The Ultimate Guide to Deadbolts vs. Latches for Door Security

The importance of latch and deadbolt door security cannot be overstated. Whether it's your home or a commercial setting, having a reliable and sturdy lock can provide peace of mind and protect your property. In this guide, we will explore the key differences between a deadbolt vs a latch, helping you make an informed decision about which option is best for your specific security needs.

What are Deadbolts?

Deadbolt locks are heavy-duty locks that provide enhanced security. Unlike traditional locks, deadbolts extend deep into the door frame, making them incredibly resistant to forced entry. Their primary function is to prevent unauthorized access by providing a solid barrier between the door and frame.

Deadbolt Locks in Commercial and Home Security:

When selecting a deadbolt, consider the amount of traffic the door will receive, as well as any security threats your property may face. Choose an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt for maximum security. For residential use, balance security with convenience - features like auto-locking, such as with a deadlatch, or deadlatch lock—may be desirable. You can also opt for keyed entry from both sides for bedrooms or other areas where you want restricted access.

Different Types of Deadbolts:

Deadbolts are a large group of locks that include all these types, which are useful for front door locks and many other applications:

Single-Cylinder Deadbolts: These are the most common type used in homes as front door locks. Single-cylinder deadbolts for doors provide a good balance of security and convenience for residential use. The thumbturn on the interior side allows for easy locking and unlocking.

Double-Cylinder Deadbolts: These deadbolts require a key to unlock from both sides. These deadbolts for doors are typically used where an intruder could break the glass to reach the thumb turn. However, they can pose a safety risk by slowing emergency egress, so check your local fire code before installing them.

Jimmy-Proof Deadbolt locks: Jimmy-proof deadbolts are so named because their surface-mounted design makes them resistant to being pried or "jimmied" open. They’re great for retrofitting security on old or warped doors.

ANSI Grade 1 Deadbolts: These high-security deadbolts meet the strict standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and are commonly recommended for commercial applications. ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts undergo rigorous strength and durability testing.
So why choose a deadbolt vs a latch when considering a lock? Their respective features make each the right choice for particular applications.

Deadbolt Key Features:

Materials and Durability: Deadbolts are typically made of solid steel or brass, ensuring longevity and durability. Look for solid metal construction, preferably with corrosion-resistant finishes. High-end deadbolts may use stainless steel.

Security Levels: Deadbolts offer varying levels of security, with ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts being the most secure. The ANSI grading system provides an objective measure of security level. Higher grades indicate more advanced security features. You can check out these high-quality Grade 2 and Grade 3 deadbolts.

Resistance to Tampering: Premium deadbolts employ pick-resistant designs such as sidebar keyways. Drill-resistant steel plates and reinforced bolts thwart drilling attacks.

Deadbolt features are only one aspect to consider when making a lock choice. Security, compatibility with your doors, and more factors apply.

Prospective Buyer Considerations:

Security Needs Assessment: Evaluate your security needs for both residential and commercial properties. Determine the level of security required and potential vulnerabilities. Consider your neighborhood crime rate, business security risks, and vulnerabilities like doors with glass panes.

Compatibility with Different Door Types or Access Control Systems: Take into account the type of door you have and any existing access control systems to ensure compatibility. Measure your door thickness and backset to match your deadbolt installation.

Compliance with Industry Standards and Regulations: Check if the deadbolt meets local fire codes, building regulations, and other security standards. Be aware of any codes or ordinances regarding double-cylinder deadbolts. Landlords may require deadbolts as part of rental licensing.

Budget Considerations: Deadbolts come in various price ranges, so consider your budget while balancing the desired level of security. Set your budget parameters, then look for the highest grade and durability you can afford.

While deadbolts have their place for various applications, there are times when latches are the right choice. We’ll explore what latches are and the places where they work best.

What is a Door Latch?

Latches are commonly found on residential and commercial doors. Unlike deadbolts, they do not extend into the door frame but instead latch the door to the frame, keeping it closed. They are often used in conjunction with deadbolts to provide an additional layer of security.

Types of Door Latches for Residential and Commercial Settings:

If you’ve asked, “What is a door latch?” and were still confused, you’ll find they come in different types and are most effective in certain settings:

Mortise Latches and Mortise Deadlatches: These latches are recessed into the door frame and offer a higher level of security due to their construction. Mortise latches are installed inside a pocket in the door rather than surface-mounted, making them more secure. Choose for commercial use or where appearances are important.
Cylindrical Latches: These latches consist of a cylindrical housing installed on the edge of the door and are commonly used in residential settings. Cylindrical latches feature a round door-mounted enclosure for the latching mechanism, making retrofitting easy. This is the most common type for residential doors.
Tubular Latches: Similar to cylindrical latches, these latches have a tube-shaped housing around the handle and are commonly used in residential doors. Tubular latches integrate the latch into a tubular-shaped door handle for a streamlined appearance.

Key Features of Latches:

Materials and Durability: Latches are usually constructed using durable materials such as stainless steel or solid brass. Look for stainless steel or brass components to prevent corrosion. Internal parts should also be metal, not plastic.

Security Levels: Latches provide a basic level of security, but their strength is not comparable to that of deadbolts. Latches are more about securing a closed door than maximum security. Choose deadbolts over latches when security is a priority.

Ease of Use: Latches are generally easy to operate, allowing for quick and convenient access. Many latches include features like indicators that show if the door is latched properly for easy visual verification.

Prospective Buyer Considerations:

When buying your door latches, keep these considerations in mind:

Security Needs Assessment: Assess your security requirements for both residential and commercial properties, considering whether an additional latch is necessary. First, decide if a deadbolt meets your security needs before looking at latches for secondary protection.

Compatibility with Different Door Types or Access Control Systems: Ensure that the latch is compatible with your specific door type and any existing access control systems. Measure your door thickness and backset dimensions when selecting a latch.

Budget Considerations: Consider the cost of the latch and whether it fits within your overall security budget. Latches are generally more affordable than deadbolts. Opt for solid metal internal components, even on budget models.
Depending on what type of door you wish to secure and where you wish to install your latches and deadbolts, it’s helpful to compare where these locks work well.

Choosing a Deadbolt vs. a Latch: Comparative Analysis

When selecting the right lock for a door, deadbolts and latches each offer distinct advantages and disadvantages regarding security, convenience, and usability. We’ll look at security and ease of operation characteristics and see where each type of lock excels:

Security: Deadbolts offer many security benefits. They are known as the top choice for strength and overall security features.

Strength and Resistance to Forced Entry: Deadbolts offer superior resistance to forced entry compared to latches due to their solid, reinforced construction with sturdy locking mechanisms and deep penetration into the door frame. Deadbolts have larger bolts that extend farther into the door frame, anchoring the door more securely.

Vulnerabilities and Weaknesses: Latches can be susceptible to a variety of manipulation or bypassing techniques that compromise their security, such as credit card or bump key attacks, making them significantly less secure than high-quality, properly installed deadbolts. Even properly installed latches may not withstand as much brute force as deadbolts.

Door Construction Compatibility: Deadbolts are compatible with both solid wood and hollow core doors, providing maximum security. Latches work well on solid doors but are less secure on hollow doors.

Pick Resistance: The internal mechanisms of deadbolts are specifically designed to resist picking and lock manipulation better than basic latches.

Convenience and Usability: Latches are made to be safe, but they are still easy to turn.

Ease of Operation: A simple latching mechanism allows quick one-handed operation for fast entry and exit, especially in residential settings where smooth accessibility is desired.

Accessibility for Different Users: Latches are user-friendly, intuitive and easily accessible for individuals of all ages and abilities. Children and seniors may have an easier time operating latches compared to deadbolts, which require more dexterity and strength.

Interior vs. Exterior Operation: Latches allow interior operation even when locked, great for quick exits, whereas deadbolts may require keys on both sides.

Frequency of Use Considerations: For doors used frequently, latches make more sense over deadbolts due to their quick and simple operation. Infrequently used doors benefit more from deadbolts.

Carefully weigh these factors when selecting locks. The ideal solution may be to use both lock types in strategic locations.

Brands and Products Overview

What is a door latch or deadbolt that provides top-quality craftsmanship? Choose from these well-known brands and types:

Deadbolts

Double-Sided GRADE 1 Deadbolt—SC4—2-3/8"—US3 (MARKS): You will appreciate this deadbolt for heavy-duty residential or commercial use, either for interior or exterior applications. It offers a lifetime mechanical warranty and a 3-year finish warranty.

Double Cylinder GRADE 1 Deadbolt - KW1 - Satin Nickel (MASTER): This ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt is perfect for heavy-duty residential or commercial use on either interior or exterior doors. It includes a 25-year mechanical warranty and a 5-year finish warranty.

Arrow Grade 2 Deadbolt - SINGLE-SIDED - SC1-Oil Rubbed Bronze: Choose from two different backsets, 2-3/8" (for residential applications) or 2-3/4" (for commercial applications), adjustable.

Latches

Arrow Grade 2 Dead Latch for Knobs & Levers - 2-3/8"-Stainless Steel: This latch’s features are:

Designed to meet ANSI A156.36, Auxiliary Locks, Grade 2
Underwriters Laboratories (UL and CUL) listed for use on 3 hour fire doors when used in conjunction with a rated primary latching device

Arrow Grade 2 DRIVE-IN Dead Latch for Knobs & Levers - 2-3/8"

This latch is ideal for commercial common areas and residential use. Designed to meet ANSI A156.36, Auxiliary Locks, Grade 2.

Arrow Grade 2 Spring Latch for Knobs & Levers - 2-3/4" - BRASS

Purchase this latch for residential and commercial common area applications. It features a 03 Bright Brass finish.

Choose American Key Supply Locks for Convenience and Security

We started our discussion by asking, “What are deadbolts?” and “What are door latches?” Both deadbolts and latches have important roles to play in securing doors, whether in residential or commercial settings. The ideal solution is to utilize both lock types strategically throughout a building. With American Key Supply's extensive inventory, you can find the perfect deadbolts and latches to meet your specific needs.

For exterior doors and other high security locations, one of our heavy-duty, pick-resistant deadbolts would provide robust protection against forced entry. If convenience is still a priority, opt for a model with interior thumb-turn operation. Our consultants can recommend the optimal grade of bolt for each application.

American Key Supply’s experts can point you to the perfect deadbolt or latch door hardware right from the start. Contact American Key Supply today to discuss your unique needs. You'll gain peace of mind knowing your doors are optimally secured.