Single or Double-Cylinder Deadbolts on Your Doors?

When people from the Tri-Cities come to our shop for key-cutting, they ask whether to have single or double locks on their doors. Apart from security, there are other considerations. 

Continue reading to find out more information about these locks. Then think about which one would work best with the door you wish to secure.

What is the Difference Between a Single & Double-Cylinder Deadbolt?

Color and design can make a space feel inviting, elegant, playful, or austere. The front door of your house says a lot about you. However, it is your responsibility to choose a secure front door.

The best way to ensure that your door prevents intruders from entering your home is to incorporate a deadbolt into the design. Although these have become an extremely common addition to the modern home, purchasing a deadbolt lock should still require research.

key cutting Tri-Cities - Single or Double-Cylinder Deadbolts on Your Doors - a single cylinder deadbolt with an inset showing the inner mechanism
Single-Cylinder Deadbolt

This is especially true when deciding between a single-cylinder and a double-cylinder deadbolt for your home. Of course, the first step in making this decision is to understand each option and what it offers.

Deadbolts with a Single Cylinder

Single-cylinder deadbolts are the most prevalent locks used in residential residences around the country. It's a lock with a key slot on one side and a thumb-turn mechanism on the other.

The key slot is usually outside your house, while the thumb-turn is on the inside.

Deadbolts with Two Cylinders

Double cylinder deadbolts, on the other hand, employ a key on both sides of the door to lock and open it. So you'll need a key to leave or enter your house.

Here are some key pros and cons for both types of locks.

Security

Single-cylinder deadbolts provide adequate security but are less secure than double-cylinder deadbolts.

Double cylinder locks can also keep your loved ones safe from the inside. If you have small children or elderly people with cognitive impairments, these locks will help ensure they don't go outside without being noticed.

Cost

Single-cylinder deadbolt locks range in price from $20 to $70. Price is an important consideration when you need multiple locks around your house.

key cutting Tri-Cities - Single or Double-Cylinder Deadbolts on Your Doors - a brass double cylinder deadbolt showing a key in the slot
Double-Cylinder Deadbolt

On the other hand, choosing the best double-cylinder lock for you and your family is not cost-prohibitive. A double-cylinder deadbolt lock will cost an average of $115.

The cost of locksmith services in Johnson City can range from $75 to $200, while key cutting in the Tri-Cities can range from $10 to $50. 

Considering both the price of the lock and the cost of locksmith services, plus cutting any additional keys before deciding, will give you a reasonable estimate for everything.

Before employing a locksmith, it is advisable to compare pricing and obtain various quotations. This will ensure that you get the most bang for your buck.

Convenience

With a single-cylinder lock, you only need to turn your deadbolt when locking or unlocking your door. That's quite convenient! The same is true if you must leave your home in an emergency. It's simpler and safer to open your door and flee to safety.

With double-cylinder locks, in case of a fire or emergency, having to locate a key to leave your residence poses a safety risk. In addition, if you lose your key, you'll need to rekey or replace your lock.

Other Considerations

Single-cylinder locks are an excellent alternative if you need to replace all of the locks in your home. 

They're more practical for general use in situations where having locks on both sides of the door isn't necessary, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets.

They are also ideal for regularly used but secure places such as your office or basement.

Double cylinder locks add security to non-frequently used doors in your home. For example, consider installing a double cylinder lock on the other if you have two back doors but only use one.

Double cylinder locks can also protect your loved ones from the inside. If you have tiny children or aged seniors with cognitive-impairing conditions, these locks will help ensure they don't go outside without being seen.

Additionally, glass panels or windows adjacent to your door can make your property less secure. That is why a dual cylinder lock can give security.

Conclusion:

When individuals from the Tri-Cities come to our store to have keys cut, one of the first questions they ask is whether or not the locks on their doors are single or double. The level of safety is the most essential consideration. 

We hope this article helped you decide which one would work best with the door you wish to secure.

Star-Spangled Locksmithing— the Place for Key Cutting in the Tri-Cities

If you're looking for key cutting in the Tri-Cities, look no further than Star Spangled Locksmithing. We are experts at creating keys that cannot be duplicated, ensuring that your home or business is safe from intruders. 

We also offer other locksmithing services in Johnson City and surrounding counties. We can help you stay safe and secure. 

Contact us today to learn more about our security services. Let us show you why we are the key to your success in keeping a secure home.