When it comes to securing your home, choosing the right door lock is crucial. Two popular brands to consider are Delaney and Schlage. But which one is better suited for your needs?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare and contrast Delaney and Schlage door locks to help you make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Delaney | Schlage |
| Security Rating | Grade 2 | Grade 1 |
| Materials | Solid brass, zinc | Solid stainless steel |
| Durability | Moderate | Extremely high |
| Installation | Simple with basic hardware | Accu-Install system for precise alignment |
| Styles | Traditional, understated | Contemporary, designer finishes |
| Smart locks | Not available | Many models integrate with smart homes |
| Cost | $15-$150 | $50-$550 |
| Warranty | Lifetime mechanical and finish | Lifetime mechanical and finish |
| Matching accessories | None | Full matching locksets available |
| Keying options | Re-keying possible but challenging | Easy re-keying and master keying |
Overview of Delaney and Schlage
Delaney and Schlage are both well-known American lock manufacturers.
Delaney is based out of Oregon and has been crafting solid brass and zinc door locks since 1981.
They offer a range of single cylinder deadbolts, knob locks, and handlesets.
Delaney aims to provide quality locks at an affordable price point for the do-it-yourself homeowners.
Schlage has been manufacturing locks since 1920. Now owned by Allegion, Schlage engineers their products in California and produces them in Mexico.
Schlage is best known for their stylish designs and grade 1 durability heavy-duty locks made from solid metal.
Schlage locks are priced higher than Delaney but are exceptionally resilient.
Key Differences Between Delaney And Schlage Door Locks
Now let’s take a closer look at how these two popular brands compare across some key factors:
- Security
Security is the most critical consideration when choosing a new lock. You want sturdy, dependable locks that will keep intruders out of your house.
Delaney deadbolts and knob locks feature 1-inch solid brass throw bolts and hardened steel inserts in the bolt housing for pry-resistance. The quality brass and steel components allow Delaney locks to achieve grade 2 security ratings.
Schlage deadbolts employ 1-inch solid throw bolts made from stainless steel. Schlage also uses their proprietary Everest 29 patented keyway system, making their locks extremely pick and drill resistant. As a result, Schlage deadbolts consistently meet the highest grade 1 residential security rating.
For maximum home security, Schlage has a slight edge over Delaney. But Delaney still produces decent mid-grade security locks ideal for low risk areas.
- Durability
You don’t want to have to replace your locks every couple of years.
Durability is essential for minimizing costs and frustration over time.
Delaney constructs the exterior housing and internal components of their deadbolts and knobs out of solid brass or zinc.
Solid metal provides good strength and corrosion resistance for the price.
However, brass and zinc are softer metals that can succumb to drilling or sawing attempts over time.
Schlage uses hardened steel bolts and insert housings. The stainless steel deadbolts can withstand years of use and abuse in harsh weather conditions. Schlage also coats some locks with life-time finishes to prevent rusting and tarnishing. Overall, Schlage offers outstanding durability.
For extreme durability against forced entry and extreme weather, Schlage is the victor. Delaney will dent and scratch more easily.
- Ease of Installation
Installing your new lock yourself can save on locksmith fees. Convenience of installation is important if you want a DIY project.
Delaney deadbolts and knobs come with simple installation instructions and standard mounting hardware. The locks use a universal bolt spacing of 2 3⁄8” or 2 3⁄4” between the bolt and the cylinder holes. As long as you have a properly drilled door, Delaney locks can be installed in minutes.
Schlage also provides clear installation guidelines and all necessary mounting screws. Schlage has a universal bolt spacing compatible with most doors.
Unique to Schlage, their Accu-InstallTM system allows precise, aligned installation on the door every time. Schlage’s thoughtful design makes DIY installation nearly fool-proof.
For quick and easy DIY installation, Schlage holds the edge due to innovations like Accu-InstallTM. But Delaney can also be installed without any special tools or skills.
- Appearance
Although appearance is not as critical as function, you still want locks that fit your home’s style.
Delaney lock exteriors feature simple, traditional brass or bronze designs. You can choose polished, satin, or oil-rubbed finishes. The looks are understated enough to match most homes.
Schlage is renowned for their stylish locks made to elevate your home’s aesthetics. Schlage’s interior levers and exterior escutcheons come in contemporary styles and designer finishes like aged bronze and matte black. Schlage offers far more attractive designs than Delaney.
For elevating your home’s decor, the beautiful styles and finishes of Schlage locks are hard to beat. Delaney locks blend in but lack flair.
- Smart Technology Integration
Smart locks that integrate with home automation systems are becoming very popular.
If you want smart functionality, your lock choice matters.
Delaney locks are purely mechanical with no electronic components.
They cannot connect with smart home platforms. You would have to install a separate electronic smart lock.
Many Schlage deadbolts and handlesets can integrate with smart homes.
Models that work with alarm systems, voice assistants, and automatic unlocking are available. Schlage even has a Wi-Fi adapter to control locks using smartphones. Going with Schlage locks can save you from upgrading again later.
Schlage dominates when it comes to smart technology support. Delaney locks cannot link to home automation systems.
- Cost
Your budget will likely play a role in choosing the best lock. Let’s look at the cost differences between Delaney and Schlage.
Delaney consistently offers the most affordable locks. Simple brass or bronze deadbolts start around $15-30. Entry door handlesets run $80-150. Because they use cheaper metals, Delaney keeps costs down.
Schlage deadbolts have an MSRP between $50-120 depending on materials used. Their handlesets usually range from $180-550. Schlage invests in high-end materials driving costs up. But the excellent quality does justify the price.
If budget is your top concern, Delaney locks provide decent security and durability at the best value. Paying more for Schlage gets you substantially better resistance and smart features.
- Warranty
A strong product warranty provides peace of mind should issues arise down the road.
Delaney provides a limited lifetime mechanical and finish warranty on all their lock products. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the home. Buyers have been pleased with Delaney’s warranty service overall.
For residential installations, Schlage offers limited lifetime mechanical and finish warranties across all their lock collections. The warranty is transferable when you sell the home. Schlage also provides hassle-free replacements for any defects.
In the warranty department, both Delaney and Schlage protect buyers with outstanding lifetime coverage. This ensures your investment is well protected.
- Matching Accessories
Expanding your locks for additional doors is easier when matching trim and handles are available.
Delaney sells individual entry and knob locks. But they do not manufacture matching handlesets or trims. You would have to mix and match pieces from other brands.
Schlage sells their locks bundled with matching levers and trims. This allows you to outfit your entire home in a matching suit. Schlage also offers coordinating electronic touchpads, door knockers, and hinges.
For a seamless, consistent look on all doors, Schlage sells full locksets. Delaney does not provide coordinated accessories.
- Keying Options
Re-keying or matching your locks’ keyway can allow one master key to work all locks. Convenient keying capabilities are worth considering.
Most Delaney deadbolts and knobs support re-keying as long as you purchase the re-keying kit. But you would have to conduct re-keying yourself carefully following instructions. Getting locks keyed alike from the factory is not an advertised option.
Schlage allows you to substitute a Schlage keyway cylinder to match other locks you own. Many Schlage locks also support easy re-keying by homeowners anytime using the included cylinder and tool. Schlage also offers convenient master keying services to pre-key multiple locks to a single key.
If you want professionally keyed alike locks out the box or easy re-keying later, Schlage is the superior choice. Delaney re-keying requires more work on your part.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Schlage is widely considered the best residential door lock brand overall based on their security ratings, durability claims, innovative features, and stylish designs. Schlage locks exceed ANSI/BHMA grade 1 standards, come in attractive finishes, integrate with smart homes, and are built from sturdy stainless steel. For the ultimate in home security and convenience, Schlage is hard to surpass.
Yes, Dexter by Schlage locks are very good quality. Dexter is Schlage’s more affordable product line using zinc and steel components instead of solid stainless steel. Dexter locks meet ANSI grade 2 standards for security and have a solid reputation for reliability. For a mid-priced alternative to standard Schlage, Dexter by Schlage represents an excellent value.
Schlage is better quality than Kwikset overall. Schlage constructs locks from higher grade steel and more pick/drill/bump resistant keyways. Schlage deadbolts usually achieve grade 1 while Kwikset earns a grade 2. Both brands offer lifetime warranties. But Schlage has more innovative designs and smart features. For critical entry doors, investing more in Schlage locks is worth the cost. But Kwikset makes decent lower cost locks if needed.
Yes, Schlage makes exceptionally good quality locks. Their products are precision engineered with sturdy stainless steel components. Schlage lock bodies resist sawing or prying attempts. Schlage also uses unique keyways to prevent picking, bumping, and unauthorized copying of keys. Furthermore, many Schlage locks can connect to home automation systems. For residential security, Schlage is arguably the gold standard among lock brands.
Final Thoughts
When we weigh all the factors- security, durability, appearance, technology, and value- Schlage emerges as the winner in this comparison.
While you do pay more for Schlage hardware, the investment is worthwhile considering the strength and smart integration Schlage delivers. If you want the highest quality materials, effortless installation, stylish finishes, and smart home connectivity, Schlage is the top choice.
However, Delaney door locks are a solid budget-friendly option for basic security. For secondary entrances or low risk installations, Delaney locks offer decent protection and durability at an affordable price point. The quality is suitable for the average homeowner prioritizing value.
We can comfortably recommend both brands, but suggest opting for Schlage on your most critical entry doors if the cost fits within your budget.
