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.

The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and spending quality time with loved ones. However, amidst the festivities, it’s crucial not to overlook the safety and security of your home.

With increased social gatherings, shopping trips, and travel, homes can become more vulnerable to accidents and intrusions. To ensure peace of mind during this busy time, here are some essential tips for keeping your home safe during the holiday season:

Keeping Your Home Safe

1. Secure Doors and Windows: Start by reinforcing the basic entry points to your home. Make sure all Doors and Windows are Securely Locked, including those in less frequented areas such as the basement or attic. Consider installing deadbolts or Smart Locks for added security.
2. Install a Security System: Investing in a comprehensive security system can provide round-the-clock protection for your home. Look for systems that include features such as motion sensors, surveillance cameras, and remote monitoring capabilities. Display signs or stickers indicating that your home is protected to deter potential intruders.
3. Light Up Your Property: A well-lit exterior can deter burglars and enhance the overall safety of your home. Install outdoor lighting around entryways, pathways, and dark corners. Consider using motion-activated lights for added convenience and energy efficiency.
4. Keep Valuables Out of Sight: During the holiday season, homes are often filled with valuable items such as gifts, electronics, and decorations. To prevent temptation, avoid displaying these items in plain view from windows or doors. Keep curtains or blinds closed, especially when you’re away from home.
5. Be Mindful of Social Media: While it’s tempting to share your holiday plans and experiences on social media, be cautious about oversharing. Avoid posting real-time updates about your travels or activities, as this can signal to potential burglars that your home is empty. Save the vacation photos for after you return home.
6. Enlist the Help of Neighbors: Establishing a good relationship with your neighbors can be invaluable for home security. Inform trusted neighbors if you’ll be away for an extended period and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Offer to reciprocate when they’re away to create a sense of community vigilance.
7. Don’t Forget Fire Safety: With festive decorations, candles, and cooking activities, the risk of fire hazards increases during the holiday season. Ensure that smoke detectors are installed and working properly throughout your home. Practice fire safety when cooking, and never leave candles or holiday lights unattended.
8. Secure Your Packages: Online shopping is convenient, but it also attracts package thieves. To prevent porch piracy, consider having packages delivered to a secure location, such as a locker or a trusted neighbor’s house. Alternatively, schedule deliveries for times when you’ll be home to receive them.
9. Prepare for Winter Weather: Depending on your location, winter weather conditions can pose additional safety risks. Take steps to prepare your home for inclement weather, such as clearing walkways of snow and ice, and inspecting your heating system to ensure it’s functioning properly.
10. Stay Vigilant: Finally, remain vigilant and attentive to any unusual activity in your neighborhood. If you notice anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to report it to local authorities. Trust your instincts and take proactive measures to protect your home and loved ones.

Bottom Line

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and secure holiday season, knowing that your home is well-protected. Remember that prioritizing safety doesn’t have to dampen the festive spirit—it simply ensures that you can fully savor the joy of the season with peace of mind.

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.

While many immediately turn to high-tech solutions like security cameras, starting with the fundamentals is quite simple. It’s an essential aspect of home or business security to make sure your doors are locked when you leave. Because of human error, we recommend installing automated door closers in order to exclude them from the equation.

Get in touch with us for the finest door hardware services, such as door closer around.

How Do Door Closers Work?

A door closer is a mechanical mechanism that ensures a door shuts once it has been opened. Most building codes require door closers to keep fire doors closed, but many companies also have them on other garage doors in their facilities. Our recommendation is to put door closers on all outside doors as a precaution against intruders.

Doors in heavy traffic areas may benefit from these devices since they prevent doors from banging or being opened too forcibly, which can lead to injury.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A DOOR CLOSERS

• Security

When discussing the need for Door Closer Adjustments, a facility’s safety comes first. Initially, it may seem odd to think that a door shutting may affect a structure’s security. Isn’t the only thing it accomplishes to ensure that the door shuts properly? Doesn’t it follow that the locking mechanism, not the door-closing hardware, is responsible for securing the door?

The lock goes into action only after the door is shut and secured. This can only happen if the door is in excellent working condition. The door closer settings have to be right for the door to shut and lock correctly when someone goes through the opening. When the door closer is done, set the latch rate so that the latch secures itself in the striking mechanism.

• The ADA’s Requirements

Consider the Americans with Disabilities Act while considering door closer modifications (ADA). People with disabilities or other limitations will be able to open and close the door as a consequence. When adjusting a door closer, make sure that it doesn’t need a bodybuilder to open and go through it. The door should open with no more than five pounds of pressure from the latch.

The closing spring speed and power increase as the door progresses with the door’s movement. Changes to the closer may be made to regulate these characteristics of the door closer. Fire ratings or the placement of outside doors may take precedence over these criteria.

• Life Safety

Finally, we’ll talk about how to adjust door closers to meet life safety standards, including fire ratings. For a fire-rated door to function properly, it must be able to close and latch on its own. While the door has a Latching Mechanism, it will not function as intended if the closure fails to shut the door completely.

When there is a fire, the door should be closed so that the fire cannot spread and the inhabitants may safely leave the building. To maintain the egress route clear of the fire, smoke, and other hazards, all of the door closers in the area must close the doors at all times.

Additionally, all doors that are meant to be locked and protected must work correctly in the case of an active shooter. A closed and protected entrance may save lives in these instances.

• Prevents The Slamming Of Doors

Door closers have a mechanism that ensures a regulated door closing. The damper function maintains a particular degree of force and speed in the door’s closing. This is critical when it comes to doors with weight and persons at risk of harm.

Door closers, for example, protect tiny children and others with disabilities from being crushed by heavy doors. The agony of pinched fingers might be felt by anybody unable to move fast enough. Door closers are also useful for those who carry a lot of weight, such as a lot of luggage.

In fact, door closers minimize injuries and encourage accessibility since they prevent doors from being slammed shut.

• Controls The Open Swing Of Doors

As a standard feature, most door closers have a backcheck mechanism. Backcheck slows or even stops the door during its opening swing to prevent it from opening too quickly.

It might be hazardous when the strong wind and the doors fly wide. Doorknobs may also be thrown open forcibly by people.

Bottom Line

Adjust the door closers on every door in a building to their proper settings. Before you complete the door installation, you should ensure everything is operating correctly. In terms of performance and safety, it has the potential to make a substantial difference.

The importance of a key is often overlooked, despite its importance in everyday life. We depend on these simple, everyday goods to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our possessions. Many distinct sorts of keys are available, each with a specific function.

For your convenience, we’ve outlined some of the most typical uses for keys, the fundamental parts of a key, and the many different types of house keys available to you.

Types Of Home Locks

Keys for the home may come in a wide range, but we’re most likely just acquainted with a single kind. These are a few of the options:

• Mechanically Cut Keys

Older autos and doors in houses and businesses are popular places to find mechanically cut keys. A ridged pattern connects to the proper lock when they’re sliced on one end alone. Die-cast or carved keys get their name from the mechanical cutting machines that make them.

A significant drawback of mechanical cut keys is that they are the most easily replicated and do not provide much security. Duplicates are easy to create at a hardware store or self-service key cutter because of their basic design. As a result, these keys are both inexpensive and simple to make.

• Four-sided Key

This is by far the most common kind of key to be found in homes. They may be identified by the two or four sets of teeth on the opposing sides of the blade. For the best protection, go for the four-sided option. Because of their rarity and difficulty in duplicating, these items are unlikely to be targeted by criminals.

The lock to which the key is matched is more difficult to open since it has many teeth. Double and four-sided keys are the way to go if you want to upgrade your mechanically cut home key to something more secure on a budget. You may significantly improve the safety and security of your home with very little money and effort.

• Dimple Keys

As the name suggests, these keys feature a wide range of dimples on the blade. Two protruding pins in a lock match these dimples. When the dimple key is placed into the lock, it aligns the dimples with the pins, and the lock is then released.

This ensures that dimple keys work regardless of how they are placed into the lock since all sides are similar. Due to this, you don’t have to spend time finding out how to hold the key before inserting it.

The most typical use for these keys is as an additional line of defense against intruders in private residences. Your locks and Apartment Keys can be changed by hiring a locksmith.

• Abloy Keys

To access disc tumbler locks, Abloy keys are required. After being inserted, the key causes the lock’s discs to spin, and the lock will unlock when the discs are correctly aligned. It’s almost unheard of to find Abloy keys these days. Despite this, they’re a huge hit elsewhere.

• A Primary Key

When creating security, the main key is the essential kind of key, as the name indicates. The primary key can unlock all locks, even if multiple keys match specific locks.

Keys to individual offices are common, and managers often keep the master key to ensure that, in the case of an emergency, all rooms in the building may be accessed. When it comes to apartment complexes, though, primary keys are more common.

• Skeleton Keys

It’s common for skeleton keys, or “passkeys,” to be mistaken for primary keys. When it comes to main and skeleton keys, the distinction lies in that primary keys may open many locks. Only warded locks may make use of these keys.

One of the most valuable features of skeleton keys is a serrated, protruding component at the blade’s tip. Most warded locks are no longer in use since they are simple to pick up and offer insufficient protection. As a consequence, the number of skeleton locks has decreased.

• Magnetic Keys

The magnets in a magnetic key allow the tumblers in a lock to line up appropriately and release based on the size and orientation of the magnets. Because these keys utilize passive mechanics, no electronics are needed.

Several types of locks, including lever locks, deadbolts, and cylinder locks, use magnetic keys.

Bottom Line

The only physical keys we use consistently if we’re being honest, are three of the many key types we utilize daily. Have three: a personal, a vehicle, and a postal box.

It’s not just three main sorts. Our goal is that reading about the various sorts of keys described above has given you a better understanding of which keys you may utilize on your keyboard.

When you consider everything, you keep in your pockets, such as the keys to your vehicle, front door, side door, back door, mailbox, and maybe even your mother-in-house, the law, and several tiny rewards cards curved and perforated to hang easily.

It is easy for key chains to get packed very quickly. Because of this, you’ll constantly search for the right key to open the door or locker you are trying to enter and squander precious time each day.

Rekeying a few of your locks is a simple, inexpensive, and do-it-yourself option that may alleviate some of your stress. This comprehensive guide will teach when, why, and how to do a lock rekey.

How Does A Lock Operate?

Having an understanding of how locks function is helpful before rekeying a lock.

A pin and tumbler lock is the kind of lock that is often seen on doorknobs and deadbolts. There are pins and springs within a cylindrical plug. A precise key shape must fit between the pins of various lengths to insert and operate the lock. To make this function, the pins’ size must match the depth of the key’s grooves.

It is necessary to dismantle a lock, remove the pins, and then replace them with new pins that have cuts that correspond to those on the key that will be used to open the lock. Only then will the lock be able to be opened with the desired key. Let’s have a look at the process.

Tumbler And Pin Lock

A steel cutaway is used to rotate a given key shape in a pin and tumbler lock, which can be found on locking doorknobs and deadbolts. This steel cutaway carries a cylindrical plug and many springs and pins. For a key to spin the locking mechanism, its pin arrangement must match the depth of the key’s different grooves.

In order to use a different key to open the door lock, you must dismantle the lock and remove and replace the pins, which have varying heights, with new pins that match the cuts and grooves in the new key. Alternatively, you may use the same key to unlock all of the doors.

For Homeowners, This Is Ideal!

Rekeying is the finest option if you want a single Key To Unlock All Your House or apartment locks. A complete key ring may be reduced to only the essentials, saving you time and space in your wallet or handbag and enabling you to locate the right one quickly.

When it comes to security, rekeying a lock is a good option. To ensure that they are the only ones with access to their new house after it has been constructed and numerous others, including builders, subcontractors, and inspectors, have duplicate door keys, new homeowners should confirm this before taking possession.

You may trust a qualified locksmith for your home’s security.

Are You Replacing Or Rekeying?

In the same way, landlords and property managers often rekey door locks when a new tenant moves in. Replacement of the whole lock is an option when moving into a previously owned home or when you lose your extra keys. Your house is safe and secure since no one else has the key.

Both are replacing and rekeying a lock, effectively modifying a lock to restrict access; however, both processes are only necessary in exceptional cases.

• If you lose your key, you won’t be able to dismantle your current locks for rekeying. First and foremost, get a new lock installed.

• Rekeying is not an option for repairing a worn or broken lock. When a lock is broken or bent, your locksmith will likely need to fix it sooner rather than later. Unless you want many locks to share a single key, you don’t need to rekey them if your goal is to have the only key.

Locks Made By The Same Manufacturer

To rekey several locks to fit one key, they must be made by the same manufacturer.

For example, you must use Schlage locks for any other locks you want to be rekeyed to match if your front door lock is a Schlage. You can’t rekey a Kwikset or Sargeant lock to open with the same key as a Schlage lock since each lock has a distinct keyhole size that only accepts its key.

Before rekeying, you’ll need to pick one lock brand and replace the others to match.

Bottom Line

Because of all the keys the previous owner had lying about, you are anxious to move in. Alternatively, if you are sick of carrying about a jumble of keys in your pocket or handbag, you may want to have a single key that can unlock all of your doors.

Rekeying your home’s locks may serve both of these purposes. You may be shocked at how simple it is.

It’s very uncommon for doorknobs and handles to come loose due to the daily wear and tear. When the handle pulls away, jiggles, or simply continues spinning for no apparent reason, you know it’s only a matter of time until the door handle repair is required!

For your convenience, we’ve put together this instruction on repairing those annoying door handles and knobs.

Doorknob Types That Are The Most Popular!

• Set screws are exposed.

Typically, a doorknob is attached to a threaded spindle with a set of visible screws, and this doorknob is no exception. The hidden screw doorknob is more difficult to tighten because you cannot see how the doorknob is attached and how all the components will fit together as readily as possible with the exposed screw doorknob.

• Hidden screw-in doorknob

In the same way, an exposed set screw doorknob has screws holding it to the spindle. This doorknob also has screws, although they cannot be seen. Doorknobs with screws hidden beneath a decorative faceplate are significantly different from those with screws exposed.

Why Doorknobs And Handles Can Get Loose?

Doorknobs and handles may become loose for a variety of reasons, including:

• The door handle or doorknob may become shaky or loose with time, necessitating an adjustment to tighten it back up.
• The handle or lock may not work correctly because it is an older device with accumulated dirt, dust, and other pollutants.
• The door plate may be missing a screw or be loosely fastened.
• In some instances, the doorknob or handle mechanism may be dysfunctional.

Door Handles And Knobs: How Do You Fix Them?

Step 1: Take off the doorknob or handle.

You should remove the handle if you didn’t tell me what’s wrong with it immediately.

Simply find the screw and loosen it with an Allen key or screwdriver if it is accessible. After taking out all of the screws, you should then be able to take out the door handle or doorknob.

Locate the detent access hole if you have a handle or doorknob with concealed screws. The door handle or knob will not be able to rotate on the door because the detent hole has a pin that protrudes from it and is triggered by a spring. To push down on the pin, you’ll need a flathead screwdriver.

After completing this step, you should rotate the shaft, which will allow you to remove the knob or handle from its location.

Step 2: Remove the foundation.

After removing the door handle or doorknob, the following step is to take the door’s base off the door. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully peel the ring apart from the base to remove it.

When removing the base, take care not to harm the backing plate. If the backing plate becomes broken, this may prevent the handle from being correctly reattached at any point in the future, in which case you will need to Contact a Locksmith.

Step 3: Locate and tighten the screws.

A set of screws should be visible when the base is removed, and they’ll probably need to be tightened. The backing plate, which keeps the handle or doorknob together, is attached to the door using these screws. Tighten each screw while gripping the backing plate with both hands.

Step 4: It’s time to put everything back together.

After ensuring that the screws are securely in place, you can reattach the base to the backing plate by simply clipping it into position. After the base has been secured, the handle or doorknob may be positioned on the spindle shaft such that the holes can be aligned with either the screw holes (if there are visible screws) or the detent (should you have hidden screws).

Replace any exposed screws, and your door handle or doorknob should now work properly.

Fixing A Loose Doorknob

“How do you repair a loose doorknob?” is a common question.

• Set screws, comparable to a grub screw, loosen and lose their hold on the handle spindle when a doorknob rotates loosely on the spindle.
• Look around the collar of the doorknob to find the loose screw, and then use the right screwdriver to tighten the screw. This will allow you to adjust either the screw or the Allen key.
• Getting a new screw for the doorknob is possible by taking it to the hardware shop.

Bottom Line

At some point, every homeowner and company owner will be forced to deal with the issue of doorknobs or handles that are too loose.

It is just a matter of time until the handle on the door becomes an annoyance for your personnel and your clients, regardless of whether it pulls away from the door or jiggles when you attempt to open it.

When it comes to a doorknob that has fallen off, there’s good news: it’s not too difficult to repair.

Yes, you can rekey your own locks, and nothing is stopping you from doing it, except for the fact that all locks are different. Many people think that rekeying a lock is a simple matter of replacing the cylinder inside their locks. What they later find out is that getting to the cylinder and replacing it reliably isn’t all that simple.

Even seasoned locksmiths have practiced rekeying for years to ensure that they are proficient. That’s why even though you can rekey locks, you shouldn’t bet your home or businesses’ security on it.

How Does Rekeying Work?

Rekeying as the term implies is the process through which internal workings of a lock are changed so that it works differently but without compromising the security of a home or business. While it sounds simple on the surface, rekeying a lock isn’t a simple matter for anyone but a Professional Locksmith. In the simplest terms rekeying helps you keep the old lock, but the key you originally had will not work any longer. That’s why you need to have a grasp of the basic concepts before trying to rekey any lock.

Rekeying a lock requires gaining access to the lock’s cylinder. The lock needs to be removed and disassembled. Some people who have done it before might be able to pull it off. Still, since all locks are different, it is a risky proposition—not mentioning the fact that the incorrect replacement procedure can end up costing you in the way of the home or business’s security.

Why Do People Want to Rekey Locks?

One of the reasons why anyone would want to get their locks rekeyed is because it is one of the most cost-effective ways of ensuring that the locks will work with a new set of keys and the old one. For instance, a person who gives their home on rent may want to rekey the locks so that the previous owner can’t enter the apartment or home. It is cost-effective compared to perhaps buying and installing a fresh set of locks.

Rekeying can also be used for times when you want one key to open all locks. All locks can be installed with the same cylinder, which essentially will allow a single set of master keys to access everything. This type of setup is often employed in hotels and commercial establishments where there are many doors with locks.

The process of rekeying locks by a professional is also quicker. Most locksmiths depending on the lock, can rekey a standard lock within 30 minutes. The latest tools and experience helps to speed up the process. Locksmiths use tools like a catch tool, key decoder and a spanner for most jobs. If anything, it ensures the best possible outcome of the job.

The Cons of Rekeying

The biggest con is that a rekeyed lock isn’t any more structurally secure than the previous one. So, if the old lock often got stuck or could easily be pried off, rekeying it will not fix that problem. That’s why before rekeying, make sure that the locks are in good condition.

Rekeying Vs. Installing New Locks

Well, so we’ve already covered that rekeying a lock is cost-effective compared to buying and installing new locks. However, when should you decide on a new lock versus rekeying the existing one? One of the reasons why you’d want to install a new set of locks is to upgrade the existing security of your home or business. A better set of locks ups your security a great deal.

For instance, if you currently have a Grade 2 deadbolt installed, and you upgrade it to a Grade 1 by rekeying, the overall security isn’t boosted exponentially when compared to installing smart locks. So new locks could mean better security if you upgrade. That’s something not possible with merely rekeying them.

Conclusion

Attempting to rekey your locks can be risky. However, what you should do is hire a professional. A professional locksmith should be able to Rekey Your Locks while ensuring security. While it means paying for parts and labor, the result is a lock that’s more secure and reliable. When people do it themselves, not only is the process time consuming, but they could inevitably be compromising the security of their locks, which is never a good thing.

Many people reluctantly agree that losing a key was one of the worst experiences in their lives. If you don’t have a key, it isn’t possible to enter your own home. But even if you do by breaking the lock, your home’s security is still at stake. That’s why getting the locks rekeyed is so important, especially if the original key is no longer with you. However, the question is, is it possible to Rekey A Lock without the original key? Fortunately, it is possible, and there is one way to do it.

Rekeying the Lock Without the Original Key

The process of rekeying a lock without the original key is going to be different for each type of locking mechanism. So, you need to understand that doing it also comes with its own set of issues. Below we talk about a few things you should know before rekeying the locks.

Picking the Lock

Any experienced and Professional Locksmith is able to pick a lock to unlock it. A locksmith can unlock the lock, using their pick and then remove the cylinder. However, not all locks can be rekeyed using this method without the original key. For instance, this method will not work for knob locks, smart key locks, a deadbolt etc.

Smart lock rekeying without the key

The lock can be removed from the door without damaging it. After it is removed, the cylinder can be taken out. Doing this requires a lot of experience, and the locksmith will also need to be well-equipped. That’s why doing this is beyond the expertise of a regular locksmith.

The Cost involved with Rekeying Locks

Now when you don’t have keys for the locks or if it is broken or lost, the lock has to be rekeyed. Most locksmiths should be able to rekey locks without the original key with some level of ease. That said, the cost associated with doing it without the original set of keys is high. That’s why you might want to consider changing the locks instead.

Conclusion

If you find yourself in a conundrum about changing the locks or rekeying the existing one, it is essential to consider a couple of factors. The most crucial factor is the fact that it will cost you a little more than buying a new lock. Plus, you want to hire the best locksmith with experience with rekeying the type of locks you have.

One of the ways to decide between the two is to call up a locksmith and get a quote for rekeying your locks. Explain that you have lost the key and tell them about the type of locks you have. Then once you get that estimate, compare it against the price of installing a set of new locks. If they are both equal, it is better to install new locks. Nothing beats the extra security new locks offer.

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.