1. Quality construction

Is this a “thing”? We’re making it one because a quality door is one of the most important considerations for securing your entryway. Even the strongest lock won’t protect you and your belongings if your door and the surrounding frame is warped, crack or weak. Be sure to evaluate your door periodically so you can fix any problems before they compromise your security.

2. Secure handleset

Score a double victory with Schlage handlesets for your front door. You get style – we offer a variety of designs and finishes to match nearly any home – and security in one package. Our handlesets are graded Best in Security, Durability and Finish by the BHMA, so you can be confident in your door hardware’s form and function.

3. Deadbolt or smart lock

Some handlesets include a deadbolt as either a two-piece or a single 3/4 trim. If you get to choose a separate lock to pair with it, there are a few deadbolt options. Single-cylinder deadbolts require a key on one side and a thumbturn on the other for locking and unlocking. Double-cylinder deadbolts need a key on both sides, which offers great security but also can pose risks in an emergency situation if you need to exit the locked door quickly. These are regulated in some areas, so be sure to check with your local codes before choosing a double-cylinder lock.

Schlage handlesets also pair beautifully with smart locks like the new Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt. Regardless of which electronic lock you choose, you’ll get keyless convenience and, in most cases, the option to manage access remotely via your smartphone or home automation system. Use our Get Help Deciding Tool to learn which smart deadbolt is best for you and your family.

4. Video doorbell

Video doorbells are gaining popularity because they let you see who’s on your porch even when you’re away from home. Keep an eye on packages, see when the kids get home or decide if it’s worth getting off the couch for the magazine salesman, all from your smartphone. Your Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt pairs with the Ring Video Doorbell 2 for additional convenience and security.

5. Peephole

It’s old-school, but they’re still around because they work. If you already have a traditional door viewer, consider upgrading to a video version. The Ring Door View Cam attaches to your existing peephole without the need for wiring and offers a live feed of your porch.

6. Lighting

Lighting is another opportunity to combine style with security. Fixtures can easily be matched to your home’s architectural style. No matter what they look like, a well-lit home is less likely to be targeted by intruders. You’re also less likely to stumble in your entryway if you can see where you’re going. Consider solar-powered lights for energy conservation and motion-activated lighting for even greater convenience and security.

7. House numbers

It’s hard for guests to feel welcome at your home if they can’t find it. Likewise, delivery people and emergency responders, should you need them, will appreciate you making their jobs easier. Large, clear house numbers are both helpful and gorgeous. HGTV offers a variety of style ideas to choose from.

8. Welcome mat

Don’t drag in all the dirt and damp from the outdoors. They don’t have to be flashy, but if you’re looking to make a style statement with a doormat, try layering one with a larger outdoor rug or DIY a mat with your favorite welcome message.

9. Personal statement

Your front door makes a first impression on anyone who comes to your home or even just drives by. It’s your chance to say something about who you are. Consider a wreath, a welcome sign, a hanging basket with flowers or even your family’s initials stenciled directly onto the door.

10. Eye-catching color

Painting your door can be trickier than you think. We suggest choosing a color that complements the rest of your home’s exterior and highlights architectural details. Once you’ve picked the hue that makes you happy, update your door hardware in a finish that keeps the gorgeous style going.

If we were creating a list of don’t-haves, the number one item would be a fake rock. It won’t fool anyone and you’re putting your home’s security at risk. Here are better options for when you need to hide a spare.

Whether you’re looking for electronic solutions or design tips for your front door, Schlage has it all. You can also ask us for tips, advice and inspiration on social media. Find us on Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; the stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there. The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads; and mamma in her kerchief, and I in my cap, wishing I could settle in for a long winter nap.

But sadly I knew someone must wait up to open the door, let St. Nick in and prepare for presents galore. So I sat by the entryway with spare key in hand, trying not to doze while I waited for the man. Before long my eyes became heavy, my chin fell to my chest and my breathing went steady.

Then I awoke with a start and with the sun pouring in, the children rushed to the tree to open their presents; they couldn’t wait to begin. It didn’t take long before everyone saw, a distinct lack of packages stacked ‘round the skirt. “You didn’t let him in,” scowled mamma, looking hurt. She spoke not another word, but went straight to work, and filled all the stockings with socks and underwear; I felt like a jerk.

My glance dropped to the floor as my kids began to whimper, when from the corner of my eye I caught a slight glimmer. The spare key I’d grasped now laid on the ground; I’d meant to give it to Santa last night when he came around. I knew then and there, this would never happen again, never would St. Nick be unable to get in.

I rushed to the store a day later, and made a dash for the lock aisle; my path couldn’t be straighter. The options were plenty but I knew a smart lock with multiple access codes was what I needed; I’d give a code to Santa so my kids wouldn’t feel cheated.

So I picked up a Schlage and grinned from ear to ear, I was getting remote access and security, even when I wasn’t here. I could program the lock and control it with my phone. Then I’d give unique codes to my kids to let them in after school, even when they were alone. Our pet sitter could use their code to check on our dalmatian, and the neighbors could water the plants when we go on vacation.

I paid for my new smart lock at the counter with glee, and knew that mamma would be happy again with me. I delayed not a moment when I arrived home with pride; I installed the lock in minutes then sent a letter to Santa full of yuletide. I included an access number, one of his own, and now while we slumber, he can enter the home. Not 1225, that’s too easy to guess, so I programmed 54636377, the numbers for KINDNESS. I closed my letter with a humbling plea, bring a dolly for Molly and a bike for Mike, and mamma would like a new set of skis. As for me, I’ve got all I need – peace of mind and home security.

When the night before Christmas rolls around in a year, I’ll join my family in revelry knowing there’s nothing to fear. I can just see it now: as I lay in bed welcoming sleep, St. Nick in his sleigh driven by his reindeer fleet. He’ll give his team a whistle, and away they’ll fly like the down of a thistle. And I’ll hear him exclaim, ere he drives out of sight, “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Install a strong deadbolt

Mechanical or electronic, a strong deadbolt is an important way to help secure the entryways to your home. This includes the back door and side entrances as well as the front door. In more than half of home break-ins, burglars entered through either the front or back door.¹

Be smart about your locks

The Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt works with Key by Amazon, and Prime members in select areas can have packages delivered right inside the front door, helping to keep porch pirates at bay. According to a 2017 study, almost 26 million Americans had packages taken from their front porch. Another 23 million had decorations stolen or vandalized.²

Keep an eye on things

Video doorbells and motion-activated cameras connected to your home security system are popular and effective options for monitoring your home from anywhere and giving you peace of mind. Approximately 60 percent of burglars said that the presence of an alarm causes them to target a different home.³

Shine light on your home

Any illumination outdoors, even holiday lights, can help keep your home secure. A working porch light or motion sensors on the garage can deter burglars. Tools, bikes and cars – all items stored in the garage – are among the most commonly stolen items during a break-in.⁴

Look lived in

Thieves are more likely to try a break-in when they think no one is home. Fool them by setting lights on an automatic timer, playing music or the TV, and using an Alexa Skill that provides a “soundtrack” to make the home sound occupied. Eighty-five percent of residential burglaries occur when the home is empty.⁵

Don’t turn a blind eye

Smart blinds can reduce the risk of intruders breaking in just because they see something they like through the window. Contact sensors on windows can also alert you if the glass breaks. Smart window dressings can be expensive but so is being robbed. The average value lost during a burglary is $2,416.⁴

Detect other dangers

Sometimes the risk comes from inside. Pair your smartphone with compatible safety devices that detect and alert you to smoke, flooding and more. There are more house fires in January than in any other month.⁶

Find more security tips at Schlage.com/blog.

Sources

1. https://www.asecurelife.com/security-infographic/
2. https://www.insurancequotes.com/home/porch-pirates-package-thieves-house-fires-holiday-120117
3. https://airef.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/BurglarSurveyStudyFinalReport.pdf
4. https://safeatlast.co/blog/burglary-statistics/
5. https://www.hsmc-ul.com/alarms/crime-statistics
6. https://www.safewise.com/resources/security-stats-facts/

Thank you, motion-activated sensors, lights and security cameras.

You make our lives better every day. How did we live without you before? You let me know if something mysterious is happening outside the house. We trust you to alert us if a porch pirate is nearby or if the kids got locked out again. Your vigilance is appreciated beyond expression.

Thank you, high-quality deadbolts.

You are the first line of defense against keeping our home and family secure. Your solid strength gives me peace of mind day and night, whether we’re home or away. We will never forget you, mechanical deadbolt, and will be sure to lock you consistently, even when we’re in the house. And you, smart lock, may be new to the home, but we are thankful for the convenience you provide without compromising on security. We’re thinking about bringing home another one, just as soon as we decide which one will fit in perfectly with the family.

Thank you, fake rock.

You had your time and you did your best. We appreciate your service, but we have a better way of granting emergency access to our homes now. With smart locks, we no longer need to hide a spare key. Enjoy your retirement in the new year.

Thank you, smart home.

Where should we begin? You do so much for us, from turning lights on and off automatically so people can’t tell if we’re on vacation, to adjusting the thermostat so we don’t waste money or energy, to helping us figure out how many teaspoons are in a tablespoon. Big shout-out to Alexa for that last one. Perhaps more than anything, we like that you let us make a scene when life gets hectic. Just one word and you take care of so many things at once – turn on calming music, dim the lights and lock the door – so we can relax. You’re the best.

Thank you, fire extinguisher.

Fortunately, you mostly collect dust under the sink, but your mere presence makes us feel safer. Especially on Thanksgiving, when there are more house fires than any other day because of cooking, we know you have our backs. We appreciate your readiness during DIY projects and remodels, when power tools are running and flammable materials are in use. We’ll give you a thorough inspection again in a year, just to make sure you’re still good.

Thank you, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

There are few sounds worse than your high-pitched beeping. We wouldn’t have it any other way, though. Whether we’re cooking or the kids are sleeping cozy in their bedrooms, we know all of you are working tirelessly to keep us safe. You are kind of obnoxious when we make bacon, but we love you anyway.

Thank you, family.

You watch the kids, walk the dog and check in on us when we’re sick. You bring extra chairs when we over-invite for holiday meals and supply the ice for summer BBQs. You help us repaint when that new bathroom color doesn’t turn out quite like we expected and share your power tools for those tricky do-it-yourself tasks. We trust you wholeheartedly, and that’s why you get your own smart lock access code.

Thank you, neighbors.

You keep an eye on our home when we’re traveling for the holidays or during the summer. You collect our mail, water our plants and check on the cat while we’re gone. We can tell you’re diligent in your responsibilities based on our smart lock’s activity log in the app. (P.S. Thank you for bringing the sweet potato casserole. It’s really tasty and I will return your baking dish tomorrow.)

Thank you, emergency responders.

You all do so much for our family and community. We appreciate and respect the way you put your own lives on the line so that the rest of us can breathe easy. You keep our streets safe, come to our aid when we are hurt and protect us in innumerable other ways. Many, many thanks.

Find more home security steps you should take during the holidays on our blog, and share what you’re thankful for on Twitter or Facebook.

As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with a sense of warmth, gratitude, and togetherness. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Schlage would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation for the people and technologies that play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our homes and families. In a world where security is paramount, we’re thankful for the peace of mind that these elements provide during the holiday season and throughout the year. Join us in reflecting on the aspects of security that we are truly grateful for this holiday season. 

Thank you, motion-activated sensors, lights and security cameras.

You make our lives better every day. How did we live without you before? You let me know if something mysterious is happening outside the house. We trust you to alert us if a porch pirate is nearby or if the kids got locked out again. Your vigilance is appreciated beyond expression.

Thank you, smart locks.

Gone are the days of fumbling for keys in the rain or juggling groceries at the front door. With smart locks, we have the power of accessibility at our fingertips. No more worries about lost or misplaced keys or wondering if we remembered to lock the door before rushing out the door. Smart locks truly embody the spirit of modern security, making our homes not only safer, but more connected and convenient. 

Thank you, fake rock.

You had your time and you did your best. We appreciate your service, but we have a better way of granting emergency access to our homes now. With smart locks, we no longer need to hide a spare key. Enjoy your retirement in the new year.

Thank you, smart home.

Where should we begin? You do so much for us, from turning lights on and off automatically so people can’t tell if we’re on vacation, to adjusting the thermostat so we don’t waste money or energy, to helping us figure out how many teaspoons are in a tablespoon. Big shout-out to Alexa for that last one. Perhaps more than anything, we like that you let us make a scene when life gets hectic. Just one word and you take care of so many things at once – turn on calming music, dim the lights and lock the door – so we can relax. You’re the best.

Thank you, fire extinguisher.

Fortunately, you mostly collect dust under the sink, but your mere presence makes us feel safer. Especially on Thanksgiving, when there are more house fires than any other day because of cooking, we know you have our backs. We appreciate your readiness during DIY projects and remodels, when power tools are running and flammable materials are in use. We’ll give you a thorough inspection again in a year, just to make sure you’re still good.

Thank you, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

There are few sounds worse than your high-pitched beeping. We wouldn’t have it any other way, though. Whether we’re cooking or the kids are sleeping cozy in their bedrooms, we know all of you are working tirelessly to keep us safe. You are kind of obnoxious when we make bacon, but we love you anyway.

Thank you, family.

You watch the kids, walk the dog and check in on us when we’re sick. You bring extra chairs when we over-invite for holiday meals and supply the ice for summer BBQs. You help us repaint when that new bathroom color doesn’t turn out quite like we expected and share your power tools for those tricky do-it-yourself tasks. We trust you wholeheartedly, and that’s why you get your own smart lock access code.

Thank you, neighbors.

You keep an eye on our home when we’re traveling for the holidays or during the summer. You collect our mail, water our plants and check on the cat while we’re gone. We can tell you’re diligent in your responsibilities based on our smart lock’s activity log in the app. (P.S. Thank you for bringing the sweet potato casserole. It’s really tasty and I will return your baking dish tomorrow.)

Thank you, emergency responders.

You all do so much for our family and community. We appreciate and respect the way you put your own lives on the line so that the rest of us can breathe easy. You keep our streets safe, come to our aid when we are hurt and protect us in innumerable other ways. Many, many thanks.

Find more home security steps you should take during the holidays on our blog, and share what you’re thankful for on Twitter or Facebook.

It’s time to start planning for Black Friday already?! Smart home gadgets could be the answer for that special someone who’s particularly hard to shop for. Especially if the recipient is a fan of Alexa, here are a few home security gift ideas worth getting up early for.

One of the things we love about this list, other than the fact that it shows how to take advantage of Black Friday, is that you can go all-in or pick and choose only what you need. With the right Alexa-enabled devices – think smart plugs and smart locks – along with Alexa Guard, you can create a customized home security system for you or your loved one.

What is Alexa Guard?

This free feature has gradually rolled out to Alexa users in 2018 and is now available throughout the U.S. To summarize, Alexa Guard allows you to say, “Alexa, I’m leaving,” and she will go into Guard mode. She’ll start listening for the sound of breaking glass and smoke or carbon monoxide detectors and alert you via your smartphone if she hears something. Guard mode can also manipulate your lights to make it appear that someone is home as well as arm your Ring or ADT alarms.

If your gift recipient already has the gear to enable this service, well … you just saved a bundle. We bet they’d still appreciate your help setting up the feature. If not, keep reading for the home tech gifts that will make this a reality.

Which Echo is compatible with Alexa?

To set up Alexa Guard and opt in to Smart Alerts, you’ll need a compatible Echo device. This includes the Echo Dot, Echo Plus and Echo Show as well as a few others. Find the complete list in Amazon’s Frequently Asked Questions.

Consider the need for additional Echo devices if your loved one wants to use Guard to detect glass breaking or smoke alarms. The closer the device is to these points they want to monitor, the more effective it will be. They might appreciate an Echo Show in the living room and an Echo Dot for each bedroom, for example.

How can I control the lights with Alexa Guard?

When you tell Alexa you’re leaving, Guard mode will turn lights on and off to fool potential thieves thinking about breaking in. It’s not random though. Alexa uses machine learning to figure out the lighting pattern most appropriate for homes like yours, so it knows which lights to affect. You can also choose which lights to include in the Guard mode settings.

To enable this feature, get your loved one smart lights or lights connected to smart plugs that are Works with Alexa-certified.

What smart locks work with Alexa?

While they aren’t yet a part of Alexa Guard mode, Schlage smart locks are compatible with Alexa-enabled devices. We especially love pairing the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt with these devices. Why? Because as the only Schlage smart lock with built-in WiFi, the Schlage Encode deadbolt does not require any additional hubs or adapters to connect with the internet or your Echo. Simply follow the directions in the Alexa app, then use voice commands – “Alexa, is my door locked?” and “Alexa, lock the front door” – to check the status of your lock and secure the door.

What cameras work with Alexa?

Security cameras and video doorbells are becoming increasingly popular ways to help protect the home. The Ring Stick Up Cam is an indoor/outdoor camera that works with Alexa. When you also have an Echo Show or Spot, you can use the Stick Up Cam to see and talk to a visitor before ever heading to the door. And because it’s one of many cameras made by Ring, you can make it a part of your overall ring of security.

What are Alexa Hunches?

Separate from Alexa Guard, Hunches can also help improve home security. With Hunches, Alexa can remind you if it seems you are forgetting something. She won’t randomly talk to or nag you, but if you say, “Alexa, goodnight,” she can suggest that you lock your door. And because you can use Alexa to lock your Schlage smart lock for you, you don’t even have to get out of bed if you did forget. That’s a double-win for both you and Alexa.

We hope you like the sound of these smart home gifts as much as we do. You can learn more about the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt and find out where to buy one at Schlage.com/encode. If you aren’t sure that’s the perfect lock for your gift recipient, try our Get Help Deciding Tool. Remember that Alexa works with the Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt and Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt as well.

And don’t be shy. Go ahead and put these gadgets on your own holiday wish list, too.

Remove tripping hazards

It’s tempting to deck out the house in ghoulish decorations. We say go for it. Just keep your walkway and porch free of tripping hazards, including extension cords, jack-o’-lanterns and other décor. Also inspect paths and patios for cracks. Even if you can’t repair it before trick-or-treaters arrive, you can reduce risk by placing a chair, décor or something else eye-catching over the hazard.

Secure handrails

Trick-or-treaters – and their costumes – come in all shapes and sizes. Railings along your porch should be secure so youngsters can hang on when coming for their candy.

Turn on the lights

A well-lit house offers two benefits: trick-or-treaters can see where they’re going, and burglars will be turned off by lack of hiding places. Don’t merely turn on the porch light, though. Illuminate as much of the house as possible.

Light pumpkins with electric candles

Show off your carving skills but leave the traditional candles unlit. Opt for flameless, battery-operated candles for pumpkins and lanterns. This is a good idea year-round. It’s a great idea when small children with flowing costumes will be playing nearby.

Organize a neighborhood patrol

Pranks are a big part of Halloween. Even when intentions are good, things can run amok during the excitement, and vandals can use the revelry as cover for their antics. If you don’t have an official Neighborhood Watch, you can still organize a group to keep an eye on the streets and report any suspicious behavior to police. October – National Crime Prevention Month – is a great time to introduce a watch group in your community.

Lock up when you go out

Whether you’re taking the kids out for candy or going to a Halloween party, lock your doors. A smart lock like the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt provides additional security in that you can monitor the status of your lock from anywhere and receive notifications if there is a suspected security breach at the door. When you sync it with the Ring Video Doorbell 2, you can also see activity happening on your porch from the Ring App’s Live View. Similar monitoring capabilities are available when you combine your Schlage Encode lock with Amazon Cloud Cam.

Secure other points of entry

You might think you can keep an eye on things from your front porch while handing out candy, but there are lots of fun things to be distracted by on Halloween night. Make sure your windows and other entry points to the house – back doors, fence gates – are securely locked and well-lit.

Care for your pets

Your furry family members will be happier and healthier if you keep them contained. One of the last things you want is for your cat to slip out the door or your dog to get into the chocolate.

Don’t be too scary

Smaller children especially can’t always determine what’s real and what isn’t. Not everyone loves a haunted house. Try not to be too scary so that you cause children to startle and trip or run away.

Don’t leave the candy bowl unattended

First, you’ll run out of treats super quick. But you might also attract animals and insects. You’ll regret it when they burrow into your garden or the foundation of your home.

Crime prevention is a year-round effort, especially during the holidays. For more tips on seasonal security, visit our blog archive. And don’t be afraid to share your own safety tricks – or photos of your ghoulish get-ups – with us on Instagram.

1. Repair your walkways

Ice and slipping are about to be a problem. Set yourself up for a safer winter my repairing uneven, cracked or crumbling walkways. The same goes for your driveway. It will be much easier to clear snow and stay on your feet if you do. Tighten handrails and banisters around the porch while you’re at it.

2. Light the longer nights

Fall and winter mean longer nights. Replace the bulbs in your outdoor light fixtures, or install new lights so you can see when you get home in the evening. Extra lighting – around the front door, along the side of the house, near a gardening shed – is also a strong deterrent for would-be thieves. You might also consider timers for your outdoor lighting for greater convenience.

3. Inspect your doors – Part I

Deadbolts are a key ingredient to securing your home against potential intruders. Equally important is a sturdy door and door frame. Examine your entire entryway now and make sure there’s no warping or cracks in the wood that will keep your deadbolt from latching securely.

Think back through the last year. Did your door stick? Did you have to push or pull on your door handle to get it to lock? It’s not unusual for changes in weather to affect the seal on your door. Now’s your chance to correct your door’s fit by addressing any issues with the frame.

4. Inspect your doors – Part II

Sliding patio doors tend to get a good workout in the spring and summer. You should always take extra precautions to secure these doors, but the fall is a good excuse to make sure the latch is still working properly. If you don’t have one already, install a rod or other mechanism in the sliding track to increase security.

5. Heat efficiently

There are plenty of DIY maintenance steps you can take to keep your HVAC system safe and operating efficiently. With an outdoor heat pump, remove nearby debris or vegetation so that it doesn’t restrict airflow. Indoors, replace the air filter, clean dust and dirt from the registers, and replace the water panel or humidifier pad. You can find more heating efficiency tips at HVAC.com.

6. Get your bathroom guest-ready

Fall is the start of holiday season for many of us, which often brings houseguests and large meals. A not-so-fun fact is that the day after Thanksgiving is the busiest of the year for plumbers. Knowing your bathroom is going to get a lot of use, replace the caulking around tubs and sinks to avoid leaking. Correct any ventilation issues to reduce the risk of mold. And if you’re expecting young visitors, take some extra precautions to childproof your bathroom with no-slip tub stickies, faucet guards and cabinet locks.

7. Prepare for the holidays

Planning on hanging lights or decorating for the holidays? Now’s the perfect time to install hooks or even add electrical outlets in easy-to-reach locations to make that process less stressful later.

This list merely scrapes the surface of the steps you can take to make sure your house is ready for the new season. Find more home safety and security projects to complete this fall in our blog archives. Then head to our Design & Trends collection for ways to capture fall porch décor.

You love the idea of never losing keys again, remote access from anywhere using your smartphone and making your deadbolt part of your whole-home, high-tech security. You’re ready to finally buy that smart lock, but … what happens when you take your Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt out of the box? Now you have all kinds of questions about how to install it, if you’ll need to call in a professional and if it’s really as easy as everyone says it is.

We don’t expect you to trust us when we say being your own smart home installer is simple. Take it from Reviewed.com, which recently named the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt its best overall smart lock for 2019. There were a lot of features they liked – that keyless convenience and remote access to name a few. But that wasn’t it.

According to the review, “For starters, thanks to the app’s interactive step-by-step guide, installation and troubleshooting are a breeze.”

You’re an internet wiz

That app they’re talking about is the Schlage^® Home app. When you bring the Schlage Encode deadbolt home, simply follow the instructions on your smartphone and you’ll be connected to your home wireless network in no time. And because the lock has built-in WiFi, connecting to your secure network is as straightforward as getting online with your laptop. No additional accessories or hubs are required to get the wireless security for your home you seek.

Look like a handyman extraordinaire

“But wait!” you say. What about actually getting the lock on the door? Schlage smart locks, including the Schlage Encode deadbolt, are battery operated. That means no wiring and no need for an electrician. All you need is a screwdriver and a few minutes’ time. Our door hardware is also guaranteed to fit on all standard doors, so there’s no drilling or creating new bore holes. And with a low-profile trim on the Schlage Encode lock, you don’t have to worry about repositioning a screen door to still enjoy your wireless security. When we say installation is easy, we mean it.

Show your smart home installer skills

With just the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Schlage Home app, you have two of the most basic – but important – elements for durable, smart and stylish front door security. Use the keypad, the app or a traditional backup key to lock and unlock the door. If you’re craving even more wireless security options and smart home integrations, you can pair your Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt with other devices.

• Ring – Make the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Ring Video Doorbell part of your Ring of Security to see and talk to guests at your front door, even if you aren’t home. You’ll need the Key by Amazon and Ring apps to use all the Ring Video Doorbell features, but once you’re connected, you’ll be able to verify the identity of your guests from your phone, and if you want to give them access to the house, you can unlock the door for them. That’s what we call security, control and convenience at your fingertips.

 

• Key by Amazon – Even if you don’t have a video doorbell, Key by Amazon with your Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt could allow you to opt in to in-home delivery from Amazon. Prime users in select cities have the option toof allow packages to be placed directly inside the home, protecting your boxes from bad weather and the dreaded porch pirates.

 

• Voice control – Use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control your lock with just your voice. “Alexa, lock the door,” or “Hey, Google! Is my door locked?” gives you more convenient ways to secure your home, even when you can’t make it to the door. And remember, because of the Schlage Encode lock’s built-in WiFi, you don’t need additional accessories to take advantage of voice commands.

Adding wireless security to your home isn’t as difficult as you might think. We’ll let Reviewed.com share their take again: “The lock and accompanying app are simple and intuitive to use, jam-packed with useful features, and they had the fast lock and unlock times.”

Be sure to check out the rest of the review of 2019’s top smart locks. We’re proud that the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt was the second overall pick and the choice for best lock to use with Apple HomeKit. The Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt also made the list’s cut.

Still not sure which smart lock is right for your home? Try our Get Help Deciding Tool or ask us on Twitter or Facebook.

Premium construction

It should go without saying that the most secure locks tend to be the ones made of the strongest materials. Schlage deadbolts feature premium metal construction. Some locks may have plastic components that won’t stand up as well to wear and tear or forced entry.

Also pay attention to parts beyond the latch itself. For example, your deadbolt should include a reinforced strike plate, which you’ll install inside the doorframe. The bolt portion of your deadbolt extends into the hole in the doorjamb through the strike plate. Without a reinforced strike plate, you run the risk of the metal bolt tearing through the wooden frame should someone try to kick in your door.

Also look for longer screws – at least 3 inches – to attach your strike plate to the frame. If the screws are too short, it increases the chances that they’ll be ripped out of the frame during a high-impact security breach. Longer screws will help keep the strike plate in place, the bolt in the latched position and the door secure.

Seal of approval

There are several organizations that rate door hardware. The Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association assigns grades based on security, durability and finish. A rating of AAA is the best a lock can receive. All Schlage mechanical deadbolts and handlesets are certified AAA. Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt, Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt with built-in-alarm and Schlage Touch™ Keyless Touchscreen Deadbolt have also earned AAA ratings. As you approach a CCC rating, know that the lock has not performed as well in BHMA testing.

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) also has a rating system based on durability and how well a lock holds up to attempts at forced entry. Grade 1 is the highest rating, while Grade 3 may include parts that are less durable or may not last as long. Schlage’s mechanical single-cylinder deadbolts are Grade 1, as are the Schlage Encode, Schlage Sense and Schlage Connect deadbolts.

Company confidence

Does the company that manufacturers and sells the lock have confidence in its own product? Look for phrases like “lifetime guarantee” or “warranty included” for an extra level of assurance that your exterior lock will provided your desired level of security. Schlage offers a limited lifetime mechanical and finish warranty as well as a three-year electronics warranty on its smart locks.

Door strength

If you’ve made it this far, you probably aren’t surprised to hear that the health of your door, not just your lock, is vital to your home’s security. If your doorjamb is weak or cracked, it becomes easier to break the frame and gain entry. Weak or lose door hinges won’t do you any favors either. As Family Handyman explained in their tutorial for reinforcing doors, “I never realized how easy it is to kick in a solid door that has old hardware until I tried it on our demonstration door. With two kicks in only five seconds, I destroyed the doorjamb and was in the house.”
 

The same goes for the door itself. Solid wood or steel doors are your best options rather than hollow core, glass or PVC.

Whether you choose the superior security of Schlage or take a different route, remember that the most secure lock only works if you actually use it. Failing to secure your deadbolt, even if you’ll only be gone for a few minutes, leaves your home at risk for unwanted access by intruders. Learn more ways to secure your home with Schlage locks at Schlage.com/blog or discover how you can improve the safety of your entire neighborhood with tips from the National Crime Prevention Council.