WHAT TO DO WHEN PROBLEMS ARISE WITH KEYS AND LOCKS
We don’t think much about them, but the truth is, locks and keys ~ residential, automotive, and commercial ~ play a big role in our everyday personal and business lives. When any challenge occurs concerning keys and locks, it’s often irritating, and definitely inconvenient, especially if something comes up after hours. There are many relatively easy measures you can take to keep yourself safe and secure, so that you will avoid most of the problems that could happen.
Preventive maintenance: If you are pro-active about keeping your locks well maintained, you’ll very rarely need to call a locksmith. Keep an eye out for:
- trouble getting your key into the lock mechanism
- difficulty turning a key in the lock
- signs of wear and tear
- rust
If you come across any of these issues, it's best to change your locks, because worn-out locks are easier to break or pick. If you have old or faulty locks, you are more vulnerable to robbery. Here's how you can prolong the life of your locks:
- If the key will not turn, don't fret. Sometimes the pins get jammed. You might not have to call a locksmith at all, if you spray the lock mechanism with WD-40 or silicone spray. Oftentimes, this will solve the problem, so it's certainly worth a try.
- Replace keys periodically. Our keys take an awful lot of abuse, as we throw them around quite often, and we keep them who knows where. Besides, we use them many times day. Accordingly, if you see that your keys are wearing down, or if you detect any damage to your keys whatsoever, then it's time to make a new key. Be sure to toss out your old one properly.
- General lubrication. If you ever notice any grinding or excess friction in a lock mechanism, apply a silicone-based lubricant spray to the keyhole. Even if you don't, it's still a good idea to lubricate your locks twice a year.
Professional locksmiths recommend deadbolts. If you desire improved security, make sure your deadbolts are properly installed. It should have at least a one-inch throw. On the strike side, you should have a security plate with screws at least 3" long, going all the way into the door frame. Keep in mind that if you have any window on or near the door, a thumbturn deadbolt won't be as effective, because a burglar could knock out the glass, stick a hand in, move the thumbturn, and easily open the door. To prevent this, you might want to put in a double-cylinder lock, which requires a key on the inside.
If you desire optimized safety and security, depending on your situation, there are many ways to provide peace of mind:
- Use only reputable top-quality brands, at least a grade 2.
- Keep your valuables and important documents in unexpected hiding places.
- Install a safe.
- Switch to a keyless remote system.
- Put in a keypad system. Some you can monitor with your smart phone.
- Install an alarm system.
- Add a video surveillance system.
- Hire only a local, reliable professional locksmith who is certified, licensed, background-checked, insured, and bonded.
What about broken keys? Make it a habit not to use your keys hurriedly. If you do, you may one day get utterly stalled, because your key might just break right off in the lock! Instead, always take a few extra seconds with your key, and you'll protect both the key and the lock, saving yourself a lot of grief.
If your key breaks inside the lock before you shut the door, you will not be able to lock it, thus leaving your property vulnerable to burglary. If you break the key off after closing the door, you'll likely be unable to open the door again. A broken key can also cause lock damage. What to do:
- Is part of your key stuck inside of the lock? If there's a little piece of the key sticking out, you may be able to pull it out. If there's enough of the key showing, you may be able to extract it with your fingers or using needle-nose pliers. However, if there's any damage, you'll need to hire a professional locksmith.
- If you don't see any part of the key sticking out of the lock, it's risky to try to get it out, because you may cause damage. Nevertheless, it could still be worth a try. Take a flathead screwdriver that's small enough to fit into the keyhole. Carefully, pry the key inside to the point where it comes out of the lock ever so slightly, and then you might be able to remove it with your fingers or with pliers.
When is it necessary to change your locks?
- A new home. If you've just moved into a new place of residence, you need to change the locks immediately. You never know if any previous residents may still be in possession of their old keys.
- New roommates or tenants. If you rent out space in your home, or have any rental properties of any sort, it's essential to replace locks each time you change occupants. Even if tenants return their keys to you, there could still be extra copies remaining somewhere.
- Lost keys. If you really and truly have lost your keys, then change your locks. You ought not risk the possibility of a stranger gaining access to your home.
- After a break-in. In case of a robbery or even an attempted one, all your outdoor locks, which would allow access to an intruder, should be replaced instantly. After that, based on your personal security priorities, you'll want to replace any inside locks.