Many homeowners believe that installing a deadbolt lock guarantees complete safety. However, even the most robust deadbolts are not entirely immune to skilled burglars. Understanding how burglars can bypass these locks helps you reinforce your home security effectively.

A deadbolt lock is strong, but its strength depends on the door, frame, and installation. If any component is weak, a burglar can exploit it in seconds. This article explores the 10 main reasons why burglars can open deadbolt locks, so you can take proactive steps to protect your property.

By the end, you’ll learn how to upgrade your locks, doors, and habits to stay one step ahead of intruders.

Can A Burglar Open A Deadbolt Lock? 10 Reasons Why

1. Weak Door Frames – Even the Strongest Deadbolt Can Fail

A deadbolt lock is only as strong as the door frame supporting it. Most burglars exploit weak wooden frames that split easily under force. Even if the deadbolt itself is solid, a soft frame gives way when kicked or pried.

Burglars often use shoulder force or crowbars to break frames that aren’t reinforced with metal strike plates. This makes deadbolts useless because the bolt has nothing strong to hold onto. A simple metal reinforcement can make a major difference in strength.

To prevent this, homeowners should install a metal door jamb reinforcement kit and use long screws that anchor deeply into the wall studs. This converts a fragile frame into a burglar-resistant barrier.

Pros:

• Reinforces door frame

• Increases lock strength

• Low installation cost

• Improves durability

• Easy DIY upgrade

• Prevents frame cracks

• Increases peace of mind

Cons:

• Needs tools

• Takes time

• Affects aesthetics

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2. Lock Picking Techniques Still Work

Even modern deadbolt locks can be picked by experienced burglars. These individuals often carry lock-picking tools or bump keys that manipulate internal pins. Within seconds, a standard lock can be turned without damage.

Lock picking doesn’t leave visible marks, making it hard for victims to notice entry. Traditional pin-tumbler deadbolts are especially vulnerable to this method. That’s why burglars often target cheaper locks bought from local stores.

To counteract this, use high-security deadbolts with anti-pick pins or magnetic key systems. These locks are more complex internally and resist typical picking methods.

Pros:

• Silent break-in method

• Leaves no damage

• Easy for pros

• Tools are portable

• Works on cheap locks

• Quick to execute

• Effective at night

Cons:

• Needs skill

• Takes practice

• Not foolproof

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3. Bump Keys Can Open Many Deadbolts

A bump key is a modified key that can open most pin-tumbler locks. Burglars use it by inserting the key and tapping it with a blunt object. This forces the pins to align momentarily, unlocking the mechanism.

Even deadbolts labeled “secure” can fall victim to bump keys if they lack bump-resistant design. What’s worse is that bumping is fast, silent, and hard to detect after the fact. Burglars favor this method when they don’t want to break doors.

To protect yourself, choose bump-proof or smart deadbolts that use digital, disc, or rotating mechanisms. These advanced locks remove the weakness exploited by bump keys.

Pros:

• Fast entry

• Low noise

• No damage

• Easy to carry

• Cheap tools

• Hard to detect

• Works widely

Cons:

• Needs right key

• Not for all locks

• Preventable

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4. Poor Installation Weakens Lock Integrity

A deadbolt lock loses most of its strength if poorly installed. Incorrect alignment or shallow bolt holes allow burglars to bypass it easily. Sometimes, installers don’t drill deep enough for the bolt to extend fully.

Burglars exploit this by applying pressure until the bolt slips or breaks free. Improperly installed strike plates also make doors easier to pry open. Even premium locks fail when mounted incorrectly.

Ensure that your deadbolt extends at least one inch into the frame and that the strike plate is secured with 3-inch screws. Professional installation ensures both security and longevity.

Pros:

• Improves strength

• Reduces prying risk

• Professional look

• Extends lock life

• Boosts security

• Prevents misalignment

• Affordable fix

Cons:

• Needs expertise

• Takes time

• Costly labor

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5. Glass Doors Expose the Deadbolt

Deadbolts installed near glass panels are risky. Burglars simply break the glass, reach inside, and unlock the deadbolt manually. This method bypasses the entire locking mechanism.

Even double-glazed or reinforced glass can’t fully prevent this attack. A burglar doesn’t need to destroy the whole door — just a small area near the lock. This makes aesthetic glass doors a serious vulnerability.

Homeowners should use double-cylinder deadbolts that require a key from both sides. This prevents burglars from unlocking the door after breaking the glass.

Pros:

• Looks elegant

• Allows natural light

• Easy access

• Common design

• Customizable

• Modern style

• Affordable option

Cons:

• Easy to break

• Low privacy

• Security risk

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6. Crowbars and Forced Entry Tools

Burglars often use crowbars or pry bars to break through doors, even with deadbolts. These tools apply extreme leverage to separate the door from the frame. In seconds, the lock tears out with part of the wood.

This method is loud but effective on standard wooden doors without reinforcement plates. Even strong locks fail when force is applied at the right angle.

Use solid steel strike plates and reinforced hinges to resist this kind of attack. A metal door frame further boosts resilience.

Pros:

• Powerful tool

• Works quickly

• Common method

• Cheap equipment

• Little skill needed

• Effective leverage

• Works on wood

Cons:

• Very noisy

• Damages door

• Visible break-in

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7. Old or Rusted Deadbolts

Over time, rust and wear weaken deadbolts. Corrosion can make bolts brittle and easy to snap under pressure. Burglars exploit this weakness with minimal force.

Old locks often jam, misalign, or develop gaps that tools can manipulate. Aging metal also reacts poorly to humidity, making it even more fragile.

Replace deadbolts every few years, especially if exposed to outdoor weather. Choose stainless steel or brass materials that resist rust and maintain strength.

Pros:

• Cheap replacement

• Improves reliability

• Prevents jamming

• Adds safety

• Modern design

• Easy to install

• Rust-resistant options

Cons:

• Maintenance cost

• Time-consuming

• Disposal waste

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8. Duplicate Keys and Key Theft

Sometimes burglars don’t break in — they use a key. Lost, stolen, or copied keys make a deadbolt useless. Burglars can access locks quietly without leaving any signs of entry.

If you lend your key to service workers, tenants, or guests, you risk duplication. Standard keys can be copied at most hardware stores without authorization. Smart criminals use this method to strike later.

Switch to keyless entry systems or restricted keys that require ID verification for duplication. This eliminates the risk of copied access.

Pros:

• Convenient access

• Familiar use

• No learning curve

• Widely available

• Easy to replace

• Low cost

• Simple mechanism

Cons:

• Easily copied

• Lost easily

• Unsafe sharing

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9. Smart Lock Hacking Risks

Modern smart deadbolts offer convenience but also digital vulnerabilities. Hackers can exploit Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or keypad flaws to unlock remotely. Some older models lack encryption.

Tech-savvy burglars use signal interception devices or apps to manipulate these systems. This means a burglar might not even need to touch your door physically.

Always update firmware, use strong passwords, and choose locks with AES encryption or offline authentication. Digital safety is just as critical as physical strength.

Pros:

• Keyless use

• Modern design

• Remote control

• Access history

• Custom PINs

• Alerts available

• Integration ready

Cons:

• Hacking risk

• Battery failure

• Costly setup

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10. Weak Hinges Compromise the Door

Even with the best deadbolt, weak hinges create an easy entry point. Burglars can remove hinge pins or break screws to open the door from the side. This method completely bypasses the lock.

External hinges on outward-opening doors are especially dangerous. Once removed, the entire door detaches, making the deadbolt irrelevant.

Use hinge bolts or non-removable pins to keep the door secure even if tampered with. Security hinges balance both strength and design.

Pros:

• Adds stability

• Strengthens entry

• Prevents sagging

• Durable metal

• Affordable fix

• Easy upgrade

• Long-lasting

Cons:

• Needs drilling

• Requires tools

• May rust

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Can A Burglar Open A Deadbolt Lock (FAQs)

1. Can a burglar really pick a deadbolt?
Yes. Skilled burglars with lock-picking tools or bump keys can manipulate most standard deadbolts within seconds.

2. How can I make my deadbolt more secure?
Use high-security models with anti-pick pins, reinforce the frame, and install strike plates with 3-inch screws.

3. Are smart deadbolts safer than traditional ones?
Smart locks offer convenience but can be hacked. Choose encrypted models with offline operation for better safety.

4. Does a double-cylinder deadbolt prevent break-ins?
Yes, especially on glass doors. It requires a key from both sides, preventing burglars from reaching in and unlocking manually.

5. Can burglars break a deadbolt by kicking the door?
Yes, if the frame or strike plate is weak. Reinforced metal frames significantly reduce this risk.

6. Should I rekey my deadbolt after losing a key?
Absolutely. Lost keys can easily be copied, so rekeying or replacing the lock ensures continued security.

7. What’s the best material for a strong deadbolt?
Solid brass or steel offers the best durability and resistance against forced entry and corrosion.

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Conclusion

Even though deadbolt locks are designed for strong protection, burglars can still exploit weak points in the door, frame, or technology. Understanding these vulnerabilities empowers homeowners to improve their defenses. Simple upgrades like reinforced frames, double-cylinder locks, and smart key control make a big difference.

Investing in high-quality locks and professional installation ensures long-term safety. Always stay alert to modern break-in methods and update your home’s security accordingly.

If you want true peace of mind, combine deadbolts with cameras, alarms, and motion lights for full protection. A secure home starts with knowing where weaknesses lie — and acting before burglars do.