Blog Post

"Key" Signs It's Time for New Locks

  • By lemaster
  • •
  • 11 Oct, 2017
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.

Lock Maintenance: Key Tips You Should Know

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 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.

Do I Need A Gun Safe?

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 2017
The short answer is yes. If you are a gun owner and you have other people living in the same residence, you most likely need a gun safe. If you have children in the house, you definitely need a gun safe or gunlocks. If you have more than one gun, a gun safe is the smartest way to store your firearms. Perhaps it would best to list some of the benefits of owning a gun safe.
  • Safeguard your firearms, both handguns and rifles
  • Prevent theft
  • Ensure safety from young family members
  • Eliminate loss through centralized secure storage
  • Guard against moisture, dust, rust, and scratches
  • Protect your valuables in the case of a fire
As a firearm owner, it is your responsibility to ensure your weapon is secure and protected against accidental discharge or curious children! Call us or come down to Whitley’s Lock & Safe to view our selection of gun safes and discuss your needs.

Reasons to Have an Access Control System

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 2017
Rather than rely only on keys to let your employees in and out of the building, you might like the idea of installing an access control system that relies on cards instead. Learn a few of the biggest advantages of opting for such a system.

Tips on What to Do After an Auto Lockout

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 2017
Juggling your phone, coffee and briefcase, you lock your car. It is after you close the door that you realize your keys are on the seat. It can be hard not to panic when you are locked out, but these tips can get you back on the road sooner than you might think.

What to Do If You Are Locked Out of Your Safe

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 2017
It can be frustrating if you’ve locked yourself out of your safe, especially if you have valuables or items that you need to access inside. So what should you do if you’ve locked yourself out of your safe? Here are a few handy tips.

The Importance of Rekeying your New Business

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 2017
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 .

When to Change the Locks in Your Home

By lemaster • 11 Oct, 2017

It is normal for residential locks to eventually wear out and have to be replaced. There are many signs that point to the need of new locks on your doors. Here are some things to look for to know if it is time to swap them out for newer, more reliable ones.

Replace Them for Aesthetic Appeal

The older a lock is, the less current and attractive it will look. If the locks have been on the door for years and they are beginning to show signs of wear, it may be time for a replacement. Changing them out can transform the look and feel of any room.

Replace Them If They Are No Longer Keeping You Safe

If the locks appear to be worn out, this can also have an effect on your safety. They are in place to keep intruders out of the home, so if they are not reliable anymore, it is definitely time to have brand new ones installed.

Speak With a Professional Locksmith

The best way to tell if you should replace your locks is by contacting a professional locksmith. He or she will know right away if the locks need rekeying or if a full replacement is in your future.

It may be time to have new residential locks placed around your home. Call Whitley’s Lock & Safe in San Antonio for residential lock replacement.

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