The best way to avoid getting locked out is by giving a spare key to someone who can be trusted. This could be a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker who has flexible availability.
You should also consider giving a spare to a locksmith who has a lot of experience in lockout situations. They will know how to get you back inside without damaging your property.
Installing New Locks
Whether you want to change the look of your locks or upgrade to newer locking systems, a locksmith can help. While you can do some of this work yourself, a professional has the right tools and knowledge to get the job done quickly, easily, and at an affordable price.
One of the main reasons to change your locks is to upgrade to more secure models. These are typically more difficult to pick and can withstand more force. This is especially important if you’re concerned about break-ins or have had a break-in in the past.
Another reason to update your locks is if you’re moving into a new home. The builder and other construction workers likely have a master key that allows them access to the house during the building process, so it’s a good idea to have your locks changed as soon as you move in. You also never know who else might have a copy of your keys, like concierge services or previous tenants.
A locksmith can install a wide variety of lock types, including standard doorknob locks and deadbolts. You can also have them install more advanced electronic locking systems, which are designed to be difficult to hack or tamper with and allow you to control who enters your property remotely. Many of these locking systems come with an alarm and remote access for you to keep track of who is entering and leaving your home or business.
A locksmith can also upgrade your locks to comply with your insurance company’s requirements. These requirements usually include having locks that meet a certain standard of security, such as a British Standard 3621 lock. These locks have been tested to resist common types of break-ins for a period of time and will ensure that your insurer is satisfied that your home or business is protected. A locksmith can change your existing locks to conform with this requirement, or replace them altogether if they’re already damaged or worn out. They can even change your lock cylinder if the door frame has to be modified to accommodate the new lock.
Rekeying
A locksmith can rekey your locks to work with a different key. This is a great option when you have multiple keys for your home, or want to control who has access to different areas of your property. It is a less expensive option than changing the locks, and can be done in about the same time.
In order to rekey your lock, the locksmith will remove the lock cylinder from the door and change the pins inside. The new pins will be set differently than the previous ones, so that only the new key will work with the lock. The locksmith can rekey your entire home to work with one key, or just specific rooms of the house.
Rekeying is a great option for those who have recently moved into a newly built home, or for those who suspect that someone may have copied their key. It’s possible that the builder had a master key, and that contractors, plumbers, electricians, painters, or other workers who worked on the house also have copies. The locksmith can rekey the locks to work with your key, so that only you have access to your home.
The locksmith can help you determine whether rekeying is an appropriate solution for your security needs, or if you need to consider replacing the locks. They will be able to give you advice on your options, and can design a strategy moving forward to protect your home or business.
If you have a lot of keys on your key ring, it can be difficult to keep track of all the different keys that need to fit in the lock. A locksmith can help you rekey your locks to work with fewer keys, which can make it easier for you and your family members to enter the house. It can also prevent other people from being able to gain entry to your home, or even find their way into a locked room. The locksmith can also set up a master key system that will allow you to control who has access to each room of the house.
Repairing Damaged Locks
One of the most common problems that a locksmith deals with is broken locks. Whether they were damaged during a burglary or simply through regular use, sometimes locks need to be repaired or even replaced. This is particularly true of older locks that have a lot of wear and tear.
Getting a Lock Jammed
If your key won’t go in or you have to put a lot of force into turning the handle, that can be a sign that something is wrong with the lock internals. If the problem is ice or some other substance that’s blocking the lock, you can try using needle-nose pliers to remove it. If you can’t remove it, or if the key itself is broken inside, that’s a clear indication that it’s time to call in a locksmith.
A locksmith can repair a locked door by taking out the old lock, cleaning and polishing it, then installing new parts to make sure it works properly. They may also replace some of the pins and springs in the lock cylinder to make sure they’re working correctly. This can be a much cheaper option than replacing the entire lock if it’s not functioning well enough for you to use it.
It’s not uncommon for people to think their locks are broken when they’re actually misaligned or have another issue that can be easily addressed. For example, a loose strike plate can make the lock seem like it’s not working, when really all that needs to be done is for a locksmith to tighten it or install a new one. The same goes for a misaligned bolt. A quick glance at the strike plate can reveal this issue, and it’s fairly easy for a locksmith to fix without drilling. Forcing a bolt into the door frame can lead to damage that might make it impossible to open the door in the future.
Emergency Services
Most people think of a locksmith when they get locked out of their car or home, but there are many other services they provide. For example, a professional locksmith can help you increase the security of your windows. Windows are a common entry point for burglars, so you want to make sure they’re as secure as possible. One way to do this is by installing deadbolts. These are heavier than regular locks and extend further into the door frame. Another option is to install window security bars. These will deter intruders from kicking in the windows and gaining entry.
Locksmiths can also rekey or replace your lock if you lose your keys. This is a much cheaper option than replacing the entire lock, and it can still provide you with some level of security.
In addition to standard locking mechanisms, some locksmiths specialize in electronic access control systems for businesses or homes. These systems allow you to control who has access to your property, and they’re usually a great choice for businesses that need to keep track of their inventory or employees and clients.
Some locksmiths offer emergency services, which can be especially helpful if you’re locked out or have other security concerns in your home or business. Be sure to call a licensed, insured, and experienced locksmith, as they’ll be able to work with you to address your security needs. Before you hire a locksmith, check to see if they’re certified by the Associated Locksmiths of America. This certification means that they’ve been vetted and have met the high standards of this organization. They should be able to answer any questions you may have about their services and pricing. It’s also a good idea to ask about any special discounts or packages they might be offering. These can save you money or give you a better deal on their services. Also, remember to stay safe while you’re waiting for the locksmith to arrive. Try to wait in a place that’s safe, such as your car or a neighbor’s house. You don’t want to risk being injured by an intruder while you’re trying to gain access to your home or office.
