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5 Important Reasons To Change Your Locks When Moving

Posted by on Feb 17, 2016

5 Important Reasons To Change Your Locks When Moving

Moving is an exciting event that entails small to major changes that can be for the better. You and your family are possibly headed towards more beautiful surroundings and a refreshing new atmosphere. At the same time, it is also mostly overwhelming for there are just so many things to do. The typical image that comes to mind would be the packing and unpacking of boxes, however, there are a myriad of other important matters that must be taken care of. Obligations such as new mortgage payments, finding the right school, and familiarizing yourself with the neighborhood are just to name a few.

All the said preparations cause many people to forget about changing the locks, which is often overlooked yet actually a critical aspect during a move. It should be a priority that is probably the most important step to take if you wish to settle in home sweet home very soon. A house is called as such for giving you a cozy and comfortable space, and nonetheless a secure place to live in. The simple act of having your locks replaced can make a huge difference in the future that awaits you in your new home. Here are 5 Important Reasons Why You Should Change Your Locks When Moving:
Resources:
crosscountrymovers.org
homedepot.com
schlage.com

1. You Alone Hold the Key

Key exchangeWhether it’s a condo, townhouse, apartment, big house, or a mansion you’ll soon call your home, changing locks should be implemented prior to your move. Why? If there have been previous owners who lived there in the past, you will almost certainly never know how many keys have been duplicated and given to a spouse, family members, friends, and anyone else. They probably still have those keys to your home that could be anywhere on earth, and that is not such a nice thought. A new lock ensures you alone and the people you trust are the only ones who hold the key.

2. Safety Precaution

Truth is, even if it’s a brand new home that have just been built with the keys finally handed over to you, it’s still best to change locks. This almost eliminates the possibility of break-ins, theft or robbery, and stolen home appliances or furniture. A trusted locksmith sees to your utmost security by installing the best locks on all entry points of your house. You are granted unbeatable peace of mind with state-of-the-art lock systems that provide protection of your assets and property, and of course, function towards your family’s safety.

3. Preventing Emergency Cases

Nobody would like to be caught in a situation where they get locked out of their own home because of a faulty lock. It can also happen that a lock malfunctions and gets stuck in the middle of the night, leaving you vulnerable to undesirable events. Locks are subject to wear and tear and can become weak, especially the cheap quality or poorly installed locks. It can suddenly give up working at the most inconvenient time, which only proves that prevention is always better than cure. Thus, it is a wise choice to change locks before you find yourself seeking help during an emergency.

4. Upgrade to Superior Locks

Anviz FingerprintState-of-the-art locks have a less likelihood of being compromised and are mostly often impenetrable. Moreover, the features are enhanced when a good locksmith does the job of installing them for you. You end up with properly working newly replaced door locks that will serve its purpose for long years. Contemporary locks are incorporated with the latest technology and standards, the highest quality and reliable durability that have been designed to meet your needs.

5. Priceless Peace of Mind

A new lock seems so simple, yet allows you to live a life free from constant fear and worries. A new door lock crafted with the highest standards, exhibits top-notch quality and performance, displays strength and durability makes it a good investment that gives you beyond your money’s worth. Everyone in the household achieves the highest quality of life by merely being able to have a safe and sound sleep throughout the night, knowing that danger is kept at bay. Moving into a new home has a lot of serious expenses involved, on top of your already existing assets and the huge value of the house itself. The cost of changing locks is very little but has tremendous benefits revolving around your safety, security, and peace of mind, which makes it priceless.

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Types Of Kwikset Locks

Posted by on Feb 17, 2016

Types Of Kwikset Locks

Most locks focus on entry doors as that is the most important when it comes to security. Entry door locks typically come in two types. One type attached to the inside of the door and is easy to install. The other type of lock inserted into the gate itself and latches to the gate frame. Obviously, the latter type of locks is more secure. One easy to install lock is the Kwikset lock with ready attaches to the inside of the door and the bar slides into a slot that is also attached to the inside face of the frame. Another conventional lock style, especially in apartment buildings is the chain locks. Now chain locks have the added benefit of allowing the door to open, depending on the length of the string while still providing a level of security. However, they are not very secure as the line can be cut or busted open. The articles explain different types of Kwikset locks, thanks to the guys at www.thorntonlocksmith.net.

 

Kwikset is situated in the United States of America; with headquarter in California, and branches in New Zealand, Victoria, Australia and Auckland. There are different sorts of Kwikset locks. These incorporate electronic, small business, entryway levers, deadbolts, handle sets and entryway handles. Each of these sorts of Kwikset locks accompanies different magnificent brands. It is accordingly vital to consider picking Kwikset key locks relying upon your requirements for home security. Never forget that Kwikset is the main brand pioneer with regards to bolts generation. The items are high calibre, enduring and one doesn’t need to spend a considerable measure to gain them.

 

Kwikset KeypadThe electronic Kwikset locks are those who are worked by electronic keypads or touch screens and accompany reinforcement key ways. These sorts of locks are initiated and accomplished by entering in access codes that are customized. You just need to move a catch to bolt it. Continuously take note of that the Kwikset electronic locks are typically accessible in five completions, which incorporate glossy silk nickel, cleaned metal, cleaned chrome, Venetian bronze, and dandy. There are eleven brands under this kind of speediest key lock. Some of these incorporate 913 shrewd code deadbolt, power bolt and 912 keen code lever that have a home associate.

 

Another type of Kwikset locks is the handle sets. These are chiefly intended to be used in the passages of front entryway since they have good handles and secure deadbolts. Handle sets are typically accessible in eleven completions which incorporate glossy silk nickel, cleaned chrome, Venetian bronze, iron dark, natural pewter, rustic bronze, cleaned metal, and old fashioned metal.

 

There is additionally the Kwikset deadbolts, which are intended to guarantee that homes are shielded from robberies, soften up, unapproved passages and self-assertive trespasses. Kwikset deadbolts are accessible in different security evaluations and styles. It is important that these sorts of Kwikset locks are commonly available in a sum of twelve completes that incorporate; old fashioned metal, lifetime cleaned metal, glossy silk nickel, classic metal, polished chrome, silk chrome, Venetian bronze, rustic bronze, coxcomb, iron dark and natural pewter.

 

kwikset handlesetKwikset door levers are yet another degree of Kwikset locks. These locks have a lever shape and are most suitable for private homes. Door levers Kwikset locks are mainly intended to upgrade and supplement a home’s inside stylistic layout. Note that these sorts of Kwikset locks are likewise promptly accessible in eleven completions which incorporate the old fashioned metal, lifetime cleaned metal, glossy silk nickel, cleaned metal, silk chrome, old fashioned Nickel, Venetian Bronze, iron dark, rustic bronze, polished chrome, rural pewter and the natural bronze.

 

There is likewise the Kwikset door knobs, which are intended to be used in customary private homes, with a particular plan that mean to improve the inside stylistic layout of the home. Much the same as Kwikset door levers. Door knobs are accessible in an aggregate of eleven completions which incorporate; old fashioned metal; lifetime cleaned metal, glossy silk nickel, cleaned metal, silk chrome, old fashioned nickel, rustic bronze, polished chrome, Venetian bronze, iron dark, natural pewter and the rustic bronze.

 

It is significant that all Kwikset items accompany warranties which are aimed at ensuring customer retention with a perspective of building long haul steadfastness. Kwikset is a fabulous locks organization that additionally give re-key administrations to every one of its items. it is anything but difficult to introduce all the Kwikset mentioned above door locks, be that as it may, it is essential to consider getting the assistance of an expert to work it out for you and appreciate the upside of complete security to your properties.

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Should I Change or Rekey My Locks When Moving To A New Home?

Posted by on Feb 17, 2016

Should I Change or Rekey My Locks When Moving To A New Home?

Moving to a new home is as exciting as it is challenging and often there are so many things to do that you might overlook the most important ones like security. As a first time home owner, the excitement of meeting new neighbors, unpacking, organizing mortgage payments and finding new schools for your kids can get you occupied to an extend that your home security gets clearly forgotten.

This should not be the case. If having a secure home with complete privacy is one of your concerns, then you should consider re keying your home or changing the locks as soon as possible. Your landlord or Realtor might not mention who the previous occupants were, and whether they handed over their keys before moving out. Apart from the previous occupants, there are contractors, the neighbors, the plumbers or even other family members who might have been given a copy of the key to your home by the previous owners. All these people are a potential threat to your security and privacy, unless you make an effort to change the locks or re key your locks.

One might argue that my home is a brand new home, hence there is no record of previous owners with copies of the keys thus there is no need to rekey or change the locks. Well, true as that might be, it is important to keep in mind that the contractors or developers keep a master key that can open several homes. Unless you change yours, then it is easy for such developers to get access to your home using the master key. Another possible argument with new homes is that since the locks were installed immediately before you moved in, there is no need to change them. This could be true, but can you trust whoever is telling you there are no copies of the keys? Just because someone says so, doesn’t necessarily mean it is true.
Resources:
Find Good Movers
lowes.com
homedepot.com

To change or re-key the locks

After deciding to make this change, what is the best way forward? Re keying the lock implies that the pins and springs are removed and replaced with new pins thus making it possible to open the lock with a different set of keys while the previous keys are invalidated. Re keying can involve alteration of the tumbler; change of water configuration or even for a key exchange. This is normally done by a professional locksmith and can be performed on any lock unless the lock is malfunctioning or if you want a totally different style.

rekey4The main purpose of re keying is to have control and accountability over all the keys that can access your home. After re keying, you can decide how many copies of the new keys you want and who should have the copies. In case the contractor had a master key to your home, there is a possibility of some master pins being left in your locks. These master pins are known to double the number of keys which can operate the lock thus a single lock can be operated by up to 16 different locks. Re keying the locks removes these master pins, thus invalidating the master key or any other copies.

Re keying can also make it possible to examine and correct the errors made during installation of the lock. These problems when corrected make the lock operate more efficiently. During re keying, the locksmith examines the condition of the lock and determines whether or not a replacement is required thus saving you money and time.
Replacing the locks is a more expensive, invasive and a complicated option and should only be chosen if the locks condition can’t allow re keying, if the current locks don’t seem reliable or there is need to upgrade to more strong and efficient locks. Although it is an expensive investment, it is worthy if you think of the people and property that need your protection.

lock replaceReplacing the lock can also allow more convenience for instance if you want to accommodate the needs of persons living with disabilities in your home. Lever handle locks for instance are easier and more attractive to operate as compared to a knob. Deadbolts are also available. One advantage with deadbolts is the ability to use the interior thumb to operate without grasping. Electronic locks on the other hand can be picked if greater convenience is required. Thus, there are several options to choose from while changing the locks which can make your home more flexible and convenient for persons with differing needs.

Thus, to answer the question Should I Change or Re key My Locks When Moving To A New Home? The answer is simple, if the locks can allow, rekey since it is more cost effective in terms of time and money. However, if the lock’s condition can’t allow for instance due to wear and tear, then changing the locks might be the best option. If you want to keep your home secure and private, purpose to do either of this at least as soon as possible after moving in.

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Is It Common To Get Your Key Stuck In The Ignition?

Posted by on Feb 16, 2016

Is It Common To Get Your Key Stuck In The Ignition?

Is it common to get your key stuck in the ignition? This question has been asked by nearly everyone, especially car owners. While people may have different views, the answer to the question is “yes”. Yes, it is common to get your key stuck in the ignition. Like many machines, certain things in a car can occasionally go wrong. Some gadgets in a car can go wrong if they are not well maintained or taken care of properly. Ideally, some can also experience occasional hiccups despite proper maintenance and care. In other words, it is not easy and it is nearly impossible to prevent your key from being stuck in the car’s ignition. But good news is you can fix the whole situation without much hassle. Thanks to statenislandlocksmith.net for the useful information.

Common Reasons for a Stuck Key in the Car’s Ignition

However, before you begin figuring out how to get your stuck key from the car’s ignition, you must first, understand what is making your key be stuck in there. Because a key that will not turn is time consuming, stressful, and frustrating, you may be desperately in need of a solution. While some solutions are effective, others are not, and may make the whole situation more difficult. It is crucial to check for causes that make your key be stuck in the car’s ignition, as this will help prevent more problems. Some of the common reasons include:

Loose cablesLoose Cables: Loose cables are either located behind the ignition or inside the dashboard. When your key is stuck in the car’s ignition, one of the first places to visit is the loose cable. If you find that a loose cable is the reason for a stuck key, replacing it may be the best bet.

A worn out Wheel Lock Cylinder: Another thing that can make your key be stuck in the car’s ignition is a worn out wheel lock cylinder. One effective way to detect a worn out wheel lock cylinder is by inserting a fob or key into the wheel lock cylinder and try to turn it. If there is difficulty turning the key or fob, your wheel lock cylinder may be worn out. There is one less turn for the key or fob to go in its lifetime every time you insert it (key or fob) into the wheel lock cylinder.

Dead Car BatteryBattery is dead: Dead battery can also be another reason for a stuck key. You may consider checking your battery if a key is stuck in the car’s ignition. Although this is not that common, a dead battery can make a key remain stuck in the ignition of some cars (especially modern cars).

Vehicle is not in Park: Like others, this can also make your key remain stuck in the car’s ignition. You may need to replace your car’s shift solenoid or another related mechanism even if the gearshift lever appears to be in park.

How to Fix a Stuck Key in the car’s Ignition

While it may be impossible to prevent your key from being stuck in the car’s ignition, it is relatively easy to fix the whole situation. First, you must understand that in most cases, the ignition key is not often at fault when such a problem arises. Before you start to turn and twist the key all you want, consider these three simple techniques. They include:

  1. Testing the Parking Position

It is common for your car to fail to lock into the parking position. If you are still able to move the gearshift lever after turning the car off, your linkage may be worn out or out of adjustment. You must always lock the shifter in park in order to remove the key.

  1. Checking the Position of your Key

Take a look at the car’s ignition switch to make sure the key is in the lock position. As wheel lock cylinders age and wear out, it gets simpler to turn the key beyond the lock position. This is particularly true if your key has been attached to various heavy objects that gradually promote excessive wear by adding pressure on the wheel lock cylinder.

  1. Moving the Steering Wheel Back and Forth

Try moving the steering wheel system back and forth, and at the same time gently remove the key from the lock position. The steering wheel can sometimes lock, thereby, making the car’s ignition switch to keep the key locked in place until it (steering wheel system) is unlocked. While doing this, be keen not to pull hard on the key and simply focus on getting the much-needed movement from the steering wheel system.

Although it is common to get your key stuck in the car’s ignition, it is relatively easy to fix the situation. In most cases, the ignition key is usually not at fault; thus, you should check for other aspects that are making your key be stuck in the car’s ignition. If you are unable to figure out what is really making your key remain stuck in the car’s ignition, contact your local locksmith for help. The locksmith will come to your office or home to help solve the problem.

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How To Open A Kwikset Key Lock In 10 Seconds

Posted by on Feb 16, 2016

How To Open A Kwikset Key Lock In 10 Seconds

Kwikset happens to be a US based company that is highly noted for offering a wide variety of security products to its customers. Some of their most popular of these products is the line of re-programmable SmartKey locks that this firm provides. These particular locks have been certified to be grade 1 security locks that are specifically designed for residential homes utilization. This certification has been executed by the builders hardware manufacturer’s association. As such, Kwikset markets them as been totally immune to any hacking or tampering by wires and screwdrivers. Or for that matter virtually any other object which may be inserted into the keyways of these locks in an effort to unlock them.
Resources:
www.tigardlocksmith.org
kwikset.com
homedepot.com

What is the major selling point of Kwikset SmartKey locks?

kwikset keyless1The main appeal of this variety of key locks completely lies in the re-programmable cylinders they come with. This feature presents the user with the handy capability of re-programming them to work any key that may be introduced in them after the re-programming has been executed. This naturally means that landlords aren’t necessitated to physically replace locks whenever their tenants move out and new ones move in. At the same time, it can also provides secure temporary access for construction workers or anybody else who might need to gain entry into a house for a limited length of time.

In essence, the SmartKey lock from Kwikset is a 5 pins lock, which comes with 6 depth increments. It can be reprogrammed by inserting the original key into it, prior to inserting a tool into a specified slot on its face. Doing this shifts its assembly back at a distance of around 1/8 of an inch. This process separates the pins and sliders of this lock, which holds them apart from each other. When a new key is introduced into the lock, it then registers its impressions and effectively resets the relationship of the pins and sliders to seamlessly correspond with the new key.

Is the Kwikset SmartKey lock invulnerable?

Like earlier mentioned, kwikset boldly asserts that the SmartKey lock is extremely secure and therefore totally impenetrable to any device which may be introduced in its keyway. This, however, is not completely true. The fact still remains that this product comes with several vulnerabilities, which skilled hackers have been able to identify. Most of which make the Kwikset SmartKey lock less secure than what its maker would like consumers to think.

Just how to open a Kwikset SmartKey lock in 10 seconds

Kwikset ElectronicYou may be probably very eager to discover just how you can easily unlock the Kwikset SmartKey lock in the given time span that the title of this paragraph states. Well, never fear. The following happens to be a step by step guide on just how to open a Kwikset key lock in 10 seconds which may come in very handy in executing such a task.

To begin with, you will be required to get your hand on a piece of thin, blank object that comes with a very sharp end. You will also need a paperclip or if for one reason or the other, this is not possible, a simple wire that has a looped end. A hammer will also be needed. With these three simplistic tools, you will be able to efficiently tackle any Kwikset SmartKey lock in just under ten seconds. It is critical for you to fully understand that these types of key locks have rotating tailpiece, which can move independently of the plug. This, in most circumstances, makes the function of a key almost superfluous.

First and foremost, get your hand on the blank object, and introduce it, with the sharp end first, into the keyway. Next, making use of the hammer, proceed to punch out the plug, which is found at the back of the plug. It is important to note that basically this plug is just a thin piece of metal, and hammering the blank, sharp object into the plug, pierces a hole into the lock’s tailpiece. After accomplishing this, introduce the paperclip or the thin wire with a looped end, into the tailpiece and proceed to turn it. Doing this will effortlessly enable you to effortlessly unlock the lock without any problem. Finally, it is important for to note that when all this accomplished, the SmartKey lock will not be in a position of been re-programmed again. Well, now you definitely know just how to open a Kwikset key lock in 10 seconds and in a completely stress-free manner.

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