A keypad door lock like this Schlage (http://amzn.com/B003F6O2B4) can give you the freedom of access. This type of lock avoids a myriad of problems that we have all faced.
- You have a contractor who needs temporary access. Good luck getting a key back from him when he is done. Give him a code and delete it when he is done.
- You lost your keys. A cab brings you home but how do you get in? Don't break down that door, simply punch in your code.
- Going for a run. Don't bother putting that key in your sock where it will rub against your ankle or worse simply fall out.
- You left town for the weekend but forgot to set you the trash. Call your neighbor and give them a code. You don't come home to the smell of last weeks garbage.
- Selling your home? No need to give the realtor a key, just a code.
But you are thinking, I can just give people keys. And they can copy those keys. Who really has access to your house? Rekey your locks and install a high quality keypad deadbolt to give you peace of mind. It has the option of up to 19 programmable codes that can independently be added or deleted. Your daughter gives the code to her friends during a sleep over, no worries. Simply delete the code and give your daughter a new code (along with a briefing on security procedures). The keypad illuminates when you hit the first key. No more fumbling for keys in the dark.
I know, you are worried that the battery will go dead and you will be locked out. The lock also accepts a standard key and can be keyed to match the other locks in your house. (Store your key in a safe place not under that concrete armadillo on your front step).
Of course, no discussion of keypads is not complete without a discussion of access code numbers. Do NOT use any of the following for codes:
- Your house number
- Your phone number
- Your birth date
- Your anniversary
