Ensuring the front and back doors' locks match is just one of many security considerations for your home. If you are considering matching locks, you'll be interested in this post. We put our research together to reveal the steps for making your doors' locks match.
Here are a few tips on matching locks for your front door and back door:
- Remove all the old keys from the locks.
- Re-key or buy new locks.
- Reinstall your new key-alike locks.
- Test the new keys to make sure they work.
- Decorate your locks.
In this blog post, we will explore how to match locks for the front door and back door entrances. Read on to learn more!
Should You Match Your Locks for Both the Front Door and Back Door?
You would want the front door and back door locks to match for two reasons: security and convenience. It's always better to have one less thing for burglars to exploit. In the case of a fire, you want everyone to be able to get out quickly and easily.
Keyed-alike Locks
When it comes to choosing locks, there are many factors to consider. But one of the most important is whether or not the locks can be keyed alike.
Keyed-alike locks use the same key, which can be very convenient if you have multiple locks that you need to open. For example, you might want all of the locks on your doors to be keyed alike so that you only need one key to open them all.
If you are uncertain whether matching locks or keyed-alike locks are the right answer for your home, here are a few things to consider when making this decision.
Think about the Level of Security You Need
If you live in a high-crime area, you might want to invest in two different locking systems for added security. On the other hand, if you live in a low-crime area, matching locks could be sufficient.
Consider the Type of Door You Have
If your front and back doors are made of different materials, you might want to choose locks that are designed specifically for each door type.
Think About Your Budget
If you have the money to invest in two different locks, go for it. However, if you're on a tight budget, matching locks may be the way to go.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to match your locks for both the front and back doors is up to you. Consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.
How to Make All My Doors Match With the Same Key?
Keys are essential, but they can also be a major source of clutter. If you have multiple keys for different doors, it can be difficult to keep track of them all.
And if you want to change the look of your doors, you might need to remove all the old keys from the locks. Luckily, here is the easiest step to do it:
1. Remove All the Old Keys from the Locks
- One option is to use a key extractor tool. This is a small device that can be inserted into the lock and used to remove the keys.
- Another option is to use a drill bit. Simply insert the bit into the lock and drill out the key.
- Finally, you can use a hammer and chisel to break the keys free from the lock.
Whichever method you choose, make sure to exercise caution so as not to damage the lock itself.
2. Re-key or Buy New Key-Alike Locks
Take your old keys and measurements to a local hardware store or locksmith.
If you have the old locks re-keyed, a locksmith will simply change the pins in the lock so that they match a new key. If you are buying new locks, you will need to purchase a re-keying kit for each lock. These kits usually come with new pins and a tool to install them.
Once you have installed the new pins, your locks should now be able to use the same key.
At your local hardware or home improvement store, you'll find a wide variety of knobs, locks, and handles to choose from. You can also purchase new keys that will work with all your current locks.
3. Reinstall Your New Key-Alike Locks
Insert the new lock into the hole left by the old one to begin reinstalling the new key-alike locks. If it's a deadbolt, line up the bolt with the hole in the doorjamb and screw on the faceplate. If it's a doorknob, screw the knob onto the spindle.
Once the new lock is in place, insert the key into the keyway and turn it clockwise until it stops. This will engage the locking mechanism and secure your door.
4. Test the New Keys to Make Sure They Work
The easiest way to test a new key is to insert it into the lock and turn it. If the key turns smoothly and the bolt slides back, then the key is working properly. Yet, if the key gets stuck or the bolt does not move, then the key needs to be filed down.
Another way to test a new key is to put it in the door and try to turn the handle. If the handle turns, then the key is working properly. Yet, if the handle does not turn, then the key needs to be filed down.
The best way to test a new key is to try it on all of the doors in your house. This will ensure that the key works in all of the locks in your home.
5. If Necessary, Decorate Your Locks
By painting or staining the new keys to match the existing door hardware, you can create a cohesive look that will make it easy to find the right key for each lock.
With a little effort, you can make all your doors match and eliminate the hassle of mismatched keys.
What Locks Can You Use for Keyed Alike?
There are a variety of different types of locks that can be keyed alike, including:
- Euro cylinder locks,
- mortice locks,
- night latches,
- BS3621-approved locks,
- padlocks,
- and interior door locks such as bathroom and bedroom locks.
So if you're looking for convenience, make sure to choose locks that can be keyed alike.
Get keyed-alike locks on Amazon.
Why Is It Important to Match Locks for Front and Back Doors?
Having another lock that matches the one on your front door can be a lifesaver as it can be a great convenience to your life. Not only does it save you time by not having to search for multiple keys, but it can also save you money if you ever lose a key because you'll already have a spare.
Additionally, you can keep one hidden key knowing that it would open either door in the event you are accidentally locked out.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Matching Locks for a Front Door and a Back Door?
When it comes to home security, most people want to take every possible precaution. There are also some potential drawbacks to this approach of matching locks.
- If one of the locks malfunctions, it can be difficult to find a replacement that matches the other lock.
- If someone is able to pick the lock on the door, meaning it successfully opens, they'll have gained entry regardless of whether the other doors have the same locks/keys or not.
- If you ever lose your keys, you will need to replace both locks instead of just one.
As a result, matching locks may offer an extra layer of security, but they also come with some additional costs and potential complications.
What Are the Most Important Factors to Consider When Matching Locks for a Front Door and a Backdoor?
There are a few important things to consider when choosing locks for your front and back doors.
- First, you'll want to make sure that the locks you select are compatible with the door hardware. For example, if you have a deadbolt on your front door, you'll need to purchase a lock that is compatible with that specific type of bolt. You'll also want to consider the level of security you need.
- If you live in a high-crime area, you may want to opt for higher-quality locks that are more resistant to forced entry.
- Finally, you'll want to think about ease of use. If you have young children, you may want to choose locks that are easy for them to operate.
By considering all of these factors, you can be sure to select the best possible locks for your front and back doors.
Final Words
If you are looking for a more affordable way to secure your home, consider installing a matching lock set for both your front and back doors. This will not only deter burglars from attempting to enter your home, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your family is safe and sound inside.
For more tips on how to keep your home safe and sound, see our posts below:
How To Program (& Reset) My Garage Door Opener With Dip Switches
How To Cover A Lattice For Privacy In Your Yard [9 Ideas To Inspire You]