Question 1

What makes high-security locks different from regular deadbolts?

Accepted Answer

High-security locks use advanced technology to resist picking, drilling, bumping, and forced entry methods that defeat standard locks in seconds.

Key differences: (1) Pick-resistant cylinders - high-security locks use specialized pin configurations (sidebar pins, telescoping pins, magnetic pins) that render standard lock picks useless. Regular locks use simple pin tumblers easily picked with basic tools. (2) Drill-resistant hardened steel - high-security locks have hardened steel pins and ball bearings that destroy drill bits. Regular locks have soft brass pins easily drilled through. (3) Bump-proof mechanisms - high-security locks prevent bump key attacks (tapping a specially cut key to jar pins into place). Regular locks are highly vulnerable to bumping. (4) Forced entry resistance - tested to withstand 10 strikes at 75 ft-lbs force (Grade 1 rating). Regular locks often fail in 1-3 kicks.

Security standards: High-security locks meet ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (highest rating). Builder-grade locks are typically Grade 3 (lowest rating). Grade 1 locks are tested to 250,000 operational cycles vs. 35,000 for Grade 3.

Key control: High-security locks use restricted keyways - blanks are controlled, keys can only be duplicated with authorization. Regular lock keys can be copied at any hardware store without verification.

Question 2

How much do high-security locks cost to install?

Accepted Answer

High-security lock installation: $180-$300 per door (hardware included)

Price factors: (1) Lock brand - Schlage Primus ($180-$220), Medeco ($220-$260), Mul-T-Lock ($240-$280), Abloy ($260-$300). (2) Features - Basic high-security ($180-$220), Restricted keyway + bump-proof ($220-$260), Maximum security + drill plates ($260-$300). (3) Door modifications - Standard installation ($180-$220), New mortise pocket ($40-$60 additional), Frame reinforcement ($50-$100 additional).

Whole-house packages (4 exterior doors): (1) Basic high-security: 4 × $200 = $800 base, 15% multi-door discount = $680 total ($170/door). (2) Mid-level security: 4 × $240 = $960 base, 15% discount = $816 total ($204/door). (3) Maximum security: 4 × $280 = $1,120 base, 15% discount = $952 total ($238/door).

Comparison to builder-grade: Builder-grade deadbolt installation: $95-$125 (Grade 3 locks that fail easily). High-security installation: $180-$300 (Grade 1 locks tested to resist professional attacks). Difference: $85-$175 more for 10x better security.

Value proposition: One break-in costs $1,000-$3,000 insurance deductible + $2,000-$10,000 stolen property + emotional trauma. Upgrading 4 doors to high-security locks costs $680-$950 total, preventing most break-in attempts.

Question 3

Are high-security locks worth the extra cost for residential homes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for most Austin homeowners, especially in areas with break-in activity or homes with valuable contents.

When high-security locks are worth it: (1) High-value home contents (electronics, jewelry, firearms, art), (2) Neighborhoods with break-in history, (3) Homes visible from street (burglars know you can afford nice things), (4) Corner lots or homes with hidden entry points, (5) Extended vacations or frequent travel, (6) Home office with business equipment.

Cost-benefit analysis: $680-$950 (4-door whole-house upgrade) protects against $5,000-$15,000 average residential burglary loss. High-security locks prevent forced entry in under 60 seconds - most burglars give up and move to easier targets.

Insurance considerations: Many homeowners insurance policies offer 5-15% discounts for Grade 1 locks. On $1,200 annual premium, 10% discount = $120/year saved. High-security lock upgrade pays for itself in 6-8 years through insurance savings alone, plus security benefit.

Peace of mind value: Knowing your family and belongings are protected by locks tested to withstand professional burglary attempts - priceless for many homeowners.

Question 4

Can high-security locks be picked or bumped like regular locks?

Accepted Answer

High-security locks resist picking and bumping through specialized mechanisms that defeat standard attack methods, but no lock is 100% unpickable by experts with specialized tools and time.

Pick resistance: High-security locks use sidebar pins, telescoping pins, magnetic elements, or rotating discs that require specialized picking tools most burglars don't have. Standard pin tumbler picks don't work. Skilled locksmith with proper tools and 30-60 minutes could potentially pick high-security locks. Burglar with basic picks and 30 seconds cannot.

Bump-proof features: High-security locks prevent bump key attacks through: (1) Sidebar mechanisms requiring simultaneous rotation and sideway pressure, (2) Magnetic pins that don't respond to mechanical bumping, (3) Telescoping pins with false gates that trap bump attempts, (4) Counter-milling that makes bump keys ineffective.

Real-world testing: Independent security testing shows high-security locks resist picking for 10-30 minutes by skilled attackers with proper tools vs. 10-90 seconds for standard locks. Most burglars spend less than 60 seconds attempting entry before giving up - high-security locks exceed this threshold by 10-30x.

Question 5

Which high-security lock brand is best for Austin homes?

Accepted Answer

Best high-security lock brands for Austin homeowners (all Grade 1 rated):

1. Schlage Primus ($180-$220 installed): Best value for most homeowners. Sidebar mechanism prevents picking and bumping. UL 437 listing (highest security). Restricted keyway available. Works with existing Schlage hardware aesthetically. Widely serviceable (parts available, locksmiths trained). Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners wanting significant security upgrade without maximum cost.

2. Medeco ($220-$260 installed): Premium choice with excellent key control. Angled pin cuts make duplication very difficult. Restricted keyway requires authorization card. Drill-resistant hardened steel pins. Sidebar and rotating pin mechanisms. Best for: Homeowners prioritizing key control (don't want unauthorized copies) and maximum pick resistance.

3. Mul-T-Lock ($240-$280 installed): Maximum security with telescoping pin technology. Pins split into inner and outer elements. Nearly impossible to pick without specialized tools. Excellent drill resistance. Available in interactive+ with sidebar. Best for: High-value homes, jewelry collections, firearms storage, or maximum security requirements.

4. Abloy ($260-$300 installed): Rotating disc technology (different from pin tumbler). Extremely pick-resistant (different attack method required). Very durable mechanism. Weather-resistant (good for exterior in Austin climate). Best for: Ultimate security, harsh weather exposure, or rotating disc preference.

Our recommendation: For most Austin homeowners, Schlage Primus offers the best value ($680 for whole house upgrade) with Grade 1 security. For maximum key control and pick resistance, Medeco is worth the upgrade to $220-$260 per door.

Question 6

Do I need to replace my entire door to upgrade to high-security locks?

Accepted Answer

No. High-security locks install in standard door preparations (99% of Austin homes). Your existing doors work fine with high-security lock upgrades.

Standard installation (most homes): If you currently have deadbolts, high-security deadbolts fit the same holes. We remove your old lock, install high-security lock in same location. No door modifications needed. Time: 20-30 minutes per door.

Door modifications sometimes needed: (1) Mortise pocket for certain high-security models ($40-$60 additional), (2) Larger cylinder hole for some brands ($30-$50 additional), (3) Strike box installation in frame ($50-$100 additional for maximum security).

When door replacement IS recommended: (1) Hollow-core doors (can be kicked through regardless of lock strength), (2) Damaged door frames, (3) Rotted or split doors, (4) Doors with large glass panels near locks.

Most cost-effective approach: Upgrade locks first ($680-$950 for whole house). Assess which doors need replacement ($200-$300 per door for solid-core). Spread costs over time if budget-limited.

High Security Lock Installation & Upgrades