Locks Every Miami Homeowner Should Avoid
Some locks that pass a visual inspection offer almost no real protection. Here are the types Miami locksmiths see breached routinely.
· 6 min read · Security
Not all door locks are created equal — and some that look sturdy offer surprisingly little real-world protection. As locksmiths, we see the same types of locks defeated repeatedly during service calls, and we're often asked whether a home's existing security is adequate.
Here are the lock types we most commonly recommend against for Miami homes.
Grade 3 Residential Locks (Builder-Grade Hardware)
The locks most commonly installed in new construction and rental properties are Grade 3 residential locks — the lowest rating in the ANSI/BHMA grading system. These locks meet minimum code requirements but are rated for fewer operating cycles and lower security than Grade 1 or Grade 2.
Grade 3 locks typically have: - Thinner shackles or bolts - Simpler pin configurations (making them easier to pick) - Weaker housings that can be defeated by kick-in attacks
If your home has the same locks the builder installed, they're probably Grade 3. An upgrade to Grade 1 hardware is one of the best security investments you can make.
Single-Cylinder Deadbolts on Glass-Adjacent Doors
A door with glass sidelights or a glass panel within reach of the interior thumbturn is only as secure as the glass itself. A burglar can break the glass, reach through, and turn the thumbturn to unlock a standard single-cylinder deadbolt — no lockpicking required.
For these doors, a double-cylinder deadbolt (requiring a key on both sides) eliminates this vulnerability, though it introduces a fire safety trade-off (you must have a key to exit in an emergency). Consult with a locksmith about the right solution for your specific configuration.
Spring Latch Locks (Without a Deadbolt)
Spring latches — the angled bolt in a doorknob that retracts when you turn the handle — offer minimal security. They can often be defeated by shimming with a thin card or even just pushing on the door with the right technique.
Never rely on a spring latch alone for exterior door security. Always pair it with a quality deadbolt.
Padlocks on Open Hasps
Padlocks provide security only when the hasp they're securing is strong enough to resist direct attack. A cheap steel hasp with short, narrow screws can be pried off the door frame in seconds, making even a quality padlock useless. If you're using padlocks — on a storage unit, shed, or secondary door — make sure the hasp is heavy-duty and fastened with long screws through the door frame into the stud.
Imported Locks Without Ratings
The locksmith market in South Florida sees many low-cost, unrated locks imported and sold through home improvement stores or directly to builders. These locks may look similar to rated products but have been tested to no industry standard. Without an ANSI/BHMA or UL rating, there's no way to independently verify their performance.
When choosing a lock for any exterior door, look for ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 for residential deadbolts, or ANSI Grade 2 at minimum. Brands like Schlage, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and ASSA ABLOY consistently perform well in independent tests.
If you're unsure whether your locks provide adequate protection, call Caraballo Locksmith for a security consultation. We can assess your current hardware and recommend appropriate upgrades.
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