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Select the most secure, convenient deadbolt

Dear Ms. Builder: There have been several break-ins in our neighborhood, so I would like to install a good-quality deadbolt on my front door. Is there much difference in quality and do you have any installation tips? - Edna H.

Dear Edna: Installing a high-quality deadbolt lock is certainly a good first step, but don't expect it alone to make your house secure. You should contact your insurance company or the police department for secure tips. Some police departments will visit your house and give you specific ideas.

Selecting a high-quality deadbolt lock is similar to selecting a dress. Both low- and high-quality ones look good at first glance. The quality is hidden in the details of how it is assembled and the materials used. Wash an inexpensive dress a couple of times and it no longer hangs or fits properly.

Since you cannot evaluate the inner workings, base your buying decision on price. It is your best indicator of quality. You may not need the most expensive deadbolt with all the bells and whistles, but certainly do not buy the cheapest model at the home center store.

Your first decision is whether to get a single or double cylinder lock. A single cylinder deadbolt has a knob indoors which you turn to lock and unlock the deadbolt. A double cylinder design requires a key indoors too.

If your door has glass or sidelights, a single cylinder deadbolt is not really secure. A determined thief can break the glass, reach in, turn the knob and be inside your home in ten seconds.

Check your local codes. A double cylinder lock may not be allowed. Although it is more secure, you and your family cannot exit your home as quickly in case of a fire or emergency. If you leave the key in the indoor deadbolt, then it is no more secure than a single cylinder design with a knob.

If your budget is not terribly tight, you might consider one of the new electronic deadbolts with a remote control. You will not have to fumble with keys in the dark. Just push a button and the deadbolt unlocks. There is also an audible and visual signal to let you know if it is locked.

These have a rolling security code so that a thief cannot electronically snatch your code. There are more than one billion codes built into the unit. Every time you open the deadbolt, the code automatically changes.

Another convenience feature is a lighted deadbolt. When you get near to the deadbolt, the hole for the key lights up. This makes it easy to find without having to switch on the lights. This also allows you to get the door opened faster. Two suppliers of electronic deadbolts are Kwikset (800-327-5625) and Presto-Matic Keyless Locks (800-269-4234).

Installing a deadbolt is not difficult, but your measurements and positioning of the holes must be precise. You must drill three holes - a large one in the face of the door, a small one in the edge of the door and one in the door jamb.

To simplify the alignment of the holes, you might consider renting a small lockset jig at your local tool rental shop. A standard height of 36 inches is convenient to operate. If you locate it higher, there is less chance that a thief can give it the full direct force of a kick.

Once you have the deadbolt installed in the door, close it and turn the deadbolt so the latch hits the jamb. Mark the top and bottom locations. To get the proper hole width for a tight, no-jiggle fit, make the hole narrow and slowly open it up with a sharp wood chisel.

Tools and materials required: power drill, assorted drill bits/hole saws, 1/2-inch wide chisel, screwdrivers, utility knife, marker, small square, measuring tape, wood filler, deadbolt

Send your questions to Ms. Builder, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com/msbuilder.