Baldwin Locks

Baldwin1Baldwin offers high quality locks that are actually the most beautiful locks you will find anywhere. These are locks that will last you a lifetime. Doubt it? Just grab a Baldwin knob, turn it and feel the quality. There’s little play in its handle; it feels solid and turns more smoothly than any lock you have used.

Founded in 1945 by Fayerman Severin shortly after his arrival in America, Baldwin began with just a single product, a brass-stamped letter box. And by the 1940s, the company was already producing brass-forged door locks. The rest as they say is history. Baldwin now produces a wide range of products from electronic door locks to door knockers.
Resources:
columbinelocksmith.com
homedepot.com
Baldwinhardware.com

Entrance Locks.

BaldwinBaldwin entrance locks are available in various lock types and styles. The entrance locks are available in different prices from as cheap as 80 dollars and as high as 1000 dollars. Most entrance lock sets include a door latch handle, deadbolt and leveret or thumb below. Baldwin makes over 75 designs and over 20 finishes to customize your door. Installing Baldwin entrance locks on front doors results in a beautiful and customized door that should last a lifetime.

Keyless Entry Locks.

Baldwin KeylessTheir keyless entry locks use six- button keypads to operate electronic deadbolts allowing people to their homes without using of keys. This’ a huge advantage for people that regularly lock themselves out, those with kids or those who hate carrying keys around. Regardless of the reason, a Baldwin keyless entry lock is a great product manufactured from high quality components.

To open these locks, just enter your personal code which unlocks the deadbolt. When going out, you lock your door by pressing the lock symbol found in the keypad numbers. Such a lock will surely save you so much hassle. If you’re looking for convenience, good security, great quality and an easy-to-use lock this’s just the lock for you.

  1. Baldwin Deadbolts are a beautiful addition to any security door. deadbolts provide far more security than knobs or lever type locks. A Baldwin deadbolt utilizes heavy-gauged steel in the bolt which results in great protection from your door. Most of the deadbolts are BHMA A/ANSI 156.13 Grade 1. The deadbolts are available in either single cylinder, double cylinder or patio function deadbolt. Baldwin makes several deadbolt designs all of which are dependable and high quality. Baldwin deadbolts come in over 20 finishes. When buying a Baldwin deadbolt, you should expect to part with anywhere from 25 dollars up to 150 dollars depending on function, finish and style.
  2. Baldwin manufactures perhaps the most high quality forged brass knobs known to man. Baldwin knobs are solid, heavy and easy to operate. There are more than 60 different Baldwin door knob styles all with different finishes, entrance and privacy options. Baldwin have over twenty different finishes on their brass knobs. These knobs have prices ranging from as low as 40 dollars to as high as 150 dollars depending on function, design and finish.
  3. Baldwin also does make solid brass levers. Every lever is unique and there’re over seventy-five different styles and over twenty different finishes. Baldwin levers have prices ranging from as low as 40 dollars to 225 dollars depending on function, design and finish. They are of great quality and you can count on them to offer many years of smooth service.

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The 5 Best Deadbolt Locks

Types of deadboltsIt is important that you enhance your home security and you can do this easily by installing deadbolt locks. But to select the top deadbolt lock will require some knowledge on the different types of deadbolt locks. The following types (provided by our friends at www.greenwoodvillagelocksmith.com) are functional for various security needs and therefore you will have to do your selection carefully.

1. Single Cylinder Deadbolt

Single cylinder dead-bolt locks are the commonest in the market. The lock has a key operated exterior cylinder entry point. You can lock or even unlock the interior part of the lock’s cylinder by simply running a metal latch which means that the lock is suitable for many types of doors or homes.

2. Double Cylinder Deadbolt

Just like the single cylinder deadbolt locks, to operate these locks you will need a key. The lock can also mounted inside your door and doesn’t feature a twist knob. Instead, the two sides feature a key cylinder. The double cylinder deadbolts require you to use a key when opening the two key cylinders. Therefore, to lock or to unlock your door, from the inside you will require a key. One major benefit associated with the locks is that in case there is any glass near or in your doorframe, it won’t be easier for intruders to break them and use the lock’s twist knob to unlock your door. One drawback about this kind of deadbolts is that in case you leave your home immediately following an emergency such as fire, you will require some time to find and utilize the correct key.

3. Keyless entry deadbolts

kwikset iphoneTo open a keyless entry deadbolt lock you won’t need any key even though most of these locks have an option for manual lock override with a key. Mostly, people lock or unlock keyless entry deadbolt locks by entering codes on numeric keypads. But however, there are some locks which you can operate with remote devices. The locks are more similar to the remote entry locks used in cars. They boast transmitters that send out signals to the locks which tell them to either unlock or lock. Some of the locks have visual or audio signals which allow you to know in advance whether your locks are still locked.

One benefit of these locks is that you will do away with any need for keys. Therefore, there will be no time you will ever misplace your key or it will ever get stolen. However, you will need to be cautious; if a person learns your code combination you will have to change it immediately. You may also change the code as often as you like. The deadbolts having keypads in place of keyholes will also need electric current or batteries to operate.

4. Vertical deadbolt

The deadbolt locks are usually bolted on the inside part of your door. To make it impossible for intruders who may try to open by placing a bar in between the frame and the door as can happen with the horizontal deadbolts, this locks are usually placed at the top of a door. The vertical deadbolts are easiest to install but are bulkier and therefore an eye sore. Another deadbolt lock bolted on the inside part of a door is the rim deadbolt. The deadbolt locks automatically and therefore you will never worry about forgetting to lock up your door since it locks automatically each and every time you close the door.

5. Mortise deadbolts

Mortise deadboltThese are older key locks mostly installed in recess or mortise pockets cut on the door edges and therefore tampering with them is something hard. The locks are very strong but one of their drawbacks is that boring large holes into the door frame weakens the door structure.

Choosing a deadbolt lock

The five types of deadbolt locks are different and therefore to select the best you will have to research. Generally, single cylinder deadbolt locks can be suitable for homeowners which are higher quality deadbolt that will enhance your home security.

Double cylinder deadbolt locks offer more security particularly for doors with glass windows. To open this lock from either inside or outside, you will require a key and therefore a thief who breaks a glass cannot open this door. But because you will also require a key to exit, most fire safety codes do not approve these locks. To install this type of locks, you should first check with the building’s regulations.

The keyless entry deadbolt locks are specifically made for convenience purposes. And the popularity of the remote locking and unlocking devices is always growing. However, a major disadvantage associated with these locks is that they are not waterproof. Most of them require batteries to operate and if exposed to excess moisture, they may fail. In addition to these drawbacks, the locks are more expensive but are suitable for individuals desiring convenience.

Things to consider when selecting a deadbolt lock

• The quality

First you have to select the deadbolt lock of the highest quality. Inexpensive locks may seem to be reliable just like those of superior quality and higher price but often they don’t offer similar safety assurance as the expensive ones. Ensure that the deadbolt you have selected has steel hardened bolt which will extend at least one inch into your doorjamb.

• Consider the type of your door

During your evaluation, you should consider the single cylinder and the double cylinder deadbolts. And you will have to do your selection depending on the type of your door. If you have a wood door, a solid core door or a metal door, you may need a single deadbolt. But if your door has a glass window, the double deadbolt lock will be the best choice. And because double cylinder deadbolts are illegal, you will have to check with the local laws.

• Hollow doors

You should totally avoid installing deadbolts on hollow core doors since it will be a waste of your money and time – an intruder will easily kick such a door. When selecting doors, you will easily tell hollow door from a solid one by checking the weight. Hollow doors are usually lighter and even sound hollow.

Installing the deadbolt lock

When installing your deadbolts, you have to properly select the screws to use in mounting the strike plate. Mostly, those included with deadbolts are usually shorter and therefore pulling them out of the doorjamb can be easier. To enhance your security, you should use those between 3-4 inches in length. And if you would like to enhance the security of your home even more, you will need to consider metal deadbolts wrap-around which prevents your door from getting opened by force.

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How To Seach For Locksmiths Online

Locksmith keyboardIf you are looking for the best locksmith services, it is important to know how to search for Locksmith services online. And with the rising number of scam artists on the internet today, it is imperative that you take your research skills a notch higher if you don’t want to be conned.

Some would say it is better to move around when looking for locksmith services. While this option may be beneficial in some cases, the disadvantages surely exceed the advantages. For instance, you will waste too much time making myriad phone calls, or moving from one place to another before you can land a trustworthy locksmith. Thanks to the help of our friends at North Glenn Locksmith, here is some useful tips.

Here are great tips on how to find locksmith services online:

What do you want?

Certainly, you can’t find topnotch locksmith services online if you don’t even know what you are looking for in the first place. Have a rough idea of what you really want; be it installing new locks, rekeying, or even changing the existing ones.

Please note that not all locksmiths are knowledgeable about all services. Some professionals are versatile while other have specialized in a specific service. So, avoid using general phrases in your searches; it’s just a waste of time.

Try to focus on your area

lock repair1When looking to find locksmiths online, it is highly advisable to search for your local listings. Focusing on your town or city saves you time. Does it really make sense to search for locksmiths from overseas? Well, for starters, they may not even know you. To make matters worse, they are not in a position to assist you if you need an urgent matter to be taken care of.

There are several reviews on the internet; go through them

You should aware of this by now if you really want to know how to search for locksmith services online. The unlimited number of reviews available online, relieve you of the burden of having to do a lot of research on a given individual or company.

Once you find a company that interests you, just click on it and move to the customer reviews section. Here you will find valuable information what the customers feel about the services. Are satisfied? You can now make an informed decision on whether to go ahead and hire or to look elsewhere.

If you find a lot of negative reviews about a company, avoid it like plague.

reviewsIn addition, you can also make a decision based on factors such as affordability and quality of services. Today, most companies give a free quote so you shouldn’t have hard time finding information on pricing.

Make sure to double-check the locksmith’s reputation

Con artists may try very hard to hide this from you. Still, this information is also readily available on the internet. A locksmith constantly entangled in dispute with his/her clients is not a good fit.

You now know how to search for locksmith services online. In addition to the above mentioned tips, make an effort to know about the level of experience of the locksmith you settle for. A fantastic locksmith should not just focus on the amount of money you are offering. Instead, he/she should purpose to impress you at all costs, and get the job done perfectly!

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Some Great Solutions For Home Security

Home Security3When you invest a fortune into a nice home, protecting it is equally important. Home owners need effective and affordable home security solutions. Most home burglaries take place in the absence of home owners. As such, a good home security solution should be able to deter burglars, alert you of any intrusion, and provide evidence.
Resources:
southglennlocksmith.com
cesarsway.com
adt.com

Below are some great solutions for home security

Investing in quality locks

It goes without saying that locking up your home is one way to ensure its security. However it’s not just about locking, but using quality locks. Firstly, get the latest locks and even have blocking or centring pins fitted into them. This prevents a burglar from accessing your home using bumping or master keys. Secondly ensure you get locks that meet the current industry security standards. Thirdly, choose your door locks according to functionality. For instance exterior doors should have high quality locks than interior doors. Lastly, it is also very important that a home owner knows when to replace a lock or rekey.

If you have no idea of the right lock for your doors and windows, then you can consult a professional locksmith.

Up to date security cameras

business securitySecurity cameras have become a part and parcel of home security solutions. However the type of security camera used also matters a lot. The mere presence of a camera, even if it is not in perfect working condition is enough to scare away burglars. Invest in quality CCTV surveillance cameras with an option to let you monitor your home security via a cellphone or laptop. Try and monitor your garden sheds and garage because they are frequently used by thieves as entry points.

Thanks to technological advancements home security solutions have gone a notch higher. Basically all types of home security cameras have a wireless version. Other types of security cameras you can choose from include indoor, outdoor, motion detector as well as adjustable cameras.

Home security alarm systems

A home security system is never complete without an alarm system. An alarm system acts as a backup to your home security system. Just get a good alarm system, and have it installed by a professional. Installation is not enough, ensure you set your alarm regularly, so that it can effectively deter thieves. Set the alarm to always ring when someone attempts to access your home. Burglars will take off as soon as the alarm rings because they are obviously afraid of being caught. In order for your alarm system to serve you better ensure you have a company monitoring it every month.

Well trained security dogs

Security DogAnother great boost to home security are animals. The security dogs in particular have been a great home security solution to home owners. Approach a security dog training company that not only trains the animals to provide security but also companionship. Most security experts agree that well trained dogs can offer better security than bodyguards. Besides, a dog will cost you much but it’s a onetime investment. A bodyguard on the other hand will need to be paid regularly.

Do it yourself home security solutions

The security of your home begins with you, even the technological aspect has to be supported. Below are DIY home security tips.

· Ensure everything is locked up

Before you leave your home, ensure all the windows and doors are closed. You may have invested in quality locks but if you forget to lock the doors, burglars will definitely have access.

· Know your neighborhood

Neighbors provide one of the greatest home security solutions. Always be in touch with your neighbors to know what is going on in your environment. They may also alert you on some of the latest home security solutions they are using.

·Clear any bushes or shrubs that might be used by the burglars to hide as they calculate their entry moves. Ensure all is clear, such that you can always have an unobstructed view of your environment. Exterior lighting is also necessary for your garage, front doors as well as back yard.

All in all, home security solutions keep changing with time. Being in touch with professional locksmiths and security companies is a sure way to ensure you are always informed. A good home security system should be easy to install, and use. It must also be inexpensive and be of very high quality.

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Tips on How to Find Good Locksmiths

locksmithhhhhhIf you’ve never used the services of a locksmith, then it’s highly likely that you will need them someday. You might lose your keys (which often happens to many people), lock yourself out of your car or home, need to have your locks changed or repaired, or require to have a duplicate of an existing key. Of course, you would never want to find yourself in such situations but when that time comes, it’s good to have a professional locksmith you can trust.

Now when it comes to finding good locksmiths, sometimes it’s not always the easiest thing to do. This is because locksmiths are more or else like tradespeople- some are perfect while others will make you regret why you hired them in the first place. To avoid such ugly incidences, it’s important that you do your homework carefully so as to find those who can get the job done right the first time. Special thanks to the guys at www.paradisevalleylocksmithpros.net for all the helpful information.

Below are a few tips on how to find good locksmiths- tips that you might find useful during your hunt.

Get Recommendations

Most people who’ve hired any kind of professional, be it a carpenter, building contractor, handyman, or a locksmith will suggest that hiring through recommendations always works out well. Getting recommendations from friends, family members, and colleagues is a good way to find good locksmiths in your area. This is because these are people who have had past experiences with these individuals and have great confidence in them.

Take your time and collect every single detail you can get about the recommended individual/individuals. This way, you will be confident that you are dealing with professionals; not just any other wannabe locksmiths.

Carry Out an Online Hunt

wwwOf course, the internet has every kind of information you could ever want. Apart from using recommendations, you can also perform a thorough search online. Most locksmith companies have websites in which you can find information about their services. Record every single piece of information you can find about the services provided. Likewise, be sure to check out their customer reviews. Reviews from their previous clients can help you decide whether to hire them or not.

Check Qualifications

For any service provider to be considered as professional, he/she must have undergone through training and must be qualified to undertake the said tasks. For example, all doctors must be qualified and well-trained in order to treat patients. The same applies to locksmiths. You want someone who can install, repair, and perform maintenance on locks with expertise.

Request to check their educational qualifications. If not satisfied, you can dig for information on the locksmith professional body in your state.

License and Insurance

Locksmith InsuranceConfirm whether your selected candidates are licensed to offer their services in your area. Likewise, check whether they hold an insurance policy covering both Workman’s Compensation and General Liability coverages.

Experience is Crucial

Experience is crucial for any profession- and locksmithing is no exception. Locksmiths with a good experience in the industry are the most sought after. This is because their skill levels are not only high, but it’s usually a clear indicator that they are reputable.

Most experts recommend finding locksmiths with a minimum experience of at least 3 to 5 years. This is a person who is well conversant with all types of locks installations, repairs, and other related works.

Ask About Their Availability and Reliability

Imagine a scenario where you are locked out in or out of your car or house, and your locksmith is nowhere to be found. This can be very disappointing. Sometimes, it’s not always about finding the most reputable locksmiths, what’s more important is about finding those who you can rely on.

Before signing that agreement, ask whether he or she is available and reliable. If not, go on with your hunt until you find one who can guarantee his/her availability when called upon at any given time; even in the dead of the night.

Discuss About Fee Charges

This is one important rule that you should always observe when hiring any service provider. Never give someone a job without discussing about the cost and other related fees. First things fast, settle for a price before handing over the project. Experts also recommend settling on fixed charges as hourly rates are more expensive.

Also, settle for locksmiths whose services you can afford.

Compare Quotes

Each locksmith has his/her own price. This is why it’s important to compare at least 3 quotes and evaluate each one of them carefully. Of course, you should go for one with cheapest price quote but be sure to check on other factors too, such as quality of services, qualifications, communication, and experience.

No matter what your situation is, be sure to use the above tips on how to find good locksmiths. For sure, it might seem to be a daunting task but as long as you know exactly what you are looking for, it becomes much more easier.

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Does It Make Sense To Have Two Locks On A Door?

2 locksSecurity is one of the most vital concerns for all human beings. No one likes intruders and as such, we try as much as we can to keep ourselves and possessions safe from burglars and this is why houses are built and fitted with lockable doors. You want to ensure that no burglar enters your home at any one time and that your safety and the safety of your family is not compromised.

People often install double locks on their doors with the intention of keeping their homes more secure especially as most burglaries take place during the day. One is required by building codes and insurance companies to have a double lock on every door that has direct access outside the building. Naturally, we believe that these security measures keep us safe. But does it make sense to have two locks on the door?
Resources:
Aurora Locksmith
homedepot.com
lowes.com

Added Security

home security1Yes and yes. It makes sense to have double locks especially if you live in a high or moderate- crime area. Many burglars break into houses either through the door or the window. Now assuming that your windows are locked and not easily accessible, the burglar will likely make a forced entry through the door. Having double locks gives added security as it takes more time to pick or break two locks hence giving your more time advantage. However, if you have double locks on your door, it actually makes more sense to keep your windows closed and secure as well.

Install High Quality Brands

The added security that you will get from installing two locks will only depend on the quality of the locks used and how properly they have been installed. Most burglars are not as sophisticated as portrayed in the movies and know that it is not quite as easy to pick sophisticated locks. The chances of a burglar forcing entry into your house will reduce significantly if your doors are fitted with high quality locks. These deadbolts are usually made of hardened steel and depending on the class used and how well they are fitted; they can make it very difficult for the average burglar to get into your house.

Lower Insurance Premiums

Most insurance providers require homeowners to install double locks. In case your home is broken into and your property is stolen by a burglar, the insurance company is more likely to compensate you if they verify that you had gone the extra mile to secure your home. You also get to pay relatively lower premiums.

Although people often complain that double locks are more problematic than they are convenient, it is worthwhile to install them as they represent a higher level of protection than standard single locks do.

Fire Risks can be mitigated

The fire safety risks can be mitigated by installing single-bolt locks that only require a key to lock from outside but can be locked and unlocked automatically from the inside using a twist doorknob. While you may run the occasional risk of locking yourself outside, installing such locks in all exit doors gives more security to your home and also allows you to exit the building easily in case of fire or any other emergencies.

There are different types of double locks that work best for different people. If there are small windows within the doors that can be broken into or loopholes that make single-bolt double locks ineffective, it will be more advisable to use double-bolt locks. If the double-bolt system is undesirable, replacing and getting one that is designed with security features such as reinforced glass will be the best option. This will definitely deter or stall a burglar from easily getting into your house.

Always Use a Licensed Professional Locksmith

locksmith3Finally, find a professional locksmith whenever you want to change your locks or even to replace your keys. Remember that you are giving a total stranger access to your home and trusting him with your security. There are many questionable locksmiths who may give you a substandard job or worse still make a copy of your keys and collaborate with burglars to steal from you.

It is important to do your research well before picking a locksmith to install those double locks. Ask around for recommendations from friends and family. You can also find professional locksmiths near you by checking the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s list. When it comes to your security, you cannot be too careful.

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15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

Commercial locksmith1For any business owner, protecting their commercial property from intruders should be a number one priority.Whether deliberate or otherwise, vandalism can undermine a company’s image immensely. Disaster strikes without notice and no building is immune to destruction; therefore you should take all precautions possible to effectively lower risks and in this way protect your assets. That said here are the top 15 ways to Safeguard your commercial property, thanks to the guys at kentlocksmith.net:

Padlocks and locks. Make sure you lock all outside entrances and inside security doors. Double cylinder deadbolts with removable collars are actually the safest locks. The deadbolts should contain hardened steel inserts protected by latch guards. The padlocks should be made of hardened steel mounted on the bolted hasps. Finally, hide the serial numbers in your locks to prevent duplication of new keys.

commercial doorsDoors. Your commercial property should have solidly constructed inside and outside doors.They should be lined using metal and have heavy metal crossbars. The door jambs must be solid as well. Ensure all exposed hinges are pinned so that they can’t be removed easily.

Windows.The windows should have secure locks. The glass ought to be subjected to burglar-resistant treatment. For further security, install polyester security films which must be accompanied by glass-break sensor alarms. Highly vulnerable windows such as those in the rear should have heavy metal grates.

Lights. Fix lights that offer maximum visibility both inside and outside. The outside lights should have vandal-proof covers over the light sources. Your entire perimeter should have enough lighting especially at the windows, doors and any other possible entry point.

The alarm system. Your commercial property’s alarm system should be supplied and installed by a licensed alarm company. Ensure the company must has a centralized monitoring station. What’s more, the alarm system should be checked daily to ensure that it’s always functioning properly.

Cash register. Keep the cash register in a position that’s invisible from outside the building . You must leave it open whenever it is empty or not being used so that it can be easily monitored.

Strongbox/safe. This must be fireproof and burglar-resistant. It must be visible and securely anchored. Always keep it open when it is empty and lock in valuables when closing the business. Change the safe’s combinations anytime you sack or release employees who have details regarding the strongbox or safe.

Building exterior.The building’s exterior should be checked thoroughly including the basement, walls and roof and all openings secured. Maintain good visibility by keeping landscaping, vehicle equipment, boxes, cans and trash bins away the building. Their presence might assist burglars by providing access to the rooftop.

Perimeter fences.They must be installed high enough to give intruders a hard time accessing your premises. A good perimeter fence must be vertically erected with 0.3cm vinyl coated vertical iron bars or chain links.

Key controls. All company keys have to be responsibly given out. All keys must be coded and kept secure when they aren’t being used. Lock the keys somewhere safe and don’t leave them lying around.

Security CamerasUse of CCTV. Though installing CCTV is quite expensive, it will prove worthwhile in the long run. CCTV surveillance systems prevent break-ins by deter robbers and at the same time they raise the chances of getting the robbers after break-ins.

Use of Anti-climb fences. If your business is sizable and needs a fence or wall around the perimeter, you should consider installing it such that it’s anti-climb.

Key Card LockUsing Key-card access systems. Security in the workplace is paramount because it makes your customers and employees feel safe. Having key-card assess systems on your exterior doors ensures that only authorized personnel and employees access the premises.

Taking an Insurance cover. Carry out a thorough research so that you find the best insurance firm to protect the commercial property from unpredictable disasters be they fires or break-ins.

Risk assessment. Carry out an investigation so that make an evaluation on where you mostly require assistance. You may find out that your commercial property is located within a crime-prone area or that your fence is old and has to be taken down. Such items that easily overlooked.

Fires, break-ins, natural disasters etc remain a big concern for many firms. There are many options available to protect commercial properties but you should have all the necessary information about each before putting it in place. Meanwhile criminals are always looking for even more ingenious ways of robbing honest, hardworking business owners so keep yourself updated with newer methods of protecting your commercial property.

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5 Ways To Make Your Home Safe From Intruders

home securityIn the last few years, the rate of burglary has declined steadily, whether it is due to an increase in the vigilance of law enforcement or due to an increase in technology is unsure. Irrespective of the reason, the technology available to make homes safe from intruders has improved and it has certainly assisted in the decrease of burglary rates. There are

certain things homeowners can do to reduce probability of their homes being broken into; here are 5 ways to make your home safe from intruders.
Resources:
www.fountainhillslocksmithpros.net
lowes.com
adt.com

Install Deadbolt Locks

deadboltsDeadbolts locks makes it difficult for thieves to break in and the longer a thief spends in the home, the higher the chances of him being caught in the act by the homeowner or a random visitor. Deadbolts locks makes a home more difficult to break into but you should ensure that you purchase a high quality deadbolt locks so that they cannot be compromised easily. Locks for all exterior doors should be either grade one or two, such locks can resist a burglar lock picking attempts and they are not likely to give in to tampering. High quality deadbolt locks also have a beveled casing that makes it hard for the lock to be compromised using channel lock pliers which are often used on other types of locks to remove the cylinder pins in the lock.

Install a home security system

home security controlsInstalling a home security system is one of the simplest and the most effective way of making your home safe from intruders. A home security system will alert you when a thief breaks in. They also have loud alarms that scare any intruder before he or she can steal or damage anything as well as alert the neighbors. If well monitored, home security systems can also alert the local authorities who will respond promptly to check why the alarm was activated.

Also, you can consider enforcing neighborhood watch to promote the safety of your home as well keep the burglars away. This involves the entire neighborhood working together to enforce a safety community for the members and keeping watch of another member’s home especially when the security alarm goes on. This kind of cooperation can certainly help to keep the burglars away.

Maintain a Well Lit Property

Burglars do not target a well-lit area because they can easily be seen compared to breaking in in the dark. Therefore, always ensure that the outdoor lighting is functional to maintain a safe property. Having a well-lit front porch means that nothing can get into the house without being seen.

Avoid posting all your travel plans online

Whether it is mentioning to a colleague or friend about an upcoming business trip or it is the children talking publicly about an upcoming vacation, mentioning travel plans in public can be quite dangerous. An unintended person could overhear that there will be no one in the home for the scheduled days which is an invitation for prospective burglars to target your home. Also, once you travel, do not post all the travel updates online immediately, you should wait until after the trip or vacation; when you are back home to post the images and check-ins in the places you visited.

Timing Devices

Using timing devices may seem rather old but it is still effective in keeping burglars away. Timing devices are perfect tools to implement in your home whether or not you are on a trip or vacation because they help to switch on the lights in the home even when there is no one at home. The best method of implementing timing devices is to plug them then set them to work during the times no one is in the house. When you set the timing devices to turn on the lights, turn on the TV or radio and turn down the blinds when no one is at home, it will certainly confuse burglars and turn them away. Timing devices can also be used to make a home safer for those living alone or those whose spouses are usually out of town. Coming back to a dark home is quite scary and it can be dangerous especially to women who live alone. Installing timing devices gives a home a safer atmosphere when you return home in the night.

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Lock Options For Your Mailbox

Mailbox lock4If you are worried about getting your sensitive mails stolen from the mailbox while you are away at work or at home, then it is probably time to consider lock options for your mailbox. Identity theft has been on the rise and mailboxes are the most common target for thieves to obtain essential information that could potentially be used for crimes. Fortunately, there are a lot of options to secure your mailbox. To avoid identity theft, choose some of the best locking system for your mailbox.
Resources:
www.rentonlocksmith.net
lowes.com
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Lock Options for your Mailbox

Mailbox locks come in different types and each one provides a unique feature than the others. There are basically two types of locking options available, which include the wall mount security mailbox and the curbside locking mailboxes. The wall mount security mailbox is commonly used on houses, garage, or gates and can be attached almost anywhere. The curbside locking mailboxes, on the other hand, is typically a post near the curb. However, both can be used for commercial use as a drop box.

Placing Lock Mailboxes

USPSIt is important to look for a locking mailbox that meets and suits your needs. If you already have a mailbox on a post or near the curb and are looking to replace it with a locking mailbox, you need to contact the postal service first to make a change of the location of the mail.

Choosing the Right Lock Options

MailboxInstallation of locking mailboxes is easy. If you follow the simple instructions from the manual, you’d be able to set everything up in about a couple of minutes. But what’s more important than installation is to choose the right locking mailboxes. Always choose those which are impenetrable. You have to select the one that offers extreme security over designs or colors.

Benefits of Lock Mailboxes

There are a lot of benefits from getting lock mailbox. These lock and key facility provides utmost security for the mails. Lock mailboxes are often small in size but can accept mail and packages. You can assure that no one would be able to reach inside the mailbox because the slit of the box is quite small so the chances of losing mail are greatly minimized.

The mailboxes come in different types and style. You can choose to set up a wall mount, or a curb styles with thick stainless steel lock and key.

Where to Find Lock Mailboxes

There are hundreds of lock mailboxes offered today on the internet and as well as on some stores that offer these products. However, when buying one, you have to consider the cost and the type of lock mailboxes that suit your preferences. You can go and check online and search for customer reviews to get what’s mostly sought on the internet. You can also do your research there and know the exact details of the product you wish to buy.

When it comes to finding security for your important mails, there is no other way than to get lock mailboxes. These small but terrible mailboxes provide utmost security to your mails no matter where you are.

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Why Are Kwikset Locks So Reliable?

Kwikset logo2Our home is a place of refuge and safety. That is why we do our best to keep it secure and safe from any unwelcome guests. One of the most common and the oldest form of home security is the lock. However, the Kwikset Locks take the lock security into a different level. Big thanks to the guys at Queen Creek Locksmith for all the helpful information.

So, what is different about Kwikset Locks? And, why is it reliable for security?

The Problem

Door locks have come a long way since they were invented. It’s a simple and cost-effective way of protecting your home from anyone who is not “authorized” to enter your home or a certain room. And yet, door locks are not foolproof.

Just like a cat and mouse chase, locksmith create a lock and some would-be thief would devise a way to counteract the security features of a lock. As a response, lock makers devise a new way of securing the locks from the newly developed techniques. One technique for disabling locks that is becoming more and more popular is what is called as Lock Bumping.

What Is Lock Bumping?

lock bumpingLock bumping is also known as key bumping. It’s a technique that uses a specially cut keys, or also known as bump keys. Now let’s discuss how a lock bumping works.

The first step is inserting the bump key to the door lock. Then, with a blunt item (like the butt of a screwdriver), you simply tap the bump key and simultaneously turning the key. You may have to do this a couple of times. There is a reason why this works.

Inside your door lock are pins and tumblers that need to be aligned so it will release the lock. When the lock bumping is done, the pins and tumbler moves for a fraction of a second. And, with the simultaneous turning of the key, the pins and the tumbler will eventually align, thus releasing the lock. This is just one technique, but it’s very popular.

The reason why lock bumping is popular is because it’s easy to do, and there are a lot tutorial videos on the web on how to do it. Most old locks are susceptible to lock bumping, but this what makes Kwikset Locks different.

Why Are Kwikset Locks So Reliable?

Kwikset ElectronicThe reason why Kwikset Locks are so reliable because the manufacturer has devised ways to prevent lock bumping and other common ways of disabling the lock (like lockpicking). In fact, the company holds a running challenge.

The challenge goes something like this; the manufacturer would give a prize money if anyone can disable their lock in 10 minutes via lockpicking or lock bumping. To this day, no one has claimed the prize money. There is a reason for this.

The secret to Kwikset Locks is the internal design, Smartkey technology and BumpGuard. The manufactures are keeping all of the secrets under lock and key. However, they are willing to share that Kwikset Locks come with side locking mechanism, an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt and metal balls. All of these prevent the effectiveness of lock picking, bump locking and even thrilling.

Kwikset Locks are one of the most reliable locks out there. The reason for this is because the manufacturer takes security seriously. The company knows the common ways of disabling locks and develops technology to disable such techniques. As of the moment, the technology that is incorporated into the Kwikset Locks makes it highly resistant to techniques such as drilling, lock picking and lock bumping.

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