Reddit mentions: The best door latches & bolts

Drill two holes like you normally would for handles on the doors. Make the holes slightly larger than they should be and put T-nuts on both sides. Then use eye bolts and washers instead of a regular bolts to secure the handles to the door.

After that, use four spring loaded security bolts attached to the backsides of the doors and going into the cabinet frame (or riser blocks or angle iron attached to the frame) at the top and bottom of each door, directly above and below the handles' eye-bolts.

Then run a steel cable betweent the spring bolts making sure to pass the cable through the eye-bolts when you do.

Then you can use "pull" knob type cabinet door handles like you would a regular door knob, where you have to "twist" or "turn" them to open the doors. If you make sure to get the longer throw spring bolts (the ones meant for fence gates) then you can drill a hole in the ends of two of them (some garden gate spring bolts come with holes already in them for the specific purpose of what I meant next) and you can put padlocks through them to prevent them from being pulled through and opening the doors. Padlocks can be added to the tops and bottoms or just the bottoms. But since you have externally accessable, and thus easily removeable hinges, I am guessing you won't need that level of security. So ...

And alternative to padlocks is to use magnetics latches used for childproofing kitchen cabinet doors. You just touch a magnet (that comes with the kit) to the door in a specific place (that you install the interior lock at) and the latch will release allowing the door to open. Otherwise it will stay closed.

You can get a chain lock that has a key lock in it, that you can lock and unlock from either side of the door. It's not a replacement for a deadbolt or anything, but it will give shifty landlords a moment's pause, at least. A product I would not have known about if not for the slumlords at CLV!

Do go to the landlord-tenant board -- they are pleasant to deal with and generally effective. You can also try bylaw services -- "By-law provisions concerning zoning, business licences, and the maintenance and upkeep of existing buildings, including rental properties, are the responsibility of the City’s By-law Services Branch Community and Protection Services Department." It sounds like the place is run-down enough that it'd arouse their interests.

Contact the police.

I believe those are sign of attempted or successful forced entry with a pry bar. There is a small paint nick on what I assume is part of the door handle plate, where someone may have attempted to insert a pry bar, but the space between the door frame and lock plate was too narrow to insert the pry bar directly next to the door handle. The paint scratches bellow look like a person tried to knock a pry bar between the door and door frame, with the intent on sliding the pry bar up to the latch/lock point, but the space between the door and door frame was too narrow to slide the pry bar up to the door latch/lock. Multiple pry bars may have been attempted to be used at once. pry the door open a little, and put the next pry bar closer to the lock, and repeat the process until the pry bar is next to the door latch.

Then, with some less secure doors, the door's small 2 inch by 3 inch strike plate is secured with two 1" wood screws secured by 1 inch of 2x4, which is very easy to split and break with little effort. You seem to have an exterior metal security door that is pre-mounted to a full metal door frame that deters attempted burglary.

This is the mandatory part for other people reading this, whom have a wood framed entry door.

Reinforce your door frame with a larger strike plate!

Even if your door is solid wood, and there are no windows within 5 ft of the door, also replace the standard door hinges with security stud hinges which will prevent the door from being pushed off after removing the hing pin while the door is closed.

Use a raised lip threshold plate with a metal lip, not rubber or wood or plastic. This is to prevent a burglar from inserting a long wire hangar under the door gap, and catching the door latch.

Use this lock in a specific way. If you have a door handle on the inside like a handle lever attach the part with the ball on the end above the door handle touching near the end of the handle. This way the door handle cant be activated by catching a looped string dropped from above the door, and pulling the handle up. If the interior door handle is a round knob, attach the ball ended part of this touching the bottom of the door knob, and the swinging part of this above the knob so it drops onto the knob. This will make using a rubber tube to turn the knob from the outside much more difficult and time consuming.

Nothing is 100% secure. But time, effort, luck, and noise required to bypass a security lock system can deter a criminal. Also motion lighting. Lots of motion lighting.

install your own lock on the door, you don't need some asswipe lazy super to do it for you. also invest in a security camera system please

edit: jimmy-proof deadbolt or if you can't or don't want to modify the door, install one (or actually two, one on top and one on bottom) of these

You should also look into security alarms for your windows and doors, something like one of these. Or if you go through with the security system, you can get sensors that will let you know when doors are opened/closed.

People are psychopaths and can do really horrible things. People are also lazy (like your super or 311) and will only do as little as required. No one in this city will care about your security and well-being as much as you.

My best suggestion is to install a sliding lock near the tops of the doors that lead outside. When you're home and he's awake, keep the top lock closed. Since it's at an adult height, he won't be able to get at it, and since you're awake, you can open the door if your brothers come back.

I'd also suggest that you stress to your son that it's important to ask for permission to go outside, and to have an adult with him. You mentioned that he loves to copy his uncles. Maybe you could ask your brothers to start "asking" you if it's okay for them to go outside? If he sees them asking, he may start to copy the behavior.

I've had something like this happen, when my son was the same age. :) My mom had come out to visit, so we were shooting the breeze. I went to the bathroom and she went to fold laundry, and my son disappeared.

Enter Mom and Grandma in panic mode. We looked outside, we checked the cabinets, and all the rooms, and he wasn't anywhere.

Just as I was about to call the cops, my mom suggests the garage. "But he can't even reach the door knob!" I said. Well, I was wrong. He was happily playing in the garage, giggling the whole time. I cried and laughed, and started locking that door (with one of these since they were 5 feet up). :)

I think this happens to everyone at least once. :)

Given your further description of the situation, and your likely desire for a cheap & easy solution...

Get a "pin lock" and drill two holes - one for when the door is closed all the way, one for when you have the AC installed.

The holes will have to be at the top - through the operating door frame and the inner part of the top of the track. Obviously, don't penetrate the outer part of the top track or the pin will be exposed to the exterior. Obviously get a pin that's thin enough to work without destroying the frame or impinging on the glass.

With some creativity it can probably be made "pretty secure" but no matter what you do this won't be a "high security" solution, because anyone who really wants in will just pick up one of those pretty flower pots, use it to break the glass, and get in.

Yes, the loose screw is likely the problem.

I'm assuming your wall is made of 'drywall', which is in turn attached to wooden studs. Ideally, both screws would go into the studs and be very secure.

Hopefully, the distance between the screws is equal to the distance between the studs in your wall. If that's the case, it's possible you were maybe half an inch to the right or left of center, just enough so that one of the screws got into the edge of a stud, but the other one just missed. If that's the case, remounting it a little to one side will likely fix it nicely. It should still cover the old holes.

If that's not the case, then the best fix would be to replace the loose screw with a heavy drywall anchor, like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Prime-Line-Products-10533-4-Inch-50-Pack/dp/B00QR2L7UC/ref=pd_sim_60_8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=4SSJ0K5SVP77XW3ZAGJV

These go into the hole in the drywall, and when the are tightened, the section inside the wall expands and pulls tight against the inner surface.

Do not be discouraged - this is the hallowed path of the DIY person. Every single time we do something new, it goes wrong, and we learn something new. This is absolutely normal and typical, indeed nearly unavoidable. Usually by the third time we do it, we get it right.

Those that are cool with this become masters. Every new project is like a little classroom.

Sorry, it sounds like she might be a pain, but hopefully she comes around.

In the meantime this or this might be what you need.

hugs: good luck

I had a dog that learned this, it’s annoying.

The key is childproofing

Doors

Door Knob Safety Cover

You may need something like this, they can push the bolt in a way that it can open, so if you get something like this be sure it has a padlock hole or similar extra security mechanism.


Drawers

Search on Amazon and find what will work on your style drawer.

1. Drill small pilot holes in your board.
   
2. Tape board to the wall where you intend to mount it. Be very careful to make sure you are getting it where you want it.
   
3. Use pilot holes in board to mark holes in drywall for anchors.
   
4. Remove board from wall.
   
5. Use proper sized bit to drill holes for your anchors centered on the pilot holes you've already drilled.
   
6. Install anchors in wall.
   
7. Screw through small pilot holes on board into anchors on the wall.
   
8. ???
   
9. Profit.
   
   Regarding the type of anchor to use, I believe molly bolts are supposed to be among the strongest options.

This is another variation of that lock that I have used on every apartment I've lived in. The advantage over the addalock is you can lock it when you leave the house. It's simple to install and looks like a regular chain lock. In my state Landlords are supposed to give 24 hours notice before entering your apartment and we all know they don't always follow the law. This keeps everyone honest and if say there is an emergency, I am sure a big strong guy can bust the door down from the outside if necessary.

https://www.amazon.com/Defender-Security-11093-Diecast-Nickel/dp/B01AY0JPT2/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_60_t_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=EQ34PGMTBJTSK99YY7KF

That would probably work if there was a ring or something for the bar to pass through attached to the side it extended toward so that it wouldn't just swing away if the table top wanted to fold in on itself. I looked at the barrel & surface bolts but they don't seem to have the throw distance I think I would need. I saw this and it might work. Also this looks like it would do if the pass through on the plate was perpendicular to the mounting holes. Thanks again for scratching your brain on this one with me.

What? Sorry, that didn't make much sense. So you have a locking mechanism that unlocks a chain lock? I would love to see an example of this.

Edit: Apparently it is like this. Never seen a lock like this before. Now the question is how do you lock it when you leave? It must be pretty annoying.

I think while you wait to see a professional you should better secure your doors to keep your child safe. My 2yr is experimenting with our locks now that he is tall enough so we bought a chain that has a key. My husband's childhood home had one attached to the top of the front door because the previous owner had a runner so that's where we put ours. No way my son can reach and if I leave it locked my husband can just use the key to get in.

You need to get a door security bar. Even if they manage to get the door unlocked that's not going to let them get the door open without a hell of a lot of noise and effort. Most importantly though it buys you a lot more time. I live in a really nice part of town, but I always have that on my door after 5PM. You could also get 2 so if they make it in you can use it on an interior door to buy more time until police arrive. You should be able to find them at Walmart for cheap as well.

GET A BOLT LOCK FOR YOUR DOOR!!

Nobody should be entering your apartment without having contacted you and notified you of their visit. Keep your doors locked when you're at home, with a lock that nobody has keys to, like a bolt lock.

Check your lease, it should have specific wording on how they have to arrange their visits for maintenance, and usually they have to give you advance notice of their visits. I'm sure barging in when nobody answered the door does not qualify as advance notice.

Speak with the landlord/building management about this too, besides reporting the maintenance man himself, because if they did send him there for a follow-up on your maintenance, they should have gotten your ok first

I hope you make him leave. Something I didn’t see mentioned though. You said he picked the lock to get in the bathroom. Get a couple of these (door swing locks [here](Defender Security U 10309 Prime Line Swing Bar Lock, 2-1/2 in W, Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003ZGIEZY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_c56PCbEN7XGZW) ) to make sure he doesn’t pick the lock to your house while you’re home. Also, consider investing into an interior camera pointed at points of entry if you do kick him out so you can see if he breaks in. Just my 2 cents.

Hi,

I'm looking for a door latches, the ones we had/have that are breaking are Yale 64mm ones.

I would assume that if I got some that are 63mm it wouldn't matter that much?

Why are the ones https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01NBD5NBH black on the end and black in the middle, are they not metal?

Likewise https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B004J341S6 it has a black end, not sure if it's a hard rubber or what.

I need to replace 6-7 latches so surely these would be okay: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FFY3XB8

We also have https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00KK1OLZO as a option.

Any advice would be helpful.
Thanks

I too had this issue. My son is now 12, and his bolting has stopped. Hope your daughter's does too. The cheapest and easiest is a keyed chain

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000CRFWEU/ref=redir_mdp_mobile

Place them high. The advantage is with the key someone who is outside can open the door if they have the key.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-media/product-gallery/B000CRFWEU/ref=cm_ciu_pdp_images_0?ie=UTF8&index=0
hope that helps!
http://i.imgur.com/n8rwc.jpg

At our old house we used plywood. My neighbor showed me a really easy way to do this with some prep work beforehand but you only have to do it once. Cut each sheet of plywood exactly to the dimensions of the window you are placing it over and label each. Attach 4 (or more for large windows) eyebolts to each corner of the plywood, then drill holes in the concrete/brick/stucko where the eyebolt lines up when put in place. When a storm comes, you just have to put the plywood in place and latch the eyebolts. We went through 4 storms (biggest was a cat 4) and never had an issue. Super quick to put up and take down, although not as quick as accordian/electric.

I had this issue with a few interior doors in my house due to the house settling and shifting seasonally. I found these and they worked great!
GATOR Door Latch Restorer -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07857ZB4B?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Keep the old mortise locks. If you want to add security and the ability to lock and unlock from the outside, add a Yale lock. This is a type, not necessarily a brand. Se this one: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Yale-Traditional-Nightlatch-Enamelled-Cylinder/dp/B0009WA040?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1

Looks like the general consensus is to find a way to lock that door &berate the 'temporary' room mate if not toss him out all together.

Door knob lock with key ($14.30) because who knows what's going on when you're NOT at home. http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-TUO0105-Tulip-Antique/dp/B000WS5J2O/ref=pd_bxgy_hi_img_z

Door Security Guard for $7 for when you are home and trying to sleep. http://www.amazon.com/National-Hardware-V804-Security-Antique/dp/B001TJYM64/ref=pd_sim_hi_9

Something like https://www.amazon.com/Patlock-Security-French-Doors-Conservatories/dp/B00K1YCAV2 should work. A cheap solution would be to ziptie the handles together.

These might work as well if he can access the track where the doors slide on.

But, kids can be pretty strong. I had to screw these chains on some of my cabinets because those plastic ones get broken a couple seconds after I install them.

Dude, I feel your pain - privacy is important. I had a similar problem once and I found an interesting solution. There's this piece of technology you can buy on the internet that keeps your door closed. Check it out! The interesting part is it's so cheap! One lock is just $1.72 but a Two-pack costs $9.86! What a deal!
http://www.amazon.com/National-Hardware-Plated-Barrel-Bolts/dp/B0000CBIEA/ref=sr_1_2?s=hardware&ie=UTF8&qid=1426794509&sr=1-2&keywords=door+lock

We got burgled through our patio doors. They will most likely force them rather than break the window as that creates a lot of noise. If they are pvc construction as ours are, the entire door can be pulled apart with a crow bar. We fitted this since and whilst it won't stop anyone determined, it should make their life a bit harder. Plus very easy to remove from the inside incase of fire etc.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Patlock-Instant-French-Conservatory-Security/dp/B00K1YCAV2/ref=asc_df_B00K1YCAV2/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=207961523712&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11561725077458951192&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9046493&hvtargid=pla-348814773339&psc=1

Defender Security U 11093 Keyed Diecast Chain Door Guard, 3-1/4", Satin Nickel Finish https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AY0JPT2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_80vQBb6REBTWK

that's some old thing i wouldn't even use it

Remember too that locks are just delays, if someone wants through the door, they will get through eventually. So you gotta think about what will give you reasonable time to escape the situation.

I prefer the "swing bar" locks like hotels use. like this

For a few reasons. One, no chain, means it can't be slid aside with a coat hanger. Two, they are loud as fuck if somebody tries to open the door it will make a loud bang and wake you up. Three, no lock cylinder = cannot be picked. Four, it buys you at least a minute against an intruder, which gives you time to run out the other way, or, break every finger on their hand. There's a reason hotels use them!

You can also put longer screws in the hinges for added strength.

This is the latch that I have and I’m not sure if there is a way around it. I have looked on google with no luck

A common variation on the standard chain security device.

Keyed Chain Door Lock
https://www.amazon.com/National-Hardware-Keyed-Chain-Brass/dp/B000CRFWEU

Normally it would be mounted so that the key isn't needed to unlatch it from inside. The one you picture just has the key lock part mounted outside the door trim and that affects the reach of the chain. It's questionable if you could even open the door enough to reach in with the key in that position.

Lime this?


What if additional locks are not allowed?

I would buy some of these and call it a day

National Hardware N151-555 V834 Barrel Bolt in Zinc plated https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000CBIEA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_oK8XBbBGDJPCV

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CRFWEU

https://www.amazon.com/National-Hardware-N151-555-Barrel-plated/dp/B0000CBIEA

I don't know what exactly is going in this situation, but this exists

May I suggest...

You can get door chains that can be locked/unlocked from outside the door,

https://www.amazon.com/National-Hardware-Keyed-Chain-Brass/dp/B000CRFWEU

Sorry, forgot the technical term. I have these on my doors. There are other styles that attach to your floor. Inexpensive, and in testing seems to add considerable reinforcement to the door, and cannot be lock picked (but for obvious reasons are primarily intended for when you are home).

Something like this but smaller and more discrete.

Belwith Products 1840 Lock Swing Privacy, Polished Brass https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PINS0Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NcFYCbNZ44TRY


Home Security Door Lock with 8 Screws, Childproof Door Reinforcement Lock with 3" Stop Withstand 800 lbs for Inward Swinging Door,Upgrade Night Lock to Defend Your Home
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DR9CMGZ/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_u7EYCbH0PHAGC

$2 and your problem is solved. No need for weird note-writing.