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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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When You Should Change Your Locks

Posted by on Dec 14, 2015

When You Should Change Your Locks

Many homeowners do not think about changing their locks until something bad happens that causes it to be an emergency. Many of these homeowners do not know the right time to change their locks and replace them with new ones. The following are some of the circumstances you should consider changing your locks, thanks to the locksmiths over at highlandsranchlocksmith.com:

When You Lose Your Keys

lost keys1This is perhaps the most crucial time to change your locks. When you can’t find the keys to your home for some time, change your locks without hesitation. In this situation, several things may have happened. First, a thief might have stolen the keys and later use them to break into your home. Or someone might have picked them and he/she may get the idea of stealing. It’s advisable to go ahead and change your locks even if you eventually find the keys because they might have been copied.

After A Divorce

Divorce can be a bitter process, and people tend to have bad feelings. In as much as you trust your partner, material property can be an area of contention. The first thing to do when the other person moves out is to change your locks because they can return and steal or vandalize your property. Do the same thing when your roommate or employee moves out.

You don’t want to come back from a week-long holiday to find that your ex-roommate held a rogue party in your room.

When Moving To A New Home Or Apartment

New homeWhen you move to a new home or apartment, you need to change the locks right away because you don’t know if the former occupant made copies of the old keys. They may return and burglarize your home. It may also be possible that they were careless and allowed copies of the old keys made for other people. Since you cannot be sure, it’s better to be safe than sorry and change all the locks.

If You Had A Break-in Or Attempted Break-in

If a burglar successfully breaks into your house, you need to change your locks immediately because the locks didn’t perform their purpose of keeping out burglars. Besides, the burglar obviously has the knowledge of how to manipulate your locks.

Do the same thing even if the break-in failed because the burglar might have damaged the locks in their attempt to gain access to your house. Change your locks, to prevent a second break-in attempt and improve the overall security of your home.

When Your Locks Are Worn

Although they are made of metal, they are prone to wear and tear. Worn out locks are a real home security weakness since they are easier to pick and break.

If Your Children Have Keys

Children are not as responsible as adults when it comes to taking care of home keys. They may lose their keys at some point and found them, or even lent them to a friend. As a result, it’s a good practice to change your locks on a regular basis.

When You Want Modern Locks For Greater Home Security

Locks may fail quite often and that is a good sign that you need to replace your locks with modern ones. Even if your locks have served you reliably for years, it’s a good idea to change them because the locksmith industry is ever changing and new security technologies are being developed. By changing your locks regularly, you get the latest and most secure technology to protect your home.

When You Ask Someone To Check On Your House

At times, you are forced to lend out your keys to other people whom you trust. It could be a neighbor, family relative or a cleaner. In as much as you may trust the person you gave your keys, you cannot know if someone unscrupulous had access to your keys. Once you return, and your keys given back to you, consider changing your locks.

Its also prudent to change your locks if you give out spare keys to service people and you don’t get them back.

Hire the services of a qualified locksmith to get the job quickly and effectively. Although it may come with a cost, it’s worth it as you can know your personal property is safe and secure.

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Types Of Home Door Locks

Posted by on Dec 14, 2015

Types Of Home Door Locks

Keeping your home protected starts with your door locks. For any homeowner looking to purchase locks for his or her home, the number of options available in the market today is overwhelming. Before settling on a specific type of dock locks, there are several security factors that one may need to consider. This article will explain the most common home door locks and the security features that need to be considered. The four most common types of home door locks include padlocks, knob locks, deadbolts and lever handle locks.
Resources:
lock and key guys at www.arvadalocksmith.net
homedepot.com
lowes.com

Padlocks

padlocks3Padlocks are the only type of home locks that are normally not permanently fixed to anything else. Padlocks are available in different sizes, are easily portable, free standing, and are one of the most conspicuous types of door locks. There are two main varieties of padlocks: keyed and combination. Keyed padlocks have numerous alternatives to consider. They can be rekey-able or non-rekey-able. For non-rekeyable padlocks, you cannot change the key that opens it. For instance you cannot make it use the same key as your house. Combination padlocks feature one or more number dials that open the lock after entering correct combination. These types of locks are shim to open and easy to decode.

Furthermore, padlocks can be key-retaining or non-key-retaining. While a non-key-retaining padlock allows the key to be removed while the padlock is open, a key-retaining padlock does not. Lastly, padlocks may feature a shrouded shackle in their design. This added security feature is an extension of the body that makes it much harder for bolt cutters to cut the padlock.

DeadBolts

deadbolt lock3In general, deadbolts are installed on external door and contrary to padlocks they have few more options to consider. There are three main varieties of deadlocks: single, double, and lockable thumb-turn. The single cylinder deadbolts are the most commonly used variety of deadbolt. They use a thumb-turn on the inside to close or open the lock and a key cylinder on the outside. This type of deadbolt has one major weakness. If someone has access to the inside (for instance through a nearby window or even via the peephole by use of simple tools), he/she can open the door using the thumb-turn. On the other hand, a double cylinder deadbolt lock uses a key cylinder both on the outside and inside to close or open the lock.

The third type of deadbolt is a fusion of a single cylinder and double cylinder deadbolt, and is usually referred to as a lockable thumb-turn. The lock has a thumb-turn on the inside that functions like the normal single cylinder deadbolt, with one exception. You can lock the thumb-turn using a key so that it cannot unlock or lock the door. In a residential situation, this means that you can leave the thumb-turn in unlocked position while inside the house, and will function like a typical single cylinder deadbolt. When leaving the house, particularly for long period of time, you can easily lock the thumb-turn so that even if someone has access to the door from the inside, the lock cannot be unlocked. This variety of deadbolt offers ultimate security and flexibility in most situations.

Knob Locks

Knob locks are mostly installed in residential settings on all types of doors; exterior doors, rear patio doors, bedroom doors, etc. These locks feature knobs on both sides: one side has a lock while the other side has a key hole. However, it should be mentioned that knob locks should practically never be used as source of primary security on exterior doors. The shortcoming lies in the fact that the lock cylinder is contained in the knob rather than the door. This means that they can be easily broken off with a hammer entirely bypassing the locking cylinder.

Lever Handle Locks

lever handledLever handle locks are commonly used for inner doors in business settings. It is easier to open lever handle locks than it is to open the knob locks. This is mainly because they feature a large push-down style handle instead of a knob that you must grab and turn. Lever locks also frequently find application in situations where handicap accessibility is crucial. Frequently, excessive pressure is applied to the handle to force the lock, making them target of torque attacks. However, some levers are designed to be “clutch” levers meaning if excessive force is applied on them, they simply turn rather than apply pressure to the lock.

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