If you’re looking for a new lock system, the words high security lock may have come to you at some point. This might be a new term for you, or at least one that you don’t fully understand. It sounds like something that would likely be useful, but what is it exactly?
The Underwriters Laboratories, usually referred to as the UL, was founded specifically to provide testing on and give guidance to consumers on products, including locks. For locks, the UL standard is 437 and the lock must meet certain requirements to attain this standard. While it is not the defining standard for a high security lock, it can be a good indicator of one. A lock that is issued this standard will be clearly marked as such either on the lock itself or on the packaging.
The requirements that are needed to meet this standard are as follows. First, the lock must be able to withstand “attack tests”, which consist of the use of hammers, pliers, screwdrivers, saws, chisels, lock picking tools, key impressioning, or other means commonly used to compromise or open a lock. These tests are performed on the lock for several minutes at a time. Next, the lock must have the option of a minimum of 1000 key changes. Then, the lock is required to function as intended ten thousand times of a complete cycle of use, though the cycles cannot exceed fifty uses per minute. And finally, the lock must be made of steel, brass, bronze, or an equivalent material that will not corrode, or has a spray finish that protects the lock from corrosion as determined the UL’s “salt spray corrosion” test. If a lock meets or exceeds all of these standards, it is safe to assume that it can be classified as a high security lock.
There is an assortment of locks that can be classified as high security locks, including ones such as digital access only locks, finger print locks, and electromagnetic locks. This gives you an assortment to select from to meet your personal needs, such as if you live in a high crime area, or simply want an extra layer of protection for peace of mind in your home. Keep in mind that because high security locks are stronger and far more secure than the average lock (such as a plain deadbolt), they are going to be priced accordingly. However, that higher price may be well worth the security they can provide.
To determine what sort of lock might work best for you, find a reputable locksmith to discuss your options. For the best results, once you’ve chosen your high security lock, have the locksmith like Amazing Lock Service, Inc. install it rather than do it on your own, just to ensure that the job was done correctly.
