The part most installs skip
Most forced entries don't defeat the lock. They break the door frame where the bolt sits. A deadbolt is only as strong as the strike plate and the screws holding it. Short screws that bite into thin trim don't hold much. A reinforced strike with long screws that reach the wall framing behind the door jamb holds a great deal more.
When we install a deadbolt, we look at the strike and the frame too, and we tell you if they're the weak point.
Choosing a lock
We'll help you pick hardware that fits your door, your budget and how you live:
- Deadbolt + knob or lever is still the standard for a front door. The deadbolt does the security work.
- Keypad deadbolts are great for families, rentals and anyone who has ever been locked out. Get one with a physical key override.
- Smart locks add phone control, logs and temporary codes. See smart lock installation.
- High-security cylinders resist picking and bumping, and their keys can't be copied at a hardware store kiosk.
- Double-cylinder deadbolts (key on both sides) are sometimes suggested for doors with glass. They slow escape in a fire, so think carefully and check local fire code before choosing one for a living space.
ANSI/BHMA grades (Grade 1 is the most durable, Grade 3 the least) are printed on most lock packaging and are a useful quick comparison.
Repairs: sticking, jamming, not latching
A lock that's getting harder to turn is warning you. Common causes in South Florida: humidity and salt corrosion in the cylinder, a door that has swelled or sagged so the bolt rubs the strike, or worn internal parts. Many of these are a quick fix: adjusting the strike, cleaning and lubricating the cylinder, or replacing one part. Getting it fixed now is cheaper than a lockout later.
Sliding doors, French doors and impact doors
Sliding glass doors and impact-rated French doors often use manufacturer-specific hardware, including multipoint locks that bolt at the top, middle and bottom. Replacement parts must match the door system. Send us a photo of the hardware and the edge of the door, and we'll tell you honestly whether it's a job for us or for the door manufacturer. Our impact-door lock guide explains what to look for.
What affects the price
- The hardware you choose (or supply)
- Whether the door is already drilled for it
- Strike reinforcement and frame condition
- Door type: wood, metal, impact, multipoint
The price on the phone is the price at the door. We quote the total before dispatch and you approve it before work begins. If something changes once we see the lock, we stop and tell you first.
- Lock or hardware typeA standard deadbolt, a high-security cylinder and a smart lock are different jobs.
- Vehicle and key typeMake, model and year; mechanical, transponder, remote or push-to-start key.
- ComplexityOpening a latch vs. a thrown deadbolt; one cylinder vs. a whole building.
- TimeEvening and short-notice work can cost more than a scheduled daytime visit.
- LocationHow far the nearest technician has to drive, and access (gates, garages).
- Required partsCylinders, locks, key blanks, chips and fobs, itemized on the invoice.
Where we do this
Lock Installation & Repair across Broward County and Palm Beach County, plus North Miami-Dade. We're mobile and come to you. Local notes for your city:
HollywoodHallandale BeachFort LauderdaleDania BeachPembroke PinesMiramarDaviePlantationCoral SpringsPompano BeachDeerfield BeachBoca RatonDelray BeachBoynton BeachWest Palm BeachAll service areas
Recent lock installation & repair jobs
Office door lever lock
Satin-chrome lever lock on an interior office door in a newly finished office space.
From our work
