How to Choose the Right Locks for Your Home in Perth

Choosing the right locks for your Perth home is one of the most important security decisions you'll make. With break-ins occurring every 8 minutes in Australia, having quality locks isn't optional—it's essential.

Perth's unique climate also plays a role. The combination of coastal salt air, intense summer heat, and occasional storms means locks need to be durable and weather-resistant. Cheap locks often fail within 2-3 years in Perth conditions.

In this guide, we'll cover everything from basic deadbolts to advanced smart locks, helping you make an informed decision for your home security.

Understanding the different lock types is crucial for making the right choice.

Deadbolts are the gold standard for external doors. They use a solid metal bolt that extends into the door frame, making them extremely difficult to force open. Look for Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts for maximum security.

Knob locks should never be used as your primary lock on external doors. They're easy to break with a hammer or wrench. Use them only on interior doors.

Lever handle locks are common on commercial properties and are required for accessibility compliance. Modern lever locks can be very secure when combined with deadbolts.

Smart locks offer convenience and advanced features like remote access, activity logs, and keyless entry. They're perfect for Airbnb properties, busy families, or anyone who frequently loses keys.

Lock security is measured by grades and ratings. Here's what they mean:

ANSI/BHMA Grades: - Grade 1 - Highest security, commercial grade (250,000+ cycles) - Grade 2 - Heavy residential use (400,000+ cycles) - Grade 3 - Basic residential (200,000 cycles)

For Perth homes, we recommend Grade 2 minimum for all external doors. Grade 1 is worth the investment for front doors and any doors not visible from the street.

Australian Standards: Look for locks that meet AS 4145.2 for mechanical locks. This ensures they've been tested for Australian conditions.

Not all lock brands perform equally in Perth's climate. Based on our 15+ years of experience, here are our top recommendations:

Lockwood - Australian-made and designed for local conditions. Their 001 Deadlatch and 3572 series deadbolts are Perth favourites. Excellent salt-air resistance.

Schlage - American brand with excellent build quality. The B60N deadbolt is virtually pick-proof. Great for high-security needs.

Yale - Particularly their smart lock range. The Assure Lock 2 offers excellent app integration and is surprisingly weather-resistant.

Kaba - Top choice for commercial properties. Their digital locks are bulletproof reliable.

Avoid: Generic imported locks from hardware stores. They often use zinc components that corrode quickly near the coast.

Smart locks have revolutionized home security. Here's an honest assessment of their pros and cons for Perth homeowners:

Advantages: - No more keys - Use codes, fingerprints, or your phone - Activity tracking - Know exactly who enters and when - Remote access - Lock/unlock from anywhere - Guest codes - Perfect for cleaners, tradespeople, Airbnb - Auto-lock - Never worry about forgetting to lock up

Disadvantages: - Battery dependent - Most last 6-12 months per battery change - WiFi required - For remote features - Higher cost - $200-$600 vs $80-$150 for traditional - Technology learning curve - May frustrate some users

Our verdict: Smart locks are excellent for main entry points, but keep a traditional key backup. We install hundreds each year and rarely see issues.

While some locks can be DIY-installed, there are important considerations:

DIY-friendly: - Replacing existing locks with same size - Interior door knobs - Simple chain locks or surface bolts

Call a professional for: - Drilling new holes in doors - Installing deadbolts where none existed - Smart lock installation (especially with home automation) - High-security locks requiring precise alignment - Insurance compliance requirements

Important: Many insurance policies require locks to be installed by a licensed locksmith. Check your policy before DIY installation—improper installation could void your coverage.

A professional installation typically costs $60-$120 for a standard lock, including adjustment and testing. It's worth it for the peace of mind.

For most Perth homes, we recommend:

Front door: Grade 1 deadbolt (Lockwood 3572 or Schlage B60N) + smart lock option

Back/side doors: Grade 2 deadbolt minimum

Garage entry: Quality deadbolt + door reinforcement

Sliding doors: Patio bolt lock + security bar

Remember, locks are only part of your security system. Combine quality locks with good lighting, clear sightlines, and possibly an alarm system for comprehensive protection.

Need help choosing? Our locksmiths offer free security assessments for Perth homes. We'll inspect your current locks, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend cost-effective upgrades. Call us today!