In today’s tech-driven world, home security has evolved beyond just a sturdy deadbolt. With smart home technology growing in popularity, many Montreal homeowners are asking: Should I stick with traditional locks or upgrade to smart locks?
Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, security needs, and even the weather. Yes—Montreal’s climate plays a role too. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make a confident, informed decision.
🔐 Why Home Security Matters in Montreal
Montreal is known for its rich culture, beautiful neighborhoods, and vibrant city life—but like any urban area, it isn’t immune to crime. Certain boroughs such as Plateau-Mont-Royal, Côte-des-Neiges, and Verdun have seen periodic spikes in home break-ins and thefts.
For homeowners, that makes strong door locks not just a convenience—but a necessity. Whether you’re living in a condo downtown or a family home in Ahuntsic, securing your property starts at the front door.
🔑 What Are Traditional Locks?
When we talk about traditional locks, we’re referring to tried-and-true options like deadbolts, knob locks, and mortise locks. These locks have been around for decades—and for good reason.
✅ Pros of Traditional Locks:
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Reliable & Durable: They’ve stood the test of time and don’t rely on tech to work.
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Affordable: Lower upfront costs make them budget-friendly for homeowners.
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No Power Required: No batteries or electricity needed—just insert the key and you’re in.
❌ Cons:
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Lost Keys: We’ve all been there—misplacing a key or locking it inside.
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Vulnerable to Picking: Basic models can be picked or bumped with the right tools.
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No Remote Access: You can’t lock or unlock your door unless you’re physically present.
📱 What Are Smart Locks?
Smart locks are the modern evolution of home entry. They use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or keypad technology to lock and unlock your door, often controlled through a smartphone app or voice assistant.
✅ Pros of Smart Locks:
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Remote Access: Lock or unlock your door from anywhere—even if you’re at the office or on vacation.
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Keyless Entry: No need to carry keys—use a passcode, fingerprint, or even your phone.
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Guest Access: Perfect for Airbnb hosts or if you need to let someone in temporarily (like a cleaner or dog walker).
❌ Cons:
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Higher Cost: Smart locks are more expensive, especially for higher-end models.
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Battery Life: Many smart locks rely on batteries, which can drain quickly in cold weather.
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Security Risks: Like any connected device, there’s a small risk of hacking or software failure.
❄️ Montreal Winters: A Hidden Factor
Let’s not forget—we live in one of the coldest cities in Canada. In January, temperatures can dip below -20°C. This harsh climate can impact lock performance, especially for smart locks.
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Traditional locks can freeze or jam, especially if water gets inside the mechanism.
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Smart locks, while more convenient, can suffer from battery drainage in extreme cold. That means you might come home one night and find your smart lock dead—unless you’ve kept up with battery maintenance.
When choosing a smart lock, always look for cold-weather rated models that are built for Canadian winters.
🛡️ Which Lock is More Secure?
Security is the core reason you’re upgrading your locks, right? So which is safer?
Traditional locks can be incredibly secure, especially high-grade deadbolts that resist drilling and picking. But if you’re using a cheap or old model, you might be more vulnerable than you think.
Smart locks, on the other hand, offer encryption and access logs—but they come with a new kind of risk: cybersecurity threats. A poor-quality smart lock can potentially be hacked, especially if not regularly updated.
Bottom line? Both types can be highly secure if you invest in quality brands and professional installation.
💰 Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
| Type of Lock | Average Cost (Including Installation) |
|---|---|
| Traditional Deadbolt | $100 – $250 CAD |
| Smart Lock (Basic) | $200 – $400 CAD |
| Smart Lock (Advanced) | $400 – $800+ CAD |
While smart locks have a higher initial cost, many homeowners find the convenience and remote features worth the investment—especially for families, Airbnb hosts, or tech-savvy individuals.
👥 Who Should Choose What?
Not sure which lock fits your lifestyle? Here are a few helpful scenarios:
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Traditional Locks are ideal if:
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You prefer simplicity.
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You’re on a tighter budget.
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You live alone or don’t have frequent visitors.
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Smart Locks are perfect for:
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Families with children (no more lost keys!).
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People who rent out their homes or use Airbnb.
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Homeowners who love smart home gadgets.
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Anyone who values convenience and remote control.
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🛠️ Our Recommendation for Montreal Homeowners
As experienced locksmiths serving Montreal, we often suggest a hybrid approach: install a high-security traditional deadbolt along with a smart lock system for the best of both worlds.
Brands we trust that work well in Canadian climates include Schlage, August, Yale, and Weiser. Whatever you choose, always ensure it’s properly installed and regularly maintained.
📞 Still Undecided? Let’s Chat.
Choosing the right lock isn’t just about tech—it’s about feeling safe in your own home.
At Serrulocksmontreal, we offer free consultations and expert recommendations based on your home, your neighborhood, and your needs. Whether you’re leaning toward a smart upgrade or sticking with the classics, we’ll help you secure what matters most.
👉 Call us today or book a home visit online.
Your peace of mind is just a lock away.
