Blog Post

"Key" Signs It's Time for New Locks

lemaster • October 11, 2017
key in lock

A quality lock can last for decades, but there are situations where you may want to install new locks. In a previous blog, we discussed the importance of replacing your locks if they are no longer aesthetically pleasing or if they're worn out and not keeping your home safe. Today, we're going to look at some other "key" situations where you should also think about adding new locks.

1. Moving Into a New Home

For the sake of security, you should always put in new locks when you move into a new home. The previous owners may have an old key, not to mention keys that they may have given their friends, children or others in their lives.

If the home was on the market for a while, it likely had a lockbox on the front door with a key inside of it. Anyone could have made a copy of that key. That includes real estate agents, contractors and anyone else who accessed the home during that time.

Note that if you are a renter, you generally need permission from your landlord to put in new locks. Also, if you are allowed to put in new locks, you may be required to give your landlord a key.

2. Letting Go Personal Staff

If you have recently let go of personal staff such as nannies, housekeepers or others, you should also think about putting in new locks. This is especially important if you didn't get a key back from that individual. It's even more important if you suspect that individual of stealing in the past or if they left on bad terms.

3. Repairing Damaged Locks

If your locks are damaged, they may refuse to lock and your keys may even stop working. You can replace damaged locks if you like, but if you really like the look of those locks, you may want to talk with a locksmith about rekeying.

The rekeying process can address issues with the cylinder or chamber, and the locksmith can also oil the lock to improve functionality. The rekeyed lock only works with new keys, and as a result, it has the same effect—from a security perspective—as putting in new locks.

4. Upgrading to Electronic or Biometric Locks

If you're tired of your old keyed locks, new locks are the perfect way to upgrade. Electronic locks allow you to open the door with a code, so there's no reason to worry about lost keys. If someone ever has a code and you don't want them to be able to enter your home, you can just change the code. For a more personalized option, consider biometric locks that you open with a fingerprint.

5. Changing to Security-Focused Locks

If security is your main goal, there are security locks that snap a photo anytime someone opens the door. You can also use unique codes for different people to make it easier to track who's coming and going. Finally, there are even locks that connect to an app on your phone. Forgot to lock the door? No problem — do it remotely with your phone.

You can also upgrade to more conventional locks that improve security such as deadbolts or chain locks, or you can make other changes such as putting in metal door frames.

6. Increasing Accessibility

Finally, in some cases, you may want to change locks for personal health reasons such as arthritis or other similar issues. If you have door knobs with locks, you may want to switch to levers. They don't require you to grip them. Similarly, with deadbolts, you can switch to thumb turns. You simply move them with your thumb rather than by grasping the lock.

If you're ready to put in new locks, give us a call. At Whitley's Lock & Safe, we get the job done right. Let's talk about your new locks today.

A gray padlock with a handle on a white background
By lemaster October 11, 2017
If you're like most people, you tend to forget about your locks once they’re installed. After all, you might think that they're just supposed to do their job and keep your home safe, right? While it is true that high-quality locks should work with minimal problems, it doesn't mean that locks don't need a little maintenance from time to time. Performing some basic maintenance — the type you can do on your own — should greatly improve the quality and longevity of your locks. What's even better is that maintenance doesn't take much time, so it's definitely worth the small amount of effort it requires.
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While your new business is seemingly secured by a good set of locks and keys, it only takes one key in the wrong hands to access your property and cause mischief. Consider these important reasons why you should rekey your new business. Previously Owned Buildings If you’ve bought a building that’s previously been in operation, chances are that building may have keys that are still in circulation. For example, employees and suppliers likely have been given keys to access the building, and other associates of the building’s previous owners may possess keys as well. New Buildings You may think if you’ve bought a new building for your business, there’s no need to get new keys since you’re the first owner of the building. However, your property has still been previously accessed by construction workers or real estate agents with their own keys. Those keys may not be accounted for. Key Quality Even if you have all the keys to your property, check the existing keys and locks. Make sure the keys turn and lock with ease. Locks that are hard to open may not function correctly and can be a security risk. Also check for signs of age on your locks and keys. Keys that are too old can break off in the lock. Keys can be used against your business if in the wrong hands. To make sure they are in the right hands, call Whitley’s Lock & Safe for information and pricing on how to rekey your business .
A man is fixing a door with a screwdriver and a key.
By lemaster October 11, 2017
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