Locks are a critical component of your Home or Business Security, but they can be surprisingly sensitive to changes in weather. Different weather conditions can impact the functionality and longevity of your locks, sometimes leading to issues that compromise security.

Understanding how weather affects your locks and what you can do about it can help you maintain their performance and ensure your property remains secure year-round.

1. Cold Weather

Cold weather can have a significant impact on locks, particularly in regions that experience harsh winters. Low temperatures cause metal components within the lock to contract, potentially leading to several issues:

• Frozen Locks: Moisture can enter the lock and freeze, preventing the key from turning. This is a common issue in winter and can be frustrating when trying to get inside your home or business.
• Stiff Mechanisms: The cold can cause the internal mechanisms to stiffen, making it difficult to insert or turn the key. Over time, this can increase wear and tear on both the key and the lock.

What to Do About It:

• Lubrication: Use a graphite-based or Silicone-based Lubricant specifically designed for locks. Avoid oil-based lubricants as they can attract dust and grime.
• De-Icers: Carry a lock de-icer spray in your car or bag during winter. These products can quickly thaw frozen locks, allowing you to gain entry.
• Cover the Lock: Use a lock cover to protect outdoor locks from moisture and snow.

2. Hot Weather

Heat can also affect the functionality of your locks, particularly in areas with extreme summer temperatures. High temperatures cause metal components to expand, which can lead to:

• Misalignment: The expansion of metal parts can cause the lock to become misaligned with the door frame, making it difficult to turn the key or engage the lock properly.
• Warping: Wooden doors and frames can warp in hot weather, affecting the alignment of the lock and the door and leading to operational difficulties.

What to Do About It:

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your locks and door frames for any signs of warping or misalignment and address these issues promptly.
• Adjust Door Frames: If your door frame has warped, consider adjusting or replacing it to ensure the lock aligns properly.
• Shade and Ventilation: To minimize the impact of heat, try to keep your doors and locks shaded and well-ventilated.

3. Humidity

High humidity levels can cause moisture to accumulate inside the lock, leading to several problems:

• Rust and Corrosion: Excess moisture can lead to rust and corrosion of the lock’s metal components, compromising the lock’s integrity and functionality.
• Sticking Mechanisms: Humidity can cause the internal parts to swell slightly, making the lock mechanism sticky or difficult to turn.

What to Do About It:

• Anti-Rust Treatments: Apply anti-rust treatments to your locks to protect them from corrosion. These treatments can create a barrier that prevents moisture from causing damage.
• Silica Gel Packs: Place silica gel packs near your locks, especially in humid environments, to absorb excess moisture.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean your locks regularly to remove any buildup of dirt or grime that can be exacerbated by humidity.

4. Rain and Moisture

Rain and general moisture can also negatively affect the performance of your locks, especially if they are exposed to the elements without adequate protection:

• Water Ingress: Water can seep into the lock mechanism, causing rust, freezing (in cold conditions), or swelling of internal parts.
• Mold and Mildew: Excess moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew around the lock area, which can affect both the lock and the door.

What to Do About It:

• Weatherproof Locks: Install weatherproof locks designed to withstand exposure to the elements. These locks typically have protective coatings and seals to keep moisture out.
• Protective Covers: Use protective covers for outdoor locks to shield them from rain and moisture.
• Seal Gaps: Ensure doors and windows are properly sealed to prevent water from seeping into the lock mechanisms.

Conclusion

Weather can profoundly impact the functionality and durability of locks. By understanding how different weather conditions affect locks and taking proactive measures to mitigate these effects, you can ensure that locks remain in good working condition year-round.

Regular maintenance, appropriate protective measures, and suitable lubricants and treatments can help you keep your locks functional and secure, regardless of the weather. If you encounter persistent issues with your locks, consider consulting a Professional Locksmith for expert advice and assistance.

Re-keying a lock is a common and cost-effective solution for enhancing security without Replacing The Entire Lock Mechanism. This process involves changing the lock’s internal components to operate with a new key, rendering any old keys useless.

Understanding the time required to re-key a lock can help you plan accordingly and ensure minimal disruption to your daily routine or business operations. Several factors influence the duration of this task, including the type of lock, the locksmith’s experience, and the specific circumstances of the job.

Understanding the Re-Keying Process

Re-keying a lock typically involves the following steps:

1. Removing the Lock: The locksmith will first remove the lock from the door. This step is generally quick, especially for standard residential locks, but can take longer for more complex commercial locks or those integrated into a security system.
2. Disassembling the Lock: Once the lock is removed, the locksmith will disassemble it to access the lock cylinder. This part requires precision and knowledge, particularly for advanced or high-security locks.
3. Changing the Pins: Inside the lock cylinder are a series of pins that correspond to the cuts on your key. To Re-key The Lock, the locksmith replaces these pins with a new set that matches the new key.
4. Reassembling and Reinstalling: After re-pinning, the locksmith reassembles the lock and reinstalls it on the door. The lock is then tested to ensure it works smoothly with the new key.

Factors Influencing Re-Keying Time

1. Type of Lock: The complexity of the lock plays a significant role in the time required for re-keying. Simple residential locks, such as those on standard doors or deadbolts, can quickly be re-keyed. On average, re-keying a basic lock takes about 10 to 15 minutes. However, high-security, smart, or commercial-grade locks may require more time due to their intricate mechanisms and additional security features.
2. Locksmith’s Experience: The locksmith’s skill and experience also affect the re-keying duration. An experienced locksmith familiar with a wide range of lock types can complete the job more efficiently than someone with less experience. Professionals with extensive training can often re-key multiple locks in a short period, ensuring that your security is restored quickly.
3. Number of Locks: The total number of locks to be re-keyed will impact the time required. Re-keying a single lock might take 10 to 15 minutes, but re-keying several locks in a home or business can add up. For instance, re-keying five locks might take around an hour, assuming each lock takes about 12 minutes.
4. Condition of the Locks: The condition of the existing locks can influence the re-keying time. Older, damaged, or poorly maintained locks may require additional work to disassemble and reassemble. In some cases, the locksmith might need to perform minor repairs or clean the lock components before re-keying, which can extend the process.
5. Accessibility: The ease of access to the locks can also affect the time required. Locks that are easily accessible and straightforward to remove will take less time to re-key. In contrast, locks that are part of a larger security system, integrated into electronic access controls, or located in hard-to-reach places might take longer to handle.

Special Considerations

1. Emergency Re-Keying: If you need an emergency re-keying service, such as after a break-in or losing your keys, the time taken can be slightly longer due to the urgency and potential additional security measures the locksmith might implement.
2. Key Management Systems: Rekeying can be more complex and time-consuming for businesses using master key systems. The locksmith must ensure that the new key configuration aligns correctly with the master key plan, maintaining the integrity of the hierarchical access levels.
3. Customized Locks: Custom or antique locks might require specialized tools and techniques to re-key, which can lengthen the time needed. These locks often need more careful handling to avoid damage and ensure proper functioning after re-keying.

Conclusion

Re-keying a Lock is a relatively quick and efficient way to enhance security. Most standard locks take 10 to 15 minutes per lock. However, the exact time can vary based on factors such as the lock type, the locksmith’s expertise, the number of locks, and the condition and accessibility of the locks.

Understanding these variables can help you plan appropriately and ensure your property remains secure with minimal disruption. Professional locksmith services can provide a timely and effective solution to your security concerns, whether for residential or commercial needs.

Assessing Your Security Needs

The first step in selecting the right lock for your home or business is to assess your security needs. Consider factors such as the crime rate in your area, the value of your property, and the level of access control required.

Investing in robust locking mechanisms is essential for high-security environments, such as businesses handling sensitive information or homeowners with valuable assets. On the other hand, residential properties in low-crime neighborhoods may prioritize affordability and convenience over advanced security features.

Exploring Types of Locks Available

The next consideration is to explore the types of locks available and their suitability for your specific requirements. Traditional options such as deadbolts remain popular choices for their reliability and durability. Deadbolts come in various configurations, including single-cylinder, double-cylinder, and jimmy-proof designs, each offering different levels of security and convenience.

Consider upgrading to high-security deadbolts featuring hardened steel construction and anti-drill features for added protection.

In recent years, Smart locks have emerged as innovative solutions for enhancing security and convenience. These electronic locks allow remote access control via smartphone apps, digital keypads, or voice commands, eliminating the need for traditional keys. Smart locks offer features such as activity logs, temporary access codes, and integration with home automation systems, making them ideal for homeowners seeking modern security solutions.

Compatibility with Existing Hardware

Compatibility with existing hardware is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a lock for your home or business. Evaluate the type of doors and frames you have, as well as any additional security devices or access control systems in place. Ensure that the chosen lock is compatible with your door’s dimensions and configuration, and consider Consulting With a Locksmith or security professional for expert advice.

For businesses, compatibility with existing access control systems and security protocols is paramount. Look for locks that seamlessly integrate with your organization’s infrastructure, allowing for centralized management and monitoring of access permissions. Consider factors such as scalability, ease of integration, and compatibility with industry standards to ensure a seamless transition and optimal security posture.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, choosing the right lock for your home or business requires careful consideration of various factors, including security needs, types of locks available, and compatibility with existing hardware. By assessing your specific requirements and exploring the range of options available, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes both security and convenience.

When evaluating different locks, research reputable brands and consult with locksmiths or security professionals for expert guidance. Consider factors such as durability, ease of installation, and warranty coverage to ensure long-term satisfaction with your lock.

Remember that investing in quality locks is an investment in the safety and security of your property and loved ones.

Choosing the right lock for your home or business lets you enjoy peace of mind knowing that your premises are protected against unauthorized access and intrusions.

If a lock can’t be readily picked, it’s considered “high security.” Does this imply that other locks are more easily picked if this is the case? Experts, on the other hand, disagree!

If you have ever looked for locks for your home or business, you’ve likely come across the phrase “high-security.” There is a good chance you have disregarded it as industry-speak or a marketing phrase. When it comes to protecting your home, high-security locks are the best in the business, making your life simpler and more difficult for crooks.

For a variety of purposes, locks are available at a variety of pricing ranges. Some are easy enough to be picked up with a backup key or other means of access. Biometric access and mobile applications are two of the most advanced options available. In many cases, these locks can only be fitted by a professional locksmith. High-security locks essentially provide more protection against manipulation, damaging assaults, breaches, and off-site key duplicating. With the addition of electronics, the possibility for audit logs, surveillance, and quick recovery of hacked or expired credentials increased.

If you want to invest in a high-security lock to protect your valuables, you’ll also need to secure the room’s windows and other entrance points.

However, you must first learn how safe a high-security lock is and if you should get one for your garage door.

Features Of High-Security Locks

1. Bolt Strength

Heavy and robust bolts are needed to prevent them from being picked or shattered by heavy tools like a battering ram or a sled hammer. A thief should be unable to lift the bolt with their own hands. When brute force or machines are used to shatter a bolt, only a bolt constructed of a strong metal can survive them.

2. Copying Keys

Inevitably, there will be a lockout at some point. As a result, spare or duplicate keys are brought into the picture. It would help if you kept your keys out of the hands of thieves who may use them to gain entry to your house and steal your valuables. As a result, keeping keys just where you need them makes sense and is a very common thing to do.

You may want to use a high-security lock featuring patented keyways for additional security. Special machines must break or produce replicas of these locks or their keys.

3. Hardware

The heavier the locks, the more secure your possessions are. Locks built of hefty metal are almost impossible to pick or break. A lighter lock of inferior metals or polymers severely compromises your house or office’s security.

If you ever find yourself locked out, only a Professional Emergency Locksmith will be able to free you from your shackles and get entry.

4. Drill Resistance

Drilling into a lock is one of the simplest methods to pick or break it. Drills are also used by many locksmiths when required. Drilling a hole in a lock renders it useless. Anti-drill plates and hardened steel ball bearings are common features in high-security locks.

How To Secure Your Home With High-Security Locks?

Burglars are unlikely to break in unless you have valuables in your house unless they know you have anything they want. Most often, burglars will attempt to enter your house via an unlocked sliding door or window. It doesn’t matter how costly the lock on your front door is; your investment is wasted if your windows and backdoors aren’t adequately protected.

The majority of burglars will gain entry to your possessions via an open window or an unlocked door. That’s why many individuals nowadays want home security systems installed. Using a smartphone app or a code, you can access your home’s smart locks, removing the need to retain physical keys.

For example, the area where your gun collection is stored would be a good candidate for high-security locks since it has only one way in and out.

How To Secure Your Business With High-Security Locks?

Locking business establishments with a strong, high-security lock is a good idea. It is also important to protect the windows and other points of entry in order to provide failsafe security and safety.

Biometric locks, as well as other smart locks, on the other hand, may be rather expensive in security systems of this kind. With this, you won’t have to keep making new copies of your keys each time an employee departs or doesn’t show up for work.

Bottom Line

When there are no other ways in or out of a room, high-security locks are your best bet. Investing in a high-security lock is meaningless if you use it to protect your front door, not your rear door, windows, or other access points.

One of the questions we get asked often is How To Reverse The Locks? Well, there are many different approaches to doing it, depending on the locks you have. However, this small step by step tutorial is meant for people who have regular doorknob type locks that are thumb-operated.

The problem with these commonly found locks is that they are so simple to use that many times children will lock themselves in the bathroom or their bedrooms. Not only do kids do this as part of their natural learning process, but it can also be potentially distressing for parents. So, instead of replacing the locking knob with perhaps a closet knob, you can just reverse the knob, by placing the locking end outside. That way, kids aren’t able to lock themselves in.

If you want to reverse the locks of your home, below are the steps you can follow to do just that.

Start by removing the knob

You will want to start by removing the screws on both sides of the doorknob that are holding it together. You should be able to see the screws behind a plate of the doorknob. Just twist the plate, and it should come away from the door. Then look for a small notch in between the handle and the plate. Use a flat head screwdriver and insert it into the notch to release the handle. Once the handle is loose, it can be easily pulled off, and the plate removed to expose the screws.

Then while holding the opposite side of the doorknob, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the knob to the door and together.

Remove the Doorknob

You then pull the doorknob away from the door and slide the spindle away from the latch. Then push the end of the latch, which should be the parts that protrude from the edge of the door. That should help you remove the entire lock.

Reverse the Spindle

You will want to reverse the spindle towards the backside of the door. You also want to check to make sure that the spindle goes through the latch as well as the screw posts. In most cases, it should work flawlessly, but some tweaking and adjustments may be needed.

Putting it all back together

Start by lining up the screw holes, which should be on the side of the knob you removed. Then insert the new screws through the hole in the knob and screw those into the post. You will want to turn the screw clockwise to secure both sides of the knob. Put the plate back in and push the handle into their respective sides.

Test the lock to see if everything is working fine. If some more adjustments are needed, you’ll need to remove the knobs again. Just make sure that the door does not swing open when closed.

A locksmith specializes in opening locks. They can open car locks, home locks, and business locks. Most people may accidentally lock themselves out a car, their home, or place or business. Some may even lose the keys to their most prized possessions. When that happens, the only way to get in and may get a fresh set of keys is to hire a locksmith. However, if you have a business, then you’d want to hire a Commercial Locksmith.

Commercial locksmiths specialize in all things business security. That is why they are the first choice for business owners.

Commercial Locksmiths

When you need a couple of high-security locks installed in your place of business, or the existing locks examined for security flaws, you call a commercial locksmith. Commercial locksmiths help in keeping businesses secure.

Commercial locksmiths offer services like rekeying locks, installing high-security locks, rekeying new keys, and examining existing locks for issues. Some even repair locks depending on their make and model.

Many leading commercial locksmiths also make it a point to be up-to-date with the latest in technology. Take, for instance, the fact that some commercial clients may require a system that offers keyless entry. The use of fingerprint reading locks and security systems is the realm of commercial locksmiths. So, commercial locksmiths need to be at the very cutting edge when it comes to tools, methods, and technology.

Repairing Locks

Businesses will also call a commercial locksmith if they need the locks of their office or shop repaired. At times keys can break off into a lock, or the security system may not work. An office or commercial locksmith should be able to replace the key and fix the lock. Commercial locksmiths can also repair damaged locks, especially if there was an attempt to break-in.

If it is an electronic lock, then wiring issues and other stuff may require the attention of an expert. Commercial locksmiths are trained in all types of commercial security, making them the ideal choice for any business’s security system.

Legal Compliance and Security Audits

Now, apart from installing locks, commercial locksmiths also need to be Experts In Security. They need to be the go-to experts that businesses can consult when it comes to complying with existing security and legal terms.

The legal terms vary across the US, and so do compliance needs. Commercial establishments, residential properties, shops, and offices all need to conform to local laws. They also need to implement security solutions that meet the needs of their business.

Commercial locksmiths have years of experience so they can provide the required consultation. They also have the expertise to offer audits that ensure businesses are following all the required rules.

Conclusion

Locksmiths are a dime a dozen. However, if you want to ensure the best security and service, always choose a seasoned commercial locksmith. Though experienced commercial locksmiths may be slightly more expensive, the extra they charge is undoubtedly worth it.

Many locksmiths start by mastering the art and science of lockpicking. However, that’s also how a lot of criminals start breaking into people’s homes. While lockpicking is a complex and often difficult process, time, and practice make things go a lot faster. While security pins can help throw off experienced lock pickers but even that can be bypassed. The trick to dampen the efforts of a seasoned lock picker is to stay one step ahead of them.

In this article, we’ll look at a couple of locks that can’t be picked by Most Professional Locksmiths and criminals.

The ‘August’ Smart Lock

The ‘August’ is touted as being one of the safest and lockpicking free locks in the world. One reason for that is if the lock is ever cracked, it won’t be by a set of picks but software hackers. The lock is made to be opened using a smartphone. Though a key can still be used when outside, that’s not compulsory. The battery-powered smart lock will not open if the battery fails and is safe from thieves, even those who are computer whizzes, at least for the time being.

The HYT Chain Key

The design of this lock is downright crazy; it is inaccessible and can be opened with a unique looking key which goes through the keyway—known as the Chain Key because the key is injected into the lock. So, the keyway curves in such a way that standard lockpicking tools can’t get through the path.

Now being familiar with the inner workings of the lock or having a key makes it impossible to deal with the curve. So, that should away most if not all master Locksmiths away.

EVVA MCS

Now this one is a magnetic lock with a lot more complexity added on top compared to the MIWA lock. The round shape and cuts of the key make picking this lock more difficult. In addition to the magnetic pattern for every EVVA MCS key, the only way to duplicate or decode it is to have an existing key. So, if the picker can’t study your key, then the lock can’t be picked.

Shi-He Chi-Me U-lock

The key for this lock is very similar to the XPUZMAG, but the U-lock has an obstructed keyway and the variations in which it is available to make it impossible to pick. The sharp turns are something most picks can’t get around. Also, if there were some way to get around the turns, the picker would need to keep tension, which would just be near impossible. While the lock is widely made and sold in China, it is also available in the US and other parts of the world.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are quite a few locks that can’t be picked. However, the one common dominator among them is that they are expensive. The more high-tech and intricate, the more you pay.

One of the first things we learn as locksmiths are the fact that our service can be misused. If anything, there are countless cases of impersonators hiring a locksmith to gain access to someone else’s vehicle or home. That’s why, as a Standard Operating Procedure, every locksmith in North America starts by verifying the identity of the person who has hired them.

Whether you call a locksmith to Unlock a House, Shop or a Car, we will often ask you to prove that you own the property or have the right to be on it. We’ll ask if the title is in your name, or does the registration of the car match your driver’s license? Is the home address shown on the driver’s license etc?

Now if you don’t have something that can verify you as the owner of the property or for one that you have the right to enter, then we’ll ask that you bring someone who has the right. Furthermore, if you can’t produce another party, then we need to find other ways to identify your link to the property like a photo ID, property records etc.

While we admit that verifying a person’s identity can be a pain and often time-consuming, it is a necessary part of the job.

Does the Law Require Locksmiths to Verify Ownership Before Gaining Entry on Your Behalf? 

In the majority of American states, a locksmith or a Locksmith Company does not legally need to verify ownership or rights to the property. However, credible companies take extra steps to ensure that they only work for people who have the right to be on the property.

That said if a locksmith company does not verify your identity, it is a red flag that you are now dealing with perhaps an uncertified and even unskilled locksmith.

How Can a Homeowner Provide Proof of Ownership to a Locksmith Company? 

Here is how ownership can be proven: 

• Provide the locksmith with your drivers’ license that has the address of the property on it.
• You can provide a photo ID that has your mailing address
• Show business records like a website, business card etc. anything that will show your position and name of the business
• Show the company a copy of your rental agreement or lease
• The locksmith should be able to hook you up to the local country property records department to verify your name, and then you can provide an ID when onsite that matches that name.
• If you have just bought the home, and currently don’t have the keys then provide the company with a closing statement.

Proving Automotive Ownership 

• In most cases, all that is needed is the car’s registration, title or proof of insurance along with a photo ID.

Now even after all this caution, things just aren’t as secure as they should be. That said it is worth trying mainly because that’s something a certified locksmith is committed to doing just so that they don’t end up breaking the law. However, in 90% of cases, we get it right and most if not everyone understands the reason why these steps are taken.

What is Considered Not Valid Proof of Ownership for a Locksmith Company? 

• Generally, a locksmith will not accept phone authorizations since anyone can be on the other end of the phone.

• Also, email authorizations aren’t accepted because the email could be sent by anyone.

While the extra steps that locksmiths take may make the property owner uncomfortable or hesitant, but it is in the best interests of those who own the property. Think would you want someone entering into your home without an authorization?

Many times people complain that we are asking for personal information when it isn’t our job. At times people hang up and then they call another locksmith to try their luck. However, no credible locksmith service will let you in without verifying your identity and link to the property.

Conclusion 

When you Hire a Locksmith Service, always make sure that you have a way of proving your link or ownership to the property. If you are a vehicle owner, then things are easier because registration documents should be able to prove that you own the vehicle. However, things can be tricky for a homeowner or office owner.

That said a credible Locksmith Company should be able to work with you to verify your identity before letting you in. Think of it as a mandatory step to protect you!

Yes, an Automotive Locksmith Can Come To Your Car and then proceed to craft a new set of keys for the vehicle after Verifying The Vehicle’s Ownership. However, you need to understand that this is pertinent to many factors, including proving that you are the vehicle’s legal owner. Even though it is possible to visit a dealership to get a set of replacement keys, the vehicle will need to be towed, which adds extra cost to the process. Not to mention that dealerships, regardless of the make or year of the vehicle, are notoriously expensive. That’s why most people opt to hire a locksmith who can get to their location and make a new key on the spot.

Call An Automotive Locksmith

You should always Call a Local Automotive Locksmith like us because even the most prominent dealerships use services like ours. Most dealerships don’t have an in-house locksmith. The job is usually outsourced to a professional that charges 50% less than them, giving them (the dealership) a 50% margin. That’s why you will end up paying more for the job at a dealership.

You will also have to pay so that the vehicle is towed to the dealership. Dealerships will not send a guy to your location, so add another $500 to the bill!

The Original Key Isn’t Needed

Depending on the security used by your vehicle, the original key may or may not be needed. Many automotive locksmiths have the equipment and knowledge to make a key based on the data they get from the vehicle. However, having the original key can help to speed up the process and also make it cheaper.

If you don’t have the original key, the automotive locksmith will need to get the required keycode from the vehicle. Every key code is unique to the vehicle. Also, if you have one of the latest vehicles with a wireless FOB, which does not require contact with the vehicle, getting the code is harder and more time-consuming.

Automotive Locksmiths Can Help You 24/7

Many automotive locksmiths like us operate 24/7. On the other hand, dealerships don’t operate beyond 5pm, and that’s another reason you should always have an automotive locksmith on quick dial. Our emergency locksmith service ensures that we can reach you regardless of the time of day or night. Our team travels with everything needed to make keys for most vehicles. That said, we strongly advise that you have everything to prove ownership of the vehicle before calling us or any other locksmith for that matter.

When you call an automotive locksmith, give them your location. You will also need to give them your name, the vehicle’s VIN number and a bit more information. Once they get all the information, they will get to your location. Fortunately, the process of making a key for most vehicles is quick and relatively easy.

Conclusion

The cost associated with Getting a New Key made for a vehicle can range from a few dollars to a few hundred. The more tech-heavy the car’s security is, the more expensive getting a key made can end up being. However, an automotive locksmith still works out to be cheaper than taking your car to a dealership, even if it is a heavily tech-reliant security system.

Lockpicking is a skill like any other. It takes time to learn and much longer to master. However, everyone who wants to learn to lockpick does not want to become a master thief. In fact, there is a lot that lockpicking can teach you, like being patient and working your way methodically. Most of all, it opens your eyes to the illusion of there being any security.

Many of us lock our doors, assuming that it will keep us and our personal belongings safe. However, as soon as you start picking locks, it will dawn that locks don’t provide much security. Sure, they may make you feel safe, but if someone wanted to enter your home, they could pick the lock on the front door to get in within minutes. But if they (the intruder) didn’t know how to pick a lock, there are several other ways to enter.

Lockpicking Steps

To Pick Your First Lock, it is essential to have a basic lockpick set. The set will consist of a tensioner, a rake and a pick. The idea behind picking a lock is to insert both the tensioner and the pick inside the keyhole. With one hand, you will put tension on the lock in a clockwise direction, and with the pick, you will gently raise each tumbler.

Here are the steps:

Step no. 1 – Start by inserting the tensioner in the keyhole

Step no. 2 – Insert the pick into the keyhole.

Step no. 3 – Use your left hand to add tension to the tensioner, moving clockwise.

Step no. 4 – Use the pick to raise each tumbler slightly.

Step no. 5 – As each tumbler clicks into place, the tensioner will turn until it completely opens the lock.

Every Lock Is Different

The above method will work for most padlock and handle locks. However, every lock type is different. The tumblers in the lock will also vary, and so will their depth. That said, if you practice on a regular lock or maybe buy a transparent lock to practice, you will soon get the hang of it. It is a lot like riding a bike.

Learning To Pick A Lock Makes You Handy

Many people get locked out multiple times a year, and it can be frustrating, to say the least. Learning how to pick a lock not only makes getting back into your own home easier, but you can help friends and family too. It is also considered cool for anyone who can pick a lock. It isn’t uncommon for people to stand around watching a Master Locksmith At Work. In other words, you can become quite popular!

However, like everything else, if lockpicking does not interest you, learning it can be more challenging. It takes a great deal of trial and error to get a feel for how every tumbler should be set. Sometimes you can be holding those picks for up to half an hour to see results. But as time progresses and you gain more experience, it becomes easier and faster to do.

Many people reading this article may be on the fence about Changing Their Locks or getting them rekeyed. The decision is often based on which of these two options will be cheaper. The short answer to this question is that it depends on your lock. It also depends on how old your lock is and if it’s in good condition. After all, you don’t want to spend all that money rekeying an old lock that can easily be bypassed.

Almost everyone has experienced the frustration associated with losing their sole set of keys which is where Hiring The Best Locksmith comes in. It is the same concern when they move into a new home and want to replace the existing lock with a new one. The common misconception is that replacing the lock is the only option they have, which we’d agree with if it were a lock that didn’t offer much in the way of security.

This article will discuss a couple of pros and cons of both Rekeying and Replacing The Locks. That way, you can pick the cheapest option, but one that fits your security needs the best.

Replacing Vs. Rekeying A Lock

We all know what replacing a lock means. The locksmith will usually take off your old lock and replace it with a brand new one. Ideally, the new lock will provide better security. However, rekeying is different. Rekeying requires that the locksmith replace the internals of the lock. Things like the pins and tumblers are replaced. That way, the old key does not work, and the newly rekeyed lock needs a new set of keys to open.

When Is Rekeying A Good Option?

Keep in mind that rekeying a lock requires several changes, but you need to have the original key. However, it can be rekeyed if you’ve lost the original set of keys, but it will be slightly more expensive. Rekeying is the best option if you’ve lost your keys and are afraid that someone will find them.

Rekeying is also a good option if you want a single key to open multiple locks. Often this is something that business owners will want to be able to do. This practice is also referred to as a ‘master key’ security system.

When To Change Your Locks?

You will want to change old locks, easy to bypass or those that aren’t secure. Also, changing the locks is a good idea if you want to upgrade to fingerprint locks or a keypad-type lock. Some people may also want to change the locks so that it matches the design of their home. After all, old, rusty locks don’t look good in a modern home.

The Price Factor

Generally speaking, rekeying your locks is always going to be cheaper. It is cheaper than buying a new set of locks for all your doors if you’ve lost the keys to all of them. However, this does not make your lock brand new. That said, if your lock is relatively new, i.e., less than three years old, we’d recommend rekeying.

As professionals, we will start with examining the lock to determine if rekeying is feasible. If rekeying is not a good option we let clients know upfront. That way you’re aware of any potential danger associated with the lock being easily compromised.

Almost everyone reading this article knows how it feels to lose a key or break the only one. The experience can be distressful and downright frustrating. Also, many, if not most people, can’t work through opening a lock on their own without a key. That’s why they resort to breaking down the door or a glass window to try and open the door.

However, we’ve often been asked: is it possible for a Professional Locksmith to open a door without breaking it or a related glass? Yes, it is possible, and we’ve unlocked several homes and cars without breaking anything or damaging anything either. That said, this can only be done by an expert like us, so if you find yourself in a situation like this, make sure to call experts like us.

How Do We Open Locks and Doors Without Damaging Anything?

Well, at the most basic level, we are using a set of lockpicks to work our way to open a lock. Our Lockpicks Proceed with gently undoing a locked door, tumbler by tumbler. This does zero damage to the locks or the door. However, we have the advantage of years of experience. Over the years, we’ve opened several hundred locks in a similar fashion. That’s why not many people have the knowledge and experience we have to do what’s needed to open a lock.

As locksmiths, we are trained to use non-destructive methods of opening a lock. Not to mention endless practice, not only on practice locks but on real locks too. Furthermore, we’ve been doing this for so long that we are very well acquainted with many locks’ inherent weaknesses, which allows us to bypass them quickly.

What do We do As Locksmiths?

Our job is to exploit weaknesses in the mechanical structure of the lock mainly. We understand how different locks work and their characteristics as well as their weaknesses. Once we are aware of a vulnerability, we use the right tools to exploit it. Often multiple locks from many manufacturers will have the same vulnerability.

The vast majority of locks available today are mechanical, using the pin and cylinder function. When a key is inserted into the lock, it forces the pin-up, which then frees the cylinder opening the lock. Our job as locksmiths is to identify the direction of the cylinder and how it needs to turn, then coax up the pinout of the cylinder, which causes it to turn hence opening the lock.

Conclusion

Our skills aren’t restricted to a single type of lock(s). We are also equipped to handle digital and smart locks too. However, these technologically advanced locks also require we use high-tech equipment. The same goes for vehicles with keyless entry.

If you have a lock that’s giving you trouble or you find yourself in a situation where the key is lost, always call a locksmith. Local locksmiths are the best people to help you not only get into your home or vehicle but will also help by making a replacement key. Most of all, it isn’t going to cost you a lot of money especially compared to replacing a broken window.