Austin Locks

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Why You Should Use Kwikset Locks

Posted by on Dec 21, 2015

Why You Should Use Kwikset Locks

Kwikset is a renowned lock brand in the US and the world over. The company has been in operation since 1946 and they are the pioneers of the revolutionary tubular lock design that was preferred by homeowners due to the ease of installation. Since then, Kwikset has stayed at the frontline in lock technology to bring their customers great products. They are known for their high quality and technologically advanced door locks and door hardware.

 

Kwikset offers a complete line of products including door levers, door knobs, deadbolts, handlesets and electronic locks for residential and commercial applications. There are a plethora of reasons why you should use Kwikset locks and thanks to the guys over at www.centenniallocksmith.com, here are a few.

 

Unlock your Deadbolt with your Smartphone

 

kwikset kevoKwikset brings 69 years of experience in the lock industry. Millions of families have relied on their products. Kwikset has enhanced their lock advancements with secure authentication technology. This is evident in the Kevo smart lock – a lock that has been designed to offer maximum security as well as great performance. With Kevo, you do not need your keys. Your smartphone is your key. Unlike other smart locks that are only compatible with Apple iOS, Kevo is compatible with Android 5.0 devices besides Apple iOS. You can check the compatibility of your device on their website.

 

With the Kevo Mobile App, you can send, disable and delete eKeys. You can give or deny access to anyone you want. The app keeps a history of lock activities for your security. It runs in the background and when you enter your compound, the lock will simply unlock without you getting your phone from your pocket.

 

Kevo Key Fob

 

If you do not have a smartphone, Kwikset offers you a fob that perfectly fits in your pocket or purse. With the key fob, you enjoy the same touch-to-open convenience. The fob is part of the Kwikset Bluetooth Deadbolt and is pre-enrolled. To this end, the fob does not require any additional setup. You can buy additional fobs whenever you want.

 

SmartKey Rekey Technology

 

SmartKeyKwikset was among the first lock brands to offer rekey technology. If you lost your keys, you move into a new home, want to up your home’s security, want to have the same key for two different locks or simply want to have an extra key, you can rekey your locks in seconds. The Smartkey is offered on a plethora of products including knobs, handlesets, padlocks, electronic locks, levers and deadbolts.

 

Certification

 

Kwikset is a branch of Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI), a manufacturer committed to bringing the best locksets and lock hardware and faucets to the market. HHI is committed to having ISO-14001 certification for all their manufacturing plants. Already, most of their facilities have already been certified. Besides their commitment to certification, HHI has had an impact on our environment. In 2010, Kwikset was recorded to have reduced water consumption by 7 million gallons. The company has also, since 2009, reduced their consumption of electricity by over 1 million kilowatt thus reducing the emission of greenhouse gases. This is the commitment they have on your residential and commercial security.

Great Customer Support

 

It is easy to manage Kwikset products online with My Kwikset Account. You can access products FAQS which is a comprehensive set of questions and answers on every topic from installation, troubleshooting, keying and rekeying, cleaning and other maintenance routines. You can also register your products to access warranty information and receive accurate product info. If you have a question, a suggestion or a complaint, you can get in touch with the Kwikset support team and they will get back to you within a few minutes.

 

Where To Buy

 

Kwikset products can be bought from hundreds of stores online including Amazon, The Home Depot and Bed Bath and Beyond among others. You can also buy from your local locksets shop. Looking at the quality and the technology employed in their locks, it is easy to say their products are affordable. A number of advantages make Kwikset a staple in many households and business. First off, their products are easy to install, their locks are strong durable and secure and they can be purchased anywhere. For a company that has been in the industry for the last 69 years, you can expect their products to offer the convenience and the security every homeowner and businessperson appreciates.

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What To Look For In A Lock For Your Home

Posted by on Dec 21, 2015

What To Look For In A Lock For Your Home

Safeguarding your home can be tricky, especially if you are living areas prone to thieves or burglars. When choosing a door lock, many homeowners consider price rather than the quality of the lock. This is because most contractors or homeowners are not lock experts. However, you can make the right choice if you understand what to look for in a lock for your home and what options are available. In order to choose the most secure locks, you have to look at it from the thief’s point of view. It is worth noting that burglars prefer breaking into a home through the door since it is both faster and easier. The good news is that with a high quality lock, you can deter intruders as well as thieves.

In most cases, thieves can access your home through a door using a wide range of ways, including unlocked door, spreading the door frames apart with a spread bar, or even obtaining a copy of the house key from a relative and use it to unlock the door. This explain why it is important to install strong door locks as well as locking your doors and windows whether you are within the house or outside.
Resources:
Fountain Hills Locksmith Pros
homedepot.com
ansi.org

Here are what you should look for in a lock for your home:

The Door Lock Type

DeadboltssThere are different locks on the market today, but not all of them are secure and safe. For this reason, it is wise to choose a lock that can provide maximum security regardless of the prevailing situations. The most common and secure door lock used by many homeowners is a door lock with a deadbolt type bolt.

The type of the bolt has a huge impact on the lock’s strength. There are two types of bolts: deadbolts and latch bolts. However, there are a locks that combine the two locks into one for maximum protection.

Key control

This refers to the act of controlling or regulating who has copies of keys to your home. In most situations, door keys can be copied at a retail store or local hardware. However, several lock makers now provide locks with keys that cannot be copied at local hardwares except by the designated locksmiths or manufacturers themselves.

When you buy locks with key control, you can deter anyone from copying keys apart from you or the person you designate. For key control to be effective, you should visit a lock manufacturer for rekeying services. This way to will be able to ensure that the key to your home is safe.

ANSI Standards

Select door locks that meet the standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This grading system is used to evaluate the durability and and security of the door locks. All the locks with grade 1 are considered the best in terms of safety and durability.

Different models of locks are assessed differently under the American National Standards Institute requirements. Locks tested under these standards include mortise locks, interconnected locks, auxiliary locks, and other types of locks. These standards can be used to compare one lock to another so as to make the right choice at th end of theday.

Security Strike Plate

strike plate1Security strike plate features in most of the door locks if not all, and are made of thin gauge metal. These strike plates can provide security as play a crucial role in enhancing your home exterior design. They come with 2 one inch screws to fix it securely to the doorframe.

Today, high security strike plates can be found on the market. These plates has a heavy metal gauge metal strengthening the plate as well as 3” long screws to secure the strike to the wall rather than to the doorframe jamb.

Captured Key Deadbolt

Thieves can break into your home through a locked door by breaking the glass in the door sidelight to unlock the door. To solve this problem, you can install a deadbolt locked with a remarkable feature known as capture key. This type of the lock has a thumb turn on the interior side of the door which can be removed from the lock to create a double cylinder deadbolt condition. To remove the thumb turn, you should have the key to the lock. It is advisable to leave the thumb turn in the lock whenever you are in the house.

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What Makes Schlage A Great Lock Brand?

Posted by on Dec 18, 2015

What Makes Schlage A Great Lock Brand?

Schlage is considered one of the best brands available in the market today for anyone who is looking for superior locks. It was founded by Walter Schlage in the 1920’s, and it has managed to build and maintain a great reputation over the years it has been manufacturing the locks. The products the company makes are generally for security purposes, and they are also used in door handle hardware. The brand prides itself in meticulous designs, innovative craftsmanship, and the best engineers. A majority of people who invest in the products made by the company are highly pleased with them and recommend them to others. Below you will find out some reasons as to what makes Schlage a great lock brand, thanks to the guys over at littletonlocksmith.net.

An extensive variety

Currently, there are more than thirty different Schlage locks, allowing a person to choose the one that suits their needs best. These come in different lock functionalities, finishes, and styles. The products are designed with durability in mind; thus, they can be used for a long time without any complications. Some of the products you can get include deadbolts, electronic keypads, electronic touchscreen locks and handlesets locks among many others. The company also offers integrated decor where you can find the ideal locks and other products that complement the style in your home. In addition to this, the brand also offers a wide range of sophisticated accessories allowing you to choose the ones you may be interested in.

Easy and quick installation

Once you have selected the lock you are interested in, you will not have to worry about complicated procedures that take a lot of time when it comes to installation. This is simply because the locks are designed in such a way that they fit just about any standard door prep you will be working with. The company goes ahead to offer a thick door kit, pre-programmed default user codes and a patented snap-and-stay features. These help to make the installation process a lot easier, saving you a lot of time on the job.

Incredible safety features

Schlage goldSchlage locks are well known for the incredible safety features they offer allowing you to enjoy the convenience of key-less and electronic solutions. Consumers love the fact that every lock can be customized so as to include unique security features. There are numerous features you can enjoy in regards to this, and some of them are a number combination system and a double padlock. The security features help to make the locks very hard to break, which means that the owner can have great peace of mind when using the locks.

Easy integration

Schlage is also known to make smart locks. This allows a person to sync their locks with their favorite web-connected devices. As soon as you have synced, the door locks connect very easily to your home automation system. Depending on what your system offers, you can get a full menu of your home control from the devices.

Innovative technology

schlageTechnology is another aspect that is discussed when it comes to what makes Schlage a great lock brand. For instance, almost all the door locks from the company come with a keypad system. With this, the owner can create a unique pin code that is the only one that can be used to access a room. This helps to enhance security because a person will only be guaranteed access if they input the correct pin code. If you do not want to work with a keypad system, you can also have a sensor system installed. Here you would swipe a sensor that is located on the lock with the key that is supplied. This makes the entire system easy to use by everyone. To enjoy extra security, you can have both the pin code and keypad system installed on the Schlage locks.

Affordable

When compared to other brands in the market, you will not have to worry about breaking the bank to afford the locks. Schlage offers a cost-effective option for everyone who wants to pick and install a quality lock. Despite the fact that they are some of the cheapest brands in the market, you can be assured that quality is not compromised in any way and you will be getting great value for money spent.

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Types Of Mailbox Locks

Posted by on Dec 18, 2015

Types Of Mailbox Locks

A mailbox might be a simple part of your house, but it holds your mail and it’s very important to protect its contents against theft. So how can this be achieved? By ensuring that high quality lock is in place to keep all your information intact and safe. This can eliminate all worries of someone getting hold of your mail, along with endless possibilities of damages and inconveniences that can occur.

There is already an alarming increase in the incidents of mail and identity theft, and looking into various types of mailbox locks available today or may be an entirely new mailbox with a new locking mechanism might be essential. To be able to choose the best one that will serve its purpose, meet all your needs and will give you complete peace of mind, you need to consider number of things. Thanks to the guys over at Beverly Hills Locksmith for providing us with this information:

Type of Mailbox

Types of MailboxesWell, there are basically two types of mailbox, a curbside locking mailbox, as the name implies, is typically placed on the post near the curb of your house. The opening where the mail is dropped is not locked. Instead the cavity where the mail drops is kept secure with the help of good mailbox lock. The wall-mounted secured mailbox is designed to attach your gate, house, or garage. It is best for neighborhood where postal carrier would simply drop mail into the box.

Type of Mail

You would know best the type of mail which you normally receive. The locking curbside mailbox is best for larger mail such as packages, envelopes and magazines. Otherwise, you can opt for wall-mounted mailbox if you get smaller type of mail. The quantity which you normally get is also a big factor in choosing a mailbox because it should be able to hold your mail while you’re away. Some will easily hold week or two worth of mail while others can last little longer and will take several months before their contents reach the brim. Most important, a good and ideal sized mailbox can easily maintain high levels of security at all times.

Types of Mailbox Locks

Mailbox lockIn line with numerous styles, designs, materials, sizes, and types of mailbox, it’s lock is the most beneficial and prominent feature. There are different types of mailbox locks available that are suitable for mailbox, and its best to seek advice of experts in this field. Most of them recommend the five-cam lock that features removable cams and five-pin tumbler. It’s not only reasonably priced, but also have added points for easy-clip on style and dust cover for easy mounting on exteriors. Wafer locks and pin tumblers come with various key possibilities and cams to fit in a mailbox. The reality is, all of them look very similar until you’ve installed one personally on your mailbox and use it. Therefore, if you suspect you have a faulty lock and need a new one, keeping old one is a good idea and factoring it if it turns counterclockwise or clockwise will be very helpful in finding a new one.

Regardless of the type, it’s important that mailbox lock you choose has excellent quality because a flimsy lock won’t be helpful as it will be vulnerable to theft. Even if you have a good one in place, it must always work in top condition. So watch out for any malfunction in your older lock. If you find this stamp on the face of any mailbox: USPS-L-1172C, it indicates that it’s a new style of mailbox lock and is also built upon a differently sized hole.

It may be hard to find a replacement lock for this, but they are made of the highest standards. Hence, it is imperative that you know of professional mailbox lock services who would know exactly what to do. They’re familiar with different types of mailbox locks and can suggest one that perfectly matches and fits your current mailbox. Whether you need emergency service to open your mailbox lock, or it’s not functioning properly and needs repairs or replacement, you can surely rely on their experience and expertise of working with different types of mailbox locks. They have necessary equipment and tools and can finish the job within a short time in a most efficient manner. They also guarantee quality of their work and will make sure an effective mailbox lock is in place.

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The 5 Best Deadbolt Locks

Posted by on Dec 18, 2015

The 5 Best Deadbolt Locks

In today’s world, crime rates continue to soar with homes coming increasingly under attack. This has resulted in the need for homeowners to better secure their households from intruders. While the installation of security cameras is imperative, you should never ignore the basics- deadbolts add an extra layer of security which is significantly enhanced when combined with properly reinforced doors. Below, therefore, we take a look at the top 5 best deadbolt locks available in the market today as follows:
Resources:
avondalelocksmith.org
kwikset.com
Schlage.com

  1. Yale Security Touch Screen Deadbolt

Yale TouchscreenTired of endlessly searching low and high for front door locks to no avail? Well, if you answered in the affirmative, you should definitely try what is, arguably, the best electronic deadbolt- the Yale security deadbolt. Characterized by a keyless design, you will never have to worry about stolen or misplaced mechanical keys.

The Yale security deadbolt is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a capacitive display which makes it capable of detecting where and when users touch the display and hence does not require a stylus for mechanical control. In addition, its exterior finish is capable of enduring long exposure to the elements and high/low temperatures.

The illiterate and visually impaired will also appreciate this deadbolt lock’s voice assisted-program which is integrated into its hardware. Also, its auto-lock feature automatically locks the door once it clicks shut. Overall, this is a very high-quality touch screen deadbolt that offers a long service life and high level of security.

  1. Schlage Keypad Deadbolt

It is quite difficult to find a deadbolt that is functional, versatile and very flexible as the Schlage electronic deadbolt. Offering the best of both worlds, it works like a traditional deadbolt whilst also providing homeowners with the option of effortless touchpad entry. Moreover, the installation process only requires a single tool- making it extremely easy.

Consumers can also delete or add access codes directly from the keypad which makes it ideal for large families as it can accommodate up to 19 user codes. The Schlage deadbolt comes with a BHMA/ANSI grade 2 certification so you can be sure that the safety and security of your home is in good hands.. It is easy to install, well rounded, and well worth exploring.

  1. Kwikset Belleview Deadbolt

Kwikset BelleviewKwikset is a trustworthy brand that has been providing households with high-quality door hardware and superior customer service for over 70 years. Such a long standing reputation says enough about its Belleview combo set- designed with a bronze finish that is made to stand the test of time. With BumpGuard technology and a high residential security rating (BHMA/ANSI Grade III), intruders will not be able to breach your home. Thanks to its Universal Handling Feature, the Kwikset Belleview is compatible with all left and right handed exterior doors.

Overall, this deadbolt is designed to be aesthetically appealing on any exterior door while offering long service. It would be a mistake not to try it out further.

  1. LockState Electronic Deadbolt

If you are looking for a high-tech deadbolt with numerous access options, then this is the lock for you. Although a bit more expensive than some of the other options, it allows users the privilege of being able to unlock and lock their door using a key fob remote from up to 30 feet away. This deadbolt also offers auto-locking functions- an ideal feature targeted at forgetful individuals- with locks being reversible so that they can be used with left and right handed doors. Some of its unique features include:

  • Touchpad entry, keyed entry, and key fob remote control entry.
  • Illuminated keypad.
  • Holds 6 user codes i.e. between 4-10 digits.
  • Comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
  1. Schlage Single Cylinder Deadbolt

Designed to provide a high level of security coupled with aesthetic appeal, the Schlage Single Cylinder high-tech deadbolt is made using the bump guard technique which makes it well nigh impossible for burglars to access your home. Additionally, its internal mechanical components are fashioned from high-quality materials that offer endless use. Some of its exceptional features include:

  • Superior design and construction.
  • A lifetime warranty covering all mechanical components and finish.
  • Available in several different finishes including antique/bright brass, matte black, distressed/satin nickel, and aged bronze.
  • Matching handle and door knob set available, but likely to be sold separately.
  • BHMA/ANSI Grade I security rating.

Overall, you will definitely appreciate this deadbolt’s high security rating and design. It is built to endure the elements and extremely cold/hot temperatures.

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The Best Arrow Locks

Posted by on Dec 17, 2015

The Best Arrow Locks

When you’re looking for a one stop resource for security hardware, the quest for value and quality will lead you to Arrow. The company offers you an unparalleled lineup of cylinders, locks, exit devices and much more. In fact, Arrow can meet all your needs with its intelligently designed products that can meet the most exacting of standards.

Arrow manufactures locks for security professionals who earn their living recommending, installing and servicing locks. They know that only one brand offers them widest range of locking hardware, door controls and key systems.

The outstanding hardware value offered by Arrow gives Security Professionals the opportunity to provide a high quality solutions at an affordable price. Let’s have a close look at the best Arrow locks, thanks to our friends at www.burbanklocksmith.org:

Keyless Entry Systems

These hi-tech locks utilize voice-guided programming and latest touch screen technology. Their visual screen indicators alert you when access is denied or granted. You also get an indication when deadbolt door lock batteries are getting low. They are equipped with a motorized tapered bolt that locks and unlocks when a precise code is entered. You also get a warning beep when deadbolt isn’t fully extended into your door jamb.

The new Arrow Revolution Deadbolt has an anti-pick shied that protects against lock tampering. An intelligent lock feature automatically relocks the door if it’s left unlocked. There’s an inbuilt alarm that sounds whenever there’s a movement or vibration of the door. There is a multi-lingual voice prompting and it uses standard AA batteries.

Cylindrical Levers

You can choose from a full line of grade 1 and grade 2 cylindrical levers at variety of price points and for various applications.

Tubular Locks

These locks offer a wide selection of both levers and knobs for a price point applications.

Cylindrical Knobs

You can choose from a range of grade 1 and grade 2 cylindrical knobs that are perfect fit for variety of price points and applications.

Interchangeable Core

The Arrow SFIC offers quality US made product at an affordable price.

Key System

Arrow offers you a full line of key systems from mortise cylinders to cylindrical to rim. In addition, now arrow has introduced a new cam loc to expand this particular line.

Mortise Locks

The BM and AM Series mortise locks come with expansive range of options and trims available for variety of end user applications.

Deadbolts

The huge deadbolt series from Arrow continues to grow with additional functions and features to the Grade 1, Grade 2, D and E series product line.

Let’s have a close look at few of them:

* Arrow D Series Deadbolt Locks

Arrow D SeriesThese are Grade 1 certified locks that are engineered to perform under most extreme conditions where security is critical. They easily surpass the demands of institutional, industrial and commercial applications. They come in two piece housing with free-spinning outer ring that prevents wrenching. Their mounting screws are concealed and its locking bolt has one inch throw.

* Arrow E Series Deadbolt Locks

Arrow E SeriesThese are Grade 2 certified locks that have a rotating collar and are completely tamper resistant, and come with concealed screws and steel pin insert and deadbolt. They come with one inch deadbolt locking latch for added security. They are available with standard lock cylinders and can be easily prepped with SFIC lock cylinder.

* Medeco Series 14 Deadbolt Lock

It is a Grade 2 commercial deadbolt that offers outstanding combination of performance, cylinder options and value. It has a one-inch throw steel blt with form steel pins that can resist attacks. Its patented keyway is fully secure when using M3 keys. You can get them in variety of finishes.

* Master Lock Heavy Duty Deadbolt Lock

It is a certified Grade 2 lock available in brushed chrome finish. It comes with anti-pry collar that can resist all prying attacks and comes with a full one inch throw locking bolt. It also has a master lock (BumpStop) locking cylinder.

* Medeco Maxum Deadbolt Lock

It is a grade 1 certified lock that is made of solid brass with a free turning collar that can resist wrenching attacks. Its’ one inch steel locking bolt is really powerful and comes with a wide thumb-turn for physically challenged. It is packaged with two inch screws that attack the strike directly to building structure.

* Occupancy Indicator Deadbolt

It is available in special “E” series frame that is grade 2 certified. It offers privacy by displaying in a large window right on the front of the lock, “vacant” when open and “In-use” when locked. An emergency override key is also available. Best for use in restrooms.

* Master Lock Residential Deadbolt

It’s a grade 3 single cylinder deadbolt that is available in three different finishes, antique brass, polished brass and satin nickel. Has fully adjustable latch that allows this lock to fit doors with thickness from 2-3/8″ to 2-3/4″. It is best suited for external applications.

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