TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS? THERE’S ALWAYS A SOLUTION!

We use keys and locks every day ~ automotive, residential, and commercial ~ and we hardly ever give it a second thought. We usually don’t think about it…until that one time…when something goes wrong. It’s always unnerving, but there’s no reason to waste your time going worrying and wondering how you can fix the situation. There are many ways to keep yourself secure, and to avoid most of the problems with locks and keys that could come up.

Take Extra Security Measures

 

Depending upon your living situation, if you’d like to feel more safe and secure at your place of residence or at your place of business, there are plenty of ways to give yourself peace of mind.

 

Install deadbolts. Any professional locksmith will tell you that deadbolts are your best bet. Make sure they’re properly installed, with at least a 1-inch throw. On the strike side, there should be a security plate with screws at least 3 inches long that goes all the way into the door’s wooden frame. If you have a window on or near your door, a thumb-turn deadbolt won’t do you much good, because an intruder can break the glass, put a hand in, and turn. To prevent this disaster, get a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key on the inside. There are many different types of deadbolts. Consult with an expert locksmith to learn all about them so you can choose what’s right for you and your property.

 

Some additional ways to provide further safety and security:

 

• hire a local, dependable experienced locksmith who is background-checked, bonded, certified, insured, and licensed
• keypads
• use only reputable superior-quality brands, at least a grade 2
• magnetic locks
• safeguard your valuables and crucial documents stored in a safe
• combination locks
• keyless remotes
• alarm systems

 

 

Take Preventive Measures to Maintain Your Locks

 

If you do what’s necessary to keep your locks in good shape, you may rarely need a locksmith will be rare. Keep an eye out for:

 

• rust
• trouble turning the key in the lock
• wear and tear
• difficulty putting the key into the lock mechanism

 

Should any of these issues arise, it is probably best to change your locks. Old and faulty locks are vulnerable to burglary. Worn-out locks are surely easier to pick and break. Nevertheless, there are things you can do to extend the life of your locks:

 

• If your key doesn’t turn, it’s because sometimes the pins can get jammed up. You may not need a locksmith if you spray the lock mechanism with WD-40 or silicone-based spray. This strategy can effectively solve the problem, so it’s worth a try.
• Routine lubrication. Anytime you notice any grinding or excess friction, apply a silicone-based spray to the keyholes around your property. As a routine, do it two times a year anyway.
• Periodically, replace your keys. We subject our keys to so much abuse, throwing them around, dropping them, and keeping them who knows where. Besides, we hastily use them in lock mechanisms day in and day out. So if you ever notice that your keys are beginning to show wear and tear, then it’s time to make a new key. Don’t forget to toss out the old ones.

 

When is it Absolutely Time to Change Your Locks?

 

• Following a break-in. If you’ve been robbed, then immediately all your outdoor locks, which are now vulnerable to another burglary, must be replaced.
• New tenants or roommates. If you rent out space in your house or apartment, or have any other rental properties of any kind, then you must replace locks each time you change occupants. Even if the last tenants gave you back their keys, you cannot ever be totally sure that there aren’t any spare keys jangling around out there.
• A new home. If you’ve just moved into a new home, then of course you ought to change your locks as soon as possible. Just as with rental properties, you simply never know which previous residents may still be in possession of their old keys.
• Lost keys. If you really have utterly lost your keys, then change your locks right away. You don’t want any intruders at your home.

 

 

What Should You Do if Your Key Breaks Off or Gets Stuck in the Lock?

 

Don’t be impatient with your keys! If you rush, you may find yourself stalled in your tracks, because you’ve broken your key right off in the lock! So slow down, and always take that few extra seconds with your key. You’ll definitely save yourself a lot of grief.

 

If your key breaks off inside the lock mechanism before you close the door, you won’t be able to lock it, which will leave you vulnerable to burglary. If your key breaks off inside the lock mechanism after you shut the door, you won’t be able to open the door again. A broken key can also damage the lock.

 

• If part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and you can see a little bit slightly sticking out, you may be able to pull it out yourself. If there’s enough of the key visible, you might be capable of getting it out with your fingers or with needle-nose pliers. If there’s any damage, then you’ll need to hire a professional locksmith.
• If you can’t see any part of your key sticking out of the lock, it’s risky to try anything yourself, because you may damage the lock. It could still be worth a shot, though. Use a flathead screwdriver small enough to fit in the keyhole. See if you can pry the key inside just to the point where it comes out of the lock a tiny bit. At this point, you may be able to remove it with pliers or your fingers.

 

 

It’s inevitable: There will be some time when you won’t be able to avoid hiring a locksmith. But don’t despair. If you’re in Hampton, Virginia, and you need an experienced professional locksmith you can count on, you’re in luck. Locksmith Hampton is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to come to the rescue!

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