So, when you fire an employee or your roommate leaves the house, or you end up getting a divorce, in all such situations, you would not want all of these people to access your premises again without your permission. Hence, you simply change the locks of your premises. But, do you know that there is a lot cheaper method of restricting the entry of these people by not changing the locks but simply rekeying them?
Yes, it’s not always recommended to change the locks and spend a huge amount of money on buying new locks. Most of the time, you can ask the professional locksmith to simply rekey the locks. It’s a cheap method and would do the job finely!
Changing the locks is recommended in those situations when the lock has been severely damaged and can’t be rekeyed. So, at such a point, you’ll need to spend a good amount and buy a new lock because you don’t have any other option left!
What is meant by rekeying?
Not most of the people are aware of rekeying. Well, rekeying is basically the task of changing the key of the lock to some new key so that the old one becomes totally unworkable. In simpler meanings, you will keep on using the old lock, but a new key will be required to unlock it after rekeying.
When you should opt for rekeying?
You should opt for rekeying when you move into a new house and are unaware of the fact that who else holds the key to your house. So, in such a case, the locks of the new house will be totally new. But, these locks will not secure your house. So, when you are unsure, you can opt for rekeying.
The next scenario might be that you lose the keys to your premises and you are scared that someone would find the keys and would break-in. So, in order to fully secure your house, you should get rekeying done immediately!
A lot of people share their homes with other people. For example, you might be living with a roommate or your wife. So, if your roommate moves out, you’ll never want him/her to enter your premises without your permission. Similarly, if you’ve got divorced, you can’t let your ex into the premises. Hence, rekeying your locks would help you to accomplish the job!
When you should opt for changing locks?
You need to change the locks when the locks go through a lot of wear and tear and become too old. Also, now in the market, you’ll come across high-security locks. So, it is better that you change the locks into much better locks in order to ensure the complete security of your premises. Robbery attempts could also damage the locks. So, the best thing is to change the locks in all such cases!
The Bottom Line
Make sure that you call a competent locksmith for rekeying or changing the locks. Also, when you are about to change the locks, ensure that the locks are of a renowned brand.
When a list of the most trusted door lock brands comes to mind, it does not just suggest you should trust the brands; rather, it tries to explain that these are brands that people have trusted over time. In this article, we will examine whether people have invested their trust in these brands or if this trust was just a form of deception from the companies.
Obviously, these brands have different lock modes with different abilities. What this means is that each lock would have a different level of strength and resistance which may not really match with the companies’ profile.
Well, to get balance information, it is ideal we represent facts, rather than taking sides with few selected key lock companies.
If you are ready, let’s go…
Schlage
If you visit most stores to buy a key lock, you’ll certainly find Schlage locks. They are quite expensive but have a strong and sturdy look, and are hard to pick.
Schlage company manufactures all types of commercial and residential locks including deadbolts, lever handles, and doorknobs.
Schlage produces high security locks brands: Primus, Everest, and Everest Primus XP.
Mul-T-Lock
Mul-T-Lock is an Israeli lock manufacturer company. This brand is one of the top names when it comes to high security locks. Going by the description, the Mul-T-Lock is easily recognized when sighted. Mul T Lock has a unique key design that is adapted to a cylinder that cannot be easily break-in. It is certain that Mul-T-Lock is a brand to depend on.
Kwikset
Most people have used Kwikset locks even without knowing it by name. Kwikset is very popular in most doors in the USA. Apart from its popularity, it is very affordable and for efficiency, it is less durable compared to other brands. The old locks by Kwikset are very easy to pick and it is bumpable. In recent years they have made significant progress in the level of security of the locks and in addition, have developed very high-quality keyless locks.
Medeco
The Medeco locks brand manufactures high-quality locks for residential and commercial uses. Medeco lock design features lock pins which can only be rotated by keys with angled cuts. Medeco lock is also considered one of the top locks manufacturers of high-security locks because of the strength and the security level of the locks.
Yale
Yale has a wide trusted reputation. Yale is one of the world’s oldest and biggest lock manufacturer. Unlike the lock brands mentioned in this article Yale also specialize in locks for safes, and safes manufacture. The company name origins from the Yale family, who invented the pin tumbler cylinder lock. Yale’s comprehensive line of door hardware includes all types of door locks, exit devices, door closers, electromechanical products, and key systems.
In conclusion, Each lock has its advantages and disadvantages, all you need to do is, make a good research and find the best fit for your door and your needs.
Smart locks were once an item only in commercial properties with high security structures. However, technological advancements have now allowed for the integration of smart lock systems into residential buildings. In fact, smart locks do a lot more than allow you to lock and unlock your door without a traditional key. In addition to the automation and convenience they provide, they also let you track entry and exit logs at your abode in real time.
Smart lock types vary, depending on the specific need you hope to satisfy. The common types include:
Mobile Devices
Smartphones and tablets are commonly used these days, and in just a little time they may totally replace the traditional set of keys. Select models are now enabled with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options. Bluetooth is a common smart lock protocol because it does not drain the battery as quickly as Wi-Fi does. However, its downside is that you have a limited range of access – around 300ft in the best case scenario, and it could be even less depending on the layout of your apartment. On the other hand, Wi-Fi allows you to send signals through from far away distances, so long as there is an internet connection.
Radio-frequency Identification (RFID)/Key Fob
This security protocol is a popular feature in communal buildings and for remote access to car doors. Their level of popularity has grown so much that most modern car owners only make use of this method for the locking and unlocking of doors. Luckily, this feature is now available for smart homes too, allowing for automatic opening of the door with just a touch or tap.
Biometrics
Biometric scanners are commonly used in areas with high levels of security. One or more unique biological traits are used to gain access through the lock system. In the past, Iris scanners have been used in high security areas. However, fingerprint scanners are now a more cost effective option – and they are now available in smart homes today. Applying this security method to your home will ensure you never lose your keys, as access would be at your fingertips.
The Bottom Line
Since not all smart locks function similarly, it would be ideal to define what you need so you can determine the best lock for your smart home. Whatever the case, our locksmiths at Tucson Locksmith 24 are just a phone call away. We are experts in handling and installation of smart lock systems – and you can count on us to provide the best fit for your home security and décor.
When it is back to school time, your safety concerns turn to those of your children who may be getting off of a school bus while you are still at work and need to let themselves in. Keypad door lock for your back-to-school kids is a smart choice. It means your child will not ever have to worry about losing a key, and it adds extra safety and security to your home.
Benefits Of A Keypad Door Lock For Your Back-To-School Kids
Trusting your child with a key can create security issues for your child and your family. Not only is a child likely to lose a key but having a key makes would-be thieves notice and possibly attempt to steal the key for someone to use or duplicate for later use. Also, locks that use keys are typically easier to pick or bump open with a break-in attempt. There are additional benefits to using a keypad instead of a traditional key.
Convenience
When you leave your home, you don’t need to find your key to lock it. A keyless entry system will automatically lock behind you as you close the door. And, don’t worry about trying to find your key to have in hand to open your doors. Don’t worry about a key at all. All you have to do is remember a code which can be changed as needed.
Scheduled Controls
If you’re worried about your child remembering the code, some keypad door locking systems allow you to schedule times when the doors should be locked or unlocked. This allows you to have full control over when your doors are locked and when they are open.
Added Safety and Security
When your and your child’s schedules collide, and you are not there when your child arrives home from school, you have the peace of mind knowing that your child will not be locked out of the house waiting for you to arrive at risk for strangers passing by and taking advantage of their predicament. Keypad door locks do away with the need for your child to keep track of a house key. When they come home from school, they are able to let themselves in even if you are not there. A keyless entry system also allows extra security when you have young children or a special needs child who would be in danger if they were to open the doors from the inside. As soon as your child is inside, the locks close behind you keeping them safe and secure inside.
Durable
A traditional lock and key system wears down and eventually stops working properly after frequent, everyday use which can make it difficult for little hands to open or may even cause a key to break off inside the keyhole leaving the child stuck outside.
When it’s back to school time, it’s time to look into a keypad door lock for your back-to-school kids. Contact aqualified locksmith professional today who can walk you through which keyless entry is best for your family and will be able to install it on the spot or at your convenience.
If you own or manage a business, the locks on your door is the main line of defense standing between your investment and a criminal or potential thief seeking to do harm, create havoc or damage your company’s good name. You know that your employees and your company property are valuable. You and your employees come in and out of the office daily to help keep the business operating well. As a business owner or manager in charge of an office building, make sure you know when it is necessary to have a business locks change services performed.
Your business is your livelihood. You put a lot of time and invest a lot of money into your company, so don’t take chances with the security of your business or your staff. Take every step to make sure everything is secure by having the locks on your business changed from time to time.
When you have a company, employ a staff of personnel, or have an office away from home, you need to take great defense against unwanted entry from unauthorized individuals who could do a great deal of harm to what you have spent time building. Provide your place of work the every proper precaution to safeguard your place of business and provide peace of mind by changing your commercial business locks.
Commercial Locksmith
A professional locksmith who handles commercial needs is able to change out your locks and provide you with a business locks change service that’s done right. This is a cost-effective way of making sure your employees, important work documents or equipment, and your property is kept safe. Whether or not you rekeyed or had a locks change done when you initially moved into the building, the time has come to consider changing those business locks now. There are many reasons why you need to consider changing your business locks in your commercial space.
Change of Staff
You would like to think that each and every one of your employees is a loyal staff member who would never do you or your business any harm. In reality, as a business owner, one of your duties is to ensure the safety of not only your building and property but also of the employees who come and go through your doors every day to get the job done.
Companies that have more than one employee are going to experience staff changes now and then. Sometimes, these changes are friendly, but other times they are hostile. When an employee is out to get revenge after being fired or quitting in a huff, you don’t want that person having access to all of your company’s private documents or to the office and property. Keep your business secure and your loyal employees safe by changing the locks after there has been a major change of staff.
Contract Personnel
It is common for businesses to have employees coming in at different times of the day and night. Cleaning crews or a housekeeping service that you have hired, maintenance workers keeping up with details like changing light bulbs, landscape crews, and IT department personnel tending to computer and server issues are just a few of the many people who have access to keys. Think about it, though, in just one year’s time it is possible to have changed staff members, maintenance workers, or cleaning agents many times over. With all of the potential employees or help coming and going, it’s very likely that any one of them could have lost or given a key to someone who doesn’t work there. Don’t risk taking the chance on countless keys ending up in the hands of strangers who now have access to your place of business.
The convenience of allowing access to the building for those servicing it for a temporary project without the thought of being wokenup in the middle of the night just to unlock or lock a door is sometimes a wise decision. Once the job is complete, however, if you have hired contract workers to do work in your building during after hours, you may have felt confident providing them with a key to let themselves in and out. When the work is complete and you have collected all of the keys, it’s a good idea to go ahead and change the locks, because you don’t know if any copies were made of the keys.
Lost Keys
Even the most careful and organized people lose keys. It happens, so you need to expect it and be prepared. Especially expect it if you have a large staff of employees who each have their own key. Anytime you don’t know for sure who has access to your office building through use of a spare or lost key, it’s time to have a business locks change done. The cost is a necessity when the security of your employees and the confidentiality of business documents and equipment are at stake.
Worn Out Locks
Even the top-of-the-line, most secure locks don’t last forever. Because of the many moving parts inside a lock, it sustains daily and constant wear and tear that requires maintenance, upgrading and repair when necessary. When the locks begin to fail to work, it’s time for a business locks change to install working locks with fresh new keys.
Breach of Security
If there has been a break in or a break-in attempt at your place of business, the first thing to do is to change the locks. The next step is to consider upgrading your security system entirely.
The benefits of periodically changing your business locks routinely far outweigh any inconvenience or cost. It’s recommended to do a business locks change at least once a year, and to alternate the month or date of the business locks change so that a potential criminal will not recognize a pattern and cash in to do your company harm.
As a business owner, you should constantly be aware of who has access to your company’s property. Find a locksmith who handles business needs. Hire one that is a reliable specialist and an expert in commercial locks. Many companies find a locksmith they trust and build a lasting, commercial business locksmith relationship.
Many people seem to consider only high tech devices like electronic access control, burglar alarms, and camera systems when trying to increase the security of their home or office. Frequently neglected are the simple locks that secure the doors to the building. These locks are the physical security that deters intruders in the first place, so serious thought should be given to the type of locks you use on your doors. What many folks don’t understand is that the weakest point in their general security can be the type of locks on their doors. Using High Security Locks is among the best methods you can use to enhance the security of your home and/or office.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider using high-security locks:
Patented Keys
Almost all high security locks make use of a restricted key system. This means that the keys are patented and only an authorized locksmith can duplicate them. These keys may also use signature confirmation to prevent the key from being duplicated by an unauthorized individual. If at any time you have given your keys to someone else, you cannot be sure your key wasn’t duplicated. Most keys can be duplicated at a local hardware store. However, this is not possible with high-security keys. This means you’re completely in control of who you choose to have your keys.
Resistance to Physical Attack
All high security locks come with reinforced strike plates and sometimes with an interlocking deadbolt. These make for an effective securing of any home or office. Most criminals know that a hard kick to the door can get them inside most homes because most homes only make use of simple locks or just a deadbolt to secure the door. High-security locks have been built to withstand any physical attack, unlike ordinary locks.
Pick and Drill Resistance
It’s very easy to pick standard locks. Anyone can obtain a lock pick easily online and with a little practice, the person can be opening doors as if he/she were using the door keys. High security locks have inherent pick resistant technologies, which mean that no one can pick the lock. Also, the cylinders of high security locks are specially made to resist a drill attack. Some locks can be opened by just drilling a hole on top of the cylinder, thereby creating a sheer line for the lock to be easily opened. Don’t even kid yourself that nobody knows this. Criminals know this and they use it to break into a lot of homes. This is the more reason why you should get high security locks for your home and/or office.
Before spending money on some fancy electronic security system, make sure the physical security is already taken care of and this is exactly what you get with high security locks.
Tucson Locksmith 24 offers all types of high security locks brands – install, replace, repair, and rekey high security locks. Call us now! We’re available 24/7!
If you’re like most people, you probably have a key chain filled with keys that are bulky, cumbersome and in danger of being lost. In addition to the awkwardness of carrying several keys around, locks that require keys also mean that every family member or employee needs to have a duplicate copy of the key. Locks that require keys are also easier to pick or jar loose. It’s time to lighten the weight and inconvenience of carrying around all of those keys while actually making your home and business more secure with key less locks.
Consider the many benefits of key less locks:
No bulky keys to carry around
Higher level of security
DIY Self-setting codes
Easy Installation
Stand Alone With No Power Source Needed
Affordable with a Lifetime Warranty
More About Key Less Locks
Key less locks provide better security, because there is no cylinder that can easily be picked or forced open. Instead of a key, you use a pin code to gain access to your home or office. If you find yourself in need of re-keying, all you have to do is change the code instead.
There are many benefits to key-less locks. A key-less lock is also sometimes referred to as a digital lock. The biggest appeal of a key-less locking system is that you never have to worry about losing your keys. Though, some options include a hybrid style that comes with a backup key just in case the electronics fail, the general idea is that there is no key to lose.
Digital key-less locks allow you to program them in a personalized manner. Program your locks to sound a security alarm when tampered with or to lock out a possible burglar after a set number of failed attempts to open the key-locking system are made.
Another safety measure that digital locks allow is biometric fingerprint technology. Since everyone has their own fingerprint that is not duplicated, setting a key-less locking system to recognize your fingerprint is an extra measure of safety.
Put an extra step of security between you and potential intruders by installing key-less locks. These digital locks provide push button combination pads that allow only those who know the code to get inside. Don’t ever fumble for your keys again. Simply enter the proper number combination into the keypad and gain entry. Reset your combination at your convenience.
Conveniently gain access with the security of knowing no one else has the electronic signal needed to release your locks. Use a remote key fob or Bluetooth technology with a Smartphone app.
Key Less Locks Installation
Key-less locks are able to be installed much like any other standard lock. They don’t require a special frame or door or special wiring. Key-less locks are either mechanical, which don’t need a power source, or they are electronic, which run on standard AA batteries.
The FBI reports that 60% of home and office break-ins occur with use of force. Take the extra secure step on your home or office doors by having deadboltlocks that provide extra strength when kicked or slammed during an attempted break-in. A deadbolt provides you with an extra step of safety by adding another point of security, and when it comes to burglars, even seconds that cause of delay can mean the difference between them finishing their break-in attempt or finding another victim. Doors usually come standard with a locking system that has a spring inside the handle. Adding a deadbolt provides extra safety measures that prevents break-ins.
The term “dead” bolt means that the part of the lock that extends into the door frame, the bolt, cannot be manually pushed back into the door like the common spring latch can. The bolt in a deadbolt lock can’t be forced open once it is closed, so it is said to be “dead” when it is in the locked position.
The three main parts of a deadbolt lock are:
Key-accessible cylinder on the outside
Throw or bolt that slides in and out of the door jamb
Thumb turn that allows for manual control of the bolt from the inside
Deadbolt Lock Types
There are two main types of deadbolt lock cylinders. Single cylinder deadbolts are the most commonly used. They operate with a twist knob on the inside of the door and have a keyhole on the outside. These are really secure in most cases, though if you have a glass panel door, the glass may be broken to gain access to the inside knob that turns the deadbolt making it less secure when installed on glass panel doors. To remedy this situation, double cylinder deadbolts require a key to operate the lock from both the outside and inside of the door, making it near impossible to break open even if a crook has broken the glass on the glass panel door. However, some fire codes do not allow double cylinder locks because of safety concerns in the case of an emergency where you need to quickly exit only to encounter a lock that requires a key to escape.
Deadbolt locks also have two types of bolts, referred to as the throw. There is a horizontal and a vertical throw. On the standard horizontal throw, the bolt extends one inch beyond the edge of the door into the door jamb.
High Security Deadbolt Lock
Even though deadbolts provide an added layer of security from break-in attempts, sometimes a technique called lock bumping allows a burglar to pick the deadbolt lock. Consider this when selecting your deadbolt lock. Some systems offer a special cylinder and high-security box strike plate that is highly resistant to picking and bumping attempts. Also, the door itself and the door frame play a part in how secure your home or office will be.
Of course, even the most secure deadbolt locks won’t provide the safety you need if you forget to remove your key, and leave it for anyone to use, or if you turn the lock halfway thinking it’s fully engaged. Remedy the latter problem by having a twofold chamber deadbolt, and always ask to have the door jamb secured by fortifying the strike plates with longer screws mounted into wall studs or consider a digital deadbolt lock. The vertical throw, also called a surface mounted deadbolt, engages by interlocking with a set of cast metal rings that are affixed to the frame of the door making it almost impossible to pry open.
Take the extra step to a more secure lock today by calling a licensed locksmith who will install deadbolt locks for you in a hurry!
Mailbox Locksmith Tucson AZ – Mailbox Lock Replacement Service
In this post, we’ve collected all the information on mailbox locksmith service you need to know: If you live in a neighborhood with a community mailbox, all of the mail for you and all of your neighbors is delivered to a central location where there are several mailboxes all in one place. The mail carrier delivers the mail for the entire area conveniently to one location, and you are assigned a specific box where your mail is delivered.
Your mail is not delivered straight to your door or even to a big mailbox in front of your house. This saves a lot of delivery time of driving or walking door to door for the mail carrier, but you have to go to the community mailboxes to pick up your mail. If your mail delivery gets dropped off at a community mailbox, it’s important to keep your mail under lock and key until you arrive pick it up.
Mailboxes are protected under federal law and cannot be tampered with unless you have given your approval as the assigned owner of the box, so mailbox locks changes require some professional understanding. There are two main kinds of community mailboxes. One is owned by the United States Postal Service, serviced by the federal government. Though, it legally belongs to you as long as you live at the corresponding address. Sometimes, your local post office services this kind of community mailbox. The other kind of community mailbox is owned by the Home Owners Association or Apartment complex. These are serviced by the government postal worker. Both types of mailboxes can also legally be serviced by a professional locksmith so long as you show proof of residence and identity.
Sometimes, these mailbox locks need to be changed:
Not Working
If the mailbox lock is not working properly, it’s time for a change. These mailboxes that service an entire neighborhood, condominium complex, apartments or individual streets are usually located outside without any or much protection from the weather elements, so they tend to wear out or rust over time. Rain, snow, humidity and the heat of the sun is hard on the moving parts of the lock and cause them to corrode and cease to move properly.
Can’t Find Your Keys
Make sure you are the only one able to open up your assigned mailbox. If you’ve lost your key or think that someone else may have access to it out of your control, it’s time to change the mailbox lock.
Moving Day
If you recently moved into the home that uses community mailboxes, it’s important to get your own keys. The previous owner of your mailbox may still have a key. It’s better to be safe than sorry by taking a chance. Have the mailbox locks changed so you will be absolutely sure you are the only one with access to your mail after the mail carrier delivers it.
Ensure that you are the only one who has access to receiving the mail delivered to your community mailbox. Call a certified and professional mailbox locksmith Tucson to service your mailbox locks change today.