Austin Locks

Locksmiths Tips!

How Easy are Car Keys to Replace?

Posted by on Feb 2, 2016

How Easy are Car Keys to Replace?

Losing or having a malfunctioning car key can be an incredibly stressful experience. You literally feel immobilized even as you have an important trip to make. Like the best things in life, you realize its worth only when it’s gone. But what could you possibly do to get your car keys back once you have lost it?

Remember, a lost car key is not just an inconvenience but also a security threat. Someone else might be in possession of your car key and might leave you without your car if you do not take adequate steps to have your car key replaced. But how does some one get his or her car key replaced after having misplaced the same? Read on to find out that losing your car key should not necessarily leave you stressed. Armed with the right information, you will learn that replacing your car keys is a breeze.

Choosing a locksmith to replace your car keys

The first step should be find out whether you have any car insurance coverage for the lost key. Typically, a car insurance does not provide for lost keys and the individual will have to pay out of his or her pocket. If, like most Americans, you car insurance does not provide for lost keys, then you have to determine if you want to have your key replaced by a dealership or an auto locksmith.

Remember, having your car keys replaced from a dealership is an expensive proposition. It is not uncommon to be charged $200 for the whole exercise which includes cutting your car key as well as programming it. If your car is newer or a luxury model then expect this bill to shoot up to as high as $500. If this sounds too high a price to you, as it does to us, then there is a cheaper and equally effective option. Buy them from a reputed local auto locksmith.

Choosing a local locksmith to replace your car key is an economical and safe option when it comes to replacing your car keys. The local locksmith would do the exact same thing as the dealership when it comes to replacing the car keys except charging significantly less.
Resources:
www.sunlakeslocksmith.com
Angieslist.com
www.locksmiths-search.com

How to choose the right locksmith?

locksmith10As mentioned above, being locked out of your car is not only not fun, but also a huge safety risk. It makes sense, therefore, that you do your proper homework and diligence check before hiring a locksmith. For example, an auto locksmith would require your vehicle’s make, its vehicle identification number, and the model in order to program the chip in the replacement key. However, this is sensitive information and handing out such details to unscrupulous operators might risk the safety of your car itself.
In particular, you should check for the following when choosing your locksmith.

Credentials1) Licenses and industry accreditation: One of the first thing you should make sure is that your locksmith has all the right and current licenses to ply his or her trade. Making sure that your locksmith has all the necessary certification and licenses in place means that you insure yourself against fly by night and unscrupulous operators who are only in it to make a quick buck.

2) Look for experience: Besides all the licenses and certification, you would want your locksmith to have adequate industry experience. Ask them about their experience in the industry so that you get an exemplary standard of service and care.

3) Check their reviews: Websites such as Angies List and other review websites should provide you a good clue about the quality of service provided by a locksmith. Ask their previous customers about their experience with a particular locksmith so that you know what you would be getting for your money.

4) Availability: It is often the case that you lose your car keys at the worst possible time when there is no help available on hand. This is where a locksmith who can make himself available at a short notice is so immensely valuable. Choose a locksmith who is both reliable and ready to provide help at all hours.

5) Fair pricing: Let us face it. A lot of us who have lost our car keys find ourselves in a desperate situation with a diminished power of negotiation. A lot of locksmiths take benefit of such a situation by charging unreasonably high prices. On the other hand, a reliable and experienced locksmith would offer you an upfront and transparent pricing. Choose a locksmith who is consistent, honest and fair in his prices.

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The Best Baldwin Locks in The Market

Posted by on Dec 21, 2015

The Best Baldwin Locks in The Market

When it comes to selecting items for the house, people often overlook the task of picking up a good door lock. What they don’t realize is the fact that door locks are extremely important in order to reduce the odds of burglaries. Door locks can provide excellent security for residential and commercial buildings alike. They keep the property and the possessions safe and protected. Thus, it makes sense to invest in good quality locks because they will go a long way in keeping your home or office safe. One of the best brands out there on the market that offers high quality locks would be Baldwin. Big thanks to the guys at Chandler Locksmith Pros for all the useful information.

Baldwin Locks

BaldwinBaldwin door locks rank amongst the best locks out there on the market. They are an excellent choice for use in homes as well as offices. Usually made from solid brass, these locks score high on the aesthetics factor. The best part about investing in these locks is that they are virtually impossible to pick or bump open if one does not have the right key. In fact, a lot of locksmiths have problem trying to unlock a Baldwin lock because it offers such a high level of security! Thus, it is extremely worthwhile to invest in the best Baldwin locks on the market.

When it comes to locks, Baldwin offers three major lines: Estate, Reserve and Prestige Series. The locks in the Estate line are custom-made, elegant and of very high quality. In case of the Reserve portfolio, the locks are accessible and easy on the eye. If you are looking for something extravagant then you should definitely consider the locks in Prestige Series. These are highly functional, stylish and luxurious looking, therefore they would complement designer homes really well!

One of the best things about shopping for locks from Baldwin is that there is a wide array of designs to choose from. Therefore, you are sure to be able to find something that would suit the style of your house or office. Baldwin locks come in different styles such as contemporary, traditional, rustic and couture. There is also a line of locks with Designer Finishes. This one comprises of nineteen meticulously crafted finishes. These locks do not just vary in colors, but in textures as well, therefore they add to the appearance of the door or room they are installed in.

The website also offers the option of customizing the locks to create your own signature look. This feature is meant for all those customers who are interested in having their own one-of-a-kind hardware. This online tool is something that you can dabble in for the purpose of designing your own unique door lock. Once you’re done designing, you can add the product to your wishlist and request for a quote from the company.

Baldwin single cylinderWhen it comes to the best Baldwin locks in the market, you can opt for different types of locks such as knobs, levers, deadbolts, rim locks, multipoint locks, sliding door locks, keyless entry locks and so on. Under each of these types you will find a large spread of designs. These come in different finishes like gold, black, stainless steel, brass and so on. These are forged from solid brass therefore they are highly durable. You can use these indoors, i.e. in rooms or outdoors.

If you are contemplating about purchasing Baldwin locks then the best place to browse would be the official website of Baldwin. Everything is laid out in a neat and organized manner, therefore you will not face any problem navigating the webpages. Unfortunately, the official website does not support online shopping but you will be able to get information of both online and offline stores that offer these. Thus, you can use the website for browsing the options and making your selections and then you can head over to online stores or brick-and-mortar ones in order to complete the purchase.

Baldwin also offers a large spread of commercial locks. These are flexible enough to be able to fit into any industry from retail to healthcare to office spaces to hospitality to education. Also, these are easy to order and install. In conclusion it can be said that the Baldwin locks are amongst some of the best locks out there in the market currently, therefore you definitely won’t regret your purchase decision when you go for these.

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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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Types Of Commercial Door Lock Options For Business Owners

Posted by on Dec 8, 2015

Types Of Commercial Door Lock Options For Business Owners

As a business owner you need to ensure high security measures are taken in order to secure your assets. Well, this will only be made easy if you use the right locks for your enterprise. Normally, commercial locks are by far different from residential locks, it is for this reason you need ideas on the right locks to suit your commercial needs. Therefore in here have been availed a variety of commercial door lock options for business owners.
Resources:
Phoenix Locksmith Pros
homedepot.com
schlage.com

Types of commercial door lock options for business owners

  • Lever handled locks.

lever handle lockAlthough they do not provide maximum security against burglary theft, lever handled locks are still good options to company enterprises with the need to keep away unauthorized access from snoopy employees. Moreover, this type of locks will serve you best in situations whereby one needs to adhere to local business rules and regulations. They are most appropriate in interior door locks which do not necessarily need much protection against professional burglary theft.

  • IC cylinders

Also known as interchangeable core cylinders, these locks are usually appropriate in cases whereby you’ll need to upgrade security within your enterprises as well as be able to change the locks frequently whenever need be. For instance in a situation whereby an employee quits and takes the lock key with them. All you’ll need to do is to contact a mobile locksmith to do a little adjustment. This will involve switching the core without necessarily having to replace the whole lock; by so doing you are enhancing general security within the company with a lot of ease.

  • Deadbolts

Deadbolt lock2Though used at residential buildings, deadbolts are also good recommendations for business enterprise external lock. Reason being, they have been designed to prevent forceful entry into buildings making it even a better option for external security. The traditional deadbolt may not offer the required security level but that is the reason most business people prefer the latest versions which come with features like steel door frames and deadbolts made of strong steel alloy to prevent breaking in.

  • Keyless door locks and entry system

As technology advances companies advance technologically too. That’s why most business enterprises today will opt for keyless lock system. These lock systems are ideal in ensuring top security. These keyless lock systems will require the installation of a keyless door; therefore you need to consult a locksmith on the keyless system available. The keyless system can use; card access system, entry codes or biometrics to permit entry.

  • Padlocks

Padlocks are temporary locks which are not fixed onto something else unlike most locks. They can be used for temporary security measures meaning one can use and reuse them wherever they want. Padlocks come in a variety of different sizes and shapes which are operated with combinations or keys or even both. Most importantly padlocks will provide you with the ultimate security you need for that particular time.

  • Electronic locks

These types of locks are usually automatically or remotely controlled. They come in mortise or cylindrical styles, can be used as fail secure locks or as fail safe locks. Appropriate to be used in offices, stairwells and hallways or any other place in business that will needs safety code compliances.

  • Cam locks

cam lock2These locks are often required in small areas in business that needs to be secured. These can be mailboxes and filling cabinets. They provide a wide variety of options for lengths and locking mechanisms, so business owners can adjust their locks for specific purposes.

There are more of commercial locks one can go for ranging from the standard locks to those sophisticated locks that will enable you restrict your business access to employees only as well as be able to lock out unauthorized individuals. But understanding your line of business and the kind of protection your business deserves is an open clue to deciding on the type of lock to install.

Summary

Ideally, business security is the owners’ key concern, and therefore choosing the right commercial lock for your business will ensure you meet all your security demands, both in and out. Therefore in order to ensure you meet those needs you need to consult with a locksmith if you are not sure on which type of commercial lock will work best for your enterprise.

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