Modernizing Multifamily Security

The 100 Year Legacy of the Deadbolt and Reinventing It for the Next Century

The vast majority of apartments in this country are still secured the same way they have been for the last 100 years—with a mechanical deadbolt operated by a metal key. In an era where digital transformation has redefined residential living and smart home technologies have become commonplace, it’s hard to believe that one of the most used and important systems in the building—the unit door—is largely still operated with old, outmoded technology.

When Something Old Meets Something New

We are living during a time of rapid digitalization of our everyday world, it seems obvious that the tried and trusted technology of the mechanical deadbolt would sooner or later fuse with the advantages of digital smart tech to deliver a better and more secure lock. Of course, smart deadbolts are nothing new; over the last few years, options for single-family residential smart deadbolts have boomed—a simple search on Amazon will attest to this. However, as smart as they may be, these standalone locks don’t translate well to the multifamily market because they do not integrate with each other or with the rest of the access control system, not to mention other building systems.

The SALTO DBolt Touch smart deadbolt represents a significant advancement in the modernization of multifamily security. It was specifically designed and engineered to replace the outdated, legacy deadbolts that adorn millions of unit doors in North America. This innovative retrofit solution is designed for simplicity and affordability, eliminating the need for complex wiring or drilling. It simply slides into the existing hole left by the old deadbolt, making the upgrade process straightforward and hassle-free for property owners and managers. By bridging the gap between traditional security measures and the latest in smart lock technology, the DBolt offers a substantial leap forward in safety, security, and convenience. It transforms the unit entry experience for residents with its cutting-edge features—like mobile access through their Apple Wallet—while maintaining the brand feel and aesthetic integrity of the building and community.

The DBolt Touch is emerging as a breakthrough solution for upgrading mechanical locks to smart locking systems. "It’s not just the latest 'smart' product on the market; it's a revolution in the way we think about multifamily security and access," says Preston Grutzmacher, the Multifamily Industry Solutions Leader at SALTO. "We've designed it to be retrofit-friendly, ensuring that it can be integrated into any deadbolt door with ease, making it an ideal choice for both new constructions and existing properties looking to upgrade their security systems."

The Trusted Deadbolt Lives On, Reimagined and Redesigned for the Next Generation

At the heart of the DBolt’s appeal is its emphasis on enhancing the resident experience through convenience and state-of-the-art security features. The device offers various access control methods, including a smart keypad for PIN-based entry, support for smart RFID key cards, and mobile access through SALTO’s JustIN Mobile application. This flexibility ensures that residents and visitors can enjoy a keyless experience without sacrificing security. "Imagine never having to fumble for your keys again or being able to grant access to your home remotely with just a few taps on your smartphone," Grutzmacher says. "That's the kind of convenience and peace of mind residents are demanding, and it's exactly what the DBolt brings to the table." 

Security was first and foremost in this smart deadbolt's design philosophy, reflecting SALTO’s deep understanding of the importance of safety and the feeling of well-being in residential environments. This state-of-the-art smart lock is fortified with advanced technology and security features that meet the highest industry standards. It is a Grade 2 level deadbolt and boasts a AAA rating according to A156.40 (American National Standard for Residential Deadbolts). This certification underscores the device's compliance with the highest security standards, ensuring residents can trust in the safety of their homes.

Compatibility is a key feature of the DBolt. This lock integrates with SALTO's extensive portfolio of access solutions, allowing the smart deadbolt to be part of a comprehensive access management system that includes common doors, emergency exits, garage doors, elevators, pool areas, and more. "The DBolt Touch demonstrates SALTO's commitment to innovation and our vision for a more secure, connected future," Grutzmacher states. "It's fully compatible with both our on-premise SALTO Space and cloud-based SALTO Homelok platforms, making it a versatile solution for any multifamily property."

It’s More Than Locking a Door, It’s Unlocking a New Resident Experience

As the multifamily industry continues to evolve, the demand for smart access and modern physical security solutions that prioritize the resident experience is growing. The DBolt deadbolt is ready to meet this demand, offering a blend of security, convenience, and technological innovation that sets a new standard for apartment and community living access control.

With its launch, SALTO Systems not only underscores its reputation as a leader in the access control industry but also provides a glimpse into the future of residential security, where convenience and safety go hand in hand. As Grutzmacher aptly puts it, "The DBolt Touch is more than just a smart lock—it's a gateway to a more secure, convenient, and connected lifestyle."