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Which Locks Provide The Highest Home Security?

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Which Locks Provide The Highest Home Security?

For many homeowners, the level of security is often a priority selecting door locks. This is because selecting the right locks provides the best defense for their homes to prevent break-ins. The good news is that today’s locks are specially designed to offer much greater protection. However, because of the numerous brands and models available, it can be hard to determine which locks can provide the highest home security.

 

So, which locks provide the highest home security? Below are some of the highest grade security locks that will make you feel totally secure in your home.
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Deadbolt Locks

 

deadboltssssDeadbolt locks are highly recommended for use in residential doors as they provide the highest security level. These locks don’t contain springs, which explains the term “dead.”

 

There are two types of deadbolt locks: single-cylinder deadbolt and double-cylinder deadbolt. The single-cylinder deadbolt lock is usually operated by use of a key from the inside, and with a turn-button on the inside. The double-cylinder deadbolt lock is usually operated from the inside and the outside with a key. Most homeowners prefer double-cylinder deadbolt locks because burglars cannot break the glass to reach in and unlock the door. It offers double security. Be sure to purchase top brand deadbolt locks if you want the highest level of security in your home.

 

Keyless Locks

 

Keyless Lock 1Many residential homes have keyless locks installed to provide highest security level and convenience. The lock has a special feature known as anti theft rolling code that ensures that a single code is not used twice. The advantage with this type of lock is that it’s compatible with garage door openers and home security systems.

 

You might also want to consider selecting this top security lock for your home.

 

Entry Locksets or Handlesets

 

Entry locksets/handlesets are usually combined with deadbolt locks for enhanced security. They feature two door knobs that are locked both from inside and the outside. One of the doorknobs is locked from inside by either depressing or turning a small button while the other doorknob must be unlocked with a key.

 

Mortise Locks

 

It’s common to find Mortise locks on many residential doors due to their advanced security level and convenience.

 

The lock features a flat and rectangular box that fits perfectly into the door’s recess from the edge and includes keyholes and two faceplates consisting of knobs. The deadbolt lock is operated by turning the inside knob while the latch is operated from both sides

 

New Lock Technologies

 

kwikset kevoSome of the most advanced technologies in home security are the new smart locks featuring Bluetooth-enabled deadbolts, cameras, and finger scanners. Others support mobile apps that send you lock activities notifications on your Smartphone and also enable you to effectively manage the locks.

 

These locks are technically engineered to provide maximum security and for convenience.

 

Remember that locksets offer first line defense against intrusion and thus selecting the best is crucial. Be sure to purchase from reputable brands as you are guaranteed of having your home well secured. Also, choose a reputable locksmith for installation as the level of security is also increased when the locks are professionally installed.

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Some Great Solutions For Home Security

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Some Great Solutions For Home Security

We all dream of owning a home that reflects the way we would like to live. However, owning a home is one thing, and keeping it safe is another. You may spend a lot of time and money building your dream home and acquiring wealth, only for burglars to steal all you have gathered for a long time within a few minutes. It is thus very important to be prepared for burglary every day since thieves come into your house the day and time that you least expect. Here are a few great solutions for home security that can enhance the safety of your home, brought to us by the guys at www.greenwoodvillagelocksmith.com.

 

Common sense.

Most people think that getting the elaborate home security system that is inflexible and expensive is the ultimate solution to their security problems. However, this is not always the case. Burglars are opportunists; they take advantage of every little mistake that you make to break into your home. For this reason, deal with the common sense issues first before you can sign a contract with a home security provider. Specifically,

  • Lock all the doors whenever you are going out. Even the garage door should not be left open.
  • Don’t let everyone know that you are going out.
  • Ensure that all your doors are made of solid wood or metal. They should be strong at all times.
  • Befriend your neighbors. They will let you know or call the police on your behalf whenever they notice theft going on in your home.
  • Don’t keep all your eggs in one basket. Put your most precious valuables in different locations.
  • If you are going to be absent for a long time, let a trusted friend or neighbor pick your newspapers or mails, because if they pile, everybody will know that you are out. Alternatively, you can cancel the newspaper orders and let the post office keep your mail for you while you are away.

Keep pets

Guard DogPets can help you get rid of the security threats that you are facing. A barking dog, for example, will keep thieves away, because none of them wants to be bitten, leave alone being caught. There are some people who have managed to keep lions and other animals as pets, and they can all enhance the security of your home.

Be crafty

Sometimes you just have to be crafty to keep your house safe. Thieves are cowards, and anything that indicates that they can be easily caught is a put-off. Here are some crafty ideas that can keep thieves away from home.

  • Get a home security sign or sticker to make thieves think that your home is covered by a home security, even if it is not.
  • If you don’t have a dog, get the “BE AWARE OF BARKING DOGS” sign. No thief wants to be barked at because this increases the chances of being caught
  • If you cannot afford an original surveillance camera, get a fake one. It will serve the same function as the original one most of the times.
  • Whenever you leave, ensure that your home looks occupied. Leave the radio on, for instance. You may also use programmable timers to switch on the lights frequently while you are away, to give burglars the impression that the house is occupied. If you are going to be away for a long time, leave the security lights on.
  • Change the location of valuables frequently. You never know how well burglars know your home until they break into it. Therefore, avoid keeping valuables in the same location for a long time.

Change some habits

Some of our habits invite thieves to our own homes. For instance, if you like leaving your spare key hidden somewhere outside your home, you need to get rid of this habit. Don’t let hedges or trees overgrow, especially near windows.

 

Go professional

locksmith3Do-it-yourself security measures are good for your safety, but sometimes you just have to go professional. Get a technician to install deadbolt locks on the interior and exterior walls, deadbolt strike plates and door jams, and eye-viewer in front and back doors. Choose programmable combination keypads for entry locks and add a track lock to sliding glass entry doors. Depending on the regulations of the local authorities, you may have to install a home security system.

 

Technology in home security.

It is also possible to keep thieves away from your home using technological easy-to-use devices. For instance, on top of installing the alarm system, you can install a video monitoring system or a surveillance camera to keep watch of any movements outside your home. Additionally, you can install exterior motion sensor flood lighting to ensure that no movement goes unnoticed. There are also security programs that are compatible with smartphones these days, and you can take advantage of them reduce the probability of your home being burglarized.

 

All in all, great solutions for home security entail a multifaceted approach that dissuades opportunists from stealing your property. You just have to be smart to keep your precious and irreplaceable belongings safe. Knowledge of basic security measures is not enough.

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Best Options For Exit Devices

Posted by on Feb 3, 2016

Best Options For Exit Devices

Exit devices are commonly installed on aluminum and hollow metal doors in commercial buildings, including schools, retail stores, hospitals and office buildings. Most people are familiar with both types of equipment – the crossbar rim device and the push pad rim device. The crossbar rim device has classic styling while the push pad rim device has a more modern appearance. Regardless of which style is preferred, there are some design factors to consider when purchasing exit devices.
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Exit Device1Exit devices are essential bits of equipment on business entryways. Exit gadgets, otherwise called alarm bars or crash bars, are instruments utilized for opening entryways rapidly. Crash bars supplement or supplant standard entryway handles or handles/levers. They make a without hands exit from inside conceivable while permitting the way to remain bolted all things considered. They take into consideration speedy departure in crises (subsequently the name alarm bars.) When the main Von Duprin exit gadget appeared in the mid 1900’s, nobody could have anticipated the broad effect it would have on an industry for quite a long time to come.

Exit devices/crash bars are required on certain doors in commercial buildings. The building codes in most municipalities/states mandate which doors must have crash bars installed. They save precious seconds during an emergency, such as a fire, allowing crowds to escape quickly to safety.

While they mainly function as a security device, crash bars have other advantages. They are often easier for people in wheelchairs to reach and execute than handles. Children can also operate them easily.

The first consideration is security and safety. When choosing an exit device, make sure it conforms to ANSI Grade 1 specifications. Also, look for hardened steel latches, adjustable strikes, concealed mounting screws, and hex dogging. On push pad rim devices, look for designs without openings for chains so you can reduce the risk of code violations. Pushpa devices should also be designed to resist tampering or forced entry, even if the intruder has a coat hanger or other tool.

push bar2Next, choose exit devices that are easy to install, maintain and adjust. Crossbar rim devices are the simplest and easiest to work with. Most can be installed on stiles as narrow as 1 3/4 inches and are easily converted for left-hand or right-hand operation. Choose the latest push pad rim devices which have fewer parts and thus require less maintenance. This is especially important on a door in high-traffic locations.

The best exit devices come with a variety of options. Crossbar rim devices are popular since they are available in numerous painted and architectural finishes. This is a nice feature in upscale offices and retail establishments. Also, crossbar styles should be field adjustable to fit the width of any door. Pushpa devices don’t normally come in as many finishes as crossbars, but the best companies still offer variety in metal finishes. Push pads are typically available in 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch and 48-inch lengths and may include electrical options for added security. Some push pad rim devices are also designed for use on fire doors.

Finally, you’ll need to decide on the exterior options for exit devices. If the gate does not need to be opened from the outside, no trim is required. Otherwise, you can install a pull handle, pull handle and cylinder lock, or a cylinder lock only.

It’s always best to choose high-quality exit devices in order to avoid maintenance issues, especially in high-traffic areas. Good ones provide smooth, quiet operation. Look for products that carry the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label so you know they have been tested for functionality and reliability.

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Getting Your Building Up To Code With Proper Exit Devices

Posted by on Feb 1, 2016

Getting Your Building Up To Code With Proper Exit Devices

To stick to the tight Fire Prevention Codes and Building Codes set by your business, the State, industry or home must give suitable, conforming, appropriate Exit devices, to always keep your family, occupants and employees safe, in case of an emergency.

Based on the number of inhabitants, the rules change concerning the kind of door locks and latches which are needed. Door exit devices are made to be installed on the protected side of doors which swing outwards, in order to prevent access whilst permitting free egress. These were made in the USA after a considerable record loss of life reports, in the course of fires in public buildings, which includes the loss of life of above 600 people in the renowned Iroquois theatre fire that occurred in 1903. The exit gadget was the result to stop people becoming crushed within the locked doors when they had neither the practical knowledge nor training tips on how to unlock as well as open the door. Listed here are some valuable tips below:
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Fire Approved Exit Hardware

Fire exit deviceThis type of door latch is needed when installed to a fire door that is offering a smoke and fire barrier to the opening. Now swinging fire doors needs to have the ability to self-closing, and instantly latching after every use automatically. The door might be latched, just like a Panic door, however, ought not to be locked whilst people are inside the building.

Approved Panic Hardware

This should consist of a door latching set up, with an activating gadget that will result in the door to unlatch as well as open directly towards egress opening, once a force is employed. The approved or accepted building codes state that it the panic approved handle need to have an unlatching force of as much as 15 pounds, and be opened by any person without competency, training or effort.

Door Locking Hardware

It made use of in stairwells, must surely meet the strict building basic safety codes. People using the stairs, if there is an emergency, need to always be able to go away from the stairwell as well as enter into another corridor or room, the door should not lock to stop them this access.

Appropriate Exit Devices

exit2To date, there are three popular types of exit device being used today, rim lock, mortise lock, and vertical rod. The former is the most popular type, being called after a latching mechanism the just like the rim locks sold in the East and Midwest during the early period of the 20th century, these types of rim locks are surface installed onto the secured portion of the door face, with a bolt or latch that slides on the mounted strike surface. The mortise lock exiting device is made up of a mortise lock with no deadbolt, mounted in the door pocket always.

Required Exit Doors

It is an accepted requirement that each exterior exit doors, as there are occupants inside the building, must open without requiring any tools, keys, special equipment, or specialist knowledge. Any kind of locks or security devices which are not approved has to be replaced and removed with those that comply with regulated building codes.

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