Home is the most important place in your life. It is where a lot of memories are formed, where a lot of happy times took place, and also where we keep our most prized possessions. That means investing in property home security is a must for peace of mind in protecting your family and belongings. That’s where Yale locks come in.
Yale locks are a popular security choice, and in our comprehensive guide below we will dive deep into the world of Yale locks, detailing their history, their types of locks, how to choose the right one, and how to install and maintain them.
Not only that, but we will also discuss extra elements such as delivery after purchasing, door locks and advice on using a professional local locksmith so that we can be sure that you choose the correct one for you.
Modern security options will also arise, such as Yale’s Wi-Fi-enabled and smart locks, which are especially useful for those seeking to secure an office space or restroom.
The History of Yale Locks
Stretching back over a century, the roots of Yale locks go back even further – into the 1700s. In 1840, Linus Yale invented the pin tumbler lock, replacing the warded locks that had been common around that time. The pin tumbler lock quickly gained in popularity and recognition, becoming the industry standard. Yale’s version was regarded as the most advanced and most trustworthy. Ever since then, millions worldwide have used Yale locks, including in office settings where restroom security is a priority. The brand continues to excel in the industry to this very day.
The Invention of the Pin Tumbler Lock
The pin tumbler lock was revolutionary for its time. Warded locks had quickly been pushed to the side due to their ability to be easily picked. On the other hand, the pin tumbler lock featured pins of varying lengths that aligned to allow the lock to be unlocked, making it much more difficult to pick and provided better security. Yale’s version remains one of the most popular and reliable designs, even in sensitive areas.
Linus Yale’s incredible invention was not his only contribution to the world of locks. Inventing several other types of locks including the cylinder lock, it is still used to this very day. The cylinder lock significantly improved over the pin tumbler lock as it could be rekeyed without replacing the entire lock. Homeowners found this much more convenient, especially those who needed to change their locks on a regular basis such as landlords or property managers.
Yale Locks Through the Years
Over the decades, Yale has continued to make its product line better and better, and offers a wide range of locks suitable for home security needs. Traditional deadbolts and padlocks continue to be common purchases, and more modern options like keyless entry locks and smart locks such as the August smart lock are popular too. These locks come in various finishes, such as brass, chrome, and silver, and come compatible with PVCu doors to match any home’s style, be that a business space or residential property.
In addition to this, Yale also has other security options that have popped up on the market over the years. These include door handles, safes and alarm systems that can be integrated into Wifi-enabled smart locks for total security. Yale is a common name known throughout the world, and is the first name people think of when considering home security.
Yale’s work is not slowing down either. Latest products include smart locks that can be controlled via a smartphone app and opened using voice commands, perfect for controlling access to different areas around your home or office. With its history of dedication to quality, British-made Yale locks remain a popular choice for property owners worldwide. Yale’s variety of quality products shows their understanding of customer’s needs as they fit onto the latest security technology.
Understanding the Different Types of Yale Locks
Finding the right kind and type of lock can go a long way in ensuring your home or businesses security. Thankfully, Yale offer their customers an extensive range of locks designed to meet their client’s specific security needs. Below, we will dive into the various types of Yale locks on the market:
Deadbolts
Known around the world as one of the most common types of locks, deadbolts provide durability and strength. Deadbolts are installed on exterior doors and provide a top level of security, which is why so many homeowners turn to deadbolts are their preferred choice for safety. Yale has plenty of deadlock options.
Coming in various styles, including single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and lockable thumb turn, deadbolts are ready to keep any home safe from an intruder. Single-cylinder deadbolts are the most common, are operated by a key on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside. Double-cylinder deadbolts need a key on both sides in order for it to work – a safety hazard in an emergency or fire. Lockable thumb-turn deadbolts are in between. They offer the best of both worlds, and allow homeowners to lock the thumb-turn from the inside for extra security. To stop a deadbolt from being forced open, it is important to ensure it is properly aligned and securely attached to the door frame.
A more convenient approach, keyless entry locks are becoming more and more popular as the technology advances. Conexis, a British-designed product, is one example of this system, allowing homeowners to enter their homes using a keypad, smart card, or fingerprint reader, eliminating the need for traditional keys. These kinds of locks, which come in different colours and finishes, are popular with families who live a busy lifestyle, allowing easy access to other people who might need entry to the home such as cleaners or pet sitters.
Keyless Entry Locks
Available in various styles like touchscreen, push-button, and hybrid models, keyless entry locks are set to wow viewers with their aesthetic and functional appeal. With touchscreen models, homeowners an enter a code onto a touchscreen pad, where users press a series of buttons in a specific order on push-button models. There are also hybrid models which combine the two, adding an extra layer of security.
It is vital to ensure that whichever keyless entry lock that you choose is compatible with your home’s security system, offering features such as automatic locking and remote access.
Always reliable, padlocks can be used to secure many different kinds of entry points. Coming in various designs, padlocks are affordable and reliable, and easily secure items outdoors.
Padlocks
When choosing a padlock, considering the level of security required is important. For low-risk situations, combinations locks can be a good choice while keyed locks can offer higher security. Making sure that the shackle (the part of the lock that goes through the secured object) is made of strong material like hardened steel. This will prevent the lock from being easily broken or cut. There may also be a need for screws and a door lock to attach and secure it to the wall or door properly when installing a lock.
Another type of padlock is a Mortise lock, which require a mortise in the door to be installed. These specific locks are usually more secure than traditional padlocks, and are more difficult to pick or tamper with.
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks come all kinds of shapes and sizes, including single-cylinder and double-cylinder models. They are usually used in commercial settings, but can also be used in residential homes for added security using screws and a door lock for proper installation.
When installing a mortise lock, please ensure that it is correctly aligned and that the lock is attached to the door frame or wall using the appropriate equipment to prevent it from being easily forced open.
Thanks to advancements in technology, smart locks are one of the most popular new innovations in home security. Homeowners can remotely monitor and control access to their homes through smart locks using a mobile phone. In addition to this, many smart locks on the market now have features such as voice activation, biometric authentication, and facial recognition.
Smart Locks
Offering a high level of convenience and security, smart locks also allow homeowners to grant temporary access to guests or service providers, as well as sending immediate alerts on any break ins. Smart locks can also work alongside other smart home devices, such as security cameras and doorbells, for additional peace of mind.
Ensuring that a smart lock is compatible with your home’s Wi-Fi network and offers features such as automatic locking and remote access is important.
Yale offers a variety of locks to meet the specific security needs of homeowners. No matter what kind of lock you are looking for, Yale can provide the security and peace of mind that you need in know that your property and family are being looked after.
When you are choosing your preferred Yale lock of choice, do not make the decision lightly. This lock will be responsible for keeping your property, belongings, and family secure, so please consider some of the below factors:
How to Choose the Right Yale Lock for Your Home
Each home has different security needs, so you should always assess all of your home’s requirements before making your final decision on a lock. You should also consider the services and accessories available like screws and a door lock so that your home’s security can be further enhanced. Other things to take into account are the crime rate in your area, the value of your possessions, and the number of people who have access to your home. Living in an area with a high crime rate should make you consider a lock with advanced security features, like a smart lock. There are additional options available too, like a deadlocking nightlatch or a doormaster, boosting the security of your home’s entrance.
Assessing Your Home’s Security Needs
The value of your possessions is also very important. If you have expensive items in your home like jewellery or electronics, then you will want to invest in a lock with a higher level of security. Storeroom locks with timber hasps can protect precious items, while a Bluetooth-enabled lock allows you to remotely monitor access to these areas. Other entry points like patio door locks and window locks should also be secured.
Take a moment to consider who has access to your home. If there are children, or it is a property which holds a classroom, considering a lock with a keypad or keyless entry system could be a good idea as people can enter the house or room without needing a physical key. A lever handle on these types of locks makes it easy to use to connect and facilitate access for everyone.
Thankfully, Yale offers a range of locks with different features and levels of security. Some of these are designed for residential use, while others are perfect for commercial purposes. When you are comparing the features of a lock, consider the type of lock, the level of security it brings, and any additional features that it may have.
Comparing Lock Features
Yale offers locks with keyless entry systems, allowing you to enter your home easily without the need for a physical key. This is convenient for those with families or small children who are prone to losing their keys.
Many other locks are sold with additional features like a built-in alarm system or a feature that allows them to be controlled using a smartphone app. With these features, homeowners can feel more secure in their properties.
Yale lock prices vary depending on your needs, so it’s important to find a lock that suits your financial availability. A more expensive lock can provide a higher level of security, but it is not always necessary depending on what you need it for.
Budget Considerations
The long-term benefits of investing in a high-quality lock are also important. Years of reliable security can be provided through a secure lock, and could even go so far as reducing your home insurance costs.
Choosing the right Yale lock needs careful consideration of your needs, lock features, and budget. Putting some thought into what you need for your home can go a long way to ensuring that your family is kept safe and your budget is not blown.
Installing Your Yale Lock
Some people are able to install their Yale lock by themselves depending on skills and confidence. Installation instructions are usually provided, so if you do try to go it alone then please read these carefully.
DIY Installation Tips
The alternative to taking this on yourself is hiring a professional locksmith who knows how to set it up properly. They will be able to do this quickly and efficiently, ensuring that it is working properly afterward. They can also look into any other necessary security measures like patio door locks or window locks.
Hiring a Professional Locksmith
Performing regular maintenance is also key to making sure your lock continues to function properly. Normally this means cleaning it and lubricating it with appropriate oils. If you have any trouble with your Yale lock, then please consult the Yale website or contact a professional locksmith for guidance.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Yale locks offer reliable and honest security solutions thanks to their rich history of premium industry work. By taking the time to understand what a Yale lock is, the kinds that you can use, and the protection that they will give you, then you will be rewarded with invaluable peace of mind knowing that your property and family are safe.
