Austin Locks

Locksmiths Tips!

Top 6 Best Baldwin Locks On The Market Today

Posted by on Oct 10, 2016

Top 6 Best Baldwin Locks On The Market Today

Baldwin locks remain as the most gorgeous and reliable locks in the entire world. Founded in 1945 by the Fayerman Severin soon after his arrival in America, Baldwin started with only one product, a brass-stamped letterbox.

Their locks are usually built to last a lifetime. They’re manufactured by the Baldwin, which enjoys a 60-year legacy of great innovation and remarkable craftsmanship.

By the 1940s, the firm was already manufacturing brass-forged door locks. The rest, like they say, is history! Now, Baldwin produces a broad range of products from door knockers to electronic door locks.

They provide high-quality locks which are the most gorgeous locks you’ll ever find on the market anywhere. These are locks that’ll last for a very long time. Don’t believe it? Just hold a Baldwin knob, turn it and feel the quality.

There is slight play in its handle; it feels firm and turns more smoothly than any other lock you’ve used. If you’re looking for Baldwin locks, here is a list of the best varieties on the market brought to us by ATLLocksmithPros.com.

1. Baldwin Tobin Entry Lever

Constructed from the solid zinc, this type of lock is available in both satin nickel and polished brass finish. It has patented technology of Baldwin that protects all homeowners from susceptibilities which were in earlier models of the Baldwin locks.

For instance, it protects against any lock bumping- a vulnerability which was present in the previous Baldwin locks.

The lock is aesthetically attractive as well as it boasts a sleek contour and refined curves which are good-looking. Its levers can be locked or unlocked from either outside or inside by only pressing a button. The lock is recommended for exterior doors where keyed entry security is important.

2. Baldwin Single Cylinder Round Deadbolt

baldwin-single-cylinderThe lock features a classic round shape that complements and boasts an impressive range of distinct design styles. For example, the lock can be easily paired with some knobs.

Its deadbolt utilizes cutting-edge key re-key technology which enables you to control who can access your apartments. The lock can be unlocked or locked both from the outside and the inside by only pressing a button.

This type of lock is ideal for garage doors, front doors, side doors, etc. What’s more? The lock has a stainless steel side locking bar that replaces the pin tumbler of its predecessors which was susceptible to the lock-bumping attacks.

3. Baldwin Bighorn Single Cylinder Handle Set

This handle set is very strong all through. The lock employs a smart key re-key technology which allows you control individuals who are able to access your house.

The lock also enables you to rekey it in just three easy steps. With a Venetian bronze texture, the deadbolt can be unlocked or locked with a key from outside or by just pressing the button from inside.

4. Baldwin Tobin Hall

baldwin-tobin-hallThis type of lock has a lever which is reversible and can be fixed on the left or right-handed doors. It is perfect for interior doors like closets and hallways that don’t need sophisticated locking abilities.

5. Baldwin Alcott Entry Knob

This Knob is one versatile knob which will cohere with any design currently available in the market. The knob features a luxurious design and will be home with any modern technology style.

The knob is ideal for exterior doors where keyed entry is required. The knob uses the revolutionary key re-key technology that enables you to rekey your lock in just three easy steps. It boasts advanced security and isn’t vulnerable to the lock bumping.

The lock features a satin nickel finish that affords it a modern design and looks. Besides, it has a robust and solid hardware that makes this model of the Baldwin locks heavy, firm and smooth.

6. Baldwin Prestige Spyglass Entry Level

You’ll certainly love the function and form of this lock. It provides affordable luxury as well as featuring a great versatility which makes it get along well with any contemporary style.

 

If you’re looking for high-quality locks, then the Baldwin locks are definitely the solution. This locks often come with a lifetime warranty, are unique and easy to find, are made of quality metal which makes them last a long period, and feature advanced security.

You might need to pay a little more than you’ll pay for the other brands in the market, but it’s worth it.

Read More

10 Crucial Points to Consider Before Hiring a Locksmith For Lock Repair

Posted by on May 23, 2016

10 Crucial Points to Consider Before Hiring a Locksmith For Lock Repair

Losing your car key or the key to your house can be very heartbreaking and stressing. More often than not, a person in such circumstances is left with the option of looking for a reliable locksmith. Below, therefore, are ten crucial points you need to consider before you solicit the services of a lock technician:

1. Find out if the locksmith is licensed and insured

Inquire if the technician has a clean license from accredited license bodies. You cannot afford to entrust your lock replacement to an unregistered locksmith. Taking precaution will guard you against rogue locksmiths who may be out to make a fortune from where they did not sow.
On the other hand, hiring a registered and insured technician is a smart idea as they are probably both legitimate and more qualified.

2. Ask the locksmith to quote their rates

It is vital to understand the rates of their services so that you can budget your finances upfront. This is an important piece of information as some technicians charge a fixed fee while others charge per hour. You should also investigate what their trip fee is so that you prepare yourself. It is advisable to choose a locksmith who charges a fixed rate as hourly rates tend to be expensive.

3. Ask about the warranty period

Reputable locksmiths offer a period of 30 or more days as the warranty period. If they don’t provide this, you are better off not hiring them. By so doing you will avoid incurring additional expenses should unintentional lock issues arise later on.

4. Ask the locksmith if they perform background checks on their employees

The technician you are entrusting with your lock repair and replacement will have undeterred access to your property. For this reason, it is important that your technician, together with their employees, be reliable and trustworthy individuals. All lock technicians should go through this process. Remember, it is of significant importance to keep your employees and property safe. You never know, you could be dealing with ex-convicts or hardcore criminals!

5. Find out the lock technician’s level of expertise

locksmith trainingBefore you tell the locksmith what you require to be done, ask them the jobs they can complete. The answers they provide will help you access if they have the necessary skills and experience for your task. Locksmiths should handle all types of locks, be it keyless or regular locks.
However, tasks like installation, repair and replacement require specialized skills and high levels of professionalism. Knowing your locksmith’s specialty will save you both time and money.

6. Relevant education and certificates

Reputable technicians update themselves from time to time as far as technology and innovation are concerned. With numerous pieces of training come multiple certifications. If a locksmith lacks such certificates, chances are, they don’t attend such workshops, and as such, they are not well-versed with the current trends in the industry.

7. Ask if the locksmith operates locally

Approximately 92% of the locksmiths on the internet are nonexistent. For this reason, investigate if they have a physical address in the area. In case they don’t provide a physical address or confirm their retail location, don’t offer them the job.

8. Professionalism

Every business requires a high level of professionalism. Likewise, a professional locksmith should take their time to give a detailed explanation of how he purposes to do the job. While on it, he should regularly provide updates on the progress.

9. What is the locksmith’s schedule

24-7It is of utmost importance to hire a technician who is reliable and has a flexible schedule. You should hire a professional locksmith who goes out of his way to meet the needs of his clients regardless of the circumstances. Finding a locksmith who has a flexible schedule will ensure your work is done even when you have a tight working schedule.

10. Provision of estimates

A professional technician will give you details of all calculations before getting down on a project. Enquire about this and if he does not provide, don’t hire him because you do not want to be left wobbling in the dark about how much money to set aside for your project.

Considering the above points will ensure you get a professional technician who will offer you value for your money. Consequently, it will not only save you money and time but a headache and heartache as well.

Read More

5 Reasons To Have Your Locks Re-keyed Immediately

Posted by on May 19, 2016

5 Reasons To Have Your Locks Re-keyed Immediately

The technique of changing a lock so that it can use different keys is referred to as a house re-key. It is considered different than just changing a lock because changing a lock means that the whole lock and its hardware is swapped. However, in re-keying, the only thing that is changed is the lock mechanism, and new keys are made. Usually, re-keying a lock is much more cost effective than replacing the whole lock. Moreover, if both the lock and hardware are still in a good state then there is no need whatsoever to replace them. The main reason why you should ever desire to re-key your house is to upgrade the security there.

Definitely, there is nothing as meaningful as taking care of your home and possessions from harm and trespassers. The traditional lock and key setup enable you to protect and maintain the safety of your family and assets. Regrettably, the keys used in this conventional setup can be obtained by unwanted intruders and it can be a hard task to identify the parties that uses them and the time that they are correctly used. Basically, keys are easily duplicated, and this creates a practically unnoticeable security threat. This is why re-keying all your locks is the most effective and beneficial way to protect your family and belongings.

Why is it Necessary to Re-key Your Locks?

Relocating to a New Residence

When moving to a new home, office or apartment, it is highly advisable to re-key the house mainly for security reasons. The previous occupants or the tenants may have made key duplicates which gives them easy access to your personal space. Furthermore, even if the prior residents of the house had returned the keys, it is still hardly possible to know for a fact if they gave a copy of the key. This exposes your family and assets to potential risks by intruders.

Misplaced/Lost Keys

Lost car keyyIn case you have ever lost or misplaced your keys, re-keying is recommended for you. It is particularly important if you have lost your bag or purse that had not only the keys but also your personal information such as your home address details. The security of your loved ones and your belongings could be at risk if the keys fall into the hands of a dubious character.

Past Relationships

DivorceThis includes ex-spouses, fiancées’ and lovers. Another reason why you should have your keys re-keyed is a fall out between someone you were romantically involved with. It does not matter if your ex returned the key, they could have made duplicates. It is very common for revengeful ex’s to break into their spouses’ house. As soon as the breakup takes place, your first priority should be to re-key your locks. It is much cheaper to seek the services of a locksmith to re-key your locks than having to handle all the expenses that come with replacing all your stolen items by a spiteful ex. The charges for re-configuring a lock are pretty reasonable. At least you are guaranteed of protection because locksmith companies are insured and bonded.

Hateful and Bitter Employees

This applies to someone who has recently fired an employee that had access to the office keys. It is very necessary to have the office/building keys re-keyed. It is usual for a hostile employee to use the keys to break into the company and access confidential informational that could lead to big losses and damages, all simply out of revenge for being fired.

Personal Services (e.g. cleaning services)

It is common to forget to ask for your keys back from a home service company once you are done seeking their services. If you have ever used the services of a cleaning company, babysitter, etc. it is essential to have your house re-keyed. Even if it is a trustworthy company, you should not take any risk when it comes to your safety.

 

In case you do not feel comfortable with your buildings conventional lock system, you have only two options: Replace your locks or re-key them. Replacing the entire key system is only recommended when you feel that the current locks are not trustworthy and you need to upgrade to more secure and convenient locks.

On the other hand, if you happen to be satisfied with the lock system in your home but wish to take extra precautions, then you ought to reconsider re-keying the locks. Once the lock system has been re-keyed, the new key will be able to work on all lock and the old key will become void.

Read More

Reasons Why A Dealership Is Not The Answer For Car Key Replacement

Posted by on May 16, 2016

Reasons Why A Dealership Is Not The Answer For Car Key Replacement

So you’ve misplaced your car keys or they’ve just stopped working, and you just can’t seem to decide whether to contact your local locksmith or the dealership. Well, most experts recommend using a local locksmith because even though dealerships offer great car key replacement services due to their ties with the auto manufacturers, they have a number of setbacks.

 

This article provides you with detailed information about the main disadvantages of using dealerships for your car key replacement. It also explains the reasons as to why local locksmiths are a better option when it comes to car key replacement. Special thank you to AZ Car Keys for all the information provided.

 

Dealership Prices are High as Compared to Local Locksmiths

 

One of the biggest and most inconveniencing disadvantages of using a dealership is the high price you’ll be asked to pay for your replacement car keys. Dealerships are infamous for their inflated prices, which often inconveniences clients. If you’re on a budget and want to have your car key replaced fast, it might not be a good idea to contact a dealership.

 

And that’s not all there is to the inflated prices. There are towing fees. Yes. Towing fees and replacement fees are separate. This is because unlike a locksmith who comes wherever you are to replace the keys for you, the dealership does not send someone over. This means you’ll have to pay extra for towing. Of course, this leads to time wastage and of course, you end up spending extra money.

 

In this case, contacting a locksmith might be a great idea, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

 

Time Wastage

 

Save TimeThe fact that you’ll have to get your car serviced right at the dealership leads to time wastage. For example, if you happen to misplace your keys at home and have to get to work in an hour’s time, you can imagine how long it’s going to take to tow the car to the dealership, wait for the replacement, and then drive to work. It would save more time if you just hired a trusted local locksmith who will arrive and replace your car keys in no time.

 

Inconvenience

 

Having your car keys replaced at a dealership can be inconveniencing to your work schedule or any other plans you may have. The fact that you have to tow your car to the dealership and wait for it to be fixed can be very inconvenient. Many people have failed to turn up for interviews or important activities after taking their cars to the dealerships.

 

The good thing about having a reputable locksmith is that you’ll never have to experience such ugly incidences. It’s usually even much better because locksmiths waste no time attending to emergencies such as lost keys.

 

Inconsistent Service

 

Different car owners often have different experiences after visiting a new car dealership. Some regret even using their services in the first place due to the shoddy services they got.

 

A technician may simply ignore you because you’re new and even offer no explanation about the services he is about to offer you. This is just so unprofessional. Others might treat you well. Visiting a new dealership can be a hit or miss experience.

 

To avoid such bad experiences, it’s always advisable to use a local locksmith’s services. Local locksmiths are renowned for their courteousness and professionalism since they are serious about their profession and work hard to build a solid reputation.

 

Inconvenient Delays

 

Besides the fact that you’ve to have your car towed to the dealership, which of course leads to time wastage, there are certain cases where you might have to wait several days for your replacement keys to arrive from overseas. You might also have to wait for the technician to re-programme a new set of keys for your car.

 

Locksmiths are always set with tools, replacement keys, and every other equipment required to get your vehicle moving. Their services are quick, fast, and very reliable.

 

No Personal Connections

 

When you visit a dealership every time for servicing or car replacement keys, it’s possible that you’ll meet a new technician every time. This simply means that you’ll never get acquainted with a single technician who you can always feel comfortable talking to or servicing your car. This might make you uncomfortable.

 

Auto LocksmithWith a locksmith, it’s possible to establish a long-term relationship with him especially if he is local. There are people who’ve used the same locksmiths for years. Having a locksmith you can trust and depend on can save you the trouble of going to a dealership every time you lose your car keys or have some car problems.

 

 

 

It’s pretty clear that dealerships are not always the best option when it comes to having your car keys replaced. It’s always wise to establish a good relationship with a local locksmith.

Read More

15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

As a commercial property owner, it is of utmost importance to protect your commercial property from intruders and other disasters. In fact, this should be your first priority. Vandalism can really soil the image of your business and you do not want that to happen. Disaster strikes when least expected and there is property that is prone to destruction. Therefore, you must take the necessary precautions to lower risks and protect your property. Having said that, the following are the top 15 ways to effectively safeguard your commercial property.
Resources:
www.tempelocksmithpros.com
homedepot.com
adt.com

Ensure there is proper lighting

Lighting serves a vital purpose of providing maximum visibility especially at night. To prevent vandalism, all lighting fixtures should have vandal-proof covers. The perimeter wall should be properly lit so as to scare off robbers. All entry points such as doors, windows should be well lit as well.

Install solid doors

All doors in your commercial property should be solidly constructed and lined with heavy metal crossbars.

Install secure windows

Windows offer better security when fitted with secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. For improved security, install polyester security films with break sensor alarms. The rear windows are more vulnerable hence should be fitted with heavy metal grates.

Install alarm systems

Installing alarm systems in your commercial property helps to deter burglar activities. For guaranteed safety, it’s good to ensure the process is done by a licensed alarm company. The alarm company must have a central monitoring station. Besides, it should be checked regularly to ensure it functions optimally.

Care for the cash register

The cash register should be kept at a point where it’s not easily seen from outside the building. Ensure its open whenever it’s empty or not being used for easy monitoring.

Strong safes

home safeTo offer better protection, the safe must be burglar -resistant and fireproof. While it should be visible, it’s good to ensure it’s securely anchored. Keep the safe open when it’s empty and lock in all valuables at the end of the day. For the sake of your security , change the safe’s combination whenever you sack or release employees who have details regarding the safe.

Inspect the building’s exterior

Inspect your building’s exterior regularly to ensure all the openings are secured. Maintain proper landscaping to achieve better visibility. It’s also a good security measure to remove things like vehicle equipment , boxes , cans and trash bins away from the building to avoid burglars accessing the rooftop.

Perimeter fences

An ideal perimeter fence should be erected at heights which an intruder cannot be able to access your property. For a fence to serve its purpose, it should be vertically erected with 0.3 vinyl coated vertical iron bars.

Key controls

All commercial property keys should be handled responsibly. Ensure all the keys are coded and locked somewhere safely when they are not being used.

Install surveillance cameras in your commercial property

Security CamerasWhile they might cost you a significant amount of money, surveillance cameras play an important role of deterring burglars. Moreover, with these cameras installed in your commercial premises, it is possible to get the burglars after a break-in.

Use of Anti-climb fences

If your commercial property is of substantial size, consider putting an anti-limb fence or a wall around the perimeter.

Using Key-card access systems

The security of your commercial property should be taken seriously at all times. When security is at its topmost, your customers and employees will feel safe hence giving you more business. Introducing key-card access systems on exterior doors will ensure than unauthorized people do not access the premises.

Taking an Insurance cover

Taking an insurance cover can help you protect your property from unpredictable disasters such as fire breaks and burglary. Do enough research to find the reliable insurance company to offer you protection?

Conduct risk assessment

Do thorough investigations in order to evaluate the areas that require attention. It might happen that your commercial property is located in a crime-prone area or your fence needs repair and overlooking such things puts you in a risky situation.

Various disasters including fires, floods, break-ins and many more are a major concern for commercial property owners. There are many ways you can protect commercial properties. Meanwhile, criminals are becoming even smarter so it’s imperative to keep yourself updated with newer methods of protecting your commercial property.

Read More

6 Top Tips on How to Find Good Locksmiths

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

6 Top Tips on How to Find Good Locksmiths

Choosing the best professionals is not easy because the service provision industry has been invaded by both impostors and quacks. Painstaking legwork is therefore necessary as you tooth-comb the service provision industry for the most reliable specialists for your assignments. The same applies when looking for seasoned locksmiths. As such, this article explores a few tips that to bear in mind as you look for experienced and competent locksmithing services. Continue reading to discover the 6 top tips on how to find good locksmiths.
Resources:
www.auroralocksmith.org
locksmiths-search.com
wikipedia.org

  1. Experience

First, you should pick experienced professionals who have severally handled similar locks issues before. Although this does not mean that you cannot hire promising starters, picking old hands who with a remarkable wealth experience in handling locks increases your chances of enjoy top notch services. To prove that a certain locksmith is indeed experienced, ask them to give you a list of the clients they have served before. Call the clients personally to verify that they were actually served by the locksmiths in question. This helps you verify that the locks professional you hire has satisfactorily served other people before.

  1. Reputation

A service provider who doesn’t have impenetrable integrity cannot be trusted to faithfully perform work a decent job. There are some fraudulent locks specialists who even take client’s money and disappear. As such, go for individuals or companies whose track record is unquestionable. If they have a website, go over the client reviews posted by others to make sure that the locksmiths you hire discharge their responsibilities with unimpeachable integrity and with a strict adherence to the terms of engagement agreed upon. However, be careful because some of them may fake their own client feedback and purport that the same were written by ostensibly satisfied past clients. Any genuine customer review should include some important details such as the client’s image or their physical/email address.

  1. Communication Skills

Although some locksmithing professionals may have the capability to undertake your project, you should not hire them if they have communication problems. This is because you need to be communicating with the locksmiths every once in a while as they continue working. Sometimes, you may not be around the working area but you need to be constantly informed about their progress. There some professionals who do not understand the importance of regularly updating their clients about how the job is getting. Avoid such locks service providers and go for those that seem to know the essence of contractor-client communication.

  1. Qualifications and Registration

locksmith scamTo avoid being swindled by impostors, go for locks experts who are both qualified and registered. Do not settle for mere verbal claims that a certain individual is qualified or registered. Insist until they show you the documents that attest to their qualifications and registration status. Follow up to confirm that the credentials were issued by recognized institutions or chartered statutory bodies that regulate service provision in the industry. Dealing with registered experts cushions from being mishandled by indiviuals who who are not recognized by the law and gives you an upper if the deal does not go as planned.

  1. Referrals

Referrals are also very important when looking for the best locks handling technicians to repair or destroy existing locks. Of course, you are not the first person to look for locksmithing services in the area. As such, ask your neighbors, friends, and colleagues to suggest a few names of reliable locks service providers in the area. Come up a list of about 5-10 competent locks technicians and then whittle down the long list to about three or four names; and then finally pick the most promising locksmith.

  1. Cost

expensiveAlthough it is universally accepted that the cheapest is not necessarily the best, be on the look-out to avoid being overcharged by unscrupulous locks repair technicians while you could have paid less. Do not settle on the very first locksmith you come across. Instead, consult various specialists and ask for quotes for a final comparison to ensure that you nail the most favorable deal. However, be careful not to prioritize cost over the quality of the locksmithing services offered. Because most of these technicians will not quote a final price at first, use your negotiation abilities to talk down the charges as much as possible.

Read More