Teach you how to choose a door lock

When choosing a door lock, it's essential to consider the type of material used. Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of different materials can help you make an informed decision that ensures both security and safety for your family. Opting for green and environmentally friendly products can also contribute to better health and a more sustainable lifestyle.

1. Aluminum - Easy to process and shape, which makes it cost-effective for manufacturing. However, it has a soft texture, making it prone to deformation. It lacks strength and impact resistance, and its color tends to be dull, easily oxidizing over time, leading to a shorter lifespan. Its simple design and low value make it less desirable for high-end applications, and it doesn't offer good fire resistance.

2. Zinc Alloy - Known for its ease of casting and variety of styles, it offers many surface finishes. But it has lower strength and impact resistance, and is prone to rust and internal oxidation, which can cause spots or discoloration. It’s brittle and can break easily, offering poor protection against drilling, smashing, or cutting. It also performs poorly in cold temperatures and has a low overall value.

3. Stainless Steel - Offers excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and durability. It is resistant to drilling, smashing, and cutting, making it a secure choice. It has a uniform texture, no imperfections like pores or sand holes, and a bright, consistent color. While it is more expensive due to its complex production process, it provides long-term value and is considered eco-friendly.

Before buying a door lock, it's important to measure the thickness of the door and the width of the door frame. This helps the salesperson choose the right lock cylinder length and lock body size. Also, understand whether the door opens on one side, both sides, or left/right. Knowing this will ensure the lock is properly configured. (Note: If the hinge is on the left side, the door opens to the left.)

Additionally, consider the color of your door and the overall interior design style. The door hardware should complement the lock’s design to maintain a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look.

In recent years, health and environmental awareness have become key factors in home improvement. As a result, copper locks with antibacterial properties are gaining popularity globally. However, the market is flooded with counterfeit products, making it hard for consumers to tell the difference between genuine stainless steel and zinc alloy locks.

Many salespeople may mislead customers by claiming a zinc alloy lock is stainless steel, especially when it's nickel-plated or brushed. To avoid being deceived, here are some effective identification methods:

Method 1: Weight comparison. A stainless steel lock is heavier than a zinc alloy lock of the same size, which can be felt by hand.

Method 2: Scratch test. Use a sharp object to scratch the back of the panel. If it’s hard and doesn’t easily mark, and the inside color matches the surface, it’s likely stainless steel. If it’s soft and leaves a silver mark, it’s probably zinc alloy.

Method 3: Check the inner structure. Stainless steel locks usually don’t have positioning holes in the center. Zinc alloy locks often have 4–8 positioning support holes around the edges and center.

Method 4: Visual inspection. Stainless steel has a more natural and refined appearance, while zinc alloy looks duller and less vibrant under light.

Method 5: Look for brand reputation. Research the brand and compare prices across stores to ensure you’re getting a quality product.

1. Always choose a reputable brand with a proven track record of quality and reliability.

2. Ensure the lock is compatible with the direction your door opens.

3. Check the door frame width—ball locks and handle locks are not suitable for doors narrower than 90 cm.

4. When installing, only fold the end with the safety mechanism, not the part with the key.

5. Avoid putting oil in the lock. If the key is stuck, try using a small amount of pencil lead to lubricate the keyhole.

6. If the deadbolt accidentally rotates 90 degrees, it becomes permanently locked. To fix it, turn it counterclockwise back to 90 degrees.

7. Do not wipe the lock or handle with a damp cloth. Always push the latch into the lock body before closing the door to extend the life of the lock.