Deadbolt vs. Deadlatch: Key Difference and How to Choose?

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Last Updated on April 28, 2024 by Vincent Zhu

Introduction

Lock systems are critical to security for homes and businesses alike. They serve as the first line of defense against unauthorized entry, helping to protect property, maintain privacy, and ensure the safety of inhabitants. Given the vast array of lock mechanisms available in the market, homeowners, business owners, and security professionals need to understand the differences and applications of various lock types.

This article delves into two popular lock systems: deadbolts and deadlatches. This comparison aims to comprehensively understand deadbolts and deadlatches, helping you decide which lock system best suits your security needs for a home or business environment.

What’s the Key Difference Between Deadbolt vs Deadlatch?

Deadbolts and deadlatches are both locking mechanisms commonly used in door security, but they operate differently and serve slightly different security needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two:

Deadbolt vs. Deadlatch: Key Difference and How to Choose? 2

Mechanism

Deadbolt: A deadbolt is a locking mechanism that moves a solid metal bolt from the door into the door frame. The bolt movement is manually controlled by a key or a thumbturn from the inside.
Deadlatch: A deadlatch, also known as a spring bolt lock, uses a spring to extend the bolt, which is then retracted by turning the doorknob or key. When the door is closed, the bolt automatically extends into the strike plate, locking the door.

Security

Deadbolt: Deadbolts are highly secure because the bolt is moved directly by the user and cannot be easily forced back without a key or significant physical force. The lack of a spring mechanism makes it resistant to lock picking and bumping.
Deadlatch: Deadlatches offer convenience and moderate security. They can be easily opened from the inside with a doorknob and from the outside with a key. However, they are generally considered less secure than deadbolts because the spring mechanism can be more vulnerable to certain attacks.

Types

Deadbolt: There are two main types of deadbolts—single cylinder (which requires a key on one side and a thumbturn on the inside) and double cylinder (which requires a key on both sides).
Deadlatch: Deadlatches may come with features such as an anti-carding feature that prevents the bolt from being pushed back easily.

Use Case

Deadbolt: Ideal for external doors where high security is needed. The double cylinder deadbolt is particularly useful in doors with glass panels or nearby windows, as it prevents an intruder from opening the door by breaking the glass and reaching in to turn the thumbturn.
Deadlatch: This type is best suited for internal or external doors where convenience is prioritized over high-level security. It is commonly used in residential entry doors in combination with a deadbolt for added security.

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Differences between deadbolt and deadlatch on a mortise lock

Installation and Compatibility

Deadbolt: Installation of a deadbolt might require drilling a new hole in the door and door frame, especially if one wasn’t present before. This is because deadbolts need a larger hole for the bolt and a secure fit into the door frame for effectiveness. Deadbolts are versatile but may not fit all door types without modification.
Deadlatch: Deadlatches often replace standard doorknob locks without needing significant additional modifications to the door. They fit into the same type of hole as a doorknob, making them an easy upgrade for many doors. However, ensuring the latch and strike plate are aligned is crucial for security and proper function.

Auto-Locking Feature

Deadbolt: This feature does not automatically lock when the door is closed. The user must manually engage the bolt, either by key or thumbturn. This feature provides an added layer of security but can be seen as less convenient by some users.
Deadlatch: Thanks to the spring mechanism, the door automatically locks upon closing. This feature is convenient for users who might forget to lock the door but also poses a risk of accidental lockouts.

Resistance to Physical Attacks

Deadbolt: Offers high resistance to physical attacks such as kicking, ramming, or shoulder slamming. The strength of a deadbolt lies in the depth the bolt extends into the door frame (usually at least one inch) and the hardness of the bolt itself.
Deadlatch: While offering moderate resistance to physical attacks, deadlatches are generally less robust than deadbolts. The automatic locking mechanism can sometimes be bypassed with enough force or specific techniques, especially if not installed correctly or if the door frame is weak.

Key Control and Smart Features

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Deadbolt: Modern deadbolts come in versions that offer key control (preventing unauthorized duplication) and smart features, including remote locking/unlocking, access logs, and integration with home security systems. These features enhance both security and convenience but come at a higher cost.
Deadlatch: Some deadlatches also come with smart features and improved key control. However, the focus with deadlatches remains on convenience and moderate security. Smart deadlatches are less common and may offer fewer features than smart deadbolts.

Specific Use-Case Scenarios

Rental Properties: Deadlatches provide a convenient way for landlords to secure rental properties, ensuring that doors automatically lock when closed. This can be particularly useful in high-turnover environments like vacation rentals.
Emergency Exits: In commercial buildings or certain residential situations, deadlatches can be part of a panic exit device. These devices allow doors to be easily opened from the inside while remaining secure from the outside. This setup is crucial for both security and safety compliance.
High-Security Needs: For areas requiring enhanced security, such as front doors, external gates, or sensitive internal rooms (e.g., home offices), deadbolts are preferred. Their robust construction and resistance to tampering make them ideal for protecting valuable assets or ensuring personal safety.

Deadbolt vs. Latch: Which One is Better?

In terms of security, deadbolts are superior to latches. They are specifically designed to offer higher protection against potential intruders. While latches are convenient for interior doors and provide basic security, they should not be solely relied upon for external doors or high-security needs.

For homeowners and businesses seeking optimal security, it’s advisable to use a combination of both: a deadbolt for primary security on external doors and latches for convenience on interior doors.

How to choose between a deadbolt and a deadlatch?

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When selecting the right lock for your property, several factors should be considered to ensure you choose the lock that best meets your security needs and lifestyle.

Security Level Required: A deadbolt is often better if high security is a primary concern, especially in areas prone to break-ins. A deadlatch may suffice for general security needs, particularly in residential settings where convenience is also a factor.
Type of Property: Residential properties may benefit from the convenience of deadlatches, especially for frequently used doors. Commercial properties, particularly those storing valuable items or sensitive information, should consider deadbolts for enhanced security.
Frequency of Use: High-traffic doors may benefit from the ease of a deadlatch’s automatic locking feature. Doors that are not used as frequently, or where security is a higher priority than convenience, may be better suited to deadbolts.
Door Composition and Style: Doors with glass panels near the lock might be more secure with a double-cylinder deadbolt to prevent an intruder from breaking the glass and unlocking the door from the inside. Solid doors without glass can use either type, depending on other factors like security needs.
Determine the Purpose of the Door: Security should be a top priority for front and back entrances or any door that leads outside. Deadbolts are generally recommended for these doors due to their enhanced security features. For doors within the home, such as bedroom or bathroom doors, convenience might be more important than high-level security. Latches, integrated with doorknobs or handles, are suitable for these doors.
Consider Installation and Maintenance: Deadbolts might require a separate hole drilled in the door, especially if one wasn’t present initially. Integrating latches with doorknobs might be easier to install on pre-drilled doors. Due to their simple mechanism, deadbolts generally require less maintenance. With their spring mechanism, latches might need more frequent checks and potential replacements.
Budget Constraints: Typically, deadbolts are pricier than latches, especially high-quality ones with advanced security features. Latches are generally more affordable but might not offer the same level of security as deadbolts.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored the key differences and advantages of deadbolts and deadlatches. Deadbolts are known for their high security and are ideal for areas requiring robust protection. Deadlatches, on the other hand, offer a blend of security and convenience, automatically locking when the door is closed, and are well-suited for residential use or low-risk commercial environments.

Making an informed decision about which lock system to use depends on your specific security needs, the type of property you are securing, and the balance between convenience and security you want to achieve. By understanding each lock type’s unique features and advantages, you can select the most appropriate lock to safeguard your property effectively.