NYC Locksmith Since 1973
212.206.7777Front door locks are a total essential for any secure home or business. It’s the first line of strategy in any successful security infrastructure. However, locks, just like all pieces of machinery, degrade over time and sometimes require replacement. Here’s a guide from the residential security expert s here at SOS Locksmith on what to consider when you replace your front door.
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Burglar proofing windows is a combination of a few different protective actions. Windows are considered vulnerable potential burglary access points. In this blog post, the residential and commercial security experts at SOS Locksmith will go into detail regarding many of the different ways that you can make windows more secure.
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When most people think of Spring cleaning, they simply envision dusting their curtains or resorting their bathroom cabinets. However, Spring cleaning is actually a fantastic opportunity to bolstering one’s home security, ensuring that their possessions and family are protected during the coming Summer months. Here’s a guide from the residential lock installation and residential security experts at SOS Locksmith on how you can utilize your Spring cleaning in order to bolster your home security.
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Residential security, while managed through concrete practices and steps, is actually a shifting concept that’s influenced by multiple factors of how people operate their homes, some of which are commonly overlooked or considered unimportant. One of these essential factors is the way that porch lights are operated. If you’re lucky enough to have a home with a front porch or stoop, leaving your porch light on or off makes a big impact on the level of protection that your home enjoys. Here’s a guide to the home security influences of porch lights from the residential security experts at SOS Locksmith .
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Losing Keys is never fun – and in fact, it can represent a major security risk to your home or business! Here’s a guide to a selection of fantastic products on the market today that can help you keep track of your keys from anywhere – as prepared by the residential lockout experts at SOS Locksmith . Simply affix these devices to your keys, and activate them when you can’t find them to sound a loud alarm that will alert you to their location.
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Doorknobs are one of the most recognizable pieces of lock hardware, and when they don’t work correctly, it can become impossible to open or close a door. In this brief blog entry, the lock experts at SOS Locksmith will provide some details and solutions to common issues that show up with doorknob operation.
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Summertime is a season of tons of extreme thunderstoms, many of which can knock out power grids and cause blackouts. Power outages in average last under 25 minutes, but sometimes this is enough time for a burglar to take solid advantage of the blackout to steal from your home. Here’s some tips prepared by the experts at SOS Locksmith to help you figure out how to stay safe in a home security framework during a power outage.
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When your children go back to school, many parents have discussions with them regarding of how to stay safe inside, or on their way to school. It’s important to also discuss digital security with them. This new era presents a new host of security risks that today’s parents didn’t have to be concerned about when they were children, however any missteps can be serious. Before you send your kids off to the brand new school year, here’s five things to teach them.
Nothing is more frustrating than spending hours writing an essay or working on a project only to have the entire thing deleted in one second when your computer crashes. It’s essential to backup all files – not just schoolwork, but any personal data as well.
Don’t share even what seems like innocuous information over social media – it can be accessed by hackers or identity thieves and used to exploit or steal your identity. This includes information ranging from your birthday, to what city you were born in, or even answers to security questions including the name of your first pet. Explain to your children that any information that you publish on the internet can be easily shared- even when you have privacy settings set up, screenshotting allows for instant capturing of information – and with instant capture, there’s also the risk of instant share-ability.
Children should have spam filters set up on their computer in order to avoid unsafe content online. You need to explain to children how scams like Phishing are made, so they don’t fall for one of those faulty chain emails where someone pretends that you won a contest, or are the sudden recipient of an inheritance.
Make sure that children keep mobile devices secure, including having a hard to guess passcode. Make sure to stress to your children the fact that if somebody is able to access the personal information contained inside one of their mobile devices, that they can effectively steal their identity – or hack their accounts, posting embarrassing things or harassing their friends.
As the mercury on the dial increases, so does the likelihood of vehicle break-ins. The weather gets warmer, people start leaving their windows open, and thieves can spot their valuables from the street. A cracked window can be seen as an invitation to a thief, and they will often stop at nothing to take items that they spot and desire. Being the victim of these sort of crimes can be seen as frustrating not only because of the trauma and loss involved, but because you know in retrospect that you could have prevented it. This spring and summer, don’t leave yourself vulnerable because of the warm weather. Follow these steps to avoid becoming a victim of vehicle theft:
Put all objects, even one’s that aren’t valuable, in a locked glove box or inside the trunk. Don’t leave them out on the seat, even in a locked car, as a temptation.
Don’t leave out lighters, gas cans, or any heat sensitive items out in the sun, where they could explode and compromise your vehicle’s security, much less harm it’s interior.
Make sure your windows are tinted – not only does it help mitigate the heat, it also makes your car much harder to see into at night.
Look in the rear seat of your car for any people before you get inside it.
Don’t ever leave your keys inside the vehicle, or even hidden under the seat or mat.
When leaving the car, check the back seat for any items a criminal might want – put these in the trunk.
When parking at night, make sure to park under a light where your vehicle will be more secure.
When trying to keep a secure home, it can really help to know some of the trends and numbers that commonly define home break-ins and burglaries across the country. Even if you can’t ever be one hundred percent prepared for a burglary, you can definitely prepare defenses. In this blog entry, I’ll detail some of the specific statistics that define criminal break ins across the country, so you can be better prepared.
The FBI classifies three varieties of burglary: forced entry, unlawful entry, and attempted forced entry. 58.3 percent of burglaries are forced entry, while 35.2 and 6.5 percent are unlawful entry and attempted forced entry relatively. These statistics demonstrate that burglars are determined to get inside your property, and that homeowners have to be equally set to make sure they don’t get in. It also strikes a reminder to make sure windows and doors are locked, and that your security alarm is active.
This re enforces a commonly known fact that burglars tend to gravitate towards expensive luxury goods; this means a thief is more likely to try to take a diamond necklace than the food inside your refrigerator. This also illustrates the trend of burglars to steal from property which they have already scoped out through valuables; it’s never been more important to make sure that your valuables aren’t in plain view of windows. It might even be a good idea to tint your windows, or install one-way glass windows so nobody can look inside your house.
Over 34 percent of burglars use the front door to get access into someone’s property, while 22 percent use the back door. Make sure that when you’re upgrading your security that you improve the lock quality in your front and back doors. The best option is to get doors with solid cores that will be more resistant to break-in attempts than the majority of hollow body doors. We recommend improving your locks with the addition of high security pin tumbler locks, as well as keeping all windows or points of entry completely secure.
Most burglars spend between 8 to 12 minutes inside your home – this short duration is due to their extreme caution and not wanting to get caught. This information is of great use to homeowners – they can place any valuables in hard to find areas spread out throughout the house, rather than in one easily findable “treasure trove.” This will make it more likely the burglar will abandon their search, and leave your home without taking any of your most precious belongings.
This is the first room most burglars will go to, as it’s the most common room that valuables are kept inside. This statistic helps give some detail as to how burglars think; it’s much safer, thus, to keep your valuables distributed throughout other discreet and hidden areas of your home, to throw them off target, and increase the possibility of them leaving empty handed.
Even if the national burglary rate has decreased since the anarchic 1970s, it’s still a massive problem across the country. This statistic helps homeowners in the sense that it informs them of the very real, and very common threat burglary poses – it’s the kind of think that one never expects. Home security, in this light, transcends the simple need to keep one’s valuables safe, it also extends to keeping one’s spiritual sense of safety, as well as the physical safety of their friends or loved ones, intact.
So you need to buy a new lock. Perhaps you need more than one. Most people looking to purchase locks go to large, ‘Big Box’ style stores like Home Depot. The variety and sheer quantity of locks can be very overwhelming. In order to avoid an unnecessary purchase of a lock not ideal for your situation, it’s best to educate yourself on some of the critical methods of deciding if a lock is right for you before you buy. In this blog post I’ll detail some of the ways you should be thinking about purchasing a lock.
You’re searching for the best lock that you can get that serves your needs. Many locks advertise with a numbered security rating – as a rule, ignore this, as they are an industry scale without much use to the average consumer. Additionally, most self-applied “third party” testing is somewhat distorted and does not correspond exactly with the true reality of how the products work. For the most part, a higher price will equal a higher level of security – however there are definitely exceptions, especially when electronic locks are concerned. Smart locks are expensive but not always as secure as a cheaper manual lock. What your money should be going to is higher quality security pins, more durable material, and better construction – not buttons, add-ons, or branding.
Many top name brand locks don’t actually work very well. Other name brand locks that are lesser known might only be lesser known due to a higher price point – which can be associated with a better operating record. As a rule, it’s never really just about the brand name, it’s about how well a lock serves your specific needs. Often, locks that are cheaply manufactured in China are rife with poor construction and weak structure.
These front door locks need to have deadbolts for the best amount of security – and if you have any glass nearby, a double sided deadbolt will be necessary. As a general rule you should never simply decide on getting the cheapest possible lock just because it’s less cash – this pretty much ensures that you’re not going to be getting a quality lock. The goal shouldn’t be saving money, it should be finding a quality lock. Always think practically, and avoid purchasing locks with fancy add-on purposes – don’t mix your purposes is what I mean to emphasize. Even if lock picking doesn’t work the first time, after a few attempts it might work, if not just cause harsh damage to the lock mechanism itself, so try to choose a proven quality lock. Also, don’t simply buy locks just because you saw a commercial; commercials are obviously slanted. Try to inform yourself via the internet beforehand of locks with fantastic consumer ratings so you can have an idea of what to focus on.
Padlocks are almost always made of a lock body and a shackle – making it removable. Don’t ever buy a general purpose padlock, as too short or too long shackles will provide thieves the proper amount of pressure or leverage to break it more quickly. Buy a lock specifically for it’s superior construction appropriate for your situation. Don’t buy cheap padlocks – as a general rule of business, most companies increase their profit margins by using cheap materials and less complex construction – this results in a weaker lock. Additionally, if you’re adding multiple padlocks to each other, don’t combine identical locks. The strategy of combining locks is only proven to increase your security if you use different lock types. Think of it this way; if someone can break through one of the locks, there’s no reason they can’t do it twice.
There’s a wide variety of home security systems currently on the market. Choosing between them to find which one is best for your home can be very daunting. Installing a security system at your home ensures the protection of your family and property – making them an absolute must; however it’s always best to utilize the absolute ideal security system for the needs of you and your family.
These alarm systems are commonly used throughout the world, and carry their own list of pros and cons. The system, when triggered, will alert a call center which will then contact your local police. Since this system works through your outside telephone lines, your burglar could potentially disrupt it by locating and cutting your phone lines. Even when tripped the system would be unable to notify the call center, so the police would never be called. One potential for a substitute for a monitored alarm is the use of a cell phone or radio instead of a landline alarm. The other potential drawback to these kinds of alarms is that even when the alarm is set off, it will take some time for the police to arrive – meaning by the time they do get there, the burglar will have had plenty of time to grab valuables and get out of there. Even with these drawbacks, these kinds of alarm systems are some of the most expensive on the market.
This other type of alarm system sets of an incredibly loud siren both inside and outside the house when the alarm is tripped. This sort of system relies on healthy contact with your neighbors, so that they will know to call the police when the alarm goes off and you’re not home. One of the best aspects of these systems is the fact that they don’t have monthly fees, meaning that it’s much more affordable than monitored systems. These systems can also be installed with bright flashing lights so people can be more clear on what house the alarm is sounding from. Usually, loud sirens will be enough to make any burglar leave immediately, as there will immediately be a ton of attention focused to the house. Of course, one disadvantage is that you will have to rely on your neighbors vigilance in hearing the alarms and calling the police; if your neighbors are often away, or aren’t likely to hear or call the police, these alarms could potentially not do that much for your home security – especially if you don’t have neighbors and live in the middle of nowhere.
These systems can often be found at regular, local hardware stores. There’s both advantages and disadvantages to these kinds of security systems. One of the chief advantages is that they are quite simple to install and carry no monthly monitoring fees – you can simply decide whatever settings that you prefer; there’s many options including cameras, beams, sensors, or motion detectors. Some of the drawbacks to these systems is the space limit between sensors and cameras, and the need to replace batteries quite often – which can eventually become pretty pricy.
Just like the rest of the types of alarm systems, electric current based home alarms carry their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. These alarms are usually installed in homes during their construction, so they can mostly be found in newer homes. It monitors doors and windows and sounds a beeping noise when they are opened. This is a fantastic feature for both preventing burglaries, but also ensuring that your children aren’t opening doors and windows of your home. Some of the disadvantages of this type of system is that electrical current flows from outside can disrupt your alarm signal and render it incapable of working – for example, lightning can affect these systems and render them inoperational for a period of time.
This is usually the result of the heavy forced use of the lock – some element is shaken out of place and the multipoint lock gets stuck, preventing the door from being able to be opened. This is repaired by unjamming the internal lock mechanism, and replacing its center case – or the entire lock unit if it is called for. This calls for different operations based on the different types and brands of locks.
Sometimes the weight of a door will drop from the weight of it’s own load-bearing – this can make hinges loosen, cause warp in the door structure, or break the lock itself. These repairs are typically simple, unless the door is severely warped (usually from people hanging off it) or incorrectly installed in the first place – but usually this requires little else besides a few turns of the hinge adjuster at the top of the door. If the hinges of the door still require some adjustment, you can toe and heel them to restore the door to working order.
By upgrading European style locks to high security door handles with anti snap functionality, you quickly and exponentially increase the security of your space. This is a matter of simple re-keying, or complete hardware replacement – and a broad number of hardware options exist which range from aesthetic to functional differences.
Just like any other manual trade, locksmithing requires it’s own set of tools. It’s incredibly important that every locksmith has a full range of tools – as many different situations call for different tools, and the only way to be fully prepared for any situation that they might come across. The full range of tools available can be a bit daunting for beginners – in this blog post we’ll be taking a look at the most common and essential tools that locksmiths use in their trade.
This tool is incredibly widely used – and comes in both electrical and manual iterations. They function similarly to key turners, but move in an upwards motion forcing the lock pins to jump up, unlocking the lock. This tool can also be used by burglars.
This tool can be used when you accidentally lock yourself out of your house. Similarly to a pick gun, it rotates whatever key is on the other side of the lock, unlocking the door. Usually this tool only works on second or third lever locks.
This tool cuts keys of all types, including circle keys, padlock keys, or cabinet keys. Unlike manual key duplication where a locksmith makes exact replicas, key machines makes a working key using a pre existing key’s code numbers. These machines come in automatic, semi-automatic, or manual categories, and offer engraving add-ons that can make cutting burrs, key rings, key tags, or opening cards.
The bread-and-butter of locksmiths, this device functions through applying pressure inside the mechanism of the lock to release it, opening the door. Using the tension wrench, the locksmith applies force to the cylinder, and then uses a lock pick, pulling up all the pins until they are completely flush with the line, aligning perfectly and unlocking.
The holy grail to the bread-and-butter of the Pick Gun, these tools are some of the most essential tools of the entire locksmith trade. Drills vary according to many different sizes, brands, and materials – it’s use is simple. It drills holes through doors so that locks can be fitted into them and properly installed with no extra space.
This blog post will help you assess the security of your home on a professional level . Risk assessments help you balance the cost of the defensive strategy against whatever losses might happen if it isn’t implemented. It’s important to remember that value is subjective – and that the safety of your household is utterly priceless . Risk assessment will help you be prepared in the event of a home invasion or other disaster.
Business Risk
If you use your home as your office, having any sort of records, computers, servers, or other business information stolen can prevent you from working – compromising the effective progress of your business.
Fraud / Identity Theft
This involves the theft of information that can in turn be used to steal money, valuables, or other records. This can destroy your credit.
Legal Risk
If your property isn’t equipped according to legal regulations you may put yourself in financial risk.
Lost Property
Some objects are irreplaceable – whether the value is sentimental or monetary.
When you’re assessing the threats to your property, be realistic – research what sort of natural disasters might affect your area. Yes, this includes nearby trees that could damage property. Assess your security – checking your locks, camera, doors – or any of the variables of your property that could pose a danger or vulnerability. Proper installation of any latches, locks, or security tools is of key importance; a lock pretty much doesn’t mean anything if it’s, for example, installed on the outside of a window. Additionally, if there’s multiple people who can access the property, it’s more vulnerable.
Any and all locks should be installed correctly and functioning properly – and if it works, use it!! Any unused or unimplemented lock is pretty much the same thing as having no lock at all then your security is compromised.
These can be controlled with a padlock, or electronic lock which can be remotely controlled. The code or key controlling the gate can either be shared amongst your household / business or controlled by a single individual – it’s also possible that a guard or attendant could be assigned to the sole operation of this gate.
Windows can be incredibly vulnerable – make sure to always lock them. If you want to continue to up your security, install bars in them, or have them tinted according to a 3M security film, reducing the likelihood of potential criminals peering in. Visibility also affects security on the outside of the home – the less hiding spots or coverage there is on the outside of home, the more reduced likelihood of a burglary – make sure that there’s full perimeter visibility around your building.
Non-operational security cameras can be utilized as an effective deterrent to any potential burglars, while fuller security systems that offer remote alerts can help notify law enforcement automatically if your security is ever messed with. Motion sensors protect against unwanted activity in a number of ways – they can sound alarms or flash warning lights as deterrents, or contact law enforcement.
A well operating alarm is one that not only alarms the burglar (increasing the chance that they will abandon whatever crime they are trying to commit) but one that alerts neighbors that can contact law enforcement as soon as possible – assuming you’re not already home. As a general rule, the louder the alarm is, the better.
The more layers of protection that you have the better. By using redundant security laters, you’re exponentially increasing the security of your home.
What valuables do I keep in my home?
How easily could I self install security hardware?
Is there crime in my area?
Do I own my home (can I make structural changed?)
Who has access to my home?
Do the windows all lock from the inside?
Is there a tree with which the roof of the property can be accessed?
Are there any known threats?
Do you have operating alarms?
Ask yourself these questions in order to assess the amount of security layers you need to add to your home; a home security professional, like those at Chicago Locksmiths, can expertly and efficiently install any security assets you need.
In the world we live in, protecting one’s own property becomes something to be prepared for. Many people consider suitcases to be somewhat “unprotectable” over international flights – simply due to the long amount of time these bags are being handled by strangers, or placed out of site. Regardless of the measures taken by airports and the FAA to protect flyers from theft, an amount of thefts of property always occur at airports. So you’re left asking yourself, how can I protect my luggage from people that would want to steal from it?
There’s multiple factors to consider in securing your luggage before flying. Before we discuss locks, let’s talk about the physical structure of the luggage itself. If your suitcase has a fabric body with a zipper, a lock isn’t going to exactly do you well. The bag can easily be cut open (by people who wouldn’t care if you discover the theft) but can also be opened with a common airport theft trick. This trick involves the use of a ballpoint pen to puncture the zipper opening, run along it’s length, opening the bag with no signs of entry. In fact, TSA agents use this technique to inspect suitcases.
It’s worth putting in the investment for a hard sided durable suitcase. These suitcases differ from the typical ones because they aren’t made of easily severed fabric, but a hard, almost impenetrable siding. Additionally, there will be a hasp system which you can place locks on. These cases can’t be opened with pens like typical suitcases. When looking for hardsided suitcases, it’s good to test them in person so you know what you’re getting. Test if the material can’t be broken, and that the lid is sealed tight when shut. If there’s any gap in the seal, it’s not the ideal case.
Buying a durable lock is absolutely something you should do. First of all, you need to choose a lock that properly fits the case – so that there’s no gap when it’s fully closed. If you’re shackling the zipper tight, the lock’s shackle should be thin enough to fit inside – however, the thinner the shackle, the easier it is to cut or break off.
I certainly don’t advise getting one of the pre-made TSA approved locks. It’s shackles are incredibly flimsy and can be cut with a pair of ordinary household tools. They can be picked easily – not to mention the fact that the schematics of the inner lock has been publically available on the internet for years – so somebody could make a skeleton key that works for it.
Instead, I recommend getting a high security lock, like a padlock. Don’t skimp on price – invest in a well made, solid lock that can resist many different kinds of entry attempts. I also recommend getting a lock with internal ball bearings that prevent thieves from being able to shim it.
Try getting a lock with as many security features – and pins – as possible. 5 is the average, and serrated pins work the best. Using a lock with a shroud over the shackles make it much harder for thieves to cut through it. On the average, competent high-security locks can be found for around 25 dollars. Brands like Best, Mul-T-Lock , and Medeco are always a good bet. It also helps to combine multiple locks that aren’t from the same company – this would protect your property from criminals with single break-in methods.
As additional security tactics, never put irreplaceable valuable items inside your checked luggage – instead, bring it with you in carry on. Additionally, you might want to use saran wrap, zip-ties, or tape to show you if your suitcase has been opened. It’s definitely an effective deterrent to criminals who don’t want to waste time getting through a zip tie and get caught. As many levels of security as possible is highly advised – any additional, unfamiliar level with effectively deter criminals. The best solutions are the one’s that you cater to your specific situational needs. Find whatever weak links figuratively or literally exist in your luggage, and reenforce and strengthen them. By utilizing layered security, you can protect your luggage in airports, or really any transportation environment.
It’s official; we’re in the dead of winter. It’s time to prepare to shovel driveways and break out the heavy jackets. Unfortunately, the increasingly cold weather can also cause functional issues with your home or business’s locks. For residences, commercial property, and especially cars, moist and cold weather can seriously affect the correct functioning of your locks . This can make it very difficult to open locks, or can even render them totally unsuable. In this post, I’ll talk about some tips that you can implement in order to protect your locks against Mother Nature.
You might remember learning about the way that cold works on a molecular scale in school. Extreme cold causes molecules to contract – and heat causes them to expand. The molecules that make up locks and doors aren’t an exception to this – and just a slight change in their proportions can affect their proper functioning. If a lock is just slightly misaligned it can quickly wear out, or lose it’s functioning. That’s why having your locks correctly installed on doors ensures their longer life. If you have a lock installed on an outside wooden door, the level of professionalism with which the job was done becomes quickly apparent in warm or cold weather when the door expands or contracts slightly. As the wooden door expands or contracts, it can possibly misalign an improperly installed lock. If this occurs, it’s going to be necessary to hire a professional to restore it to proper functioning, regardless of the temperature outside.
Expansion and contraction can affect your residential or commercial locks; however automotive locks aren’t usually affected like this, due to how their parts are structured. The main common issue for cars in cold weather is the freezing of locks. If any moisture gets trapped inside the lock – which can happen easily amidst ice, snow, sleet, and high winds – it can quickly freeze and solidify if the car is left outside in the cold for a long amount of time. The solution to this problem is somewhat more simple than the problems posed by the expansion and contraction of doors . Before contacting a locksmith, you can attempt to reverse or prevent a broken frozen lock. First, lightly heat up your car key before putting it into the frozen lock – remember not to make it too hot, as this method can potentially damage your key or lock if it’s improperly implemented. Your other option is to store your vehicle inside a garage or indoor holding area. By doing this, you can keep the car from getting so cold that the moisture on the inside of the lock will freeze and solidify. Automotive locks are more regularly exposed to freezing temperatures than other locks, as, for example, your home lock contains a side that remains inside your heated interior.
Depending on personal taste, some people love the winter for it’s coziness and pristine quiet, while others dread it for it’s extreme cold. Regardless of your feelings about the season, it’s wise to utilize these tips to prevent your personal or property’s security be compromised by extreme temperatures.
In this blog entry, we’ll discuss potential solutions to the threat of bicycle theft. These solutions are a practice of a balance between practicality, cost, and convenience. Most people can’t carry around a heavy duty chain and eight locks wherever they go. However, with every compromise for convenience, you’re lowering your security. The more security levels there are for your bike, the less chances it’s going to get stolen – less thieves will even attempt the theft, and the one’s that do are less likely to succeed.
Riding on a bicycle is an integral part of many people’s leisure as well as their commute. It’s an exercise method, a transportation method, and a way to relax. One source of concern for cyclists is how to safely secure bicycles throughout the day – as bikes have become much more widely used, bike theft has also increased. According to the FBI, at least 190,703 bikes are stolen per year – and that statistic is a reflection of reported thefts. A study in Canada showed that 76% of bikes that are stolen are ones that cost under 500$. This demonstrates the fact that even cheaper bikes are at risk of theft – bike thefts aren’t usually premeditated`, but are rather acted on a spur-of-the-moment level.
Many bike owners really prefer using U-Locks to the typical padlock because it gets rid of the need to carry around a heavy change – which can be both cumbersome and dangerous. You’re going to need more than one U- Lock if you’re discarding the chain completely – if this is the case, carry as many U-Locks as possible, as it’ll only make your bike more secure. The best points to place the U-Lock is on the frame, the anchor point, and the wheel of the bike. Make sure that both sides of the U-Lock shackle release – if this doesn’t happen, a potential criminal would only need to cut one side in order to free the bike.
There’s a massive variety of padlocks available. You can find padlocks for a measly couple of dollars, and you can find padlocks that cost in the thousands. The criteria that you should focus on in your search are the lock’s weight, the thickness of the lock’s body as well as it’s shackle, and a shroud (a piece of metal that covers the sides of the shackle to make it less accessible to potential thieves.) Keep your eyes out for rounded areas on the shackle which indicates that the lock has internalized ball bearings, which prevent it from being “shimmed”, a special kind of lock picking that can be improvised with everyday objects. As a word of warning, try to avoid buying Master Lock products, as their cheap price point is contrasted by their weak and easily broken materials. Be aware that spending some money on a padlock can pay off in its security value.
The device widely known as a tubular lock is also referred to as a circle pin tumbler, an Ace lock, or a radial lock. Similar to how tissues are ubiquitously/colloquially referred to as Kleenexes, tubular locks are sometimes called Ace locks due to Ace being the company that originally manufactured this type of lock. They can commonly be found on commercial / industrial tools that are standing unattended for long periods of time – think of vending machines, for example. Tubular locks are generally considered to be of a higher security level than tumbler and wafer locks – mostly because of their scarcity; thieves aren’t as likely to know how to pick or cut them. In this blog entry I’ll go over some of the details about the structure and function of tubular locks.
Tubular locks are named so because the keyway is encased in a cylinder. The circular keyhole is joined to a tumbler system common to other kinds of locks, however it differs in that it’s key pins are pushed in along a horizontal axis, rather than vertically like other kinds of locks. The mechanism that holds the key pins in (the plug) is built into the same cylinder as the mechanism that holds the springs and drivers – (the bible.) The key is circular, with outside facing grooves – and it can only be inserted into lock from a particular configuration.
For the most part, tubular locks are tougher to pick than other locks. This isn’t to say that it isn’t possible to pick it – and like all locks, the security level of the lock varies depending on its particular model, make, and brand. However, tubular locks typically take a much longer amount of time to pick than other locks – a valuable feature, as the longer it takes for thieves to pick a lock, the higher their chances of being caught and apprehended. This makes tubular locks a great preventative deterrent.
Technically, you can define tubular locks as being slightly different pin tumbler locks – they aren’t military grade security locks, but they work well and reliably. I mean to say that these locks – for the most part, the one’s common to consumers – aren’t fit to prove impervious to the advances of a highly seasoned lock-breaker; however, they certainly add a level of security to property that, combined with other measures, provide a solid line of defense against theft. If you’re interested in finding a tumbler lock right for you, I recommend searching online or through your local locksmith’s inventory for one with the features suitable to your specific security needs.
Securing your home or business is a top priority, and you may think that you need to invest in a comprehensive alarm system with high-tech features that can cost a small fortune in order to keep people and property safe and sound. While that is one option available to you, it is not the only one. Mul-T-Lock CLIQ LOCK is a revolutionary and innovative locking solution that can transform the way you secure your property.
This is an advanced, patented electromagnetic locking system that does not require wires or an extensive installation process. The technology is built into your keys, padlocks and cylinders in the locks, and it essentially turns these devices into smart features that you have full control over. You simply have to install the special locks and hand out the keys to those who you want to give access to the property to. When you complete this step, you can begin taking advantage of the features and benefits in Mul-T-Lock CLIQ.
These are highly intelligent products that give you better control over the security of your property. For example, you can control access to the property by enabling or disabling access during specific periods of time during the day or week. You can monitor who enters the property, and you can generate a full audit report of a person’s actions on the property. The technology is accessible through online controls, and this gives you control over property security and access from any location where you can use a mobile device. The system is completely scalable, making it suitable for larger and smaller venues alike. This makes it cost effective for almost every budget. For some, this is the only security feature that they will need on their property. Others may use this in addition to an alarm system for even more comprehensive benefits.
You may be concerned about the safety of your loved ones at home, the ability to control access to your workplace by workers or vendors and more. Regardless of what your current safety and security concerns are for any size property, you will find that Mul-T-Lock CLIQ is a great option for you to consider. You may take a closer look at how this product works and get a quote for the cost of the keys, locks and padlocks that you will need for your property today.
Every environment and organization is different. And within each environment there may be a wide range of access points to control with a variety of operational needs to consider. With CLIQ, you’ll be able to build an access control solution that effectively addresses your specific needs and is tailored to your location and operations. View which combination of CLIQ products makes up your ideal access control solution.
CLIQ Cylinders & Padlocks – based on Mul-T-Lock’s renowned High Security mechanical platforms, the electromechanical CLIQ Cylinders and Padlocks maintain authorization lists to ensure only enabled keys have access. Additionally, it collects and stores information for audit trail events. Available in a wide range of applications including Euro (double or single), Rim, Mortise, K.I.K, padlocks, switch cylinders and more, the CLIQ Cylinder can be deployed almost anywhere.
WatchLock ® CLIQ ® – combines multiple technologies – GPS, GSM, and patented mechanical and electromechanical platforms – to create an intelligent locking solution. It provides flexible access control over your assets and information about when and where your assets have been accessed. With audit trails available from both WatchLock and CLIQ, you’ll have accurate records about all assets under WatchLock CLIQ protection. Ideal for remote, hard to reach or mobile assets, this comprehensive solution gives you the control you want and the information you need to enhance the protection level of your assets and premises.
CLIQ User Keys – are electromechanical keys used with CLIQ cylinders. All keys feature LED indicators that signal for authorized and unauthorized access, out-of-schedule use and low battery notice. Select the CLIQ keys or a combination of them based on your needs.
CLIQ Quartz Key – can be programmed with specific time schedules, they also capture audit trail data of up to 130 events.
CLIQ QuartzXT Key – is used with CLIQ Remote and can store up to 1000 events for audit trails. The key can also be programmed with specific time schedules.
CLIQ Quartz+ Key – is used with CLIQ Remote and can store up to 1000 events for audit trail and be programmed with specific time schedules. In addition, the Quartz+ has an additional feature that allows system administrators to predefine a list of authorized cylinders that limits the Quartz+ key to open only those designated cylinders.
CLIQ Manager Software – installed on your local network, CLIQ Manager Software is used for the daily management of your CLIQ system. Designed for secure access, login to the software is fortified and only possible with the C-Key and authorized PIN code. With CLIQ Manager Software, system administrators can manage and create access permissions; audit trails; time-based authorizations; reports and much more.
CLIQ Web Manager Software – is an easy-to-use, web-based software program that allows system administrators to manage their CLIQ Remote platform from any computer, anywhere. In addition to daily functions such as managing and creating access permissions, audit trails, time-based scheduling and reports, the program also supports remote programming devise management; key programing and key and personnel management.
CLIQ Control Key (C-Key) – provides secure access for transferring information between the system’s software and its cylinders, such as updating key authorization lists within the cylinder and the retrieval of audit trail info from cylinder to software. Used for unlocking electronic communication and not actual access points, every CLIQ system has at least one C-Key referred to as the Master C-Key. Additional C-Keys can be added to the system.
CLIQ Local Programming Device (PD) – is used to connect CLIQ keys and cylinders to the system’s management software CLIQ Manager and/or CLIQ Web Manager. The PD provides secure communication that can update CLIQ keys with the latest authorizations and scheduling; retrieve and upload audit trails; and transfer tasks from the CLIQ software to your C-Keys (Control Keys).
CLIQ Wall Programming Device (WPD) – always online, the WPD has its own IP address that enables you to remotely program your CLIQ keys including making authorization and scheduling changes; retrieval of audit trails; revalidation of keys, sync of time settings; updating CLIQ keys’ firmware and more.
CLIQ Mobile Programming Device (MPD) – extremely efficient, the MPD allows you to program CLIQ keys on-the-go using a cellular phone or computer as a modem. With it, you can easily make authorization and profile changes; revalidate keys; retrieve audit trails; sync time settings and more – when and where you need to.
There are many different security options available to make sure that your apartment is safe whether you are at home or not. SOS LOCKSMITH has listed below ways on securing your NYC apartment. You can choose to have an alarm system , have upgraded door and window locks, or you can even buy a dog that will bark loudly when someone is trying to enter your property.
There are many different security locks available on the market by Medeco Locks and Mul-t-Lock . A barrel bolt is another good lock choice. Combination locks and keyless entry locks are also smart choices. Use high quality Grade-1 or Grade-2 locks on exterior doors to resist twisting, prying, and lock-picking attempts. A quality deadbolt lock will have a beveled casing to inhibit the use of channel-lock pliers used to shear off lock cylinder pins. A quality door knob-in-lock set will have a ‘dead latch’ mechanism to prevent slipping the lock with a shim or credit card.
Use a solid core or metal door for all entrance points Use a quality, heavy-duty, deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw bolt Use a quality, heavy-duty, knob-in-lock set with a dead-latch mechanism Use a heavy-duty, four-screw, strike plate with 3-inch screws to penetrate into a wooden door frame
A good alarm system will monitor all of the entry points into your apartment. Your door should have an alarm on it as well as all of the windows in your unit. You may also want to have security cameras installed inside of your apartment. There is a new technology available that will allow you to view your home while you are not there through your smartphone or computer. You can check in on your apartment while you are at work or even while you are on vacation if you have a high tech security system.
Security lighting is a basic security feature that can be very helpful. Many apartments offer exterior security lighting in parking lots and around the entry points to the building. Bright lighting can deter crime and help people feel safer.
Electronic card access is a popular choice. When people use electronic cards, they can have confidence that no one else has a key to their apartment since key cards can be changed with ease. New residents receive a new card that wipes out the old tenants’ access. Cards can be changed very quickly and with ease. Key cards can also be given for other parts of an apartment complex. They can give people access to certain parts of an apartment like common areas or exercise rooms.
Security gates can be a nice security option. Gates can help apartment owners feel comfortable. They allow only people that live there or have permission to be there to be on the property.
There are great prices on safes at SOS Locksmith , having a safe in your home is a wise investment. Home safes are designed to keep the smash and grab burglar, dishonest nanny, cook or housekeeper from gaining access to important documents and personal property. Home safes need to be anchored into the floor or permanent shelving. Here are few ways to make it work:
– Use the safe everyday so it becomes routine -Protect the safe code and change it occasionally -Install it away from the master bedroom or closet
If you want to live in a secure NYC apartment, find a complex that has good locks, lighting, and that is in a good location or get security consultation from NYC Locksmith You can enjoy feeling comfortable in your apartment at all hours. You want to stay in a building that makes you feel secure.
Other advantages include the fact that there is not a lot of the lock being exposed when a person uses a mortise lock. This makes it a great deal more difficult for potential thieves and other wrongdoers to attempt to sabotage it, increasing the security that it is able to provide exponentially. This, combined with being able to accommodate pretty much any type of lock, including those that provide the highest security level, creates a very potent lock that is not easily bypassed.
Although there is no single method of preparing a door to have a mortise lock installed, there are some similarities from installation to installation. Most mortise locks will need a 2-1/8″ cross bore at a 2-3/4″ back set. It does not matter if the additional holes will need to be drilled because the mortise lock will cover them so that they cannot be seen. The main reason why there is no standard preparation procedure is because each mortise lock varies based on the company that is manufacturing it.
There are numerous different jigs and templates that are available for installing mortise locks. The best companies will provide aluminum templates that have been made through machining methods. These templates can be used to show the person installing the lock exactly where to drill the holes and create the openings for a specific manufacturer’s locks. The templates will be attached to the door by using clamps. Then, drill bits and other tools that are required by the template can be used to make the holes.
Templates are used to reduce the chances of the door being damaged. However, it is always recommended to take an extended period of time with installing mortise locks in order to further decrease the chances of damage.
Unfortunately, some of us come to expect the worst safety conditions in our learning environments. Today headlines are filled with shootings and scenarios that tantamount crisis. Truthfully, it seems that most of us merely hope that the time between such incidents is prolonged as long as possible. While these stories seemingly surface more often, or are proliferated by the media, locking technologies are advancing rapidly. By now, a majority of us have inferred that with better security comes lesser the opportunity for these circumstances to occur. Possibly the most important aspect of this conversation is geared towards our students. Protecting students in schools is undoubtedly the most important aspect that humanity may consider. So what types of security systems should be used in the academic system? We’ll break down a few things you should consider in the locks that should be used and the doors they should be installed on.
High-security locks are necessary to protect entry ways that lead to students, faculty and administration. These entry ways need to be outfitted with locks that can withstand a lot of torment. The reason why is simple. Usually intruders don’t have time to pick a lock in these scenarios. Instead brut force is initiated. For academic entryways, we recommend state-of-the-art deadbolt locks. We’ll list three we recommend here.
Medeco supplies some of the best high-security locks on the market. The Medeco Logic Deadbolt is one of them. The lock exceeds the ANSI Grade 1 standard for an auxiliary lock. It’s resistant to wrenching, prying, bumping and hammering attacks. It also has a one inch throw hardened steel bolt to prevent crowbar attacks. Here’s a recap of its features.
• ANSI Grade 1
• Controlled Access-electronically programed keys
• Data of entry and exit, user and guest
• Electronic rekeying
• Advanced Medeco Software
• Solid brass collar spins under pressure to prevent wrench attacks
• Large thumb turn provides ease of use by physically challenged individuals.
• Steel shroud over bolt protects against “ice pick” type attacks
In 2001 the Abloy Protec system was created. Not a single documented picking attempt has been known to succeed on this lock. In 2012 they introduced the Protec2 Single Cylinder and it packs a punch. It’s the highest grade: ANSI Grade 1. The rating is based on extreme physical attack resistance. Some of the other specs are as follows. (We should mention that the user reviews are some of the best.) We’d suggest this lock to anyone.
• ANSI Grade 1
• Housed in steel body and hardened steel cylinder for maximum resistance to drilling
• H2X extreme 2″ hardened bolt can withstand 2 tons of force
• 1/4” (6mm) thick steel screws to prevent angled prying
• Steel bolt shield against ice picks
• Reinforced steel strike box with 2″ anchor screws
• Solid rotating collar so wrenches and pliers are ineffective
This lock is very standard in many facilities and holds up to extreme tampering, prying, bumping and ice picking conditions. Schlage has been around for 90 years. This lock is as impressive as those 90 years, and is great for academic security settings.
• Brass finish
• 2-3/8″ to 2-3/4″ backset
• ANSI Grade 1
• Biggest adjustable bolt available
• Pick, bump and pry resistant
• Guaranteed to fit all standard doors
• Lifetime limited finish and mechanical warranty
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For classroom doors we recommend one locking system. Why one? Because it’s completely unequalled in performance. Not only in performance, but the lock is very cost efficient. That lock would be the GL87 Arrow classroom lock:
The GL87 Arrow classroom lock works in a user-friendly way. The outside lever is locked or unlocked by key. A locked clutch function allows the lever to turn freely; yet, this will not retract the dead latch until the outside lever is unlocked with a key. Inside the lever is always unlocked and retracts the latch when turned. When the door is unlocked, the door remains operable from both inside and outside. Here are a few certifications it has received:
• UL/cUL listed
• ANSI/BHMA A156.2, Series 4000, Grade 1.
• Federal Specification FF-H-106Cu
• ANSI A117.1 Accessibility Code
High security doors are extremely important. We’ll argue far for to make this point: a lock is only as secure as the object that it’s placed on. High security doors are primary protectors. It’s important that your door meets regulations and standards for your building and setting. Briefly consider checking up on the following basics:
• Installed Cylinder Guards
• Strike Plates (working)
• Non-corroded hinges
• Re-sturdied and fortified door frames
Schools, universities and academic settings should always outfit their buildings with the best security systems available. Time and time again we see compromises in security. We feel that prevention is within grasp. With more light shed on these locking innovations we can only hope that local and national governments bring things up to date when their re-educated on locking devices.
When you want to keep your most important documents or valuable items secure, you need a safe . However, not all safes are created equal, so take a moment to learn more about safes before you buy a safe
Fireproof Safes are Just Fireproof
If a safe is simply listed as a fireproof safe , and not as a fireproof and burglary safe, do not use it to store valuable items. Just keep your important documents in there. It is not difficult for a burglar to access a fireproof safe.
Know the Safe’s Rating
Get to know the safe rating system. For example, when you are storing items that are worth around 5000 dollars or less, a B grade safe will do. At the opposite end is the U.L. TRTL-30X6 rating, which stores 1,000,000 dollars worth of items and more.
Find the Right Sales Company
If you want a good safe, you need to go to a good safe company. Look for a company with experience, good reviews, and conduct that clicks with you. Always get to know a company before you let them put a safe in your home.
Anchor It
A safe is useless if a burglar can simply haul it off with a dolly and saw it open at their leisure. A good safe company will anchor their safe to your floor, preventing this from occurring.
Placement is Everything
A properly placed safe is accessible, it has enough light in the area to see the safe and the contents inside it, and the floor is reinforced to prevent damage.
Skip the Wall Safes
Wall safes look cool, but professional burglars know to look for them. Because wall safes are simply set into the wall, the burglar then knows that a saw can be used to cut the safe free. Opt for an anchored free-standing safe instead.
Fireproof Safes Don’t Protect Digital Media
Digital media like DVDs and thumb drives suffer from heat and humidity long before paper items do. Find cloud storage for these items, and do not expect a fireproof safe to keep them in good shape.
Don’t Choose a Floor Safe for Fire Safety
Floor safes don’t keep items safe from fire as long as free-standing safes do. If you want to be as sure as you can about keeping your documents and belongings safe, use a free-standing safe.
The Right Safe, The Right Size
Remember to think about what you need to store before you buy the safe . A good safe is one that will hold everything that you need, which prevents you from having to make bad decisions about what gets protected.
After Kwikset produced a stylish new e-lock called Kēvo , we saw other companies come out with electronic locks like the Danalock by Poly-Control and The Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt . They’ve all drawn wide interest. Now it’s the Goji Lock . We’ve reviewed it. Let’s see how it stands up.
E-keys are special because they improve upon the faults that traditional keys have. You cannot lose them and then permanently compromise your security, for one. And, if you’re late to come home to meet someone like a family member or a friend, you can send them an e-key and tell them to make themselves at home before your arrive. You can retract the e-key at anytime if you feel compromised as well. Traditional keys cannot offer these options. E-keys significantly improve on these points.
See who entered your residence
See who was enabled or disabled access and when
See who was deleted from the Goji system
See real-time push notifications of entry and exit
The Goji lock is all smartphone capable and doesn’t need wifi access to be used. The good thing about the Goji lock is that it has 24/7 support, so that if a phone is lost your locks won’t be vulnerable once you’re able to get into contact with a technician. But, the Goji is, to us, just another e-lock. The specs and technology are still mild in comparison to the Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt and its other competitors. And, the price point is significantly higher as well. Extra key fobs are $45 apiece. Overall the device isn’t nearly as interactive or user friendly as other products on the market. Yes, the ability to send keys, and allow certain time access is attractive, but we think the Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt is still too pretty for this Goji attempt.
The Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt system is sharper: The Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt system is able to tell when the user is inside or outside and operates accordingly. If you have to go to the door for instance, it won’t unlock on you from the inside. It’s bump proof, pick proof and has an awesome mobile interface. The keyfob puts this product over the top should the long battery life begin to put-put. In light of this circumstance, a notification is sent when the batteries should be replaced. Overall the Yale Real Living Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt system really sparkles visually and functionally and we like it much better than Goji.
Walter T. Shaw is a tricky chap. Regarded as the Michael Jordan of jewel thieves, Mr. Shaw recently interviewed with MSN about his tactics to enter a home and pilfer the valuables inside. The comical part about this piece was the information he provided. The ways in which he entered and robbed a home were so logical they were absurd. We noted a few of his strategies that may seem a little haunting at times. But all these you could put your foot down to and prevent someone attempting to break into your home.
Internet hacking has been around for a long, long while. Don’t post that you’re in Alaska having an exceedingly lovely vacation. Unless, you wanted your valuables looted. And don’t post this stuff to the worldwide web -especially if your account isn’t private. But! Don’t talk about it with people or strangers either. It doesn’t take much for a burglar to go up behind you in a grocery store, ask you about your day and then you tell them about your entire getaway. They will follow you home and the rest is history.
People think that the back of the house is protected by their fence, so they don’t lock the door. The back of the house is one of the better places for entry into a home. It may be useful to put a security decal in the back there. Security decals, although maybe not representative of an actual system, can sometimes be effective. Security companies like to show that their product is being used by community advertising efforts. Buy some false advertising. It may actually benefit you.
A majority of burglaries happen during the daytime. When a working individual leaves, it’s obvious to see if they are going to be gone for more than one or two hours. Usually their work appearance gives this away. In this case if there is another person at home and they go out to get groceries the burglar can make a clean and efficient entry without fear of persons being home. In this case it’s worth your while to invest in a security system . And, turn it on when you leave!
Light/ motion sensors and CCTV cameras can be significant deterrents to home invaders. They are cheap and easy to install. Plus, new technologies can send real-time updates to mobile devices to ensure you’re up-to-date with what’s going on at your home. All of this is recorded as well, so you can go back and track data for future use and legality purposes.
A dog may be one of the best security “devices” you can purchase. These animals always seem to be looking out for you. That annoying bark will come in handy if someone is trying to break-in to your home and may even alert your neighbors of a home invasion. But only get a dog if you can truly care for it!
If you’re mail box gets full, or packages are sitting on your doorstep it indicates you’re not home. Have the post office put a hold on your mail until you return. Burglars like this freebie. Don’t give it to them.
People do a lot of things to burglar-proof their home. Precautions readily exist. But, when it comes to actually securing one’s door, people take a costly shortcut when they shouldn’t. Securing a door isn’t that difficult, nor is it time consuming. In the end it’s probably easier than begging your neighbors to make snow tracks around your property to give the appearance of someone being home. We’ll let you know here how you can pull a few minutes aside to secure your door and feel safer when you’re home or away.
Before we begin we need to ensure you have the right door. Having a pseudo-door, like one of cardboard or hollow build will not suffice in establishing your safety. Replace that door with one of the following.
Metal Door
Wood Door
Fiberglass Door
Windowed doors have an allotted entry to them. If you have a windowed door make certain that the build is reinforced well. If you have an alarm system, make certain that the door does not permit someone from the exterior to see if the house is set by an alarm system or not. Windowed doors do not maximize security as they are compromised by a slight design inclination.
A significant amount of burglaries happen in one simple way. The burglar tests the doorknob and the door is not locked. Do not forget to lock your household when you leave. It sounds simple to those who are creatures of habit, but even those who are continually aware slip-up. It only takes one mistake to allow someone entry to your home. Additional attention doesn’t hurt your security.
Bumping, picking and crowbar wrenching are common ways to break into a home, but all can be prevented with adjustments to your external locks. Try installing these few things to improve the security of your door.
Install Cylinder Guards
Replace Strike Plates
Try and secure exposed, corroded hinges
Re-sturdy and fortify your door frame
Although it may seem a little funny, a viewer helps. What is a viewer? A viewer is a peep-hole, essentially. The main function of a viewer is to allow viewing from inside- out and not outside- in. Although this may seem petty, if one feels an extra eye on them from the door, they may feel more uncomfortable and not commit the burglary.
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Besides for basic lock upgrades and installing CCTV cameras and light censors, easy burglar-proof door adjustments can go a long way in securing your home. Think these ideas over before leaving your home for long or short term times away.
The front door is the main entryway into your home. Some may argue that it is the most important for aesthetic value. But we disagree. We first and foremost want to consider its function and its security aspects. In choosing a front door you’re expressing what your entryway means to friends, family, neighbors, visitors and strangers. All things must be considered in depth before purchasing a front door. You may have already chosen the color you want for your new front door, but we’d like you to consider what kind of material you want that door to be. In the end that will create the biggest impression on your home, not the paint job.
Steel doors are common for entryways, but not all the time do they make the most sensible purchases. With steel doors it’s what is on the inside that counts. Steel and aluminum doors or combinations thereof -with a frame – can be especially sensitive to weather. In direct sunlight they can absorb and abundance of heat and in the cold they can allow a chill to permeate from their surface. Unless noted by the manufacturer (of an insulated construction) keeps steel doors in environments that are subject to Mediterranean-like temperatures. Take note that steal doors will also need periodic resealing and a good peal-free paint to boot.
Wood doors are also a pretty popular choice. Maybe more so than steel and aluminum doors, the inside matters most. We aren’t kidding. Wood doors specifically subjected to heat and weather will warp if not constructed properly or cared for. They require maintenance. If you’re not one for a little bit of door maintenance, stay out of the wood door market. Yet, wooden doors are superior at insulating a space. There are many ways to resist wood shrinkage and warping, but be aware before you make this purchase. Granted, wood doors are really, really lovely to look at when constructed well…
Fiberglass and composite doors are the crème de la crème of entryway doors. They require almost no maintenance and can appear like a wood door and function with nearly the same amount of insulation. Like anything else, they will be subject to periodic resealing, but can procure you with the biggest warranty over the other doors. That, however, comes at an expense. Fiberglass and composite doors tend to soak up the most banks in an initial cost.
Although these doors may require a little different attention from one to the other, they all require a good finish or paint to maintain their lifespan. After purchasing the door that best suits you, make sure you give it the right protective layers so that it can serve you best over the longest amount of time. Here are a few things to take a look at:
Stain-and-clear finish
Paint Finish
High-Exposure Finishing
Paint finish/extras/ jamb caulking needed
Cameras are everywhere. We tote them as phones, complain about them breaching our privacy or solicit their material to launch forms of stardom. But, we’d like to delve into the top ten security cameras on the market that retain or promote our safety. Next time you see one, you’ll know know what its use is and how hopefully how it works; and maybe even if you like it or not.
The bullet camera is what you often find in mobile phone stores, grocery stores, banks, or other indoor environments. It can also be used in outdoor environments. The camera is used to point and shoot at a typical area only.
Discreet cameras are, well, discreet. Typically they are not seen. Usually they are placed in places where you cannot see them and come in a variety of different styles, shapes and designs to keep them hidden.
Outdoor cameras are pretty easy to spot. Obviously they are found outdoors and have a protective housing which protects them from moisture, birds, gnats and dust among other tempering things.
Vari-focal cameras are designed so that they may operate at different focal distances. Vari-focal cameras are the most logical for users who are unsure of their special requirements. The camera is one of the most easy and efficient cameras in security use.
Network and IP cameras compress and send visual data over the internet. Most network and IP cameras promote wifi access.
Pan, tilt, and zoom cameras are the most mobile of the cameras. Typically they are used by a security guard, but they can also be automated devices with censor and monitor technology.
High-definition cameras are used to zoom and monitor minute situations. Situations include, casinos, banks, high-end fashion stores, museums and the like. High-definition cameras are used in high-security environments and are an amenity to that particular place.
Sounds easy enough. The 24/7 camera gets its name because it’s able to capture images at both night and day without losing the quality of the image recorded.
In conditions where almost no light is available, infrared and night vision cameras are used. They most often use IR LEDs.
Dome cameras are often setup in retail places. Their use is to promote safety and prevent burglary, like most cameras. The domes, or most of them, have the ability to swivel in place and capture 360 degree views.
Homes have what we call curb-appeal… From the street, if someone sees your front door and it appears that they could kick through it easily then it can put you at a great security risk as well. To prevent this one eyesore and that other little threat, we have a walk through on how to install your own front door and what to do about hiring someone if you don’t want to do it yourself.
First of all, don’t purchase a door if installation requirements, including tools to use, sizes and instructions don’t come with your purchase. It’s important that before installing a door you know what to use. And, more importantly, you need to follow any building regulations and have a new door on hand before you remove the old one. There are a ton of doors to choose from:
ALUMINUM DOORS
FIRE RATED DOORS
CUSTOM GLASS DOORS
WOOD DOORS
IRON DOORS
To install your new door, measure the height and the width of your door. Your new door should be 1/2 an inch less than the height and 3/4 of an inch less than the width of the opening.
First off, remove any exterior trim or installation that helped secure the old door, if needed. This is useful if your new door comes with a new frame (pre-hung). Many indeed do. If uncertain, call the store from which you purchased the door and ask them for professional advice. Then, remove the old door from the hinges with a hammer and screw driver. Then, take the hinges off the jam as your new door should be equipped with new ones. Afterwards, remove the screws in the jam and sill. With a reciprocating saw cut away the door frame and remove. A pry bar can be done useful here also. When the removal is done, dry-fit the door before securing it into its place. Make certain that during this time the door doesn’t fall over.
The sub sill is where the door will fit into place. Make certain that its square and settle. A leveler can be used to make sure it’s sitting well. If not, make an adjustment with shims and make sure the new door clears the thinnest flooring. Do this by measuring from the bottom of the sill to the bottom of the door and check it against your flooring. If for some reason the new door will not clear, you can raise the door with additional sill pieces available for purchase at most home improvement stores.
With the assistance of another individual secure the door in place from the bottom upwards. You can use shims to help stabilize the door while you do the remainder of the installation. Next, insert the shims at the hinge locations. This will keep the door fairly leveled and plumed. Then, you can drive the screws through the shims. At the door reveal make certain that there is an even gap. If it’s off center that will inhibit the door from closing properly. Check outside as well that the door and the jam stops are equidistant from top-middle-to-bottom. Lastly, place shims where the lock and deadbolt will be inserted. To ensure your door is going to work properly open and close it a few times. The manufacturer’s instructions may require further securing, check them and then proceed to the next steps. Any gaps should be sprayed with a minimal spray foam installation. When the insulation dries, remove the excess with a putty knife or something similar used for safe scraping. DO NOT A KITCHEN KNIFE.
Warning: This material is somewhat toxic; prevent any skin, eye, contact when applying.
If necessary, place the door on sawhorses for these next steps. Use this time to paint the door or finish any caulking that you may have forgotten. Pre-hung doors are fairly easy to install in this scenario. Next install your hardware and you’re ready to open and close a new chapter within your home installation experiences.
No question it’s great to do it yourself, but for those of us who’d rather not spare the energy and peace of mind, our specialists can assist. Hiring a specialist is easy for you and will not break the bank. Not only that, then you can rest assured that the job is perfectly done to suit your needs. Installing a door is difficult for first timers, but we believe you can do it with a little time and patience. If you an unsure of what you want to do, you can always contact your local locksmith to request for a free estimate ! Whatever you choose we welcome you to your new door soon.
