Smart Door Lock Weather Resistance for Durable Exterior Security

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

In today's world, home security is more crucial than ever. With the rise of smart technology, homeowners can now enjoy enhanced security and convenience with smart door locks. These locks not only provide robust security but also offer features like remote access, biometric authentication, and integration with various smart home systems. However, one of the most critical aspects of any smart door lock is its weather resistance and durability, especially when it comes to exterior use. In this article, we will delve into the best smart door locks that offer both weather resistance and durable exteriors, ensuring your home remains secure and protected from the elements.

Understanding Smart Door Locks

Smart door locks are electronic locks that can be controlled and monitored using a smartphone app. They often feature advanced security measures such as biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition), keypad entry, and remote access via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. These locks can be integrated with various smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, allowing for seamless voice control and automation.

Key Features of Smart Door Locks

1. Remote Access: The ability to lock and unlock your door from anywhere using your smartphone app is a significant convenience. This feature is particularly useful for homeowners who often forget their keys or need to grant temporary access to guests.

2. Biometric Authentication: Many smart locks come equipped with fingerprint sensors or facial recognition technology, providing an additional layer of security.

3. Integration with Smart Home Systems: Compatibility with popular smart home platforms allows for voice control and automation of your lock. For example, you can use voice commands to lock or unlock your door using devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home.

4. Notification Systems: Smart locks often send notifications when the lock is triggered, providing you with real-time updates on who is entering or exiting your home.

5. Weather Resistance: For exterior use, weather resistance is crucial to ensure the lock remains functional in various weather conditions.

Best Smart Door Locks for Weather Resistance and Durability

When selecting a smart door lock for exterior use, it's essential to consider both its weather resistance and durability. Here are some top recommendations:

1. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a reliable and user-friendly smart lock that can be installed without replacing the existing deadbolt or rekeying the lock. This lock features built-in Wi-Fi and HomeKit integration, allowing for seamless integration with various smart home systems. It also supports Google Assistant and Samsung SmartThings, making it versatile for different smart home setups.

Key Features:

• Installation: No need to replace the deadbolt or rekey the lock.
• Weather Resistance: Not specifically designed for outdoor use but can be used with a weather-resistant cover.
• Battery Life: Two CR123 batteries last three to six months.
• Additional Features: Auto unlock feature using phone location, auto lock feature with Door Sense, and optional keypad for sharing access.

2. Yale Assure Lock 2

The Yale Assure Lock 2 is a full-featured smart lock with a sleek, modular design that allows you to upgrade as needed. It integrates easily with smart home systems like HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home. This lock also features a small plastic module with a magnet inside that tells the lock when the door is open or shut, helping prevent errors in auto-locking.

Key Features:

• Installation: Easy installation process.
• Weather Resistance: Not specifically designed for outdoor use but can be used with a weather-resistant cover.
• Battery Life: Four AA batteries provide longer battery life compared to some other smart locks.
• Additional Features: Door status detection, configurable audio volume, and app-free triggering.

3. Lockly Vision Elite

The Lockly Vision Elite is an expensive but feature-rich smart lock with a built-in video camera doorbell, fingerprint sensor, keypad, traditional key slot, and app-controlled access. It is solar-powered and offers advanced security features like activity logs and notifications.

Key Features:

• Installation: Requires a bridge inside the home for communication with Wi-Fi.
• Weather Resistance: Not specifically designed for outdoor use but can be used with a weather-resistant cover.
• Battery Life: Solar-powered for extended battery life.
• Additional Features: Video camera doorbell, fingerprint sensor, keypad entry, and activity logs.

Weather-Resistant Smart Lock Covers

For those who already have a name-brand smart lock but need it to be weather-resistant for outdoor use, smart lock covers are an ideal solution. These covers create a water-resistant backside for the lock, allowing it to be installed outdoors without compromising its functionality.

Key Features of Weather-Resistant Smart Lock Covers:

• Installation: Easy installation process.
• Weather Resistance: Provides a water-resistant backside for the lock.
• Compatibility: Compatible with most name-brand smart locks.

Non-Brand Weather-Resistant Smart Locks

While major manufacturers do not design both sides of their smart locks to be weatherproof, some non-brand versions claim to be weather-resistant on both sides. One such example is the ULTRALOQ UL3 smart lock available on Amazon.

Key Features of ULTRALOQ UL3:

• Installation: Requires a bridge inside the home for communication with Wi-Fi.
• Weather Resistance: Claims to be weather-resistant on both sides.
• Battery Life: Battery life of around one year.
• Additional Features: Fingerprint sensor to register up to 100 fingerprints, can be opened by shaking your phone when near the lock, and has a physical keyhole for backup access.

Waterproof Mechanical Keypad Door Locks

For those who prefer a more mechanical approach to smart door locks, waterproof mechanical keypad door locks are an excellent option. These locks offer keyless entry with a keypad and are designed to withstand various weather conditions.

Key Features of Waterproof Mechanical Keypad Door Locks:

• Installation: Easy installation process.
• Weather Resistance: Designed to be waterproof and durable in various weather conditions.
• Battery Life: Typically battery-powered with long-lasting batteries.

Conclusion

Smart door locks have revolutionized home security by providing advanced features like remote access, biometric authentication, and integration with smart home systems. When choosing a smart door lock for exterior use, it's crucial to consider its weather resistance and durability. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Yale Assure Lock 2, and Lockly Vision Elite are excellent choices that offer robust security features along with some level of weather resistance when used with appropriate covers. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option with built-in weather resistance, non-brand smart locks like the ULTRALOQ UL3 or waterproof mechanical keypad door locks are viable alternatives. By selecting the right smart door lock that meets your needs for both security and durability, you can ensure your home remains protected from the elements while enjoying the convenience of advanced smart technology.

Recommendations for Installation

1. Choose the Right Location: Ensure that the smart lock is installed in a location that is protected from direct rain and sunlight. This will help extend its lifespan and maintain its functionality.

2. Use Weather-Resistant Covers: If your chosen smart lock is not specifically designed for outdoor use, consider using a weather-resistant cover to protect it from the elements.

3. Check Compatibility: Verify that your chosen smart lock is compatible with your existing door hardware and smart home system.

4. Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation to avoid any potential issues with the lock's functionality.

5. Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your smart lock to ensure it continues to function properly and remains secure.

By following these recommendations and selecting the right smart door lock for your needs, you can enjoy enhanced security and convenience while protecting your home from the elements.