What Are My Options For High Security Locks?

Posted on November 10, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

Most of the people have a notion that they have installed proper locks that will make their home and business installation secure. This sense can be purely misleading. Most of us don’t know the vulnerabilities of unsecured locks. Apart from that most of the locks available in the market don’t come with duplication protection by law. People choose wrong locks and end up being robbed. You should always consult a genuine locksmith if you have any queries regarding locking system. Even if you are not going to a locksmith, you should ask yourself “what are my options for high security locks?” before installing a lock.

This article provides insight on some options regarding high-security locks and their features to protect you from unnecessary mishaps, thanks to the guys over at greshamlocksmith.org.

 

High-security locks and their features

 

Padlocks

Padlock1These types of locks don’t require permanent attachment. These locks have different variants in terms of size. These locks come in key form and combination form. You can use the combination of dials to open the combination locks. This is easy to pen with heat and trail method. Re-key-able, non-key-able, key-retain-able and non-key-retaining is some of the locks of these types.

Which types of padlocks are secure?

A padlock with shrouded shackle is the most secured one. It is hard to cut the lock with the help of bolt cutters.

 

Keyless lock

This is one of the newest innovations in the locking arena. This lock uses master key exchange system. You can change master key without replacing the lock with a new one. This allows you to adopt a new master key every time you use it. This works on wireless system and it doesn’t use any battery to operate.

Usage

You can change the master key of the lock hence it finds its use in various locker systems. Corporate, activity centers and clubs make use of this locking system.

 

Deadbolts

deadbolt lockGenerally deadbolts are of three types. Out of all three, single and double deadlocks have problems during situations. While single deadbolt can be opened if you get access to the inside of a room in any way, the double deadbolt can hinder your access if you have no keys inside.

The third type of deadbolt is known as the hybrid deadbolt. It has no problems like the other two. In fact, it is the most preferred lock in terms of providing security and flexibility.

 

Digital locks

These locks find their usage in shared environments. You need to press four-digit password to open the lock. It uses a battery to operate. It can be used in colleges, spas and clubs.

 

Lever handle locks

This type of lock is generally used in indoors. This lock is handicap friendly. This lock can be installed as per your convenience of right and left-handedness.

 

Knob locks

These locks serve dual purposes. These can be either be used as primary locks or secondary locks with the deadbolts. These locks are generally used in outdoors for security purpose. It is advisable to use simple passage knobs rather than the normal knobs. You should always use these with deadbolts.

 

Electronic locks

electronic lockThese locks can be used in places where the requirement is either single user usage or shared usage. These locks can be programmed to remain open for a certain time. If the time is elapsed, the lock will be closed automatically without even asking you. You have to complete the work within the programmed time. These locks find their usage in lockers.

 

Rim locks

From the name of the cylinder, the name of the lock has been derived. These locks are used in glass doors, commercial doors, and apartment doors. The locking mechanism is applied to the opposite side of the door where the cylinder has been installed. These locks are installed with the help of screws from the inside of the door.

 

Wall mounted locks

As the name suggests, these locks are installed on the walls. Since these locks are required to be installed on the walls, it is wise to install these locks during the time of construction of your house. Generally these locks are used for storage purpose. You can also use these locks for other purposes too.

 

Interchangeable core cylinders

This type of lock is suitable for large businesses and houses. It can be easily re-keyed. You don’t need to replace the whole lock for replacing it. In fact, you can only replace the inner core of the lock.

 

Conclusion

This article mentions about various high secure locks. You can choose the locks that meet your purpose.

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Types of Kwikset Locks

Posted on November 10, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

Kwikset is based in United States of America, with headquarter in California, and branches in New Zealand, Victoria, Australia and Auckland. There are various types of Kwikset locks. These include electronic, light commercial, door levers, dead bolts, handle sets and door knobs. Each of these types of kwikset locks comes with various excellent brands. It is therefore important to consider choosing kwikset key locks depending on your needs for home security. Always remember that kwikset is the leading brand leader when it comes to locks production. The products are high quality, long lasting and one do not have to spend a lot to acquire them.
Resources:
diamondbacklockandkey.com
kwikset.com
homedepot.com

 

Electronic kwiksetThe electronic kwikset locks are those which are operated by electronic keypads or touch screens, and comes with a backup key ways. These types of locks are activated and operated by keying in access codes that are personalized. You only have to touch a button to lock it. Always note that the kwikset electronic locks are usually available in five finishes, which include satin nickel, polished brass, polished chrome, Venetian bronze and fob. There are eleven brands under this type of quickest key lock. Some of these include 913 smart code deadbolt, power bolt and 912 smart code lever that has a home connect.

 

kwikset handlesetAnother type of kwikset locks is the handle sets. These are mainly designed to be utilized in the entries of front door, because they have stylish handles and secure deadbolts. Handle sets are usually available in eleven finishes which include satin nickel, polished chrome, Venetian bronze, iron black, rustic pewter, rustic bronze, polished brass, and antique brass. There are thirteen brands for this type of kwikset locks. These include Dakota, wellington, Shelburne, Avalon, Chelsea, Amherst, montara, belleview, tavaris and Austin.

 

There is also the Kwikset dead bolts, which are designed to ensure that homes are protected from thefts, break in, unauthorized entries and arbitrary trespasses. Kwikset dead bolts are available in various security grades and styles. It is worth noting that these types of kwikset locks are usually available in a total of twelve finishes that include; antique brass, life time polished brass, satin nickel, antique brass, polished chrome, satin chrome, Venetian bronze, rustic bronze, fob, iron black and rustic pewter. There are thirty two brands under this type of kwikset lock. Some of these include the key control deadbolt, Austin, Copa combo pack, Juno combo pack, lido combo pack and kevo Bluetooth lock.

 

kwikset leverKwikset door levers are yet another type of kwikset locks. These types of locks have a lever shape, and are most suitable for residential homes. Door levers kwikset locks are specifically designed to enhance and complement a home’s interior decor. It is important to note that these types of kwikset locks are also readily available in eleven finishes which include the antique brass, life time polished brass, satin nickel, polished brass, satin chrome, antique nickel, rustic bronze, polished chrome, Venetian bronze, iron black, rustic pewter and the rustic bronze. There are a total of twenty two brands under this locks. Some of these include Austin, brooklane, ashfield, Avalon, commonwealth, lido, and katara.

 

There is also the kwikset door knobs, which are mainly designed to be utilized in ordinary residential homes, with a specific design that aim to enhance the interior decor of the home. just like kwikset door levers, Door knobs are available in a total of eleven finishes which include; antique brass, life time polished brass, satin nickel, polished brass, satin chrome, antique nickel, rustic bronze, polished chrome, Venetian bronze, iron black, rustic pewter and the rustic bronze. There are nineteen brands under this type of kwikset locks, some of which include circa, laurel, juno combo pack, polo, mobile home knob, tylo knobs, tylo compo pack as well as Abbey and Cameron.

 

It is worth noting that all kwikset items come with warranties which are aimed at ensuring customer retention with a view of building a long term loyalty. Kwikset is an excellent locks company that also provide re-key services for all its products. it is easy to install all the above mentioned kwikset door locks, however, it is important to consider getting the help of a professional to work it out for you and enjoy the advantage of optimum security to your properties.

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7 Top Types Of Commercial Door Locks

Posted on November 9, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

Are you choosing a lock for your office or home? Yes, I bet that you want the right lock that will best suit you. Remember that not all locks are made equal. Different types of brand have different types of features that have been crafted for different situations. Buying the best lock is not just rushing into local home improvement shop and then grabbing the first lock you come across.
Truth be told, before going for shopping, ensure that you know where the lock will be exactly located (office, hospital, or a retail establishment) and also what you want to do. Do you prefer a keyless or mobile entry solution? Or do you want a lock that you will be able to rekey easily and quickly. It is also important to speak with an expert to give you insight on what will suit you best. Read on, enjoy and familiarize yourself with The Top Types Of Commercial Door Locks brought to us by our friends over at tacomalocksmith.org.

• Arrow

Arrow1With a strong emphasis on the security of your office or business, Arrow lock is the best lock for you. This lock is crafted in a way that ensures that it remain strong and durable for years. These locks are made with experts who makes security they priority. There are numerous types of arrow locks which are: key systems, door control, and also locking hardware. This is the best lock if you need a lock for security needs.

• Schlage

Schlage offers you with keyed and keyless entry locks. This industry setter offers the best security solution for office and home. These locks are highly tamper resistant, if you are looking for durability then look no further, schlage is a tamper proof construction. The primus products offers you an optimal security system with keyway and as well as the keyless system.

• Corbin/Russwin

CorbinRusswinAre you looking for durability and strength that a lock can offer? Then look no more because Corbin/Russwin is the lock for you. They are easy to install and also great for office, classrooms and other institutions use. They have an impressive line of defense crafted to withstand any kind of abuse. They have an attractive but yet sturdy design which makes them the best choice for institutions such as schools and healthcare facilities.

• Sergeant locks

Security is the main game of Sargent locks. These security lock device are made for the most demanding environments such as hospitals, schools and health care facilities. They offer us with numerous locking options which include fobs, keyless entry, keyed entry and also a keypad locking system. A sergeant product comes along with complementary hardware. Are you looking for a secure, good, durable locking system that will suit your business then this is the best place to start?

• The Baldwin locks

Baldwin locksAre you looking a stylish, attractive and outstanding security locking system? Then Baldwin is the best lock for you business. They offer traditional and contemporary hardware options, this type of lock mix well with any office décor. It also offers security solution which range from keyless entry to knobs, pocket door locks to levers which are designed to counter the current trends and will blend easily with the office.

• Falcon locks

Do you want the best lock in form of functionality, falcon locks are the best locks which will not only offer you with the automatic door operation systems but also with a touch bar exit unit and also other utility hardware for the doors. Falcon door locks are used in commercial, healthcare, government and education facilities. They are known for the high level of security system and evidence has it that they have been used in the White House, states and prisons.

• Kwikset lock

Kwikset locks features the smartkey, this is the new innovative idea in the world of locks, this technology gives you the ability to rekey all of your locks yourself, saving you money and time. This lock is the best for businesses and rental properties where you would probable change the lock due to workers turnover or even tenants moving out and in. they are also pick resistance and also bump proof.

Conclusion

With the above information I bet that your work has been made easier, you can now walk to the home improvement store and confidently pick a lock that will suit your need perfectly.

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The Dealership Or A Locksmith For Car Key Replacement?

Posted on November 9, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

Most drivers know how frustrating it feels to lose one’s keys. Being unable to drive one’s car is a huge inconvenience. Cars help us to get from one point to the next every day. After losing one’s car keys, there are two main locations where one can get new ones. One of these is the car dealership and the other is a locksmith. Which one of these is better? Read on to discover.
Resources:
lakewoodcolocksmith.com
opposingviews.com
gocompare.com

The truth about lost car keys?

lost car keysIf you have a modern car, then your car key is special. It is known as a transponder key. This is because it has a cut key and a computer microchip inside it. When you put it into the ignition, the chip inside the key communicates with the on-board computer in the key and the key is verified as the correct one. If you lose this key, it is pretty expensive to replace at the car dealership. At most of the dealerships, it will cost you up to $200 to replace the key. One would wonder why they are paying this much. Actually, cutting a new duplicate key for you costs only 2 or 3 dollars. The rest goes into programming a brand new microchip for your car keys that will be accepted by your car’s on-board computer. If this microchip is not well programmed, then you can put the key into the ignition and your car will not start at all. Thus, the microchip must be very well programmed. As such, getting a replacement key from your dealership is quite costly. How about getting it from a locksmith?

locksmith equipmentA locksmith has all the equipment that your car dealer uses to replace transponder car keys. The locksmith can even come to your home with the equipment to replace the key in your garage. This is far more convenient than having to go to a car dealership to get the same done. In addition to this, a locksmith will charge you much less than a dealership would. They can even charge you half of the price you would have paid the car dealer. The locksmith has a device that they use to cut the key and also to program the microchip inside the key. The locksmith can come to your place and complete the job there. However, in a case where you have to go to them, make sure that you collect details about your car such as the make, model and VIN number of your car. These are all important details that the locksmith needs to replace your transponder keys. However, there are some fraudulent locksmiths. They can make new keys for you that don’t work, accept your money and disappear. Thus, make sure that you only go to a reputable locksmith.

We have observed that getting car keys replaced by a dealership is far more expensive than getting the same done by a locksmith. Moreover, the locksmith can come to your home. This is very convenient. As such, if you need a new set of car keys, a locksmith will get them for you at a lower cost and conveniently than the car dealer.

Lost car keys and insurance

lost keys1There are some insurance cover policies that can assist you to get your car keys back in case you lose them. There are some types of motor policies that cover replacing your car keys. All that you need to do is claim on the insurance and they will effectively pay for replacement. Examples of these are Nationwide and Co-op Bank standard car insurance policies. Nationwide car insurance covers the cost of replacing your car keys to an unlimited cost. Co-op bank pays you $1148.55 for replacing your car keys if you are covered by their standard motor insurance.

You can also get the cost of replacing your car keys covered by a key cover policy. There are companies that offer insurance for your car keys. If they get lost, damaged or malfunction, these companies can cover the cost of restoring them to good working order. This is a stand alone type of policy that is offered by insurance companies such as Keycare and Boomerang-Tagbut. You can have this type of insurance added upon your existing car insurance policy. The AA also offers Warranty Key Protection insurance.

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Should I Rekey or Replace My Locks

Posted on November 5, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

Rekey or Replace

There are many things that may prompt you to seek a lock replacement or lock rekey. A lock may grow inoperable or you may lose your key or you just need to improve the security of your home. Every one of these scenarios requires that you either change your lock or rekey it. But often, people call in for the wrong service. There are instances where all you need is a rekey, and there are others where you need a complete overhaul of the lock system. Below, thanks to the help of littletonlocksmith.net, find the differences and recommendations on what you need to do in every one of the scenarios the article highlights above.

1. Rekeying

rekeying a lockRekeying is a simple process of altering a lock’s tumbler or wafer configuration so that a new key may function while an old one doesn’t. You can rekey on your own or you may call in a locksmith. Rekeying is not ideal in every case. It is mostly appropriate when the lock is not old or damaged, otherwise it will be prudent to replace the entire lock.

Rekeying guarantees the following benefits:-

- -Cost Benefits— One of the foremost benefits that rekeying has over complete replacement of the lock system lies in its significantly lower cost. Rekeying can cost you around $80 while replacing the lock may cost you from $130 to $360. You also won’t need to buy any new hardware.

- -Rekeying takes a shorter time than a replacement- The while it takes to rekey is significantly less than complete replacement of the lock system. In fact, most locksmiths can rekey in about half the time it would take to replace the entire lock. This is particularly important if it is about multiple locks in a business setting where time is of great essence.

- -Convenience- Rekeying the entire home or business premises can save you the trouble of guessing which keys fit a particular lock or the inconvenience of carrying many keys on your key ring. That is if you want all the locks in your home or business premises to work on a single key. Moreover, the new rekeying hardware will be keyed to the same lock.

Rekeying won’t change the look of your door as there will be no paint lines.

 

2. Replacing the Lock

replacing a lockReplacing the lock is the alternative to rekeying the lock. It involves a complete change of the entire lock. Replacing a lock is appropriate in the following situations:-

- -Break-Ins- Where there has been a break-in or a break-in attempt, it is advisable to completely replace the lock system. It is all about security and a feeling of security. It is important to obviate any possibility that a burglar or any other ill-motivated person can have access to your home. A break-in attempt, though foiled, can still leave damage to the existing lock. For peace of mind and safety, you are better replacing the lock system.

- – Enhancing Security- In case you need more security, maybe because of threats or recently acquired valuables, it will be ideal to change the entire lock system. Just rekeying will leave the locks with the original vulnerabilities.

- – Changing out your door- This is pretty straightforward. A new door will just require a new lock system.

- -Aesthetics- When you decide to repaint or renovate your home, you may also need to change the lock so that it may cohere with the new theme.

- -Wear and Tear- Older locks may grow weaker. Thus, your locksmith may advise you when it is necessary to completely replace your lock system.

- Vintage Locks- Sometimes it will be difficult to find replacement parts for obsolete or vintage locks. In those instances, it is only proper if you completely change your lock system.

Conclusion

To rekey or replace the lock system depends on the exigencies of every situation and your preferences. But while at it, whether replacing or rekeying, find a trustworthy and competent locksmith; otherwise, you will find yourself with the very demons you are fleeing from. Some locksmiths can clandestinely make extra copies of keys for themselves- isn’t it chilling to think of all the despicable motivations why they might do that? Yeah, it is. Therefore, in addition to finding a trustworthy and genuine locksmith, be around when he goes around his business at your home or in his station of work.

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Most Common Car Ignition Problems

Posted on November 4, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

When you enter your car and then turn the key, you will expect your car to turn on but there are instances when it does not happen. There are times when your car does not start at the most inopportune time and hence you will need to look for the underlying issues that are causing these problems. Since the engine of the machine is a complex piece of machinery, it might face some ignition problems and hence the car will not start. You will need to look for a mechanic who will fix these problems when your car won’t start. The mechanic will look for the underlying problems that are causing these ignition issues so that it can be fixed immediately. With help from mobile local locksmith company in Arvada, CO, we’re able to bring to you this information about ignition problems.
Other Resources:
car-ignition.com
autozone.com

 

The most common car ignition problems you may face include-

ignition coilIgnition coil- every car has ignition coil that might grow old and brittle due to constant wear and tear. With time the coil may also corrode and when it is corroded or becomes brittle, it can often break or split. This is the most common car ignition problem in which the ignition coil will prevent the engine of the car from turning on. This coil is found by the distributor cap and you will need to take a closer look at the cap for finding any traces of mist or water under the cap. For solving this issue, you will need to replace the ignition coil as well as the distributor cap for solving this issue.

Electrical problems- as soon as you experience car ignition problems then the first thing that you should check are the battery of your car. The reason for this is because if your battery is dead then there are no chances for your engine to turn on. To find out whether your battery is empty or filled you can take the batter of your car to your local auto parts store. But if there are no problems with the battery then you will need to check the fuse box that is inside the engine for finding any blown fuses inside the fuse box. Another very common electrical problem that might lead to car ignition problems is the faulty starter connection or switch connection. There are a large number of electrical components that can lead to car ignition problems and a problem with just one of the component does not let the engine of the car turn on.

Fuel system- it is very important that fuel runs through the engine of your car so that your engine can start quickly and work efficiently. After you have ruled out the ignition coil and electrical problems, you will need to take a look at the fuel system of your car. Fuel injection system is the first thing that you will have to check as it features electrical connections that might become loose and you will have to get it tightened. The fuel pump is also a major component that can cause the car ignition problems and if the pump loses pressure then the flow of the fuel to the starter in the engine will reduce or it may stop completely. Therefore it is very important that you look at the relay line for making sure that it is not clogged.

Engine- another reason why the engine of your does not turn on when the engine is over heated which may be because of controlled explosion that takes place inside the engine that emits a large amount of heat. The high temperature inside the engine is controlled by the engine and it is very important that you check the coolant level as well as the system time for avoiding these heating problems.

ignition switch3Ignition switch- another very common car ignition problem occurs when the ignition switch heats up while you start the engine. This might be because of broken ignition switch wire or loose connection and for this you will need to change the ignition switch for solving your problem.

Battery- the battery of your car has to be charged fully so that it can start as soon as you turn on the engine. If the battery is charged then the problem might be because of the defective ignition wire that might obstruct the battery from supplying sufficient current to the engine.

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Learn About Keyless Entry for Your Home

Posted on November 4, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

In this article, you will learn about keyless entry for your home whether you are considering installation of the system, or you already have one.
Resources:
gilbertlocksmithpros.com
yalelock.com
kwikset.com

 

What Is Keyless Entry?

kwikset keyless1Keyless entry for home doors uses the same technology as keyless car doors and garage door openers. The lock features AA batteries that are used to power the locking/unlocking functions of the door. With the system, you don’t need traditional keys to lock/unlock the door. Instead, you use a card, combination, or biometrics to perform the functions. The deadbolt system has no lever to turn.
The most common keyless entry systems have numbered push-buttons that unlock the door using a preset code. The lock function features a single button that sports a lock symbol. Most units have been designed to lock automatically in case you forget to push the lock button. To make the work easy for you, the locks are fitted with back-lit keypads so that you can see the buttons even at night.
A keyless entry lock can either be single-sided or double-sided. Whereas a double-sided lock requires authorization for entry and exit, a single-sided one only requires authorization for entry.

Types of Keyless Locks

There are many types of keyless entry for a home. They are discussed below.

Keypads: they are the oldest type of keyless lock technology. They contain buttons that enable you to enter a combination as a security code. Only the right combination is granted access into the home. Some units lock completely when there are many consecutively wrong combinations.
Remote operated locks: these locks are opened by a remote gadget; much like car or garage door remotes. They are designed to be sensitive only within small distance from the door so that your door does not open accidentally while you are far away.
Biometric locks: they use handprint or fingerprint to identify a person. They neither require you to remember a combination nor walk around with any gadget. They can be programmed to grant access to many people who reside in the house.
Card/tag locks: card or tag locks are very popular in hotel rooms. Instead of a traditional key, the lock uses a specially designed card or tag that is swiped to open the door. The same technology has been adapted in some residential homes.
smart lock1Smart locks: these are locks that are controlled using smart phone technology. With specially designed applications, the phone can communicate with the lock using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or any other communication mode.

Advantages of Keyless Locks

Compared to traditional locks, keyless entry systems have many advantages. Some of them are explained below.

# You cannot lock yourself out of the house. The only risky possibility is that you might forget your combination before you memorize it perfectly.
# You don’t need a spare key that can easily fall in the wrong hands.
# Most keyless entry locks install easily on standard doors. It takes a few minutes and a screw driver only to install one.
# For a lock that uses a code, you can program it to accept some codes for temporary access (such as contractors) and then delete them soon.
# The house is safer because the locks are harder to hack.
# Children will not have to carry keys around, and that eliminates the chances of your home keys getting lost or falling in the hands of thieves.

Disadvantages of keyless locks

Great as they may be, keyless entry locks have their fair share of disadvantages.
#They are relatively expensive compared to traditional locks. However, the prices have been on a consistent decline over the past few years as manufacturers enjoy economies of scale due to increasing demand.
# They are not entirely safe because an intruder can take time and effort to hack the system. It is extremely hard but not entirely impossible.
# Keyless locks can also lock you out if you forget the required combination. That makes them inappropriate for people with memory-related problems.

Installation of Keyless Entry

Keyless entry4As mentioned already, most keyless lock systems are very easy to install, and you can do the installation yourself. Make sure you refer to the manufacturer’s guide for proper installation so that you don’t compromise your security.
However, your best alternative for installation is to call a locksmith. Synchronizing the lock with the rest of your security system is better left to the experts.

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Home Door Lock Options

Posted on October 31, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

A door lock should be chosen based on the level of security needed. To this end, you need to take your time to research on the various home door lock options available. Some of the lock options are explained below with help of some good information provided by the pro locksmith services in Burbank, CA.

 

Padlock

 

padlockPadlocks are cheap. It is the only one among the home door lock options that is not permanently attached to the door or the door frame. They come in many sizes, they are free standing and portable and are easily recognizable. You can choose between keyed and combination padlocks. The combination padlock has number dials and all you need to do is enter the combination and it opens. Some padlocks are key-retaining (these do retain the key when they are open) while others are non-retaining. You can also choose padlocks with a shrouded shackle which is like a shoulder extension to make it hard for bolt cutters to cut your padlock.

 

Deadbolts

 

Deadbolts are more diverse than padlocks. They are usually installed on exterior doors. You can choose between lockable thumbturn, single and double deadbolts. The single cylinder option comes with a key cylinder on the outside and a thumbturn on the inside to open the door. The double comes with a key cylinder on both sides of the door. The lockable thumbturn option is a hybrid of the single and the double cylinder. Here, you can lock the thumbturn with a key and lender it useless in opening or closing the door. If you open it, the lock acts like a single cylinder deadbolt.

 

Knob Locks

 

These are mostly used in addition to deadbolts. They should never be used on external doors for security for the simple fact that their lock cylinder is on the knob and not the door as on a deadbolt. They can be easily broken off the door using something like a hammer or any metallic object.

 

Lever Handle Locks

 

lever handle lockThese have a large handle that opens the down when pushed down. They are commonly used for inner doors and are easier to open than knob locks. They come handy when handicap accessibility becomes important in your home. When buying lever handle locks, consider backset and handedness.

 

Jimmy Proof Deadbolts

 

These are surface mounted locks that are common in apartments and especially on double doors. It is among the home door lock options that require little modifications on the door. Jimmy proof deadbolts have the advantage of not being easy to pull apart from the outside seeing that the deadbolts and the jamb jacket interlock. A surface mount lock screws from the inside. With this lock option, all is required is a hole drilled through the door for the passage of the rim cylinder.

 

Rim Latch Lock

 

rim latch lockThis is a simple lock with a surface mount latch on one side of the door and a rim cylinder (standard or custom) on the other side. The beauty about rim latch locks is that they can auto lock. They are commonly used in apartment complexes. If you are to use these locks on an external door, be sure to pair them with other locks. They are not designed to withstand a large amount of force.

 

Euro Profile Cylinders

 

These are sometimes called DIN cylinders. They are common in Europe but they have spread to other parts of the world and are becoming popular in North America. They are used mostly on sliding glass doors and on doors dividing rooms at home. They come in three varieties; single cylinder with a locking cylinder on one side, double cylinder with locking cylinder on both sides of the door and a single cylinder with a thumbturn. They are held to the door by a single screw. To this end, they can easily be snapped off the door if they are not properly reinforced.

 

Rim and Mortise Cylinder Locks

 

They are common in apartment doors. Though rim and mortise locks are similar, they are used on different hardware. The rim cylinder lock is used on rim latch mounted on the interior of the door. On the other hand, the mortise cylinder locks are attached to the mortise hardware which is mounted within the door. Rim cylinders are held by two screws from the interior while mortise cylinders are held by a set screw which has a cam to accentuate the securing hardware.

 

Other Locks

 

The home door lock options available on the market today can be overwhelming. Some are used for commercial buildings but can be used in homes that need high security measures. They include cam locks, interchangeable core cylinders, T-handle locks, switch locks and European locks among others.

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Getting Your Building Up To Code With Proper Exit Devices

Posted on October 30, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

To adhere to the strict Building Codes and Fire Prevention Codes set by the State, your business, home or industry must provide suitable, conforming, proper Exit devices, to keep your occupants, family and employees safe, in the event of an emergency.

Depending on the number of occupants, the rules change regarding to the type of door locks and latches that are necessary. Door exit devices are designed to be installed onto the secure side of doors that swing outwards, to prevent access whilst allowing free egress. These were designed in the United States after a significant record loss of life reports, during fires in buildings, including the loss of life of more than 600 people in the infamous Iroquois theatre fire in 1903. The exit device was the result to prevent people being crushed inside of the locked doors, as they had neither the knowledge, nor training of how to unlock and open the door. Here is some valuable information brought to you by the guys over at losangeleslocksmithpros.com.

Proper Exit Devices

Vertical RodThere are, to date, three common types of exit device in use today, mortise lock, vertical rod and rim lock. The latter is the most common type, being named after a latching mechanism the same as the rim locks sold in the Midwest and the East during the early part of the 20th century, these rim locks are surface mounted onto the secured part of the door face, with a latch or bolt that slides over the surface mounted strike.

The mortise type lock exiting device consists of a mortise lock without deadbolt, normally mounted in the door pocket. When the push bar is pressed, the tail shaft or spindle rotates, releasing the latch bolt, enabling the door to swing open.

The bolt type of exit device is quite a new introduction, which, when locked, causes the deadbolt latch to extend onto the strike, which limits the space between the strike and the bolt.

Exit devices are categorised as being either non fire rated (Panic) or fire rated exits.

Approved Panic Hardware

This must consist of a door latching assembly, with an activating device that will cause the door to unlatch and open in the direction of egress opening, when a force is applied. The approved building codes state that it the panic approved latch must have an unlatching force of a maximum of 15 pounds, and be opened by anyone without specialist knowledge, effort or training.

Approved Fire Exit Hardware

fire doorThis classicisation of door latch is required when fitted to a fire door, which is providing a smoke and fire barrier to the opening. Swinging fire doors must be capable of self-closing, and automatically latching after every use. The door may be latched, as with a Panic door, but must not be locked whilst occupants are inside the building.

Stairwell Door Locking Hardware

Door locking hardware used in stairwells, must of course meet the strict building safety codes. Occupants using the stairs, in the event of an emergency, must always be able to leave the stairwell and enter into another room or corridor, the door must not lock to prevent them this access.

Required Exit Doors

It is a standard requirement that all exterior exit doors, when there are occupants present inside the building, open into the way of egress, must open without the need for keys, tools, special equipment, strength or specialist knowledge. Any locks or security devices that are not approved must be removed and replaced with those that conform to regulated building codes.

Illuminated Stair and Exit Signs

All signs used in these areas must be fully functioning, readable and intact.

Fire Escape Stairs

fire escapeThese stairways must be maintained, in very good condition and state of repair. Any obvious obstructions such as air conditioning units, plant pots, boxes and furniture must be removed, and the bottom section of the fire escape ladder must be free from obstruction, such as waste containers or cars.

The need to get your building up to code with these specialist exit devices, is a necessity that you cannot avoid at any expense. Exit devices have been produced and marketed for around 100 years, with continuous, increased capabilities and improvements. As with all of these exit devices, for more information consult your local locksmith for valid advice.

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6 Tips To Keep Your Home Secure

Posted on October 27, 2015 by Mr Locksmith

Home security is one of the most important things for anyone who cares about their safety. Unfortunately, there are people who have no idea of what they should do to ensure that security in their homes is guaranteed. If you are one of them, here are 6 tips to keep your home secure provided by the guys over at portlandlocksmithpros.com.

Invest in high quality locks

high quality lockThe locks to your house will always determine how safe you are. If they are easy to break into or open without the right keys, you can only expect that many authorized people will have access to your house. This poses a big threat to your own safety as well as that of your property. The best way to avoid this is by installing high quality locks. If you look at those available in the stores, you will notice that there is a big difference in quality.

Change the locks often

Changing locks often will assure you of enhanced security at home. If there is anyone who has found a copy to your house, they will be unable to access it while you are away if you just change the locks. You do not need to get information that there is someone with a key to your house in order to do this. Sometime, just taking early precaution by changing the locks after a while will save you from the security threats that most people face at home. The best part is that changing locks is easy and fast as long as you know what to do.

Rekey your locks

rekey lockRekeying the locks to your house is another one of the 6 tips to keep your home secure. If you do not have the time or resources to get new locks, you do not have to worry because you simply can modify the keys so that they become a little different from the ones you originally had. You can choose to only rekey the main doors or to work on all the doors in your house. It all depends on the level of security and the threat that you are faced with.

Find a good locksmith

Many people do not understand the importance of finding a good locksmith when they want to improve their home security. This is the professional who will be working on the locks and the keys and so, you have no option bit choose a reputable one. Choose someone you can trust with your own security. Whether they are installing new locks, replacing them or rekeying them, you have to ensure that they will not compromise anything. You have to choose someone who will keep your keys safe and install the best locks.

When you change houses, change the locks

When you move into a new house, it is advisable to change the locks. You do not know how many people have been living in that house and so, you cannot just overlook anything. Keys are easy to duplicate and it could be possible that the former occupants have other copies of your new house keys. If you do not change them, it only means that there is someone somewhere who can access your house whenever they want. However, if you change them, you can be sure that only you have all the copies of the new keys.

Keep your keys safely

It is important to learn how to keep your keys safely. Make sure that all the copies are in the right hands. Identify a secure place where you will keep the spare keys so that they cannot be accessed by everyone. If in any case you lose the keys to your house, make sure that you find them and if you cannot, then take other steps such as changing the locks or rekeying them. You cannot be safe when you do not even know where some copies of the keys to your house are.

As you can see from these 6 tips to keep your home secure, you have to be very careful at all times. Sometimes, the small details that people often overlook are the ones that pose the biggest threat to their security at home. You also might want to consult a security expert if there are unique security challenges in your home.

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