Expert: James - 2/21/2009

Question
Is there any way to change a Schlage lock so that when you are going outside and the lock is locked it will unlock the door at the same time as you turn the knob?  It is frustrating to walk out of the house to get the mail and realize that I forgot to turn the lock inside and now I am stuck locked outside.  Thanks, John

Answer
Hello John,

My advice to everyone regardless of the brand or model of locking lever or knob on every exterior door of every house is to change it to a passage function and use a deadbolt on the door.  This way you can only get locked out if you lose your key after locking it with the key as you leave.

Schlage locks cannot be changed from the way they are.  I understand they make a different style but those are only available special order from a locksmith or online retailer.  Some other brands are also doing their locks the same way.  This is due to some changes in life/safety codes in many areas around the country.  They are designed to be unlocked from the inside at all times to prevent someone from having to take the time to unlock it before opening the door in the event of an emergency.

If you are unwilling or unable to take my first advice, get into the habit of opening the door, grabbing the outside knob or lever and turning it, then shutting the door.  If it won't turn, it's locked so simply unlock it before shutting the door.

James
www.jmlock.com