Choosing the right door lock is one of the most important decisions for your home's security. But in Canada, you need locks that don't just stop intruders—they also need to withstand harsh winters, ice, and temperature swings from -30°C to +30°C. Here are our top picks for 2024, based on 6+ years of installing locks across the Niagara Region.
What Makes a Good Lock for Canadian Weather?
Before we dive into specific recommendations, here's what to look for in a lock for Canadian homes:
- Grade 1 or 2 rating - ANSI/BHMA grading measures durability
- Weather-resistant materials - Stainless steel or brass over chrome plating
- Anti-freeze lubrication - Won't seize in extreme cold
- Pick-resistant pins - Security pins make lock picking difficult
- Bump-resistant design - Prevents bump key attacks
Best Overall: Schlage B60N Deadbolt
Schlage B60N Single Cylinder Deadbolt
The Schlage B60N is our go-to recommendation for most Canadian homeowners. It's ANSI Grade 1 rated (the highest), bump-resistant, and has a reinforced strike plate that resists kick-ins. The brass construction handles Canadian winters without issues.
Pros: Affordable, Grade 1 rating, proven track record, easy to rekey
Cons: Not high-security, basic key design
Best Budget Option: Weiser SmartKey
Weiser SmartKey Deadbolt
Weiser (a Canadian brand!) offers solid security at a lower price point. The SmartKey feature lets you rekey the lock yourself in seconds—great if you've just moved. Grade 2 rated, which is sufficient for most homes.
Pros: DIY rekey feature, affordable, Canadian brand
Cons: Grade 2 (not Grade 1), some reports of SmartKey mechanism issues
Best High-Security: Medeco Maxum
Medeco Maxum Deadbolt
If you want the absolute best security, Medeco is the gold standard. Their patented key design is virtually pick-proof and keys can only be copied at authorized dealers. Used by government buildings and high-security facilities.
Pros: UL 437 high-security rated, restricted keyway, lifetime warranty
Cons: Expensive, key copies cost more
Best Smart Lock: Schlage Encode Plus
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
For smart home enthusiasts, the Schlage Encode Plus works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. It's Grade 1 rated with built-in WiFi (no hub needed) and has performed well in our Canadian winter installations.
Pros: No hub required, Apple Home Key support, Grade 1 rated
Cons: Battery life affected by cold, expensive
💡 Smart Lock Winter Tip
If installing a smart lock, keep spare batteries inside the house. Cold temperatures drain batteries faster. Most smart locks alert you before the battery dies, but it's good to have backups ready.
Locks to Avoid
- Cheap no-name locks from dollar stores - Often Grade 3 or unrated
- Locks with chrome-only finishes - Rust and corrode quickly
- Old Kwikset locks (pre-2008) - Easily bumped and picked
- Smart locks from unknown brands - Security vulnerabilities, poor app support
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Most deadbolt locks can be DIY installed if you're handy with tools. However, we recommend professional installation if:
- Your door or frame needs reinforcement
- You're installing high-security locks
- The existing hole doesn't match the new lock
- You want a warranty on the installation
Professional installation cost: $50-$100 per lock, including door assessment and proper alignment.
Our Final Recommendations
- Most homes: Schlage B60N - Best balance of security and price
- Budget-conscious: Weiser SmartKey - Good security, DIY rekey
- Maximum security: Medeco Maxum - When security is priority #1
- Smart home: Schlage Encode Plus - Best smart lock for Canadian weather
Need Help Choosing or Installing Locks?
We offer free security assessments and professional lock installation across the Niagara Region.
📞 Call (343) 312-8468