Privacy Please! Essential Guide to Locking Bedroom Doors from Outside

We all need privacy and security in our bedrooms. Whether you have kids who love to barge in unannounced or simply want to prevent unwanted intruders, locking your bedroom door from the outside is key.

In this post, we'll provide a complete guide to choosing, installing, and using the right locks to keep your bedroom private and secure. By the end, you'll know exactly how to fortify your bedroom door against external entry when needed.

Methods for Locking Bedroom Doors Externally

When it comes to locking bedroom doors from the outside, you have several options to choose from. The most common methods include using locking latches, padlocks, deadbolt locks, doorknob lockout devices, and keyed door handles.

Locking Latches

Locking latches are a simple and affordable way to lock a bedroom door from the outside. These devices consist of a spring-loaded latch attached to the door that clicks into place when the door is pushed shut.

The advantages of using a locking latch include:

• Inexpensive price point, usually less than $10
• Easy, quick installation - no tools required
• Convenient to lock door by just pulling it closed

However, locking latches also have some downsides:

• Not very secure - can easily be forced open
• Limited strength - made of plastic parts prone to breaking
• Only suitable for keeping honest people honest

Overall, simple locking latches are handy for keeping younger siblings or children out of a bedroom when supervision is nearby. But they cannot be relied upon to guard against determined intruders. For better security, you'll need a sturdier lock.

Padlocks

Padlocks offer a portable way to lock bedroom doors from the outside. To use them, you attach the open padlock to the door's doorknob or handle. Then you pass the free end around something secure on the other side like a door frame or second doorknob, and click the padlock shut.

Benefits of securing bedroom doors with padlocks include:

• Inexpensive, usually $5-$15 for a basic padlock
• Very portable - can be installed or removed in seconds
• Do not require modifying the door

Limitations of padlocks include:

• Can be inconvenient needing keys to open from both sides
• Prevent access in case of emergency when no one has the key
• Not as secure as deadbolts - can potentially be pried open by force

Using a padlock is fine for locking a bedroom door from the outside when someone is home to let you in if needed. But they should not be used to restrict access if no one else will be there with a key.

Deadbolt Locks

Installing a deadbolt is a robust way to fortify a bedroom door against unwanted external entry. Deadbolts have a solid bolt that extends deep into the door frame when locked, making them very resistant to being forced open.

Key advantages of deadbolt locks include:

• Provide exceptional security against break-ins
• Cannot be unlocked from the outside if you have the key hidden inside
• Can get pick-resistant models for added security

Potential downsides to keep in mind are:

• More expensive than other locks, $25-$50 typically
• Professional installation often recommended
• Less convenient than keyless locks requiring a key to secure

Installing a deadbolt is more involved but pays dividends through robust security. They are ideal for exterior doors but provide overkill for lower-risk applications like just keeping kids out of a room.

Doorknob Lockout Devices

A doorknob lockout device prevents someone on the outside of a bedroom door from turning the doorknob to gain entry. These devices physically block the doorknob from rotating.

Benefits of using a doorknob lockout include:

• Very quick and easy for DIY installation - no tools needed
• Prevent access without modifying or damaging door hardware
• Low cost, usually $5-$10

Shortcomings to be aware of:

• Not as sturdy or secure as other lock options
• Can potentially be removed by force
• Only protect against casual intruders

Overall, doorknob lockout devices provide a fast solution when you need to lock a bedroom door from the outside temporarily. But they should not be used as your sole barrier for high-security applications.

Keyed Door Handles

Replacing an existing bedroom door handle with an exterior keyed handleset instantly upgrades security. These handles lock and unlock using a key instead of an interior thumb-turn.

Advantages of installing a keyed door handle include:

• Add an extra layer of security without modifying the door
• Wide variety of styles to match your existing hardware
• Reasonable costs, starting around $15-$30

Potential cons to factor in are:

• Less convenient than keyless entry locks
• Risk of getting locked out if you misplace the key
• Usually only lock and unlock, rather than act as a deadbolt

Swapping in a keyed door handle provides a cost-effective way to enhance security and quickly lock a bedroom door from outside when leaving. But you'll need to ensure you have the key handy to avoid any frustrating lockouts.

Key Considerations for Choosing Locks

With a variety of options for locking bedroom doors externally, it's important to select the right lock type for your needs. Key factors to consider include:

Security Requirements

Assess your actual security needs realistically. Reinforced deadbolts may be overkill if you just want to keep kids from barging into a room unsupervised. But they provide critical protection on doors leading outside.

Access Requirements

Determine whether you need keyless convenience for quick entry or are willing to use traditional keyed locks. Keyless electronic locks simplify access but require power and cost more.

Convenience

Opt for locks easy and quick to engage when leaving in a hurry. Locks requiring multiple steps to secure, like using a separate padlock, can be frustrating.

Appearance

Locking latches and electronic locks provide discrete solutions if you don't want large visible hardware. Deadbolts and padlocks stand out more.

Budget

Simple mechanical locks like latches and padlocks offer the lowest cost options. Sophisticated electronic smart locks range up to several hundred dollars for top models.

Installing Locks on Outside Bedroom Doors

Once you select the right lock type, installing it properly ensures security and smooth operation. Follow these tips when adding locks to fortify bedroom doors against outside intrusion:

Assess the Existing Door

Examine the current door and frame thoroughly. Verify measurements for the lock body and bolt to ensure proper fit. Also check for rot, damage, or weakness needing repair before adding hardware.

Gather Tools

Collect necessary tools like tape measure, screwdriver, drill, and safety glasses. Use proper drilling bits for pilot holes. Have shims handy for alignment.

Follow Installation Instructions

Carefully read and follow the full installation guide included with the lock. Pay close attention to details like hole sizing and avoid overtightening screws.

Hire a Pro If Needed

Consider letting a locksmith tackle the installation if you're uncomfortable doing it yourself. They have specialized expertise for tricky doors or electronic locks requiring wiring.

Test Operation

After installing the lock, test locking and unlocking operation several times from both inside and outside. Verify the bolt extends and retracts smoothly and the door still latches properly.

Using Locks Properly for Safety

While locks boost security, take steps to prevent dangerous situations when using them:

Keep Keys Accessible

If locks require keys, store spares in secure but quickly accessible spots in case someone gets locked inside a room. Never block all emergency egress.

Supervise Children

Do not lock very young children alone in bedrooms with no adult supervision and inability to get out in an emergency.

Inform Neighbors

Tell trusted nearby neighbors which locks you use and provide spare keys. This allows help accessing your home if you lose keys or lock yourself out.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information about choosing, installing, and using locks for bedroom doors from the outside, check out answers to these common questions:

What are pick-resistant locks?

Pick-resistant locks include features thwarting lockpicking tools. These include special pins, rotating disks, and unique key shapes. However, no lock is 100% pick-proof.

How can I add a lock to a door without existing hardware?

Use an adhesive lock fitting into the gap between door and jamb. Or install a deadbolt with the latch housed in the jamb rather than the door edge.

What battery-powered electronic locks are available?

Leading battery-powered smart lock options include August, Yale Assure, and Schlage Encode. These provide keyless access without hardwiring required.

What smartphone apps work with smart locks?

Top apps compatible with major smart lock brands for remote access include August, Yale Access, Schlage Home, and Lockly Vision.

How do I reinstate access if I lose the keys or forget the code?

Smart locks allow resetting codes remotely. For traditional locks, a professional locksmith can gain entry or make replacement keys if needed.

Adding locks to bedroom doors that prevent unwanted external entry provides significant security and privacy benefits. But beyond reinforcing the door itself, also consider protections like glass break sensors, security cameras, and an alarm system to further harden your home's defenses.

While no solution short of a bank vault will make a bedroom door impervious, the locks detailed above balance cost, security, and convenience concerns effectively. Take time to carefully assess your needs and home setup before choosing options complementing your living space.

By combining robust door locks with layered home security measures, you can enjoy privacy and peace of mind knowing your personal sanctuary stays protected.