When you get a deadbolt, you expect it to be secure and ensure that no one can get into your house. However, not all deadbolts are created equally. There are ways that people who are determined to break into your house can break into some deadbolts. That's why you want to get the best deadbolt that you can. The better the deadbolt is, the harder it is for people to get into it. 

Ways to Break Into a Deadbolt Lock

There are two basic ways that deadbolts are vulnerable. Those are lock picking and bumping. 

Lock picking: Lock picking involves using several tools that can fit the keyhole of the lock. The user manipulates those lock picks so that they lift up the pins in the lock and eventually open it. Depending on the lock, this can take a lot of time, so it isn't used as much. 

Bumping: Bumping also uses a special tool. In this case, it looks like a key. The bump key is shoved into the keyhole, and then is tapped, or bumped, firmly by something like a hammer or screwdriver end. That causes the bump key to force the pins in the lock to open it up. One reason that this method has become much more popular is because it doesn't take any particular skill to do, like lock picking. It is also much less conspicuous. The person who is using it doesn't have to bend down in front of the deadbolt to open it. It is also much quicker. It can only take a couple of minutes to bump a lock open. 

Secure Deadbolts

There are different grades of deadbolts. The better the grade, the more secure it is. The more secure it is, the harder it is for people to break into it. Some of the highest grade deadbolts are nearly impossible to break into. The others can take so much time that it is completely impractical for anyone to spend time trying to beat the lock. 

There are three grades of deadbolts. They are rated by ANSI, the American National Standards Institute. Lock manufacturers meet these standards because it is easier to meet a set of common standards. 

Grade 1: Grade 1 locks are the highest rated locks. You generally can't get them at a home improvement store or hardware store. The best place to find one of these locks is a locksmith. They are also the best person to install the lock. Making sure that the lock is secure is more than just having the best possible lock, it also means making sure the lock is installed the right way. It's all well and good to have a secure lock, but if it isn't put well enough in the door or the frame, all it takes is someone kicking in the door and the frame or door can fail. These locks aren't generally found on residences, but you can choose to get one. 

Grade 2: These locks are generally found in home improvement or hardware stores. They are generally the highest rating for residential settings. In fact, these locks are also generally stronger than requirements for residential settings. Again, while you can get these and install them on your own, it's best to have a locksmith do it for you. 

Grade 3: Grade 3 locks are generally rated for residences. However, of the three grades, these are the least secure of all the locks. They will keep your door locked, and may keep people from breaking into your door, but are more easily defeated. 

You want to make sure that you get the best deadbolt possible. If you aren't sure which one is the best for your house and your situation, you shouldn't try to figure it out on your own. A locksmith like Irvine Lock & Key can evaluate your situation and get you the best deadbolt for your needs.