What Is Proper Pricing For Rekey Services?

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So, you want to hire a local locksmith to visit your home and rekey the locks. But, how much is this going to cost you? What should you pay for such services? Although this is a question which is loosely based on location, experience, and the size of the company you hire, there is a base fee which most locksmiths are going to charge, which is typically standard for rekeying services, regardless of where you live. So, what is this cost and who should you hire for rekeying services? Thanks to littletonlocksmith.net for the information.

Service call –

service callRegardless of where you live, the type of service, or the locksmith you choose to hire, major locksmith companies and small independent locksmiths are typically going to charge you a service call fee. In most cases, the rate for the service call will fluctuate between $40-$100. This fee will cover the cost of sending a locksmith to your home, having them assess the work to be performed, and a base rate for their services. If a locksmith does not charge a service fee, and simply gives you an arbitrary rate over the phone, this is something to be weary of. In most cases, this is a “bait and switch” technique. The companies which do this will tell you one thing over the phone, then when they arrive, will charge you some crazy, excessive rate when they arrive. Instead, it is far better to pay the service call fee, rather than get stuck with some absurd figure a locksmith throws at you when they arrive at your home.

Lock cylinder rate –

lock cylinderIn addition to the service call fee, locksmiths will charge anywhere from $5-$35 per lock cylinder you want them to rekey. So, whether it is one door, or several doors you need rekeyed, this rate is typically the standard for most companies, both large locksmith companies and small independent companies. What determines this rate? Of course each company has a base figure in mind, so this will be one figure taken into account. In addition to this, the cost of materials, the rates they pay their locksmiths, the amount of time it takes to rekey each lock, and other variables are also taken into consideration. So, when you call a local company, make sure to ask what their rate is per cylinder lock, in addition to the service rate. If companies are weary to provide this information, or do not give you a straightforward response, look elsewhere and contact another company for a quote.

Additional factors –

There is no way each locksmith you call for a quote is going to charge you a flat $50 service call and $10 per cylinder. The rates will vary with each company, and is based on local averages which other locksmiths in the area charge for these fees. In addition to the rate for the service call and each lock cylinder, additional variables which go into the rates a locksmith charges include:
– Location where services are rendered. In LA you will pay far more than you will in a small rural city in Michigan.
– Their reputation, competitor rates, and cost of parts used in services.
– The type of lock being rekeyed. Older locks might require more work, and higher priced parts, this will increase the rates.
– Whether it is a residential job or commercial job.
– Whether it is a big company or a small, private, independent locksmith you hire.
These are a few of the factors which are taken into account, and are added into the base rate you will pay for the service call and per lock cylinder being rekeyed. So, make sure you inquire about each of these rates, and any other fees or costs you will incur, when choosing a local locksmith for service.

If a price is so low it seems suspicious, or so high that it is well above any other company you called, then it is in your best interest to keep calling around for quotes. Additionally, if a company employs in “bait and switch” techniques, and tells you there is no fee for service calls, think twice about hiring them. Although prices will fluctuate, these are basic rates most locksmiths will charge for rekeying, and should be considered when you are deciding on a local company to hire for these services to be completed in your home or commercial business.


Learn All About Schlage Locks- before installing it into your home

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Security is considered as the top priority for every homeowner who is looking for the best locks for their home followed by cost, finish and style. Hence it is very important that you select locks based on its use whether you want it for interiors or exterior. The locks that are used in the exterior are completely different from those used inside your home as it can different locking mechanisms for extra safety and protection. It is very important that you select the best locks for your home as it is a subtle way of upgrading your home. With the right selection of the locking system, you can make your life easier and simpler along with adding security features into your home.
Resources:
www.lakewoodcolocksmith.com
Schlage.com
us.allegion.com

 

Schlage electronicIf you are looking for the best locks for your home, you will need to learn all about Schlage locks so that you can get access into your home even without the keys. Schlage locks are a trusted symbol for safety and security in homes and businesses. These new keypad locks and deadlocks combines high quality metal works along with latest digital technology for providing maximum security. Both the deadbolt and keypad lock types can be used in home as these locks are available in different styles, shapes and designs. The different finishes of these locks include satin nickel, aged bronze and bright brass finishes which are equipped with new keypad system. These locks offer a large number of innovations and advantages which is the reason for the popularity of Schlage locks among locksmiths, builders and security specialists. The tubular designs of these locks make it impossible to pick and the abnormal bittings and shape of these key are completely different from the other brands. These locks come with forged brass construction that makes it resistant to any kind of tampering or kick-ins. These electronic locks are appropriate for commercial and residential applications which allows for multiple user codes, keyless entry and auto locking after door recloses. The electronic locks are preprogrammed with random codes for ensuring that no two locks have the same code which adds another layer of security to your home. All the Schlage locks are rigorously tested for meeting the ANSI standards and these locks are long lasting as it can also be easily repaired and re-keyed by the locksmith. The three year warranty of commercial locks and limited lifetime warranty on the residential locks can provide you with complete peace of mind in case the locks malfunction. The one piece sold design of these locks makes it resistant to attacks with crow bars and hammers and it also prevents the key cylinder from getting knocked out with a chisel or screwdriver. Apart from the security features you should also learn all about Schlage locks as these locks have been innovated for making it the industry leader in door security. It enables you to have remote access to the doors as well as control via the web which provides added benefits to the homeowners.

 

Schlage electronic1The Schlage locks have taken security to the next level as it combines the best of both function and styles into one lock as you will not have to worry about leaving your home unlocked or forgetting the keys because the automatic locking features of these locks helps in locking the locks automatically. These locks are the best option for your exterior doors as it comes with commercial grade clutching motor drive which has been tested for surviving million cycles. The stylish external levers and tampering resistance knob is available in a large variety of designs and styles so that you can select the one according to your taste and preference. You can programme the lock of your doors with a six digit programmer’s key for controlling unrestricted entry into your home. Even if someone tries to break into your home by inputting the wrong codes, the lock will alert you with a warning sounds and its keypad will be disable automatically after few seconds. Schlage locks are the very simple system that can be installed easily into your home as this cutting edge security system is the best way of adding safety, protection and security into your home and property.


Different Types of Deadbolt Locks

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A deadbolt lock, also referred to as a deadlock or deadlock, refers to a locking mechanism that is distinct from a spring bolt lock in the sense that it cannot be moved to the open position except by rotating the lock cylinder with a key. Unlike the common spring bolt lock, a deadbolt lock does not allow for retraction of the lock, therefore making a door more resistant to entry without using the correct key. It is therefore often used to complement a spring-bolt lock on an entry to a building.
There are different types of deadbolt locks, and most of them are determined by the strength or the material used in making the door knob on which most of them are fixed. Some of these locks are discussed below, thanks to some useful information provided by lakeoswegolocksmith.net.

A Single Cylinder Deadlock

This is the most common type of deadbolt locks. This lock is mounted inside a door and has a twist knob in the interior and key cylinder on the exterior of the door’s face. This therefore means that this lock can only accept a key on one side of the lock, but is operated by a twist knob on the other side.

Double Cylinder Deadbolt

double cylinder deadboltThese types of deadbolt locks are also mounted internally. What distinguishes the double cylinder deadbolt from the single cylinder deadbolt, however, is that this deadbolt has no twist knob but both sides have a key cylinder instead. The double cylinder deadbolt therefore requires a key to open the door whether you are inside or outside the house.
The advantage of the deadbolt lock is that it does not provide room for any intruder opening the door from outside using some of the conventional means such as breaking a glass in or near the door frame and simply reaching for the twist knob. Even after a successful breakage of the glass, the intruder would still require a key to open the lock.
This deadbolt lock, however, has a striking disadvantage. It is infamously known to hamper exit efforts in the event of an emergency such as fire, as it may not be easy to hand pick the correct key to the lock. Due to this tendency to violate safety regulations, usage of the deadbolt lock has been strongly discouraged.

Keyless Deadbolt

The keyless deadbolt lock is also mounted on the inside of the door, but has a keypad instead of a key hole where one can type in a secret pin code to unlock the door.
The advantage of using this keyless lock is that you completely do away with the need of a key, and there is therefore no chance of losing or misplacing the key. Another positive feature of this lock is that it is easier to change the pin code in case you feel someone has learned of it, as opposed to the key system where you would have to go through the rigor of finding a locksmith to do the same.
The obvious disadvantage of this lock system is that if it uses electric power, then its effectiveness will be ultimately dictated by power availability. This would therefore mean a power outage may lock you in or out of your residence.

Digital Deadbolt

Electronic deadboltThe digital deadbolt is a variation of the key less deadbolt that operates by means of batteries or electric current.

Rim Deadbolt

This is a type of lock that’s bolted to the inside face of the door.
The major advantage of this lock is that it locks automatically behind you each time the door is closed, thereby saving you the trouble of always having to remember to lock the door.

Vertical Deadbolt

The vertical deadbolt is also bolted to the inside face of the door. As opposed to some horizontal deadbolts, this lock is placed on top of the door, thereby making it difficult for an intruder to pry it open by placing a bar between the door and the frame.

Mortise Deadbolt

Mortise deadboltThe mortise deadbolt is the last type of deadbolt lock. It is merely an older style key lock that’s installed in a mortise or recess pocket that’s cut in the edge of the door so that it is tamper-proof. This lock is usually strong, even though the act of boring a large hole into its frame may weaken the structure of the door itself.

Deadbolt locks come in different types, but what is striking is that each type has one unique feature that makes it the most preferred in a given situation.




Rekeying Your Own Locks

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Rekeying the lock system of your home is a crucial security measure that you need to take frequently. The truth is, unless you are the first occupant of the house or office you are in, you can never be sure how many copies of keys for your locks are out there. You therefore need to ensure that you take actions that will limit access of unauthorized individuals to your house. For any service by a locksmith, including rekeying services, you will have to part with quite an amount of your hard earned cash. Rekeying is required frequently hence it can be classified as a recurrent expenditure. So many reasons bring up the need to rekey. Although sometimes it is always wise to leave it to the professionals, sometimes we are constrained by our budget and we have to make a choice on what to pay for and what expenditure o push further forward.

When faced with such a choice, you might be tempted to ignore the need to rekey your lock system. This could be one of the biggest mistake you make since it compromises the security of your home. Instead of postponing rekeying of your locks, you should figure out how to do it at the lowest cost possible. How about you do the rekeying yourself?
Resources:
beverlyhillslocksmith.org
familyhandyman.com
wikihow.com

Can You Rekey Your Own Locks?

The answer is a YES. Rekeying is not a very complicated task. You can just do it like a pro at a very little cost. Rekeying kits are not that expensive. Once you buy one, you can use it to rekey several lock. If all the locks in your home are from the same brand, you only have to buy one rekeying toolkit. Each kit can rekey a specified number of locks. If you need to rekey more than the specified number of locks, you will have to order for more.

After you acquire the tools, you are now ready for the task ahead. If it your fast time, you will need to have some knowledge about the process, there are so many sources of information regarding rekeying. There are video demos and numerous literature written to guide you through the process of rekeying. Knowing how to go about it should not give you a headache. The following is a general procedure for rekeying most of the locks. However, some locks may include more steps. Ensure that you understand your lock brand and the steps involved in rekeying it.

Removing the lock face.

lock faceThe lock face is also called the door knob. Most door knobs have a small clip attaching it them to the door. You need to first insert the key and turn it until the door is unlocked. Using the small wire-like tool in the toolkit, push the clip inward until the door knob disintegrates from the rest of the door. For some locks, you do not have to open the lock before you remove the nob.

Removing the lock cylinder and the cylinder ring.

At this step, you use the knob follower. Using it, you push the cylinder through the lock housing or casing. For some lock brands, the key should still be inserted the lock opened. The top of the cylinder has several pins and springs. You need to keep the cylinder well held by the cylinder follower to guard the pins and the springs from popping out of the cylinder until the cylinder is securely removed. The retainer ring is removed by just pushing it with the retainer ring remover. Once pushed, it pops off the cylinder. Set it aside so that you can replace it later.

Removing the lock plug.

lock plugThis is the most involving step. It require maximum concentration. It involves separating the upper and the lower pins by inserting the current key and turning it as if you are about to open the lock. Using constant pressure, guide the pug follower through the cylinder.

Removing the old pins.

lock pinsRemove the old locking pins and replace them with the new ones. While inserting the new pins, the new key should be inserted in the lock. Each pin has a unique color. You should insert them according to the color guide provided in the tool kit. After you have inserted the pins, you should then reassemble the whole lock system.


Types Of Mailbox Locks

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The mailbox appears as a very simple part of a house, but proves to be highly essential and quite critical to protect its contents against theft. How can this be achieved? Through making certain that a high quality lock is in place to keep all your information safe and intact. This eliminates any worries of someone getting a hold of your mail, along with the endless possibilities of inconveniences and damages that can occur. You may have already realized this with the rise of mail and identity theft, and looking into the types of mailbox locks available today or maybe an entirely new mailbox for utmost security. To be able to come up with the right one that will meet your needs, serve its purpose well and give you priceless peace of mind, there are a number of things to consider brought to you by the guys over at RentonLocksmith.net:

1. Type of Mailbox

MailboxThere are basically two types, one of which is the wall-mount secured mailbox which is designed to attach to your house, gate, or garage. This is best in a neighborhood wherein a postal carrier would simply drop mail in a box or drop slot mounted into homes. The curbside locking mailbox, as its name implies, is typically placed on a post near the curb of your home. The opening wherein mail is dropped is not locked, instead, the cavity where the mail drops into is kept secure with a mailbox lock.

 

2. Type of Mail

mailYou would know best what average mail type you receive. The locking curbside mailbox is ideal for larger mail such as envelopes, packages, and magazines. Otherwise, the wall-mounted type would suffice if you often get smaller types of mail. The quantity you normally get is also a factor to consider to see which can comfortably hold your mail while you are away. Some will hold a week or two worth of mail while some can last longer and take several months before contents reach the brim. Most importantly, the ideal sized locking mailbox maintains high levels of security at all times.

In line with the numerous sizes, styles, designs, materials, and types of mailbox, its lock is the most prominent and beneficial feature. There are a myriad of types of mailbox locks available which are suitable for a mailbox, and it’s best to gain insight from experts in the field. They mostly recommend the five-cam lock which features a five-pin tumbler and removable cams. Aside from being reasonably priced, it has the added points of an easy-clip on style and a dust cover for mounting on exteriors. Pin tumblers and wafer locks arrive with numerous key possibilities and cams to fit your mailbox. Truth is, they can all look very similar until you have them installed and you personally use it. So if you have a faulty lock and need a new lock, keeping the old one would be a good idea and factoring in if it turns clockwise or counterclockwise will be helpful in finding a new one.

Regardless of the type, it is important that it exhibits excellent quality because a flimsy lock will be no good at all for still being vulnerable to theft. And even if you do have a good one in place, it must always be in its top working condition and watch out for any malfunction especially with the older ones. You might encounter this stamp on the face of the mailbox: USPS-L-1172C which indicates that it’s a new style and the lock is built upon a differently sized hole. It may be hard to find a replacement lock for this, but they are made of the highest standards. Hence, it is imperative that you know of professional mailbox lock services who would know exactly what to do. They are familiar with all types of mailbox locks available that would perfectly match and fit your current mailbox. Whether you require emergency services to open your mailbox lock, or it is in need of repairs or replacement, you can rely on their expertise and experience of working with various types of mailbox locks. The job will be done in the fastest and most efficient manner by trustworthy technicians who can ensure you with quality work and sure enough, an effective mailbox lock in place.


The Most High Security Locks On The Planet

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We all have things that we value in life. We will go to great lengths to protect them from thieves and intruders. One of the ways through which we can achieve this is by locking them away in a secure chamber. The locks in this room must offer the highest level of security achievable so that they can effectively protect your beloved valuables. Regular locks can be picked and broken into. High security locks do not have weaknesses that thieves can exploit. Thus, they are used to protect the most valuable assets in the world for example the Crown Jewels and the contents of the White House. Read on to learn about the most high security locks on the planet brought to you by the guys over at BurbankLocksmith.org

Assa Compact 3000

This is a very high security lock that is manufactured by Assa Lock Inc. Well known in Europe, this company produces security locks that are of very high quality. The U.S. has also began adopting Assa high security locks. One of the most popular ones is the Assa Compact 3000. This is a heavy duty lock that is designed according to the dimensions used in the United Kingdom. These locks can handle many different sizes of lever furniture. If you are searching for a high security lock, the Assa Compact 3000 will give you the security you desire.

Corbin-Russwin Pyramid lock

corbinThis is a high security lock that can be applied in various situations. Manufactured by Cobin Russwin, this lock makes use of a patented Pyramid nechanism. This mechanism has specially made pin tumbler characteristics. It also has a spring loaded pin to control the lock. The tumbler in this high security lock has seven pins. They are made of hardened stainless steel. In addition to that, the grooves in this lock are resistant to picking. To add to its secure nature, the spring-loaded control pin only allows the key to turn in the lock only if its the correct key. The Pyramid system is made of nickel silver. As such, it will last for decades and perform with 100% efficiency. If you seek a high security lock, the Corbin-Russwin lock is ideal for you.

The Schlage Primus

Schlage is a lock manufacturer that is admired by many across the globe. They make various types of commercial and domestic locks. They have a high secuirty lock known as the Everest Primus lock. This lock makes use of a tumbler locking system as well as sidebar pins. This combination makes this lock unpickable. It cannot be bumped open by lockpicks. This locking system is so unique that the Primus lock key can be used to open regualr Schlage locks. As such, they can be used to open numerous standard locks as well as specialized Primus high security locks.

The Medeco Maxum double cylinder

MedecoPopularly known in the U.S.A., Medeco is a manufacturer of high security locks. They have a huge variety of locks to choose from. One of the most capable high security ones on offer from this manufacturer is the M3 Medeco Maxum double cylinder lock. Built for residential use, this is a lock that has 2 cylinders. This means that one needs two keys to open the lock. This eliminates the possibility of a lockpick using one fake key to open it. This lock has provided many homeowners across the U.S. with peace of mind knowing that their belongings are safely guarded by this high security lock.

High security locks have some special features that they all share. These set them apart from regular locks. Here are a number of these characteristics.

Restrictive keyways

There are some special features that all high security locks share. One of these is complicated pathways. The manufacturers of these locks need to make the lock as complicated as possible. So they use paracentric keyways in the locking mechanism. As a result, lockpicks get frustrated when they insert tools to open the locks. This is an effective deterrent to their activities.

Patent protected key bows and patterns

The manufacturers of these keys utilize legal means to control the duplication and cutting of high security keys. They patent the bows and patterns on their keys. This effectively prevents illegal manufacturing of these keys. Moreover, if you want to duplicate the key to a high security lock, you must produce a security card to do this. Moreover, the keys of high security locks require special cutting machines that may only be found at the manufacturer’s plant. Thus, high security locks are a formidable defense against thieves and vandals.


Should You Rekey Car Locks When You Purchase Used Older Vehicles?

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Buying a used vehicle is one of the best ways to save some serious money. When you buy a used car that has been repaired, you get a nice looking car at the best price. You also don’t have to pay the original price of the car, and this could help you save a bundle while also getting a popular car from several years ago. There are many benefits to buying a used older vehicle, but there are some key things to worry about. Most people usually overlook the fact that some used cars being resold do not have new seat covers, but this is usually not the worst thing to happen.

Buying a used older vehicle gives the possibility that another person or a friend of the previous owner may have a key to your car. While the chance of this actually happening is fairly small, you’ll find that this is a problem most people worry about. There are people who do, however, deal with problems regarding their car being hijacked because another person already has the key beforehand. GreshamLocksmith.org provides some useful information about this very subject.

Should You Rekey Car Locks When You Purchase Used Older Vehicles?

older carThis is most definitely something you need to consider. Anybody will tell you that you definitely should consider investing in a rekey of your car to enable for you to protect yourself. The reason behind this is because you never know who may have access to your car, but you also don’t know how strong or weak the key may already be. For example, if the car was made in the early 2,000’s, it may have a different type of key structure which may not be so strong or capable of protecting your car if somebody were to try and break in.

Benefits Of Rekeying A Used Car

– Protects You From Previous Users

Buying any car that is previously owned increases chances that other people have had keys for that car. If you want to avoid knowing others can gain access to this car, you can avoid such a problem by investing in a remedy done right away. It’s all about being up to date and also using the right system for your car. You always want to be sure that the car is ready for this generation.

– Kick It Up A Notch

Having a car from a few years ago is find, but if the design of the car is old and you want a new updated key to use, this is the way to go. Rekeying also opens up the options to go automatic and utilize all kinds of other ways to lock your car. The features that can be added can make a world of difference to your experience, your safety, and the overall opportunities that can open up.

What Is Involved With Rekeying?

car lockDepending on the company you work with, they’ll simply open up your current key system and change it up. This will make sure that a new keying system is opened up, and they will only issue you the one or two keys to open up your new key system. The car may also have potential breakage in the keying system, and it may allow for the car to not lock unless manually done. The truth is that you never know what problems a car may have when they have been used beforehand. Getting a new lock increased safety.

Choosing The Right Rekeying Company

Hiring a company that understands your needs is the most important. They should have experience, understand the process, and actually know what is going on with your car. They should be completely licensed and insured, and their team should be capable on providing you with quality rekeying services where they offer you a wide variety of options.

Rekeying is definitely one of the best ways to maintain a secure used car. Buying a used ad can be dangerous, and so it’s vital that you highly consider getting a rekey done on all doors of your car. Hiring an experienced rekeying company pays off a whole lot because they can handle the removal, installation, and the providing of a new key. It’s definitely worthwhile to invest in a rekeying, but be sure to find the right company who is truly professional