Think a Basic Lock Will Protect Your Home? Think Again

Most people don’t give their locks a second thought until something goes wrong. A key snaps, a door won’t budge, or worse, a break-in reveals just how easy it was to get past that old lock. The truth is, a basic lock is doing far less than you think to protect your home.

So, if you’re still relying on that same cheap lock installed when the house was built, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s really keeping your place secure.

Not All Locks Are Created Equal

The standard locks found on most front doors are often just the bare minimum. They’re easy to install, easy to use, and unfortunately, often easy to bypass. Burglars know it. Locksmiths know it. And now, so should you.

There are several types of locks out there, each offering different levels of security. An experienced locksmith Perth will be able to advise you on the best option for your situation. Here’s a closer look at the most common lock types and what they actually offer:

Deadbolts

A step up from a basic spring bolt, deadbolts offer more resistance because they can’t be moved to the open position without a key or knob turn. But not all deadbolts are equal. Cheaper versions can still be picked, bumped, or drilled with basic tools.

Knob Locks

These are the ones built into doorknobs. They’re common in interior doors and older external doors. Unfortunately, they’re also weak. The lock cylinder is inside the knob itself, which makes it easy to break off or bypass entirely.

Lever Handle Locks

Usually found on commercial properties, these locks are more user-friendly for accessibility but offer little improvement in terms of break-in resistance.

Mortice Locks

Often found in older buildings, these are fitted inside the door itself. When installed correctly, they can be quite sturdy. But again, quality and age matter a lot here.

Smart Locks

These are becoming more common, offering keyless entry via codes, cards, or smartphones. While they have convenience on their side, they’re not foolproof. Poor installation or outdated software can leave them vulnerable to hacking.

You can’t judge a lock by how modern it looks or how satisfying the click sounds. Real home security comes from thoughtful choices backed by proper installation.

The Weak Points Most People Miss

Even if you’ve upgraded to a decent deadbolt, that doesn’t mean your door is truly secure. Locksmiths often see homes where the lock is solid, but everything around it isn’t. The strike plate might be loose, the door frame weak, or the screws short enough to yank out with a crowbar.

Here’s what often gets overlooked:

Short screws

Many door locks come with screws just 1 or 2 centimetres long. A few kicks or a firm shoulder push, and the whole setup gives way. Replacing these with longer screws that anchor into the frame can make a major difference.

Door material

A lock is only as strong as the door it’s attached to. Hollow-core doors or aged timber won’t hold up well under force.

Gaps and misalignment

Locks need a precise fit. If the bolt doesn’t fully extend into the strike plate or there’s too much play in the door, it compromises security. A professional locksmith checks these small but important details.

Old or rusted hardware

Locks aren’t built to last forever. Over time, wear and rust weaken their internal mechanics. They might still function day to day, but not stand up to tampering or forced entry.

Why You Should Get a Locksmith Involved

There’s more to home security than buying a “tough-looking” lock off the shelf. A qualified locksmith doesn’t just install locks; they assess your entire setup and look for vulnerabilities you wouldn’t notice.

Here’s what a professional locksmith typically helps with:

• Full security assessment – They’ll check not just the locks, but the doors, frames, hinges, and surrounding access points like windows or garages.
• Tailored recommendations – Based on the layout of your home, your budget, and your needs, they can suggest the right kind of lock or security system. That might include deadbolts, window locks, or even more advanced entry systems.
• Proper installation – This part is key. Even the best lock can be useless if installed incorrectly. Locksmiths ensure that everything lines up, bolts properly engage, and the structure can handle brute force.
• Rekeying or upgrading – If you’ve moved into a new home or lost track of who has copies of your keys, a locksmith can rekey your existing locks without needing to replace the whole system. Or they can upgrade to more secure models if needed.
• Emergency services – Let’s not forget the basics. If you’re ever locked out, stuck with a broken key, or need to change your locks quickly, they’re the ones to call.

Why DIY Doesn’t Cut It

Plenty of lock sets come with instructions. And sure, you could install them yourself. But most break-ins don’t happen because a thief has a lock-picking kit. They happen because someone took advantage of a poorly fitted or low-quality lock.

Self-installations often leave too much room for error. Misaligned deadbolts, loose strike plates, or missed reinforcements can make even a high-end lock useless. You wouldn’t DIY your home’s wiring without an electrician. The same logic applies here.

Make Sure Your Locks Are Working For You

A lock should do more than just click shut behind you. It should stand up to pressure, deter unwanted attention, and fit perfectly into the bigger picture of your home’s safety.

If it’s been years since you looked at your locks, or you’re still relying on the same setup that came with the place, it’s worth getting an expert in. Better locks, proper installation, and a solid setup all work together to give you the kind of security that doesn’t just look good, but actually works when it matters.