The level of security a lockset (doorknobs are sometimes called locksets or handle sets in the trade) offers depends on how it is made. Any type with a key in the knob or handle is only marginally secure—these can be easily foiled by a burglar. For a significant level of security, consider a deadbolt, and for a maximum level of security, a double-cylinder deadbolt.

Because doorknobs must open, close, and lock doors on a frequent basis, it's important that they work smoothly, efficiently, and securely. And because they are also a highly visible part of your home, locksets should be chosen with an eye toward quality and style.

Prices for locksets are all over the map, running from a low of about $30 to $800 or more. In most cases, you get what you pay for. Quality locksets are finely machined from high-quality steel and brass and are beautifully plated with brass, bronze, chrome, or similar finishes.

When buying a new lockset, you must distinguish between several variables. Most notably, you must choose whether it is for an interior or exterior door, whether or not it will include a lock, and whether it will be a cylindrical or mortise lockset.

Interior Door Locksets

Interior locksets may be referred to as interior knobs, passage locksets, spring-latch locks, or tubular locks.

The type that has a push-button lock on one side, often used on bathroom and bedroom doors, is called a privacy lock. Privacy—not security—is the operative term. This type of lock is easy to release from the outside by pushing a thin nail or sturdy wire into the hole at the center of the knob.

Interior locksets come in many different styles and finishes, from round and oval knobs to straight and curved levers. Prices typically run from $30 to $100.

Though some older homes may have doors equipped with old-fashioned mortise-style locksets, nearly all other interior doors utilize cylindrical locksets.

Exterior (Entry) Door Locksets

Locksets for exterior doors may be called entry locksets, exterior locks, or keyed locks. These are heavier, more durable, and lock far more securely than locksets made for interior doors (never choose an interior doorknob for an exterior door).

Exterior knobs typically come as a standard keyed entry set, an emergency exit knob (these can be opened from inside without unlocking the latch), and a dummy set (a fixed knob meant to be paired with an active knob).

Entry locksets can be locked or unlocked from both sides of the door using a key, a button, or a throw latch, depending upon the type.

If you are concerned about security, be sure your exterior doors have deadbolts that are either part of the lockset or installed as a separate lock. The deadbolt should have a minimum 1-inch “throw”—meaning it extends a minimum of 1 inch beyond the door’s edge—and be made of case-hardened steel.

For a double-cylinder deadbolt, you must use a key from both sides of the door. This is the safest type to use for doors with windows (or else a burglar can just break the glass and reach in to turn the bolt). When people are in the house, however, the key should be left in the interior lock to provide for quick exit in case of a fire or other emergency.

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