Star Norfolk Locksmith – What to Do in Different Lockout Situations

Every single day comes with its own set of worries and things to get done. The lists can sometimes seem endless. Whether you just have to go to the grocery store, pick up the kids from school, or just plan on kicking off your shoes and relaxing after a long day at work, the hope is that at the end of the day, you are able to just de-stress. Of course, if you get home and find that you are locked out, this can’t happen. One thing that is never on your to-do list is a lockout. This doesn’t mean that you can’t be prepared, though. Star Norfolk Locksmith is a business that serves locals in Norfolk, VA and has dealt with many lockouts before. The experienced and skilled team has offered some helpful tips and advice that would be beneficial to anyone who ever finds themselves in this awful (albeit fixable) situation. Take a look!

1. Locked out of the house in the middle of the night – If you ever find yourself locked out late at night, then the most important thing to do is be safe. If you have a trusted neighbor you can stay with until a locksmith arrives, this is a good idea. Or if you have someone you can call to wait with you, this is safer than being alone. Don’t forget – safety in numbers. If you have the option of waiting in your car rather than just outside, do this as well. Your security should be your number one priority. You should be able to access a 24/7 emergency locksmith in your local area.
2. Locked out of the house during the day – While a better option than being stuck outside of your home in the middle of the night, this is still risky and you need to be careful. Luckily, you should be able to easily reach a professional lock and security provider who is able to get you back in. Hopefully, because it is during the day, you’ll be able to have a friend or neighbor wait with you, or provide you with a safe place to wait. In addition…
   1. Look for windows that might be unlocked. Sometimes, you have other ways of getting into your home which you might not have even thought of. If you happened to open a window last night to let in a cool breeze, then forgot to lock it, this could be your way of getting back in without having to call in a locksmith.
   2. Consider removing the door knob of your front door. Obviously, if you have a deadbolt being used, this will not be effective. However, most door knobs have tiny slots that will allow you to take them off if you do the job with care.
   3. If you happen to live in an apartment complex, try calling the front office to see if someone is able to let you in to your home.

The best way to avoid a lockout is to be as prepared as possible to try to prevent it from happening in the first place. So what can you do? First of all, consider the benefits of going keyless. Keyless entry systems are becoming quite popular for both homes and offices. You can use an easy to remember code (but not one that is easy to guess) to get into your property. You can share this code with anyone you trust. As a matter of fact, many systems are able to alert authorities if an incorrect code is entered too many times. This way, you can know if someone is trying to access your property, whereas if you had a standard lock and key, you would have no idea that someone was trying to break in, unless of course you had a security camera in place. Keyless entry is one thing that you might want to consider discussing with a lock and security professional.

Another way to prevent getting locked out from becoming a problem is to have a spare copy of your key somewhere that is easy for you to access, but difficult for an unwanted person to figure out. Maybe you want to keep a copy of your key inside of a plant. Or perhaps you feel comfortable enough leaving a spare key with your neighbor, or someone else who is a quick drive away. A duplicate copy of your key is one safe way to prevent having to be locked out for long.

Buy a “hide a key.” This is the same idea of leaving your key copy somewhere that you can remember, but it takes it a step further. You can buy something that looks like a log, for instance, that totally blends in with your property. You can have a key stored away in it, hidden from the public but in a place in which you know about and can easily get to.

Try reciting a mantra every time you leave the house. For example, whenever you leave your home or office, say, “Car key, house key, lights on…” or something similar. If you get used to repeating this information whenever you leave, it will become a routine, making it more difficult for you to forget your key. Some people have pets that have to be walked before they leave their home – if taking your dog out to use the bathroom is a habit, why not a mantra as well?

Hopefully, you will never have to deal with a lockout, but if you ever get locked out in Norfolk, VA, you can reach out to the team at Star Norfolk Locksmith for 24/7 emergency assistance, affordable prices and effective results. Look for a locksmith in your local area, whether that happens to be in Virginia or any other state. Best of luck with your locks and security!

Aricle source here: Star Norfolk Locksmith – What to Do in Different Lockout Situations

The Most Popular Deadbolt Locks

In order to improve your home security, it may be necessary to add locks. Not just any lock but a durable lock that is resistant to forced entry. When you think in these terms, perhaps you’ll consider having a new deadbolt lock installed. If you’re going to have new deadbolt locks installed it will be most helpful to know something about the types of deadbolt locks that are available to you. Here are the deadbolt locks that we receive requests for most often at Star Norfolk Locksmith in Norfolk, VA. Give serious consideration to your needs and determine which one will work best for your circumstances.

Single Cylinder Deadbolt

This is the most widely used type of deadbolt lock on the market today. It has uses a key cylinder to open the door. It is possible to lock the interior portion of the cylinder with a metal latch that is placed through the cylinder. This makes it possible for you to have this type of deadbolt installed on a variety of door types.

Double Cylinder Deadbolt

This type, although very durable and resistant to break-ins, must be chosen with caution. It requires a key to unlock the lock on both sides. This means it has two key cylinders. This type of deadbolt can be mounted on the inside of the door and does not require a twist knob. The downside of having this type of lock installed is that a key is required to unlike either side. In the event of an emergency, if you are unable to locate the key and it hasn’t been left in the door, it could be very dangers. It is for this reason that you should seriously consider if this is the right deadbolt lock for you.

Keyless Entry Deadbolt

This is popular because you don’t have to worry about losing your key.  Some of the keyless deadbolt locks are offered with the option of using your key. You will either receive a code or make up your own numerical code to be entered into a keypad in order to open the lock. Some come equipped with a mobile remote that you can use to unlock your door without being present. The transmitter, inside the remote will send a signal to your keypad to unlock or lock the door. Some of the keyless locks have either an audio signal or visual signal that lets you know if the lock is locked or unlocked. Some people prefer this type of deadbolt simply because they are not required to have a key in order to lock or unlock the door. This means you’ll never have to worry about losing or misplacing your key. The precaution to take when having this type of deadbolt installed is to make sure that you change the code frequently just in case someone has the code that you no longer want to have access inside. Being able to change the code as frequently as you would like is another advantage to having a keyless deadbolt lock. Just keep in mind that this type of lock needs batteries or an electric current in order to operate.

Vertical Deadbolt

This type of lock is generally installed on the interior part of the door. This prevents intruders from putting a bar between the door and its frame to pry open. This is what often happens with horizontal deadbolts. It is primarily installed toward on the top half of the door. Although they are not appealing to look at because of how bulky they are, the vertical deadbolt lock is one of the easiest to install. A similar deadbolt like is the rim deadbolt, which locks automatically. This means you won’t have to worry about whether or not you remembered to lock the door behind you.

Mortise Deadbolt

This is a much older type of lock. They are usually placed in mortise pockets, which are cut on the edge of the door. It makes it impossible for an intruder to tamper with the locks. A mortise deadbolt lock is very sturdy and durable. The only downside to this type of lock is that it does require that a large hole be cut into the door, which can weaken the entire structure of the door.

How to Choose

We have presented the top selling deadbolt locks. Now the rest is up to you. You will have to decide whether or not you want a single cylinder deadbolt lock, double cylinder deadbolt, keyless deadbolt or a mortise deadbolt. This requires a little more research since we’ve only told you how these various locks operate.

The single cylinder deadbolt lock is a great option for any home. They are high quality locks, which undoubtedly increase home security.

The double cylinder deadbolt lock provides the best security for doors with glass. Since a key is required to open the door from both sides. If an intruder were to break the glass to gain entry, they would be unsuccessful without the key. One thing you should know is that is you are interested in this type of lock it usually doesn’t pass standard fire codes. In order to have this type of lock installed you will have to find out the building’s regulations.

A keyless entry deadbolt lock affords the user the convenience of not having to pull out a key every time they want to gain access. It is more for convenience than it is for its level of security. The appeal of this lock is that the lock can be locked or unlocked remotely.

The mortise deadbolt lock is generally used in commercial buildings. In some cases, they may also be used in high-end residential construction.

When having your deadbolt locks installed, make sure you select a trustworthy locksmith, such as, Star Norfolk Locksmith, to handle the installation. They will not only be safe to use but they will have the right strike plates, screws and other parts needed to properly install your deadbolt locks.

Aricle source here: The Most Popular Deadbolt Locks

WHEN IS TIME TO REPLACE YOUR LOCKS?

Safeguarding your home secure is vitally important. Your home ought to be a place where you always feel safe. Therefore, keep your home’s locks in good working order. Make sure that all your outside locks, especially your front door locks ~ are always functioning properly, and upgrade to higher quality when you can. You’ll keep your family and valuables perpetually safe when your locks are tough and resilient.

It’s best to be pro-active so as to avoid any mishaps with locks and keys. If you face an issue you can’t resolve, a local professional residential locksmith specialist is available to you, even if it’s after hours, such as Star Norfolk Locksmith, right here in Norfolk, Virginia, which is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

When do you need to replace your locks? Here are some important points to consider:

A new home. If you ever move into a new home, it’s absolutely vital that you get your locks changed, without delay. The truth is, you never know if any previous residents may still have spare keys to your place.

New roommates or tenants. Do you rent out any space in your home? With any rental properties of any kind, you absolutely must replace locks each time you change tenants. Even if the last occupants return their keys to you, you cannot be completely certain that they don’t still have copies.

Lost keys. If you’ve looked and looked to no avail, and you know your keys are lost for good, then change your locks as soon as possible. You definitely don’t want a stranger to gain access to your home. Accordingly, all the outdoor locks, which would allow a would-be intruder access, should be replaced right away. Depending upon your personal security priorities, after you’ve fully secured your new outdoor locks, then you may want to replace some inside locks, too.

Stuck keys. When locks get worn out, a key can get stuck in the lock mechanism, or even break off. When there is a problem with the internal mechanism, the key won’t slide into the lock as easily. If you are starting to experience any resistance when you turn your key in the lock, this can often be a sign that it’s time for lock replacement.

Normal wear & tear. Worn-out and rusted locks can prove to be a serious weakness to your home’s security, because they are easier for a potential burglar to pick or break. Old and rusted locks will also grow more difficult to open over time. If a lock has rust, bad tarnish, or is showing any other signs of wear, it is probably time to replace it. If your lock is becoming difficult to unlock each time you try it, especially when it’s cold out, it’s a good idea to replace it.

Rusty locks. Because you and your family members go in and out your door many times per day, as time goes by, locks will eventually become worn-out or even rusted, which means they’ll be more likely to break. If you see any signs of rust, you’ll start to notice that you’re having trouble putting the key in the lock mechanism, or making the key turn. If so, it’s time to replace the lock.

Damaged locks. If your locks are ever tampered with, somehow vandalized, or otherwise damaged, get new locks as soon as you can. Don’t risk it! Just replace your locks right away. It’s best not to keep a damaged lock for an extended period, because you will be susceptible to future problems, making it easier for a robber to break in.

Break-ins. If you are indeed unlucky enough to have had a burglary happen, or even a burglary attempt, it’s imperative that you replace your locks immediately. The force of a break-in compromises the integrity of any lock mechanism. A damaged lock will put you at an increased risk of another robbery. Mechanical malfunction could soon leave you locked out. Your keys may have fallen into the wrong hands. Don’t take any risks! Replace all your locks right away ~ ideally upgraded to deadlocks or bump-proof locks.

Deadbolts. If you are indeed feeling particularly vulnerable for any reason, replace your locks with deadbolts. Most expert residential locksmiths will tell you that deadbolts will provide enhanced security at your home.

Combination locks. Do you lose your keys all too often? You could consider replacing your basic lock with a combination door lock instead. Combination door locks can be opened by putting in a pass code you choose. Most combination locks have a keyed lock too. That way, in case your input ever malfunctions for some reason, or if you ever forget the pass code, you’ll still be able to get in using the key. Remember, it’s a good idea to change your pass code every few months. If you ever feel that its access might have been compromised, then change the pass code right away, just as you would replace a conventional lock if you lost your key.

Peace of mind. There are other logical reasons to replace your locks. After living many years at your home, you may forget how many family members, friends, and neighbors you’ve given copies of your keys to, so you may want to replace and/or upgrade your locks periodically, as a good way to regularly maintain your home’s security. You’ll have better peace of mind when you know you’re effectively protecting your possessions and your family.

Go digital. Would you like to go high-tech? To genuinely augment your home’s security, you can replace your standard locks with electronic door locks. This is an ideal way for you to secure your place without the need for keys at all. Keyless locks, some that work with remotes or with smart devices; keypads; alarm systems with remote codes; even biometrics, have all opened numerous new possibilities in home security. Once you know how to apply new technology, electronic locks are easy to use, most including appealing features that will provide you with additional convenience and security.

Aricle source here: WHEN IS TIME TO REPLACE YOUR LOCKS?