Question 1

What is the difference between ANSI Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 deadbolts?

Accepted Answer

ANSI/BHMA grading is the industry standard for lock durability and security. Grade 1 (commercial) withstands 250,000 cycles, a 10-pound door slam, and significant forced entry attempts — recommended for all Brooklyn apartment exterior doors. Grade 2 (residential heavy duty) withstands 150,000 cycles — suitable for interior or secondary doors. Grade 3 (residential) withstands 75,000 cycles — builder-grade hardware often shipped with new apartments, adequate but not optimal. We always recommend Grade 1 for exterior doors.

Question 2

My lock was kicked in during a break-in — what needs replacing?

Accepted Answer

Almost certainly more than just the lock. A kicked-in door typically damages the strike plate (the metal plate on the door frame where the bolt inserts), the door frame itself (the wood splits when struck), and sometimes the door edge. Replacing only the lock without repairing the frame and strike plate leaves the same kick-in vulnerability. We replace the lock, install a reinforced 3-inch-screw strike plate, and assess the door frame — all in one visit.

Question 3

Can I upgrade my lock myself or should I use a locksmith?

Accepted Answer

You can DIY a like-for-like replacement if the new lock has the same backset and bore size as the old one and your door has no unusual requirements. However, common DIY problems include: misaligned strike plates (deadbolt doesn't retract fully), incorrect backset leading to a lock that sticks, and improperly seated deadbolt bolts. A misaligned lock is a security vulnerability. For exterior doors, a 30-minute professional installation is worth it — we test everything before we leave.

Question 4

My Brooklyn apartment has a door that was professionally installed 20 years ago — is the lock still safe?

Accepted Answer

Depends on the brand and how it has been maintained. A 20-year-old Schlage B60N that was lubricated occasionally may be perfectly fine. A 20-year-old builder-grade lock that has never been serviced and is visibly worn is a liability. Signs you should replace: key requires force to turn, deadbolt does not fully extend, visible wear marks on the keyhole surround, or the bolt wobbles. We inspect and give an honest assessment.

Question 5

Does changing my lock affect my renters insurance or homeowners insurance?

Accepted Answer

Many insurance policies specify "deadbolt locks on all exterior doors" as a requirement, and some premium discounts require ANSI Grade 1. Upgrading your lock hardware may qualify you for a discount — contact your insurer and ask what they require. We provide a dated receipt showing the brand, model, and ANSI grade of everything installed, which is what insurers typically need for documentation.

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