Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

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Joined Dec 29, 2014

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118 Posts

Discussion Starter · #1 · Feb 19, 2017

Hello,

The house we purchased ~2 years ago has double-sided deadbolt locks in many places (except for the front door really), which I feel is not safe (or practical really). I was wondering if it was possible to convert those to single-sided deadbolt locks without purchasing an entire new lock. If not, I would be OK buying brand new locks, but my concern is that I don't want to change my keys. It's possible to rekey a new lock to my existing keys, right?

Thanks,
Olivier

Joined Nov 18, 2007

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3,456 Posts

If you need a key to get in and out, just put duplicate keys in the interior deadbolts and leave them there.

Joined Dec 29, 2014

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118 Posts

Discussion Starter · #3 · Feb 19, 2017

Thanks. For now that is what we did but that's not a long-term solution - at least for me.

If I get a new deadbolt, is it possible to rekey to my existing keys? Or would I have to change the keys?

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

Joined Aug 30, 2011

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30,022 Posts

If they are the same manufacturer, you can likely rekey. Not that hard, you just need the tools.

Joined Dec 29, 2014

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118 Posts

Discussion Starter · #5 · Feb 19, 2017

Thanks. What kind of tools? Or do I just need a rekeying kit?

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

Joined Aug 30, 2011

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30,022 Posts

Joined Aug 25, 2013

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1,978 Posts

I've seen snap-on knob-like things that you can put on the indoor key to make it look like a regular indoor flipper.

Joined Feb 13, 2015

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68 Posts

The thing I like about the 2 sided is you can take the key out when you go on vacation or whatever, and people who break into a window can't take large items out the door.

But to answer your question, I have never seen the latch side of the deadbolt lock sold separately, but you never know... I bought a re-key kit on Amaz0n and made all my locks match. It's pretty easy and there are YT tutorials.

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
04-25-14, 11:06 PM

Join Date: Aug 2013

Location: USA

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Converting a double cylinder gate latch to single cylinder?


Hi all, the security gate to my complex is a double cylinder, as in requiring a key to enter and to exit (similar to these). Not only is that illegal and dangerous, but also quite inconvenient.

I'm assisting the HOA with the complex. If we were to convert it to single cylinder (knob on the inside), can we purchase the knob and switch it out? Or is it not worth the trouble/cost and better off buying a single cylinder set? Thanks!

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
04-26-14, 01:51 PM

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

Join Date: Dec 2007

Location: USA

Posts: 21,110

We can't see the gate, but if you can reach your hand through it, whats the point in having just a knob on the inside?

You might have to replace the entire handle set with one that when locked with the key, can be opened from the inside, but is still locked when it closes. The problem might be that if someone unlocks with a key for access, they may forget to relock it after opening.

I'm sure there are specialized locks that would meet your requirements. Our Pro's will be around....

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
04-28-14, 03:00 PM

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

Join Date: May 2006

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As mentioned, you can install a storeroom door lock that is key operated outside (always locked) and always unlocked inside. You need to shroud the inside handle so it cannot be accessed from outside.

If the gate is steel, this is easily accomplished by welding a large plate to the door.

What you have there is essentially the same thing but with key inside. You cannot use the inner thumbturn from another product because the tailpiece will be too short (on the external cylinder)

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
04-28-14, 08:37 PM

Join Date: Nov 2008

Location: USA

Posts: 1,498

At the condo where I used to live, we had 5 pedestrian gates into the common area...we used expanded metal to cover the gates, and used Grade 2 "storeroom function" cylindrical locks with knobs, not levers. (there were only 20 apartments so the locks did not get very heavy use. If you anticipate a lot of traffic, get Grade 1).

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
05-05-14, 08:52 AM

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

Join Date: May 2006

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Perhaps a simple and inexpensive solution may be to use a standard entrance set that can be used like a storeroom lock and fit one of those child protective plastic spinners over the inside knob. While not a perfect solution, it might help to make operating the inside knob more difficult from outside.

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
05-05-14, 06:23 PM

Join Date: Nov 2008

Location: USA

Posts: 1,498

A quick note about knobs vs. levers: In the USA, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates that on "public use" doors with existing "knob" latches or locks, when repair or replacement is necessary, OR if a handicapped person requests it, a lever type latch/lock be installed as a replacement.

A HOA, whether of a condo or group of detached homes, is not exactly "public use" so the law doesn't technically apply here, but, especially in a really large complex, where there's a likelihood of having a few handicapped owners who might be adversely affected by the proposed changes, it's advisable to get their input to get the best balance between accessibility and security.

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
05-06-14, 01:33 PM

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

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that is not entirely accurate rstripe. the rules read "locks than can operate with a clenched fist".

Yes, lever locks do this, but so do locks that operate with a press button or push/pull paddle.

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
05-06-14, 07:39 PM

Join Date: Nov 2008

Location: USA

Posts: 1,498

Yes global, I'm aware of the range of acceptable lock handles under ADA, but the type of handle is determined by the door prep....in OP's case, (per his photo example anyway) the popular ANSI 160/161 prep would call for a cylindrical lever lock as replacement. Push buttons and paddles are acceptable, but, with very few exceptions, they do not easily adapt to this door prep.

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder
05-10-14, 11:16 AM

Convert single cylinder deadbolt to double cylinder

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perhaps you need to look a little deeper into products and availability. There are really excellent quality products designed to fit this door prep, that are competitively priced, simple to operate, easy to install and good looking. Rules here prevent handing websites for those products. If interested PM me.

Is a double

Generally, single-cylinder deadbolts are less secure than double-cylinder options. They could potentially allow easier access to the home from intruders in the know. Furthermore, they're easy for small children to use, which means they could get outside without anyone being aware.
In the U.S., there is no single comprehensive law against dual-cylinder deadbolts. Individual cities and states have local property and fire codes that may prohibit the use of dual-cylinder deadbolts. The code may prohibit the use of dual-cylinder deadbolts in some buildings and allow them in others.

Why would you use a double

Businesses often use double-cylinder deadbolt locks because they provide more security on exterior doors that have windows. When intruders attempt to break into a building through a window, the key lock on the inside of the door will stop them from entering.

Can you replace deadbolt cylinder?

Cylinders for Locks In order to change your lock, you can replace your entire lock, or you can replace just the cylinder. Again, you can take just the cylinder to a locksmith to be rekeyed, also.