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Why Use A Master Key System

Posted by Paul Murphy on Jun 9, 2016 in Locksmith |

Master keys come in handy when you want to access many rooms at the same time. There are many types of these keys and they vary depending on the level of the system. For example, there is the 2-level key system that has two levels of keying.

It’s considered as the lowest level as it produces less powerful keys known as change keys. Keys under the 2-level system operate only one lock. They can also operate a group of locks that are the same. The most power unit under this system is known as the master key.

There is also the 3-level key system that is basically a system of 2-level systems that have been tied together. The most powerful unit here is known as the grand master key.

The final system is the 4-level system which ties two or more 3-level systems tied together to form a great grand master key.

Benefits of Having a Master Key

The main advantage of having a master key is that you are able to access the various units of your building with the same key. This is important when there is an emergency. For example, when there is a fire outbreak. The keys are also important when you want to access many rooms in a building in order to repair a large electrical or plumbing mishap.

If you are a business owner, having the system allows you to give managerial roles to different people. For example, you can give the main key to the store manager and then give the sub-keys to the people down the hierarchy so that they can have access to the different rooms in the building.

Disadvantages of a Master Key

While the key has many benefits, it also has a number of disadvantages. One of the disadvantages is when you lose the key. If the unit gets in the wrong hands you can lose a lot of property as the person with the key has the ability of accessing all the rooms or offices within a very short time.

If you notice that the key is in the wrong hands you should contact a professional locksmith immediately in order to replace all the locks. It’s good to note that while this will solve the problem, it’s very time consuming and expensive. To avoid this you should be very careful with the keys and ensure that they don’t get into the wrong hands.

How it Works:

If you have already read my “How Locks Work” article, then you know that locks work off of pins and tumblers. The varying size pins line up with the cuts on a key to allow the plug to turn and activate the lock. So, if a lock has pins numbered 3-5-4-2-1 then the cuts on the key must be 3-5-4-2-1.

But how does the Master Key come in? If we add another set of pins into the equation then a lot of possibilities open up. Let me give you an example with a master pin in just one cell:

The lock is pinned 3-5-4-2-1 with a #2 master over the first #3 pin. Now the original key works cut to 3-5-4-2-1, but a second shear line is available at 5-5-4-2-1 (just add 2 to the first #3 pin). Two keys will now open the same lock. By manipulating these pins and combinations all sorts of possibilities open up.

The Good:

Master Key systems allow for a variety of useful situations:

The manager can have one key to enter any unit in an emergency.

Maintenance personnel can be given a key that only opens maintenance or storage doors

Keys can be made for specific vendors like the pool, elevator, or alarm companies to give them restricted access to only the areas they need.

Common area locks can be set-up so that any property key will open the lock. This is useful for pool gates or common storage rooms.

A well designed Master Key system can remove frustration, increase security, and allow for quick access in an emergency. In fact in some areas Emergency Services require Master Key systems to ensure access in the event of fire, flood, or medical emergency. When the worst happens, then quick access can save lives and property.

With today’s technologies, there is no longer a need for those large key-rings with 50+ keys on them. Contact avondalelocksmith.org for a quote and review your property’s needs with them. Many locksmiths will offer a free security review of your property and will give you a free quote on upgrades and repairs. This way you will have the knowledge and tools to increase the security for the homeowner’s on the properties you manage.

Posted by Paul Murphy on Jun 8, 2016 in Locksmith |

Lock rekeying is the process of changing the lock code. The lock is taken apart and the locking pins are replaced with new pins and springs, then new keys are cut to match the new locking pins. At this point the old keys will not operate the lock.

The reasons for rekeying a lock are many, but they should all revolve around security and key control. Let’s say that a bank has 5 keys that open the bank doors, when they do an audit it is discovered that they cannot account for one key. They have two choices: replace all the locks that the lost key opened or rekey all those locks. If the door hardware is in good condition then the choice should be to rekey. A locksmith like beverlyhillslocksmith.org can do this job at the bank and cut new keys to match the rekeyed locks.

Key control is the process of knowing where all your keys are and who has them. If you can’t account for even one then rekeying should be your first action. Remember, without Control you do not have a secure facility. Most quality locks can be rekeyed and if the lock happens to be high security, then when it is rekeyed you will get a new registered code with registered keys.

Rekeying has an advantage if you want to change the keying sequence of your building. For example, if you have multiple doors that work with a different key (keyed different) and you want these doors to all open with the same key (keyed alike). All of these locks can be taken apart and rekeyed so that they all open with the same key. To take this a little further you can create a master system. This is when all the doors open with different keys, but you have one (master) that will open all the doors.

To rekey a lock, the cylinder must be made so that it can be removed from the padlock. Once removed the combination pins are changed to a new configuration and keys are cut to match. This process can be done many times. Not all padlocks are rekeyable though, it depends on the manufacturer, the manufacturing process and the cost. Most padlocks sold at big box stores are not rekeyable.

If you lose your keys and you want to make sure that your stuff is still secure you either have to purchase new padlocks or rekey them. The rekey process is much cheaper. For years high security padlocks were manufactured to be rekeyable. With these locks the rekey process is a little different. These types of locks use restricted lock and key codes. This usually means that only you will have those lock codes and therefore the keys to open those locks.

For businesses these types of locks offer many benefits:

The ability to change the lock codes quickly if keys are lost Padlocks can be keyed alike in groups from two to thousands There is the ability to create a master system Key control, you know where your keys are and who has them

There is another type of lock cylinder that go into padlocks. These are called removable core, SFIC or changeable. With these the complete lock cylinder is removed from the padlock and replaced with another one. The core can then be rekeyed and made ready for use in another padlock. The benefit to these types of locks is that anyone can change the padlock core. This helps to regain control of your keys immediately. Removable core padlocks are usually available only at service centers or locksmith stores and cost more than standard padlocks.

So how can you tell if a lock is rekeyable? For the average person it could be tough. If you go to big box stores the padlocks are usually carded, sealed in plastic and hung on a hook. Unless it is stated on the packaging it would be difficult to know. I don’t think that store personnel would be any help. If you want this type of padlock go to a professional Service Center.

Smart Locks Add To The Safety Of Your Home

Posted by Paul Murphy on Jun 7, 2016 in Locksmith |

Many homeowners are working diligently to transform their home into a futuristic environment, because they are striving for a more modern style. One of the best ways to start is with Smart Home electronics. While you will find a limited array of the products on today’s market, it is important to note that they are a work in progress, but they are the future. Thanks to the guys at centenniallocksmith.com for their help on this article.

Full Control

Not having the capabilities to control what goes in your home, while you are away at work on vacation can be very troublesome for a homeowner. This issue will become a thing of the past once your home is transformed into a Smart Home. Many individuals are most likely unfamiliar with this term, which is why it is important to educate yourself on this home automation technology. Smart Home devices not only off full control of your home, but it can offer an abundance of convenience.

Effortless Access

Have you ever been away on vacation and had to deal with a devastating occurrence in your home, but was unable to resolve the issue, because you could not permit someone access into your home? This happens more times than you could imagine, since millions of individuals work outside the state or country that they reside in. You should not be deterred by these infrequent occurrences, nor should you be forced to find another employment option. Instead, you should invest in a Smart Lock. These locks offer so much convenience and peace of mind, because they allow you to create an E-Key, which can be sent to any inbox, within a matter of seconds. Once the recipient receives the E-Key, they will be able to gain instant access into your home.

Bluetooth Capabilities

Most electronic devices are being equipped with Bluetooth chips. This technology allows two Bluetooth devices to be able to communicate with each other. The Smart Lock is equipped with the Bluetooth chip, so it can communicate with your iOS and Android devices. The Bluetooth range will vary from device to device, but with the Smart Lock, you will find the range to be somewhere between 40-60 feet.

Most Smart Locks are now equipped with the Auto-Unlock feature, which basically means that once your source device is within the Bluetooth range, the Smart Lock will automatically unlock your door. This is amazing technology that cannot be ignored, since it offers the homeowner effortless access into their home.

Home Automation Systems

With the ever-increasing popularity of the Smart Home devices, many companies are developing software that allows all users to combine all of their devices together. This software allows you to control all of your devices through this one app, while you will find some home automation systems more technological, this is the pure basic form of this type of service.

You may not see the home automation benefit, as of yet, but consider how difficult it is to control each of your Smart Home devices individually through separate apps.

While Smart Locks have been installed in vehicles for many years now, they have just now made their way to residential and commercial businesses. Take the time to do a bit of research on this amazing technology, but remember it is still a work in progress.

Today, new technology allows for the opportunity for us to have more control over the entrances to our home. Through smart locks, there is no need for keys. The locks are completely powered with a dial pad that can be reached from a smart phone. Essentially this means, no matter where you are, you can have access to your home as long as you have internet. You can be laying in bed, and lock or unlock all doors in your house, you may be out to dinner and think is my door locked? You can lock your door just by reaching for you phone and giving a command. Even better, you can have the door always locked and only those who can enter either have to have a code, or someone within the home must open the door or unlock it with the opener or your phone.

Essentially, you have more control and only you can give codes to people to enter the house. They can’t be duplicated and if people learn the code, you simply change the code. With the smart lock, you can even program your phone to alert you when people enter the house. If you give different codes to people such as your children, you then can monitor when they come into your house, right from the bedroom or even if you are at work. Essentially, this system takes you out of the past and right into the future of technology.

The smart lock also offers additional security apart from locking all doors, and monitoring the home. There is a technique known as lock bump, which is a special key that can be used in dead bolt locks to open the door. Utilizing the smart lock system, there are no keys involved, therefore lock bumping is not possible, further securing your home from intruders.

Another form of control the smart lock offers to people is emergency control. Do you have an elderly person in a home who might fall frequently, or someone who could be employed in a position, where someone might attack for revenge? If so, the smart lock may also help in this regard. Many times, emergency responders will walk the perimeter of the home looking for a break in, before entering. Then, they will break down the door. If something happens within the home, such as someone falling or a sickly person, or perhaps someone thought an intruder was breaking in, the locks may be unlocked from within the house or through the internet or smart phone, so doors don’t have to be broken down and there is easy access for emergency personnel.

The smart lock transforms our lives into the future. They offer us more control over our homes as well as make us live more comfortable without fear of possible situations. The time has come to turn in our keys, move into the 21st century, and engage in the technologies available. Smart locks is the answer for peace of mind and additional security over the home.

Posted by Paul Murphy on Jun 7, 2016 in House, Locksmith |

Admittedly, every homeowner wants to feel secure and safe in their homes. Unfortunately, most homes today are a target for thieves who either want to harm or steal from the residents. Does that mean despair? No. Many measures can boost your home security and take your safety to the next level, according to Chandler Locksmith Pros. Let’s look at them;

1. Install security cameras

Whether you install indoor or outdoor cameras, you will have a priceless sense of security. The cameras ensure that your home is not an easy target for criminals. They are the best deterrents. However, security cameras can be expensive, and an average man may not afford to install them in their homes. In that case, you can go for “bogus” cameras; they can act as real deterrents as well. The camera should be installed all over the compound for easy tracking of criminals.

2. Remember to lock your doors

This is the most obvious security tip which is overlooked by most homeowners, however. Once you get out of your house, you should ensure that all the doors are locked properly. If you buy a home from somebody, you must meet a locksmith to change the locks on your new home. There may be malicious people out there with spare keys to your home; they can be dangerous. However, changing locks will give you the peace of mind since you will not be worried that somebody may have a copy of your keys.

3. Install an alarm system

Having an alarm system installed is a perfect way to scare buglers away from your home. While security cameras are real deterrents, a home alarm system is handy. While shopping for an alarm system, remember to check the response time of that company to ensure that you are fully covered from crime. An alarm system performs the following duties; Alerts the police about an ongoing crime• Deters criminals from accessing your home• Limits what a thief can steal. Your alarm should be engaged at night or when you are away from your house.

4. Protect sliding glass doors

Needless to say, sliding glass doors are vulnerable to burglary because they are very delicate – thieves can easily break into your house through them. Installing security bars can make the access through these doors a little bit difficult, enhance the safety of your home as a result.

5. Install strong doors

Weak doors can encourage thieves to break into your house at any time. Install doors that are constructed from quality materials to make it hard for criminals to kick them in. Customer reviews and listening to what your friends are saying can give you a gist of the best doors in the market. Moreover, you can visit your local locksmith to get invaluable advice on the kind of doors you need in your home.

6. Don’t share your private information with everybody

If you are going for a vacation, you should never allow thieves to know about it. Many criminals break into people’s homes when the homeowners are away. Therefore, if you are going out, let it remain a secret. You can even call a trusted friend to stay at your home for the time you will be away.

7. Get regular home security checks

Taking advantage of your local area police service is important. There are areas in your home that needs security improvements, but you may not be aware of them. Calling the police department for a security check can help you identify those weak points (which are targets for criminals) and make necessary adjustments on them. The police officers will inspect both the inside and outside of your compound to ensure that you are safe.

8. Employ a private security guard

If you hire a professional residential security guard, you will be sure that your family and property is safe. These people are highly trained, and the fact that your life is in their hands makes them vigilant to any suspicious person around your home. The security guards patrol all the areas of your home and ensure that everything is in good condition. With a professional security guard, you can have the peace of mind.

The bottom line You don’t need to spend a lot of money to protect your family and property from buglers. The simple tips in this article can solve your security concerns. Try them!

The Top 5 Lock Brands In The United States

Posted by Paul Murphy on Jun 6, 2016 in Locksmith |

Currently, one of the greatest security trends is installing top security locks which keep home and businesses safe and secure. Any commercial business owners who want to boost the security of their buildings have many lock brand choices available.

Each homeowner knows that the quality door lock is a vital part of home security. Security is often a high priority for many people, when it comes to selecting door locks for their homes in the US, followed by cost, finish as well as style.

For a low price, one can easily enhance the security of their home with a broad variety of different door locks which are available today in the United States market.

Choosing the best locks for your doors is based on whether a door is interior or exterior, as each kind of door requires a fully different locking mechanism. Taking that into consideration, let us have a look at the top 5 lock brands in the US according to lakeoswegolocksmith.net:

1. Schlage Locks

These locks provide multiple benefits as well as innovations which most brands don’t. This is possibly one of the reasons the brand is recommended by several locksmiths, builders, homeowners, and even security personnel.

Schlage locks are known for their tubular design which makes them almost impossible to pick. What is more, the keys have a distinct shape and biting on numerous faces of the key making them difficult to replicate.

These locks are very resistant to kick-ins and any other types of tampering, due to their forged brass construction.

2. Kwikset Locks

Kwikset is a lock and the lockset manufacturer owned by the Spectrum Brands Hardware and Home Improvement Group (HHI), an American international.

The firm produces and distributes an entire line of door locks as well as door accessories including door knobs, deadbolts, electronic keyless entry locks for commercial, door levers, and residential applications and much more.

The majority of US enterprises and households depend on these locks for top security and peace of mind. They aren’t only reliable but also relatively affordable compared to most door lock brands on the market today.

Kwikset locks can be found in nearly every United States store dealing in locks. Even though most consumers believe that cheap products are poor quality, do not be mistaken by this common misleading assumption, Kwikset Locks are some of the greatest locks in class within the market.

3. Omnia Lock

For about half a century, Omnia Industries, Inc has been producing and supplying a broad variety of quality door locks and other accessories at a low cost.

Crafted from aluminum and brass to match the decor of your office building or home, Omnia products are simple yet provide a contemporary style.

The locks they produce are simple but provide a modern style. Most of their accessories are made of aluminum and brass to complete the decor of any office building.

They combine style with reliability and durability without putting any dent in your wallet. The firm distributes its line through the popular wholesale distributors and retail showrooms in the trade.

Their major customer base is the US. However, they also export to the neighboring countries such as Canada, and overseas.

4. Baldwin Locks

Having been in business for nearly 7 decades, the Baldwin Lock American brand is currently a household name regarding home security.

It’s one of the best lock brands in the US with most consumers-homeowners and businesses alike, due to its pioneering ideas as well as remarkable quality.

While their competitors are machine-made, Baldwin locks are hand-crafted to offer the highest quality, greatest performance and to be aesthetically-appealing.

The firm also manufactures high-quality lock accessories which are suitable for each building which needs high security be it commercial or residential.

5. Weslock Door Locks and Accessories

Weslock is another popular door locks and accessories producer in the United States. Since 1932, the firm has lived up to its high reputation for innovative and quality locks and door accessories.

So if safety, security, as well as design, are your priorities, then consider this brand as your choice for reliable and quality door locks and accessories for your safe haven.

Not only are their products strong and durable, but they also provide a visual appeal for your home, due to the designs which improve the look and feel of your home.

Even though the list of the best lock brands in the US is extensive, these are the brands which are proven and associated with each American office building or home.

If the safety of your business premises or home is one of your high priorities, then go for any one of these locks and accessories brands. All of them give value for money.

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