Locked Out Of Your Own Room? Smart Ways To Lock A Bedroom Door Externally
We've all experienced that feeling of wanting extra privacy or security in our own personal spaces within a home. Especially in shared living situations, finding smart solutions to lock a bedroom door from the outside can give you greater peace of mind and control over your private room.
While there are a few factors to consider, like apartment lease terms and fire safety regulations, there are several clever options to make sure you're never locked out of your own bedroom again.
Why You Might Want to Lock Your Bedroom Door Externally
There are a few key reasons you might want the ability to lock your bedroom door from the outside:
- Prevent intrusions from kids, guests, or roommates when you're away
- Keep pets confined in your room while you're not home
- Provide privacy and security in shared living spaces like apartments
- Secure your private space and belongings from theft
Having an external locking mechanism can give you great peace of mind that your personal space stays private even when you can't be there.
What to Know Before Installing Outside Bedroom Door Locks
While locking your bedroom door from the outside sounds straightforward, there are a few important legal and safety considerations, especially for renters:
Apartment Lease Rules and Landlord Policies
Many apartment leases prohibit tenants from changing locks or installing new locks themselves. Always check your lease and get written permission from your landlord before adding any new locking mechanisms on your doors.
Local Fire and Building Codes
Most areas require bedroom doors to be quickly unlockable from the inside for emergency egress. Locking doors from the outside could violate fire codes, so check local regulations.
Your Door Type and Compatible Locks
Not all doors can accommodate external locking devices. The door material, frame, and existing lock and knob types factor into modifications for outside locking.
How to Lock a Bedroom Door from the Outside
Once you've addressed the considerations above, there are several effective options for locking a bedroom door from the exterior side:
Install a Keyed Deadbolt Lock
Deadbolts provide the highest level of security. They install separately from the existing doorknob and latch assembly and are operated by a key from either side.
Replacing your doorknob with a keyed deadbolt set allows you to lock the door with a key from the outside while still having a thumbturn on the interior side for quick egress.
Use a Locking Doorknob
Some keyed doorknobs provide external key access while maintaining an interior switch mechanism. This integrates the locking function into the knob itself rather than adding a separate deadbolt.
Add a Mortice or Nightlatch Lock
Mortice locks with external key access are installed into a pocket inside the door itself and provide extra security. Nightlatches also have key access from both sides.
Install Temporary and Portable Locks
Temporary security devices like hotel door locks, sliding travel locks, or security bars can be installed without modifying the door. While less secure, portable locks provide an option for renters prohibited from making permanent changes.
Unlocking a Door Locked From the Outside
While external locks provide security when you're away from your bedroom, you also need a reliable way to unlock the door when you don't have your key!
Backup Keys
Always keep a backup key in a safe location in case you get locked out. Hide one outside your door, give spares to trusted roommates, or keep one in a lockbox.
Removing the Lock Mechanism
In an emergency, you may need to drill out the lock cylinder and replace the whole locking mechanism, so find locks designed for non-destructive removal.
Locksmith Services
A professional locksmith can pick simple locks or drill out mortice and cylinder locks. They can also install hand turn releases to make unlocking easier in a lockout situation.
FAQs About Locking Bedroom Doors Externally
Is it safe to lock my bedroom door from the outside?
It can be done safely by keeping backup keys accessible, using locks with safety releases, and getting permission in rental units. Make sure to check that it doesn't violate emergency egress codes.
Can I get in trouble with my landlord?
Unauthorized lock changes often violate lease terms. To avoid problems, get written approval from your landlord first before installing any new locks.
What if I lose my keys and can't get in my room?
A professional locksmith can gain entry without damaging the lock in most cases. You can also authorize your landlord or building manager to access a spare key and unlock the door for you.
What are the best types of locks for outside access?
Deadbolts and mortice locks provide the most security while still allowing key access from the exterior side. Keyed doorknobs are also an option for many doors.
Adding external locking mechanisms to your bedroom door allows you to control access even when you're away. By taking the proper precautions and selecting the right lock type for your door, you can find an ideal balance of security and convenience in shared living spaces.
Just remember to make safety a priority and get any necessary permission before making lock modifications in rental units. With some smart planning, you'll never be locked out of your own bedroom again!