Benefits of a Home Safe

When you own a home, you have a lot to keep protected. Having locks on the front doors is mandatory, but that doesn’t mean it is enough. You might be the type of person who really values finer things – maybe you have a lot of jewelry sitting around because you love to collect fancy new pieces. Maybe you love to keep very meaningful items, but not ones that you would necessarily display, like important documents, notes and cards. You might even have a weapon in your home that, more than just valuable, is dangerous.

Federal Way Washington Locksmith recognizes that in homes are many important, valuable and sometimes dangerous items which need to be locked away in a safe. And that is why they have put together information to encourage locals in Federal Way, WA and elsewhere in the country, to take advantage of home safes. There are numerous options available. And there are many different reasons for wanting a safe. Have a look at some of the benefits to having a home safe, as listed here. Hopefully it will leave you convinced to buy one for your residence, so that you can enjoy the protection and security that it offers. Here are some benefits to owning one:

1. Valuables can be placed in a safe. Items like jewelry and important documents can be locked away so they are safe. If someone were to break into your home they wouldn’t necessarily find these things. If your home were to catch fire or suffer damage from a flood, the items in the safe would be protected, so long as you had a water resistant or fire resistant safe.
2. Safes help with organization. How often do you misplace little things? If you had the ability to keep them in a safe, you might be less inclined to misplace them. Consider using a safe for storing passports and birth certificates, and even veterinary paperwork. These aren’t things you will need to access often, so keeping them in a safe might be your best bet. You will always know where they are, to say the least.
3. Cash can be kept inside of a safe. Again, this is where a water resistant or fire resistant safe would come in handy. Your paper money would be protected from damage. And if your property were to be broken into, the safe might not be in an obvious location.
4. A safe can be used for weapon storage. Many homeowners have guns. Others have knives. These are items that are extremely dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands. If you have small children in your home, then you know that they like to explore and “get into things” that they are not supposed to. You can avoid tremendous damage if weapons are kept locked away in a safe.

Clearly, a safe can make a huge difference for property owners who are in need of better protection. Rather than keeping items hidden away in a drawer where anyone can access them, when you use a safe, you are opting to use something that you are able to lock and even hide the key for. There are numerous kinds available, starting from very small safes that can easily be moved to larger ones that are meant to remain in one place.

It is a wise idea to do your research and look up an expert provider that is able to offer services to your local area in regards to home security. Federal Way Washington Locksmith is here to assist anyone who is looking for assistance in this part of Washington. It is a great idea to call to take advantage of a free consultation, whether that is with a business in WA or anywhere else in the country. Ask questions. You have so many different solutions to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to stop. Expressing your specific needs and concerns will prove to be helpful. Letting an expert know what your safe will be used for, will be very helpful. They can help you by pointing out specific sizes, styles and more.

Lock and Security Services

You are sure to find so many solutions which are available to you, because technology is constantly changing and new solutions are coming out every day. You will be able to find features that can help with home protection. Maybe you need better locks for your furniture, like drawers and cabinets, because you do want to place important items in these locations, in addition to your home safe. Or maybe you would like to go keyless wherever possible, because the thought of carrying around yet another key is nothing short of frustrating. You can get digital safes, keyless safes, and so much more. Of course, you will always be able to come across something to fit within your budget. Whether you are interested in spending a very small amount of money or have no problem spending one thousand dollars, you will find the right safe for you. The TL-15 Fireproof Safe – Dial Lock, for instance, is a high quality safe that is available for $1000. On the other hand, there are small security safes that can be purchased for well under $50.

Invest in a Safe!

Whether it is small, meaningful items without much financial worth that you want to lock away, very expensive items, or even significant paperwork that just can’t be misplaced, it is a great idea to invest in a safe for your home, even if you only opt for a small, inexpensive one. Just think of the difference it could make in your life, and imagine how much stress it could save if your home ever became flooded or damaged in another way. Protect your most valuable items. Keep what is important to you close. Check out home safe options to lock away your important memories, items and even weapons.

Aricle source here: Benefits of a Home Safe

How to Successfully Find the Best Locks

Don’t be in a rush to buy your locks. When you rush, you often end up with something that you do not want or that is no good. Take your time to make sure you get exactly what you pay for by taking your time to locate the best locks possible. You want to choose a lock that will provide you with the best level of security possible. It doesn’t really matter where you get purchase your locks, you need to make sure you go with an idea of what you’re looking for in terms of locks. While it might be easier for you to just buy the same locks that you already have, it might not be in your best interest. This article will go into detail about how you can successfully find the right locks for your doors and windows. Locating the ‘right’ locks means that you’ll find locks that cannot be easily broken or compromised. It is possible to find these types of locks when you know what you are actually looking for.

Getting What You Pay For

There is a lot of truth to the expression, “you get what you pay for when it comes to quality of locks. A good, sturdy lock will often cost you more than a standard lock. There are locks that just keep doors shut while there are other locks that help to maximize the level of security you experience. In order to better secure your home, it will be necessary for you to buy locks that offer you the effectiveness you need at a price that is reasonable. Buying a good, durable lock that cannot be compromised is possible. The number rating that is indicated on locks is the rating that is supposed to let you know the level of durability that particular lock offers to you. In recent years it has been reported that the numbers indicated do not accurately represent the level of durability these locks offer. If you want to be sure that the lock you are buying is a good, sturdy lock with durability, consult with one of our professional locksmiths at Federal Way Washington Locksmith in Washington, WA.

Right Pricing

Make sure you know in advance what you want to spend on a new lock before setting out to find what you are looking for. The more expensive the lock, the better your chances are of having a durable lock that actually does the job it is meant to do. Some people may not want to buy the higher priced lock but we assure you that it is worth the upfront investment. A lock that is becoming more popular is the smart lock. This locks offers the best level of durability and effectiveness. It uses advanced technology to offer you the effectiveness that you need and want. It is more effective than traditional locks because it is hard to compromise. Although many businesses use this type of lock; more homeowners are finding it useful too. It has proven effectiveness and is worth every dime spent on having it installed. Even if this type of lock doesn’t interest you, you don’t have to worry; there are still lots of great locks to choose from. The thing to remember when selecting a good lock is that you are actually paying for the construction of the lock. Good solid construction is used in the design of the most durable locks offered today. This is actually how its level of effectiveness is determined.

Information About Lock Brands

Just because you may have heard of a Kwikset lock or Schlage doesn’t mean for certain that they are offer the best protection and durability. Just because they are familiar to you doesn’t make them a good lock. It could simply be due to the manufacturers ability to market their brand. In some cases, you might be familiar with a particular brand simply because they market to a wide audience with a variety of locks. They have a larger share of the market. You can’t trust everylock that is made by a popular brand. If you notice a lock that you’ve never heard of, it could be due to the fact that it was made oversees. The craftsmanship of such locks is usually not that good. It is the fit of the lock that actually determines the locks effectiveness not the brand.

A Good Deadbolt Lock

Many deadbolt locks are installed alongside another type of lock. It offers an added level of security. We highly encourage homeowners to apply a deadbolt lock on the exterior locks. The actual location of where your door-knob is located is generally where your deadbolt lock is also located. A deadbolt lock is either double-sided or single sided. The double-sided lock opens from both sides; the single deadbolt can only be opened from one side. The problem is when you have a double-sided lock you also require a key to open either side. If you’re unable to locate both keys in an emergency situation, it can result in a tragic ending. Carefully consider the type of deadbolt lock that will work best for your situation. If you’re uncertain about the deadbolt lock that you would like to have installed, consult with a local locksmith in Washington.

You’ll definitely need to carefully consider whether or not the double-sided deadbolt lock is best for you. A certified locksmith technician in Federal Way, WA will be able to provide you with information about the locks advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you find the right one for your home or business.

Key Objective

There is one underlying objective in having a lock installed; it should be installed effectively. If you don’t have a good locksmith to install your locks, it will be ineffective in any type of door. The key to having a lock that is properly installed is to have a great lock installed by qualified locksmith service.

Aricle source here: How to Successfully Find the Best Locks

What To Do In Different Lockout Situations

It’s a fact; you can get locked out anywhere or anytime. All you need is a moment of inattention and a lock! Lockouts happen at home, at your car or even at your workplace, or business. You can’t always prevent them from occurring but you can be ready for one so that when (or if) it happens, the impact is not so great. This is why our Federal Way Washington Locksmith pros have put this post together; we want to lessen the impact of your next lockout and maybe even prevent it altogether!

First things first; keep your cool!

Don’t you hate it when people say to “calm down?” It usually only makes things more tense! In lockout situations though; it’s true. Staying calm is going to help you a whole lot more than panicking or getting angry. Finding blame with yourself or someone else won’t get that door or trunk unlocked; it just hurts feelings and clouds your mind with stress and guilt.

At home, you might have walked over to the neighbors to return his mail that came to you by mistake. You come back to a locked door; how’s that for doing a good deed and getting nothing for it?

Lockouts happen at work or business all the time. You are trying to open shop for the day and briefly run out to set up your open or sale signs and find that you are unable to get back where the keys are! To make matters worse; customers are starting to drive up!

Auto lockouts are some of the most common incidents here in Federal Way, WA. Keys can become lost or stolen, and sometimes rushed drivers can leave them in the ignition while multi-tasking and running in to pick up the dry cleaning!

Staying calm allows you to think clearly and to make rational decisions. It also keeps you from looking noticeable to someone who may have noticed your dilemma and is thinking of taking advantage of you or your situation.

Don’t force your way back inside!

If you asked 10 people on the street what they would do if they got locked out, most would say “call a locksmith!” but in reality a few of them would try and break back inside their home, car or business. Federal Way Washington Locksmith discourages this! Not only can you cause bodily injury and property damage, you also could get mistaken for a burglar and cited, arrested or even shot by a neighbor or policeman. Try thinking with your head and NOT your emotions as the damage you cause by breaking back inside can be more expensive than simply calling for a local Federal Way, WA locksmith.

Now, if you have a toddler, pet or elderly person in the house or car, then that’s another story – you do what you have to do to save them. But if the situation is not an emergency then simply resist the urge to pry a door or window open or smash glass just to get back inside!

Spare key use

Spare keys can be so useful and helpful. They can also be a disaster waiting to happen! We’ve all heard about the person that hides a spare key under the door mat or in the flower pot next to the front door. This scenario is so common that television shows and movies include this in their episodes. Yes, doing this can allow you to get back into your house. It can also let any stranger inside, too! Don’t make it easy for anyone to gain illegal entry to your property. Make a spare key and only give it to a trusted friend, neighbor or family member and tell them to keep it in a safe and easy to remember place.

If you don’t have someone in your life that you trust like that, compromise and hide the key, but not where it is conspicuous. Try places like inside the BBQ grill or taped underneath a lawn chair in the backyard. Use your imagination but don’t forget where you put it and don’t be obvious. The same strategy goes for your car and business locks.

Find a locksmith NOW!

That’s right; find a locksmith now, BEFORE you need one! The “old” ways of getting locked out and then trying to find a pay phone as well as one of those huge yellow page phone books are long gone! Nowadays everyone carries a smart phone at all times. Many even sleep with their phones under the pillow! This gives us the perfect method for dealing with lock and key emergencies; have a lock professional (or two) logged in your contacts list! If you find yourself needing to get back inside your property; just tap to call!

While you are waiting

Having called your locksmith of choice, you now have a little while to wait for him to arrive. We recommend that you make another call. This time to a friend, close associate or family member. If you trusted them with your spare key, there’s really no reason to call the locksmith but if you haven’t, it helps to have someone to talk to during the wait. Doing this has a calming effect on you as well as providing you with a “witness” to your situation if you should run into any problems.

Be selective!

You should always want the best quality for you and your loved ones. You deserve it. This also applies to locksmith service. It’s a myth that the best always costs more. We are here to tell you that you can find best-quality, full service locksmith shops here in Federal Way, WA that are both affordable and available on a round the clock basis. Do your due diligence now and make a few calls. Look for licensed, bonded and insured professionals that offer free price quotes, free consultations and fast, same day service. Insist on 24-hour emergency assistance that actually responds and is not just advertised. Lockouts may still happen but if one occurs in your life, you’ll be ready!

Aricle source here: What To Do In Different Lockout Situations

WHEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR LOCKS?

Sometimes, you will have trouble with locks and keys. Even if there’s a locksmith somewhere who will be available in the middle of the night, it’s still better to be pro-active instead, so that you’ll already be prepared if you encounter difficulties. Then you’ll be sure to prevent most potential key and lock problems.

For all of us, keeping your home safe and secure is very important. You want your place of residence to be a sanctuary, where you’ll always enjoy your privacy and feel comfortable. Accordingly, it’s essential to keep all your residential locks in topnotch condition. Be sure that your front-door locks ~ and any other exterior locks ~ are always functioning well, with tiptop durability. You’ll keep your loved ones and possessions suitably protected when your locks are solid.

Consider These Important Points

New Roommates or Tenants

If you rent out space in your house or apartment, or if you have any rental properties, you absolutely must replace the locks, every single time you switch occupants. Even if the previous people returned their keys, you cannot be totally sure that they didn’t keep their spare keys. If a break-in ever were to happen, you don’t want to have doubts about former residents. Keep your property effectively guarded with the resilient, dependable locks.

A New Home

When you move into a new residence, the same principles that apply to your rentals apply. You just never know who may still have an old key to your place lying around; that’s why it’s critical that you get the locks changed right away.

Lost Keys

Did you mislay your keys? It might take some time for you to admit it, but if you have to accept the fact that your keys are lost for good, then you must change out your locks as soon as possible. All outdoor locks, which could allow a trespasser access, ought to be replaced. Once all exterior locks are secured, replace interior locks in the order of your personal security preferences.

Normal Wear and Tear

Worn-out or rusted locks are a major weak spot in your home security. They’ll grow increasingly hard to open as the years pass. Old or rusted locks are much easier for a burglar to pick or break. If you have a rusted lock, or if it’s badly tarnished, or showing any other signs of wear, it’s time to replace it. If it’s difficult to open a lock with the key, particularly in cold weather, then it’s a good idea to replace it.

Rusty Locks

You and your family go in and out your doors so many times, day in and day out. As time goes by, locks will become worn-out or rusted, which means they’re bound to break. If you observe any signs of rust, you’ll see that it’s almost impossible to put the key in the lock mechanism, and you may not even be able to turn the key at all. If so, replace the lock.

Stuck Keys

In a faulty lock mechanism, your key can get stuck, or may even break off. If there’s any issue with an internal lock mechanism, the key simply won’t slide into the lock as effortlessly as it should. If you notice resistance when you turn your key, that’s a sign you should soon replace the lock.

Combination Locks

Are you always losing your keys? Then you may want to decide to replace your standard lock with a combination door lock. Combination door locks are opened using a code you choose. If the combination input ever fails, or if you need to gain entry because you lose or forget your code, don’t fret, because most combination locks also have a keyed lock as well. Change the combination if you ever realize that its access could’ve been compromised, as you would replace a regular lock if you ever misplaced your keys.

Deadbolts

Depending upon your living circumstances, if you’re feeling vulnerable at your place for any reason, any professional locksmith in Federal Way will advise you to replace your traditional locks with deadbolts to best enhance your security.

Damaged Locks

If your locks are ever tampered with, then get new locks. Don’t take risks! Replace your locks, now. Don’t keep a damaged lock, because it will make you susceptible to more problems, and make it easier for an intruder to enter.

Break-ins

If, heaven forbid, you’ve sustained a robbery, it’s imperative that you replace your locks. The brute force involved during a break-in definitely compromises the lock mechanism’s integrity. A damaged lock puts you at a greater risk of another burglary. What’s more, mechanical malfunction could possibly leave you locked out. Moreover, you never know if your keys might’ve fallen into the wrong hands. Replace all your locks without delay.

Going Digital

Do you want to go high-tech? Then replace your conventional locks with digital locks. It’s a great way to secure your home’s doors, and you won’t have to use any keys at all. Keyless locks have certainly opened new horizons in home security technology. They work with keypads; smart devices; remotes; alarm systems; biometrics; and so on. Once you are accustomed to them, keyless locks are fairly uncomplicated to use. Most include an attractive selection of features to provide you safety and convenience.

Peace of Mind

Your locks don’t necessarily have to show visible signs of damage to tell you that you need to replace your locks. After quite awhile of living some place, you may forget how many friends, neighbors, and family members you’ve given copies of your keys to; therefore, to fortify your security, it’s a good idea to periodically replace locks, in order to maintain your home properly. You’ll have much-deserved peace of mind, knowing that you’re keeping your family and possessions extra safe.

If you live anywhere in Federal Way, Washington, and you have questions about replacing locks, hire a reliable locksmith professional. You may want to schedule an appointment with a staff mobile residential locksmith specialist of Federal Way Washington Locksmith, where free consultations are available.

Aricle source here: WHEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR LOCKS?

Problems With Transponder Keys

The team at Federal Way Washington Locksmith has been happy to provide details in relation to transponder keys and issues which might come up. No matter where you are, if you happen to use transponder key technology, you will find that this information is helpful.

What is a transponder key and how does it work?

A transponder key uses a transponder chip and it works by disarming the immobilizer of a vehicle. The key sends a message electronically which comes from the engine control unit. The transponder chip basically is a match for one that is in the ignition system, and the chip needs to be within a certain distance of the car to provide the code needed to start the vehicle. In addition, the key needs to be able to fit in the ignition lock.

If you bought your vehicle after the mid-1990s, then it is very likely that it contains a transponder chip. With this type of key and anti-theft system, it is safe to say that only the rightful owner of a vehicle will be able to access it. A person with bad intentions shouldn’t be able to steal your vehicle or start it at all without the right key. Added measures of security are always helpful. Of course, with added security comes the chance for issues to arise.

Of course, as with any technology, transponder keys aren’t perfect and problems can come up as previously mentioned. Have a look at this list which was put together by Federal Way, WA experts. If you are dealing with any of these problems, heed the advice provided. Remember that this is a very important part of your vehicle, and you need it to keep your car and valuables inside safe. You will also need it to access your car.

Potential Transponder Key Problems

1. The chip appears to be damaged. If this happens, you should make an appointment with your dealership or with your local locksmith.
2. The transponder key was misplaced. If you can’t find your key, have an expert program a new one. Of course, not just anyone can do this. One would have to have a specific tool and equipment to get this done. Who should you turn to? Again, a local locksmith or your dealership.
3. The transponder key doesn’t work. This might be the result of a dead battery. However, many transponder keys don’t have a battery. If you don’t know whether or not yours does, so you are unable to figure out if a dead battery is the issue, it is best to talk with an expert.
4. A refurbished transponder key is unable to be programmed. When you decide to buy a refurbished key, which many people often times do online in an effort to save money, what they don’t realize is that the chip was harvested from a different key. It was then put into your key, and for this reason, you might not be able to have it reprogrammed. The chips ends up being locked which is a safety feature. For this reason, it is best to buy the transponder key directly from an expert, rather than a random online source.

From encrypted keys to zero bitted keys, there are different options available when it comes to transponder keys and a professional will know the differences.

Get on the phone with an expert!

There are lock and security providers that specialize in automotive security solutions, so they will be able to talk with you about all things transponder keys. Whether you have questions about buying products from a reliable source, or just want some advice which might help you to better understand why your transponder key isn’t working, an expert will be able to help you. Because most locksmiths offer consultations for free, you should have confidence that you can obtain any desired information. An alternative is to talk with the dealership from which you purchased your car, or with a dealership that sells your vehicle. There are experts working at these locations who can answer all of your questions.

Don’t buy online simply because it’s cheaper…you have to be careful!

There are some companies which are very reputable but will refuse to work with a key that wasn’t purchased through them. This tends to be for safety and security reasons. It is important that you talk with an expert prior to making the purchase.

Don’t trust everything you read online…

It is a well-known fact that you can find videos and instructions online for just about anything. There are YouTube videos which offer how to information on how to bypass transponder chips for different cars, or how to program transponder keys on your own. Some of them offer valid information, like the fact that you need to get an appropriate blank, but you should know that literally anyone can post online. Anyone can post an informational YouTube video, but this doesn’t mean that the information is truly accurate. Your best bet is always to go through an expert.

No matter what you drive, whether it is a Ford or Toyota truck, Mazda Protégé, Miata, Hyundai, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Chevrolet, BMW, Lexus, Toyota Tundra, Volkswagen Beatle, Subaru, Nissan, Volvo or anything else, you should be able to find experts who specialize in transponder key programming, duplication and other auto lock related services. It is best to hire a licensed and insured locksmith to cut your new keys for you. Just remember that not just anyone can be trusted to handle the security of your property. Do your research and be sure to hire the best person for the job. If you are in Federal Way, WA or in the surrounding area, dial up the team at Federal Way Washington Locksmith. They have excellent reviews, affordable prices and provide quality services. Hopefully you have found this information to be helpful in your search for more information on transponder keys.

Aricle source here: Problems With Transponder Keys

Why Allow A Locksmith to Replace Your Car Keys

If you are constantly losing or misplacing your car keys, the practical thing to do would be to have a replacement key made. While this is undoubtedly the most practical thing to do, you would be surprised at how many people do not have one. If you lose your car key, it is usually also at the most inconvenient time; when you’re in a hurry, when it’s too cold or too hot outside or when it is raining outside. Even after this happens, people still refuse to get a new key made. It isn’t always because they don’t want to have another one made; it could be because they have a key that is more expensive than the traditional car key, to have made. If you use a transponder key or fob key, it is definitely going to be more expensive to replace. These types of keys are more expensive due to the components of the mechanism. While it is possible for you to contact a dealership to find out how much they will charge for a replacement key, opting to use the services of a locksmith to replace your car key is a lot less expensive.

Not every locksmith has the necessary equipment to replace or program transponder keys. However, it is becoming a lot more common these days to find one that has invested in the necessary equipment. They realize just how beneficial it is to not only the motorist, but to them also. They get their piece of the market share by offering key duplicating and programming services for newer model cars. The reason that a locksmith is capable of providing you with this type of key for less than a dealership is because they don’t usually carry the extra overhead, therefore, they don’t need to mark up the prices to make up the difference. This is why some people are choosing to rely on the services of a local Federal Way locksmith service, such as, Federal Way Washington Locksmith to replace their car keys.

Here are some additional reasons to choose a locksmith to handle this job rather than a car dealership:

1. Professionalism

You can trust that a locksmith will be able to effectively handle the job of replacing your key due to their training and hands on experience. They have all of the necessary qualifications to perform the job of replacing your key. You could hire just anyone who offers to replace your key for you but make certain that they have all of the necessary tools to do so before wasting your time. Only hire a reputable and reliable locksmith in Federal Way.

        2. Covenience

When you hire the services of a professional locksmith, they can usually come to your location because they will likely offer 24-hour mobile services. A professional locksmith will usually predict the needs of their customer. Losing a car key can be a major inconvenience. It is because of the inconvenience of having to have your car towed to a dealership that some people would rather contact a mobile locksmith service to replace their key.

When you are asking for a key to be replaced from an auto dealership you have to take identifying documents, such as, car registration, drivers license and vehicle identification number and possibly more. Wow! Getting this paperwork together can be nightmare within itself. On the other hand, when you hire a locksmith, you’ll find that their services are faster and more convenient. You will not be required all of the documents. Only one or two pieces of identification are required and you usually already have this information on you. Most people who use the services of a locksmith also appreciate that they will come to wherever they are rather than spending additional money on towing services.

3. Emergency Services.

Lets say for instance you have lost your key late at night or in the morning, you realize that you have misplaced your keys. This calls for the help of a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith service will be able to assist you in an emergency automotive lock or key situation. If you’re car key will not turn in the ignition, your key need reprogramming; you can count on the services of a locksmith. They will come to your location, equipped to handle the job for you. Getting immediate servicing is possible when you contact a locksmith instead of waiting for the dealership to open, you can get back on the road faster.

4. Reliable Services.

Since locksmith services dependable on your needing them, you can expect them to be very reliable. They will show up as quickly as possible because they understand that you can simply contact the next locksmith in the area rather than waiting forever to get the help you need. On some rare occasions, you may come across a locksmith who isn’t as eager to serve you but for the most part, a locksmith service can be relied on when you are in a pinch. They understand the level of frustration that is associated with losing a car key and in this case there is no one better to help you than a locksmith.

5. Save Time.

You will likely have to wait when you go to an auto dealership to have a key replaced. In some cases, you can’t even wait; you have to wait for a week or longer before you can actually receive the replacement key. Relying on the services of a locksmith means you only lose an hour of two out of your entire day.

So in addition to offering you an expensive solution for a frustrating situation, there are a host of additional reasons why you might want to consider hiring the services of locksmith to replace your car key if it is lost or stolen. These are some things to consider the next time you need to have your car key replaced.

Aricle source here: Why Allow A Locksmith to Replace Your Car Keys

Locks for sliding glass doors

Most homes, condos and apartments here in Federal Way, WA have one or more sliding glass doors. These doors offer ease of access as they simply slide over enough to allow entry or exit while providing a clear and sometimes picturesque view of whatever is on the outside. By all accounts, sliding glass doors are useful but they can have drawbacks when it comes to security. For one thing; most of these doors are on the back or side of the home giving burglars better protection from being seen from the street. Also, since they slide over so much, there is ample room for the crook to not only enter; but to fit your furniture and other belongings through the sliding door opening.

You may be wondering; what good is an extra lock on your sliding glass door when a burglar or home invader can just smash the glass and step inside? Sometimes they actually do that but usually the noise and possibility of broken glass injury are deterrents. Many people go in and out of glass doors so much; they don’t bother to lock them at all. Crooks know this and they often enter the premises easily, quickly and noiselessly by simply walking right in.

Even locking your sliding glass door at night or when you’re away is often not enough. The locks that come with these doors are usually not of the highest quality and can be bypassed by intruders quite easily. The need for an additional lock is great and often just the sight of having to bypass two locks is enough to make your would-be robber move on to “lower hanging fruit.”

So what can you do?

First of all, start by locking your sliding glass door before retiring at night or whenever you leave the house, even if it’s for a short while. Get your partner, children or roommates to do the same. Not to be paranoid, but statistics show that not only here in Federal Way, but all over the country, intruders often just enter homes at all hours of the day or night because of unlocked doors.

Next, you can get a replacement bar for your glass door. These stretch the entire length of the door and since they are made of reinforced metal, they offer that extra bit of protection and peace of mind. Just be sure to get a sturdy bar and install it securely and correctly. An ill-fitting one that is made of cheap material will offer little to no extra protection and is simply not worth the effort.

What about broom handles?

Broom handles, plastic PVC tubing and even two by fours are often inserted in the tracks at the base of the sliding glass doors. Here at Federal Way Washington Locksmith we feel that these are better than nothing but if you use them, make sure that it is only temporary. Here’s why. Your sliding door rests on rollers. These are what make it easy to slide the glass door open and shut. Have you ever had these repaired, replaced or adjusted? The repair man simply lifts the door off of the lower track and removes it! A burglar knows to do the same thing and no broom handle or plastic pipe can prevent that.

Use a pin lock!

One of the best ways to prevent your sliding glass door from being lifted off the tracks is to use a pin lock. These inexpensive locks also have a secondary benefit; they prevent the door from opening in case you forgot to lock it. Pin locks can be purchased at hardware stores, locksmith shops and from local retailers like Wal-Mart, Lowes, Home Depot and Best Buy. You can buy them online, too. Check Amazon, Craigslist and the websites from the stores listed above. You’ll need a drill and a screwdriver to do the installation and it should take you less than 30 minutes depending on your speed and skill with tools. When entering your key words in the search engines for pin locks be sure to add the words “pin locks for sliding glass doors” and you should be good to go.

You can also find How To installation videos on Vimeo, YouTube and other video sites. If you feel confident in your ability to install the lock; do so. If not, you can call a handyman or local locksmith and get it done professionally. When checking for rates, be sure and specify that you want just the lock or the lock AND installation. If you have more than one sliding glass door, be sure and outfit the others with pin locks, as well.

Steel mortise locks

If you are looking for greater sliding glass door lock security that also looks good, be sure to check out mortise locks made of steel. These sturdy locks should be installed by professionals and they cost a little more than pin locks. You can purchase them from Amazon if you feel confident at do-it-yourself work or you can go through a local Federal Way, WA locksmith. You can even buy the lock(s) online and have your locksmith do the installations for you. These locks are installed directly into your door frame and are reversible so that they can be mounted on left hand or right hand sliding doors. Many lock manufacturers offer an installation video online that can be viewed for those that like being their own handyman.

Final tips

As you can see, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to make your sliding glass door(s) safer and less susceptible to burglars. Just use common sense and lock your doors more often and at crucial times. Remember, you see your glass door as a convenient portal to the outside. A burglar sees it as a sliding access to your home’s interior and to your belongings. Upgrade your sliding glass door locks or simply add a good pin lock and start enjoying added peace of mind and protection for you and your loved ones.

Aricle source here: Locks for sliding glass doors