Rim locks are not a very secure type of lock. In fact, they are usually considered to be auxiliary locks that need to be used alongside another type of lock. There are several different types of rim locks, with some being slightly more secure than others–such as the deadbolt rim lock. Even so, they are usually not considered to provide sufficient protection for your home when used alone.
A rim lock differs from other types of locks in that they are attached to the inside of your door with a few screws. On the outside, a hole is usually drilled in the door and a rim with a keyhole is placed in the hole. The door is opened from inside the house by turning a latch or a small knob, and from the outside it must be opened with a key. Just due to the way they are made, they are very easy to break into. All you have to do is slip something thin and firm into where the door latches and apply a little pressure, in order for the latch to open up and the door to swing open. That is why burglars target homes with poor locks such as this–there is very little resistance offered when they try to break in through the door. An interesting fact, also, is that the majority of burglars do indeed enter into a home by the door, rather than the window.
Rim locks can also be considered decorative as well, as there are many different styles of ornamental rim locks available online and in décor and design boutiques. Most of these ornamental styled locks are patterned after rim locks made in the earlier centuries, with many being made from material that was used during those days such as brass or iron.
A decorative brass rim lock really can add a certain mystique or appeal to your door You are not limited to only using them on your outer doors either, but you can also use them for your inner doors as well. Small brass door knobs look great on wooden bedroom doors, especially if the overall décor is older style.