Lock Types

Surface Mount, Rim Mount or Vertical Deadbolt

These names all refer to a single type of lock which bolts flush against the inside face of the door. Vertical bolts from the lock slide up and down through a strike attached to the door frame. This is the most easily installed type of supplemental security lock. They are, however, bulkier and visually more obtrusive than deadbolts which are mounted inside the door.

Internal Deadbolts

Deadbolts are an inexpensive and effective way of adding security to exterior doors, and make a great supplement to key-in-knob locks. The best deadbolts have at least a 1" bolt with a hacksaw resistant steel pin. They are mounted inside the door and, with reasonable care, can be installed easily using a template provided by the lock manufacturer.

Mortise Lock

Mortise locks are installed in a slot cut into the edge of the door. These locks include both a deadbolt and latch bolt in a single assembly, and come complete with knobs or handles. Because of the need for precisely mortising the slot for these types of locks, professional installation is usually recommended. We will not deal with mortise lock installation in this how-to.