Lockout Tips

When you move into your new property, it is a smart idea to have the keys changed over. For homes with deadbolts and separate door locks, you might wonder if you should have the locks keyed to use one key for both locks or to have separate keys. Here are some things to consider about whether your deadbolt and door lock should open with the same key.

Consider Your Lifestyle

No matter what you’re deciding between, it is important to consider your lifestyle before making a decision that affects your home. If you’re prone to losing your keys, needing to find a second key in the morning wouldn’t be a great idea. However, if you prioritize extra security and invest what you can into securing your home, it could make a lot of sense.

Separate Keys Provide More Security Than One Key

Separate keys are technically more secure than having a single key. If you lose one of the keys, you won’t have to worry about someone gaining access to your house. However, if you keep both keys together on a key ring, you’ll likely lose both keys at the same time. If someone can use the two separate keys, it isn’t any more secure than having a single key.

What Happens if You Lose One?

If you happen to lose just one of your keys, you will still need to call a professional locksmith to get back into your house. Since you would have locked both the deadbolt and the door lock with separate keys, one key won’t allow you to open the door. In some ways, this can successfully secure your home from even its owners.

Is It Necessary?

What kind of household items do you have in your home? What kind of neighborhood do you live in? If you maintain a home office with highly confidential documentation, taking the extra steps necessary to lock the deadbolt and door lock with different keys might make sense. If your neighborhood has a high crime rate, having separate keys could be a way to keep your home even more secure. For people with minimal personal possessions in a crime-free neighborhood or an active security system, it is understandable to not want to deal with having two separate keys.

It’s Your Choice

Ultimately, whether you choose to have your deadbolt and door lock open with the same key is your choice. There isn’t necessarily a one size fits all answer. If you want to have separate keys for a door that currently uses only one key, it is easy enough for a locksmith to set it up for you.

Ready to rekey your home’s front door? Contact 24 HR Lockouts and let a licensed, professional locksmith help secure your home. We are reliable and affordable and ready to help.