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How do I fix drafty doors and windows?

As doors and windows age, or as the weather changes, you might find gaps that let cold air in or out. Check two places for leaks. First, look between the wall and the window frame or door frame. One way to do this is by lighting a candle or a stick of incense near the window. Watch the flame or blow it out and watch the smoke. If the flame flickers or the smoke blows away, you’ve found your leak. To fix the leak, use caulking around the sash or frame on both the interior and exterior. Only calk areas that don’t need to move.

Second, examine those areas that do need to move, like around a window’s rail and sash. With windows, give them a little shake. If you hear it rattling around, the seal is not doing its job and keeping out the draft. To test a door, take a dollar bill or piece of paper and close the door with it underneath. If you can pull the paper out easily, the seal is weak or insufficient. Repeat the test above the door and near the hinges as well.

When it comes to doors, you may be able to stop the leak by fixing the door alignment. This is a great way to also improve your security. Once your door is properly aligned, apply weather stripping to block the remaining draft. On the sides and above the door, use foam tape. Underneath the door, you may need to install a door sweep.

A door sweep is usually a metal strip attached to the bottom of the door with a rubber or bristled strip below that. This second piece is what blocks air, dirt and moisture. Lowe’s offers a handy tutorial and more tips on which kind of weather stripping you might need for your door.

For windows, there are also window insulation kits and insulation film. This film also comes in a kit and can be installed on the window’s interior or exterior. Some people claim bubble wrap is just as effective and costs less, but we like that the film doesn’t obstruct your views. Apartment Therapy’s guide to installing window insulation film shows how simple this DIY task can be.

Be sure to inspect all entryways, including side or garage entry doors, and basement entrances. Once you have the windows in the main living area covered, check those in the basement and attic as well. You’re now ready to check your home’s insulation for better warmth and cooling throughout the year.

What should I insulate to keep my home warm?

You can lose a lot of heat in the winter if your home has insulation that’s too thin or of the wrong variety. And it’s not just about insulating the walls. Heat rises, so your attic should be well-insulated to keep the warmth down where you are. Basements and crawl spaces that attract the dank and cold should also be inspected for improvement opportunities. You can add insulation to existing walls and spaces with a spray foam, so don’t be fooled into thinking you need to rip out all the drywall just for some extra warmth.

Home Depot has a helpful guide on the types of insulation used in different areas of your home and the recommended rating for your climate.

Some of your appliances and fixtures might also need an extra layer – just like when you put on an extra sweater. Not only will it help them work more efficiently, but it could also keep them from breaking completely. Water pipes especially can freeze and burst, creating more headaches than just a high energy bill. Pipes on an exterior wall are particularly susceptible to freezing or, at the very least, losing heat and giving you icy showers due to contact with colder surrounding air. Your water heater faces the same challenges when exposed to cold environments.

To insulate water pipes, you can use traditional foam insulation, which looks a bit like a pool noodle and slides easily onto existing pipes. BobVila.com also recommends spray foam insulation or fiberglass pipe covers, depending on how hot you need the pipes to be and the climate where you live. Insulate your water heater with a water heater blanket or pipe insulation to reduce heat loss by around 25 percent.

Paying attention to these key areas for insulation will help to keep the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer without you having to pay the big bucks. Find more smart ways to save you and your home energy in our blog. There’s also plenty of other DIY and home improvement tips at Schlage.com/blog.

Which Schlage smart locks work with Google Assistant?

Google Assistant is compatible with the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt and Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt with Z-Wave Plus.

The Schlage Encode deadbolt, because it has built-in WiFi does not need a smart home hub or adapter to work with Google Assistant. However, to pair the Schlage Sense lock with your Google Assistant-enabled device, you will need the Schlage Sense™ WiFi Adapter. If you have the Schlage Connect deadbolt, you will need to sync it with your Nexia Home hub for Google Assistant capabilities.

What app do I need to control my Schlage smart lock with Google Assistant?

For all three Schlage locks, you will need to have the Google Home app on your smartphone to sync devices and to add your lock to Google routines. To take advantage of other features like creating and managing access codes remotely or viewing the access history log, you will still use other apps like the Schlage Home app for Schlage Sense and Schlage Encode locks, or the Nexia app for the Schlage Connect lock. Visit our smart locks overview pages for more details on the specific features available.

What can I ask Google Assistant to do with my Schlage smart lock?

There are currently two voice commands that allow you to control your Schlage smart lock via Google Assistant. “OK Google, is my door locked?” lets you check the status of your deadbolt. This is particularly handy when lying in bed, cozy with a cat on your lap and you can’t remember if you locked up before turning in.

If you did forget, you still don’t have to disturb Fluffy. “OK Google, lock my door” will secure the deadbolt for you.

Can I include my Schlage smart lock in a Google routine?

With Google Assistant, you can create routines that allow you to trigger multiple actions with a single command. For example, “OK Google, go on vacation” can turn off the lights, adjust the thermostat, lock your Schlage smart deadbolt and take care of many other tasks before you hit the road. Unlocking is not supported in Google Routines.

Learn more about Schlage’s smart locks and the home automation systems they’re compatible with at Schlage.com.

Creating the entryway or foyer of your dreams doesn't have to cost a fortune. Check out some of our favorite DIY projects that will help you get the perfect look in no time without a big spend.

Lighting

A new light fixture can go a long way toward revamping your space. Try one of these tutorials that even a beginner can accomplish.

1. Orb Chandelier » What’s Ur Home Story

2. Farmhouse Grain Sieve Light Fixture » Infarrantly Creative

Landing Strip

No room for a real entryway? No problem! Add a small landing strip so there's always space to place your things as soon as you step inside.

3. Easy Landing Strip » Fresh Crush

4. Small Landing Strip » Design Sponge

Organization

The best way to avoid clutter is to make sure you already have a place for it before it ends up all over the house. Have an organizer for your mail, keys and other miscellaneous items you use every day.

5. Wooden Mail Sorter » Fox Hollow Cottage

6. Succulent Jar Key Holder » Lolly Jane

7. Chalkboard Command Center » Shanty 2 Chic

8. DIY Accordion Coat Rack » Woodshop Diaries

9. Entryway Hooks » Fancy Farmgirls

Boot Tray

Stop muddy, snowy shoes in their tracks. Create a boot tray where shoes can dry out without tracking footprints all over your home.

10. Boot Drip Tray » Real Housemoms

11. Cobblestone Boot Tray » Provident Home Design

Storage

If you have the space, try adding a little extra storage to hide those odds and ends. Baskets and drawers are a stylish way to do just that.

12. Coat Closet Mudroom » Make It & Love It

12. Entryway Storage Bench » The Day Shift

Seating

And as always, make sure there's a comfortable seat so you can easily take your shoes on and off. Try a creative twist like the designer below with a fallen walnut tree-turned-bench or go more traditional – and functional – with built-in organization underneath.

14. DIY Tree Bench » houzz.com

15. DIY Mudroom Bench » Honey Bear Lane

What other entryway projects do you have your eye on? Read up on the six must-have elements for your foyer, then share what inspires you on Instagram and Pinterest.

Buy big at inventory rollover

When manufacturers come out with a new model, stores need to reduce their inventory from the previous year. To get a great deal on appliances, especially large ones like dishwashers, washers and dryers, and refrigerators, pay attention to when new stock comes out. For most appliances, that means September or October. New refrigerators hit the stores in summer, so look for deals on the previous year’s models in August.

Purchase out of season

The best time to buy clothes when you’re looking to save money is when you don’t actually need them. For winter clothes, for example, shop in the spring or even as early as February when stores are preparing to swap out their inventory with the changing seasons.

This general rule extends beyond clothing, though. Air conditioners may be cheapest in the winter, from October until about February. Save on snowblowers and outdoor furniture in October when, again, you’re less likely to need them immediately. Picnic supplies can be picked up on the cheap after the Fourth of July, while wrapping paper and other holiday items go on sale post-Christmas. Need a box of chocolates? Plan your purchase for between Valentine’s Day and Easter.

Strike a holiday deal

Some festive seasons are prime shopping time. Don’t just think Black Friday, though, when personal electronics come with some sweet deals. Labor Day tends to be a good day for items like mattresses and laptops. Memorial Day usually offers good sales on outdoor power equipment and other DIY goods like paint and wood stain.

July Fourth (outdoor gear, swimwear) and Presidents’ Day (appliances, furniture) are also worth keeping an eye on. While technically not a holiday, the Super Bowl offers deals on televisions and entertainment systems, especially the day after the Big Game.

Remember there are always exceptions

Of course, there are always exceptions to any rule. Sometimes what you need most is on sale exactly when you need it. April is a great time for vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaners, when you have spring cleaning on the brain. You can often find good deals on lawn mowers and pressure washers right before people head outside to spruce up the yard for springtime. In the winter, expect to find good deals on elliptical trainers and treadmills in January when New Year’s resolutions are at a high.

There are also some items that, if you can find a good deal, you should absolutely take advantage of it. But don’t hold off on important goods, like those that keep you and your family secure, just to save a few dollars. Durable locks, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and other safety devices should be purchased and replaced, preferably before you really need them. When you do buy these items, make sure you choose those with superior quality. A deadbolt that protects your home is not an area you want to scrimp on.

Find a month-by-month breakdown on the best time of year to buy items for your home at Schlage.com/blog. You can also find a thorough list with items ranging from coffee makers to sound bars to chainsaws at Consumer Reports.

Robots “maid” for you

In a recent poll, more than 70 percent of people said their homes would be cleaner if they had robots to do their chores. Luckily, we already have access to robots that will help with some of our chores. Here are some of our favorites.

iRobot Bravva jet 240

Vacuuming can be a never-ending task, especially if you have pets. Robotic vacuums have been making the chore easier for several years now. For those ready to take it to the next level, you’ll see more mopping robots to help tackle more floor – and dirt – types. You’ll definitely want one for those hard-to-reach spaces like around toilets.

Gladwell Gecko Robot Window Cleaner

This robot will do the dirty work whether you have expanses of windows or very tall ones like those that span multiple stories in an entryway. No more hauling in a ladder and perching on it perilously or paying someone to clean your windows for you. Suction keeps it attached to the window, while AI helps determine where the windows’ edges are and makes sure all of the glass gets a good scrubbing.

Worx Landroid robotic mower

Using much the same technology as robotic vacuums, this robotic lawnmower trims your grass while you stay cool inside or focus on other activities like playing with the kids. The Worx Landroid also has rain sensors that will send it back to the docking station when the weather turns, as well as security features like a pin number to start operation and alerts if it strays from your yard.

Artificial intelligence, true companionship

Yes, many people have a fear of robots. While they’re always trying to take over the world in movies, robots can actually bring us all closer together in real life. We already ask Alexa to tell us jokes. We say, “Hey Google, text Mom.” Experts expect 29 percent growth in the market for “social robots” annually over the next few years, so it’s not a far leap to think that some of these companionable robots will soon take up residence in our homes.

BOCCO emo

More popular today in Japan, BOCCO is a communication robot that helps send text and voice messages, even if someone is too young for, or otherwise unable to use, a smartphone. Kids can talk to the robot, which will then send you a text with their message, or you can send a message from your phone for BOCCO to deliver to the kids. It’s continuously being developed, so compatibility with other devices in the Internet of Things is on the rise, making it a robot to keep an eye on in the upcoming year. Also, he’s super cute.

Miko 2

This adorable little robot can hear, speak and relate to your child using a variety of speakers, algorithms and cues from your child. Miko 2 is also programmed to help them learn, providing knowledge and skills that are right for their age and that you can control. As more research finds that robots can get kids excited about reading, devices like this one will become increasingly popular.

Walabot HOME

Falls are a concern for many, but this robot can help remove some of the worries. Walabot HOME uses radio frequency to tell if someone in the room has fallen. Then, even if they’re conscious, the device will contact a caregiver. It works anywhere in the home but is especially popular in bathrooms both because falls so often happen in that space and because Walabot HOME does not use cameras. There are also no wearables or buttons that need to be pressed to send an alert.

Robots on the rise … we hope

Maybe they aren’t real yet and maybe no one knows what exactly they’re capable of, but it’s fun to dream about how some of these space-age robots could improve our daily lives.

XR-1 Cloud Robot

Described as a “coffee-serving humanoid machine,” this robot uses 5G connectivity. It’s still under development, but that 5G is what CloudMinds, the company that makes XR-1, says is going to make it revolutionary. Because of the faster connection, the robot will be able to respond to our commands with almost no lag time. Eventually, it could help with household chores and more.

SpotMini

This robotic dog is a spinoff of Boston Dynamics’ original Spot. While Spot is better suited for construction and public safety uses, they anticipate SpotMini to be of greater use in homes. It already has figured out how to help with dishes and open doors. What sets SpotMini apart from other household chore robots is that it operates on four legs rather than wheels. That opens possibilities for assisting on uneven ground and stairways.

Bobby needs poster board for his science project on Thursday, Susie has basketball practice Tuesday night and you’re scheduled to get coffee with Jen in the morning. Not only will your command center help you manage who needs to be where and when, but with the right pieces, you’ll also remember to buy the science fair supplies ahead of time, turn in the sports waiver, and you’ll be able to find your keys to get to your java date. When everything has its own place, and it’s all in one place, mornings will run smoother and evenings can be dedicated to family time, not panic time.

What to include

• Dry-erase board or chalkboard: Perfect for jotting down shopping list items, messages for family members and to-do lists.
  
  
• Post-its: In case you need to leave a message that’s a little more permanent or take it with you. Also ideal for writing encouraging notes to hide in their lunchbox.
  
  
• Writing tools: Pens and pencils, Sharpies, dry-erase markers, chalk to take those all-important notes.
  
  
• Corkboard or magnet board: For pinning important messages where you’ll see them or hanging your kids’ artwork for everyone to enjoy.
  
  
• Calendar: A dry-erase or reusable monthly calendar à la Bless’er House for easy schedule updates or this DIY calendar from Babble that also adds some color.
  
  
• Clock: To stick to your tight schedule mapped out in the command center.
  
  
• Hanging folder system: Permission slips, mail, receipts and coupons stay contained. One slot per child helps them know where their things are.
  
  
• Hooks: For anything and everything – purses, backpacks, coats, dog leashes, keys – so they don’t get buried under other items, never to be seen again.
  
  
• Cubbies or baskets: Great for storing backpacks out of sight, sliding shoes out of the flow of traffic, or hiding any other items you need on hand but don’t want to stare at.
  
  
• Bench: Ideal for entryway command centers so everyone can remove shoes before they track mud through the house.
  

Where to build it

Entryway: Everything you need to get out the door is conveniently by the door.

Organizational hacks for a smooth and simple schoolyear

• If you’re like most parents of busy kids, you’re also part shuttle bus driver. Keep your car organized with over-the-seat pockets or bins. We can’t guarantee it will keep the Cheerios out of the seat crannies, but at least the kids will know where to find the snacks and travel games.
  
  
• Especially before the start of the schoolyear, and even throughout, purge clothes and craft supplies. You’ll clear out unnecessary clutter and have a better idea of what you need to buy for the first day.
  
  
• Making healthy meals can be tough when you’re busy. Good Housekeeping suggests a lunchbox cupboard and storing sandwich fixings together for easy meal prep.
  
  
• Designate or build a homework station. It’ll help keep your kids focused and all their supplies will be contained in one convenient location without taking over the dinner table.
  
  
• If you need your little one to stick to a routine but they can’t read yet, create an illustrated schedule. Pictures of a toothbrush, apple and moon can help them learn when to get ready for the day, have lunch and go to bed. Place the pictures on a clock where the numbers would be.
  
  

Find more stylish and convenient solutions from Schlage on Pinterest and Instagram.

Are people buying houses in the winter?

Spring and summer are the prime seasons for selling homes and moving, but the market doesn’t cool off completely in the winter. Some experts even say the season works to your advantage because there’s less competition for sellers. How many people are actually shopping for new digs in that December to February stretch, though? Consider this:

• Job relocations often happen at the beginning of the year, meaning buyers need a new home and they need it yesterday. Their high motivation and short timeline are good for you.
  
  
• Buyers who have just received year-end bonuses or retirement payouts may finally have the funds to pursue the home of their dreams.
  
  
• Some people are looking to take advantage of tax breaks associated with buying and owning a new home before the new year.
  
  
• September is a big month for bringing home Baby. When fall and winter roll around, those growing families may be looking for larger homes to accommodate their new arrival.

Are there house-staging tips for winter?

Absolutely! Some of these tricks work any time of year – people always like bright, airy-feeling spaces – but their importance increases tenfold given the changes in the environment and people’s seasonal mood.

• Shine a light on the potential.

People most often tour homes in the evenings, and when the sun sets earlier in winter, lighting becomes even more important. Clean and repair existing light fixtures, lamps and bulbs. If you notice dark corners inside or around your home’s exterior, consider adding lighting. String lights are a popular choice for both function and style. It not only improves security but can make a small room feel bigger and more refreshing as well.

• Make them feel warmly welcome.

Pay special attention to the types of things that are on people’s minds in the winter. For starters, a mudroom. Potential buyers are definitely wondering where they’re going to hang their heavy coats and put their snowy boots when they walk in. If you don’t have it in the budget to do a total mudroom makeover, try these tips for creating the perfect space with items you already own.

• Embrace hygge.

Hygge is all about comfort. Help homebuyers envision being comfortable in their new house. Start by decorating for the season. This doesn’t mean Santa statues and blow-up snow globes on the lawn, though. Opt for classic snow themes and more generic winter décor. Indoors, you can try cozy throw blankets, candles, hot chocolate fixings on the bar cart and seasonal music in the background.

• Put your best foot forward.

Cold weather brings unique maintenance tasks. The need to stay on top of them is even greater when selling your house. Clean autumn’s leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts. And when it snows, break out the shovel often. Clear the driveway, patio, walkways and decks. It not only reduces slipping hazards, but potential homebuyers will be able to see the house better.

Seal off drafty windows and doors with caulking, or if they’re really bad, consider replacing them. Higher energy costs and uncomfortable living spaces are a real turnoff for buyers. Even if you don’t replace the doors and windows, it’s a good idea to give them a good sprucing up. Power wash winter grime away and maybe add a fresh coat of paint. Updated door hardware like these front entry handlesets, house numbers and other porch accessories boost curb appeal while also enhancing functionality that will speak to buyers.

Schlage wants everyone to love where they live, whether it’s new construction or a new-to-you classic home. Find more resources for buying and selling homes, moving and remodeling for resale at Schlage.com.

Bask in the blues

• Creates a calming effect
• Has been found to reduce crime
• Reminiscent of clear skies and peaceful waters

PPG named Chinese Porcelain its Color of the Year, while Sherwin-Williams chose Naval SW 6244. Both are deep, rich blues and are a bit more reminiscent of night skies than sunny spring days. They’re ideal for a nautical or coastal vibe, but don’t rule them out for an Art Deco-styled room, either.

Unless you love a big statement, accent walls might be more appropriate for these bold blues. You could also pair them with a more neutral wall and make the Chinese Porcelain or Naval really pop with rugs, pillows and other room accessories in those colors. Satin Brass or Satin Nickel door hardware finishes would stand out nicely against the darker, rich paint colors.

Valspar couldn’t be contained to just a single color of the year and instead named 12. Of those, two are from the blue family – Utterly Blue, which definitely has you feeling like a trip to the beach, and Grey Brook, a classic neutral with blue undertones. Matte Black and Satin Chrome finishes play well off the blue and gray tones in this case.

Get your greens

• Represents tranquility and health
• Creates calming and refreshing effects
• Complements popular plant-inspired designs in wallpapers, pillows and more

Valspar felt so strongly about the benefits of green that they picked four colors in that family for 2020. Tempered Sage, Secret Moss and Mint Whisper each have a more muted, earthy feel to them, while Secluded Garden offers a jewel-toned option. Behr’s Back to Nature, as its name implies, is closer to the earthy shades. This yellow-green hue is the perfect complement to brown tones in your home. It also brings a level of versatility in that you can easily use it in any room.

Balance yourself with browns

• Creates feelings of warmth and security
• Earthiness provides a sense of stability
• Neutral quality of the color brown makes a stunning backdrop for a variety of styles

Like it did with green, Valspar embraced a range of browns, so there’s a little something for everyone. Its greige Winter Calm and Desert Fortress, with a familiar tan feeling, are updated classics with wide appeal. We recommend Matte Black or Satin Chrome finishes for rooms and doors painted with these browns.

Please with pale pinks

• Associated with kindness and love
• Promotes feelings of joy, happiness and creativity
• Coordinates well with blues, greens and greys

Benjamin Moore’s First Light, HGTV HOME® by Sherwin-Williams’ Romance and Valspar’s Crushed out are all blush pinks. They’ve been described as soft and dreamy, as well as fresh and playful. Their success comes in part from their subtlety rather than an in-your-face brightness, especially when paired with other soft gray, blue or even golden tones.

Valspar rounded out its list with Bombay Pink, giving a cheerier punch to the list. Whereas the other pinks are more muted, this brighter shade could be for those who like a stronger style statement, especially if they love gold accents, or Bright Brass door hardware, throughout the room.

No matter what color you choose to paint your walls, doors or even your ceilings – an Utterly Blue ceiling would really be committing to the sky metaphor – the accessories, fixtures and fabrics you select can truly impact the statement you make about your personal style.

Visit our website to see all available Schlage door hardware finishes. And if you’re looking for more style inspiration, there’s our interactive Style Selector at Schlage.com or our Pinterest and Instagram accounts.

1. Earthy + Classic = Unbelievable

Bathroom by Jenna Sue Design Co.

Goodbye, all white. Hello, all-star bathroom! Jenna Sue’s transformation proves that rich colors are just what the doctor ordered, even in small spaces. The Schlage Custom™ Hobson glass knob is the perfect complement for her vintage floor tile. And the Matte Black finish of the door hardware and faucet play splendidly off the other gold fixtures.

2. Simple updates make all the difference

Hallway by @malcolmsimmons

Kitchens and bedrooms get all the attention. Updating a small hallway can have a massive impact, too Take this upgrade by @malcolmsimmons. Just add new flooring, updated door hardware and lighting, and we have a brighter, airier space. It even makes the bathroom look like new!

3. Who doesn’t love a good before and after?

Bathroom by @vikhousetohome

We couldn’t be more impressed seeing this bathroom go from outdated striped wallpaper to traditional beauty. And check out that Schlage Georgian door knob with Addison trim. The Antique Pewter finish of the door hardware and gold-toned fixtures on and around the sink show the right way to mix metals.

4. Deliciously amazing

Kitchen by @prettyhandygirl

All we can say is, “Oh my!” From a construction-zone before to a polished after, complete with the Schlage Custom Hobson glass door knob and Century trim in Matte Black, this room by @prettyhandygirl has us feeling inspired.

5. Is this even the same room?

Bathroom by @prettyhandygirl

You can’t help but stare when a home remodel looks this good. We wouldn’t have wanted to even attempt getting clean in here before, but after? Yes, please! Just like on her kitchen pantry in No. 5, @prettyhandygirl used the Schlage Hobson glass door knob and Century trim in Matte Black to complement the high-contrast tilework.

6. A front portico that never gets old

Front porch by @elkins.com

Where should we start? The beachy colors? The new pillars? Those sharp house numbers? The Schlage Century handleset in Matte Black? This transformation is a lesson in bringing your front entryway into modern class. Consider us schooled.

7. It’s amazing what paint and new hardware can do

Front door by @shealinashley

When we saw this, we called them liars. There’s no way that’s the same door! But that just goes to show what a massive difference a coat of paint and the Schlage Century handleset can make. The layered doormats that complement the gray door also add a modern touch.

8. Won’t you be my neighbor

Front porch by @househomemade

@househomemade certainly made her friend’s porch feel more welcoming. Plants give it a homier vibe. The lighter, more colorful front door helps the other décor pop. And new hardware – lighting and door – provides a finished look that’s both stylish and functional. We love what she’s done with the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt. This is curb appeal done right!

9. Going keyless and gorgeous

Garage by The DIY Playbook

Because we often store high-value items in our garages – tools, cars, bikes – it makes sense that you’d want a secure lock like this Schlage Touch™ Keyless Touchscreen Deadbolt to protect them. And even though we tend to focus on the functionality of a garage rather than its beauty, there’s no excuse for hardware to be anything but easy on the eyes. Blogger Casey hit the style note with the Schlage Bowery knob with Century trim in Matte Black finish.

10. Style on the side

Side entrance by Four Generations One Roof

You’ll stop overlooking that side entrance when you see what Jessica has done here. The improvement from the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt and a few accessories is so significant, we bet she won’t even notice anymore the nicks in the door she mentions. We’d love to come home to that every day.

See more style makeovers when you follow Schlage on Instagram.

We know a deadbolt might be a bit of a strange Christmas gift. But we also know it happens (and we thank you). More likely, perhaps, you got a new smart home hub like Samsung SmartThings, Wink, Apple HomeKit™ or Nexia for the holidays. Maybe it’s a new voice control assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant that you want to sync with your Schlage smart lock. Here’s a list of resources to help you get connected quickly and easily.

Before you can sync your devices, make sure the lock is properly installed on your door and that you have the smartphone app that coincides with your hub and lock. You may need to create an account and complete some initial start-up steps via the app before pairing your devices. Find step-by-step interactive installation instructions for the Schlage Encode, Schlage Connect and Schlage Sense deadbolts online.

Now let’s get connected.

Samsung SmartThings

Why pair SmartThings with the Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt?

• Let in trusted friends and family or secure the deadbolt if you forgot by locking and unlocking your door from anywhere using the SmartThings app
  
  
• Gain peace of mind by checking the status of your lock from your smartphone
  
  
• Get app alerts when a user code is entered so you know who is coming and going from your home
  
  
• More advanced features with the Schlage Connect lock with Z-Wave Plus
  
  

To pair your Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Samsung SmartThings, open the SmartThings app on your mobile device and tap on Home. Under Things, choose Add a Thing and follow the directions in the app. At the end of enrollment, a green light on your lock indicates success.

Wink

Why pair Wink with the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt - Z-Wave Plus?

• Let in trusted friends and family or secure the deadbolt if you forgot by locking and unlocking your door from anywhere using the Wink app
  
  
• Add and delete user codes at any time and from anywhere via the Wink app, like when you need to give access to a trusted friend while you’re stuck at work
  
  
• Check the battery level via the Wink app
  
  
• Create convenient shortcuts and more advanced features
  
  

To sync your Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Z-Wave Plus to your Wink hub, open the Wink app on your mobile device and follow the app’s instructions. When you have successfully connected your devices, you will see a flashing green check mark on the lock. The Wink app will also indicate that it has found the lock.

Nexia

Why pair Nexia with the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt - Z-Wave Plus?

• Let in trusted friends and family or secure the deadbolt if you forgot by locking and unlocking your door from anywhere using a compatible app
  
  
• Add and delete user codes at any time and from anywhere from your mobile device, like when you need to give access to a trusted friend while you’re stuck at work
  
  
• Check the battery level via the Wink app
  
  
• Get app alerts when a user code is entered
  
  
• Use Google Assistant to control your Schlage Connect lock with voice commands
  
  

Get step-by-step instructions for how to add your Z-Wave Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt to your Nexia Bridge.

Apple TV^®, iPad^® or HomePod

The Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt is compatible with a variety of Apple^® devices, including Apple TV, iPad and Homepod. Why pair one of these devices with the Schlage Sense lock and Bluetooth technology?

• Control your lock and manage settings from anywhere with the Schlage Home app and one of the Apple devices above, which can give you greater convenience and security
  
  
• Allow your lock to work in tandem with other Apple HomeKit™-enabled devices in your home through the Apple Home app
  
  
• Use Siri^® to lock and unlock your door for hands-free convenience
  
  
• Receive notifications when the lock is used so you know who is coming and going from your home when the lock is connected to the Apple device or within Bluetooth range
  
  

To set up remote connectivity with Apple HomeKit using a compatible Apple TV, iPad or HomePod, open the Schlage Home app on your iOS device and choose “Continue with HomeKit.” Once you’ve chosen the “Continue with HomeKit” option, follow the instructions provided in the Schlage Home app.

Voice Assistants

Don’t forget that you can use voice assistants with your smart deadbolts, too. In most cases, you’ll need to use one of the smart hubs above to take advantage of the compatibility between your lock and Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri.

Amazon Alexa

Because of its built-in WiFi, you don’t need a smart hub to connect your Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt with an Alexa-enabled device. To start using your Schlage Encode lock with Alexa, access the Alexa app on your smartphone, choose the Schlage Home skill and follow the instructions in the app.

If you have the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt, all you need is the Schlage Sense™ WiFi Adapter to use Alexa. Find instructions here.

If you have the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Zigbee technology, you’ll need Amazon Key, Echo Plus or Samsung SmartThings. Use the links below for instructions on how to connect your Schlage Connect deadbolt with Zigbee to Alexa.

• Amazon Key
  
  
• Amazon Echo Plus
  
  
• Samsung SmartThings
  
  

Samsung SmartThings is also compatible with Schlage Connect Deadbolt with Z-Wave Plus technology, as are Wink and Nexia. Use the links below for instructions on how to connect your Schlage Connect deadbolt with Z-Wave Plus to Alexa.

• Samsung SmartThings
  
  
• Wink
  
  
• Nexia
  
  

Google Assistant

To pair Google Assistant with your Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt, follow these instructions.

If you’re a Google Assistant user and have the Schlage Sense deadbolt, make sure you have the Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter to take advantage of voice control capabilities. Find instructions here.

With Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Z-Wave Plus, you’ll need Nexia to access voice control through Google Assistant. Find instructions here.

If you’re still considering which lock is right for you, try our Get Help Deciding Tool. You can also learn more about all of Schlage’s smart locks and find additional partners like Ring that help you get the most from your deadbolt every day at Schlage.com.