Here’s a guide to the most common residential lock types as prepared by the residential lock installation experts here at Sonic Locksmith.

Combination Locks

Combination locks are the locks that many people are familiar with from their school days. They are made of a small wheel that’s set with a pre-made string of numbers. The wheel is fully rotated to line up to each digit, and when the proper code is input, the lock’s spindle and drive cam swing the lock mechanism up and out. There is often an additional precautionary metal bar that helps protect against improper number entries. If the wrong code is used, burglars might find themselves dealing with a lock that cannot be reset - and certainly can’t be opened!  

Cylinder Locks

These common locks, also known as pin tumbler locks, are usually connected to deadbolts. These locks consist of a collection of springs and pins that are balanced to prevent the turning of the lock’s interior mechanisms. However, when the proper key is put in the lock, the key’s notches hit the right spots that allow the tumblers and pins to turn in the exact way that allows the lock to open.  

Mortise Locks

These locks are actually ancient technology - and were made of wood thousands of years ago! However, thankfully, mortise lock designs have improved since then - and mortise locks are most commonly used to help secure commercial locations, usually smaller businesses and storage areas.  

Electronic Locks

There are many types of electronic locks - and they are often deployed in both residential and commercial environments. Electronic locks are usually operated with a touchpad or keypad, on which a code is entered (codes can be programmed in to be time-sensitive, temporary, and even staggered to allow access to only certain people at certain times that rotate.) Electronic locks can also be linked to the internal security system of a property, and paired with smartphone applications that allow for remote control.