawers, or vending machines. The locking mechanism is a cam (a rotating piece) that locks into place
when turned with the correct key.
High-Security Locks are locks designed to resist picking, bumping, or tampering. They often feature advanced mechanisms and are used in places requiring top-level security, such as government buildings or highsecurity offices.
Rim Locks are typically used in older buildings, these are surface-mounted locks, often paired with deadbolts for added security.
Biometric Locks use fingerprints, retina scans, or other biometric data for identification and access. They're common in areas requiring very high security.
Locksmiths are skilled at working with all these types of locks, including installation, repair, rekeying, and unlocking them when needed. If you are in the Queens, New York area, our locksmith in Astoria can help you with lock installations or lockouts.