The most basic and fundamental element of security for any property
is a locked door. Locked doors are still your best and easiest defense
against unwanted entry. There are certain times that you should consider
replacing your locks to ensure that your property is optimally
secure. Modern locksmiths have access to all the lock technology that is
needed and can service any lock and key needs that you need right on
site. Be sure to find a locksmith that specifically services the Elmwood
Park, IL area.
You know if you’ve experienced a burglar breaking in to your home
that one of the first things you do is to change your locks. There are
plenty of other times that it’s important to consider changing your
locks to maintain the security of your property. Despite all of the
technological upgrades in the security field in recent years, door locks
are still the most necessary component of home and business defense. If
your door locks are not functioning optimally they are not protecting
your home and may even be putting you in danger. Don’t let this problem
continue without considering changing your locks.
Choosing Between Rekeying and Replacing Your Locks
Rekeying and replacing your locks are not the same things, and the
differences between the two services are important to consider. Rekeying
is usually a cheaper option that involves taking your existing locks,
removing the cylinder, and moving the pins around inside to form a new
configuration that requires a brand new key. If it’s more convenient,
you can usually unscrew your entire doorknob and take it into a
locksmith to have the locks rekeyed. If you’re current lock hardware
is fairly new and in good shape, this might be a good option for your
situation.
If, however, your locks have been damaged or are otherwise old or in
poor condition, it’s best to change them out for brand new locks. A
locksmith can install new hardware that will last a long time and be
better able to stand up against any security threats. Changing the locks
is a different process because it involves completely taking out the
old lock parts and replacing them with brand new hardware that is
installed the door.
Situations in Which You Should Consider Replacing Your Locks
When You Lose Your Keys
You’ve looked all over the place, but you can’t find your keys.
Someone else being in possession of your keys makes it easy to walk
right in your door. It’s doubly important to change your locks if
someone else stole your keys, even if you’re not sure if they know where
you live. If this happens to you, call a locksmith as soon as possible to have the locks changed to eliminate this vulnerability.
When You Move In to a New Place
When you first move in to your home or apartment, you might be
excited to get that set of keys that signified you having your own
place. However, you can’t guarantee that there aren’t spare keys
floating around out there to your existing locks. Although most tenants
and sellers replace the locks before transferring ownership of their
properties, this is not always the case. If previous tenants used the
same locks as you currently have, there could definitely be spare keys
that exist, and you might not know it until a stranger walks through
your door one day.
Many apartment landlords are reluctant to let their tenants change
the locks, but it’s worth discussing the issue frankly with them. Let
them know your concerns and see if a compromise can be made.
When Your Locks Have Seen Better Days
If you’ve had your home for 15 or more years and you’ve never changed
the locks, it’s probably time to consider doing so. Every lock gets
worn out over time just from the normal use of everyday life. Worn out
locks simply aren’t going to be able to do a good job protecting your
home. Additionally, older styles of knob locks are more vulnerable to
lock-picking and lock-bumping, two methods favored by thieves to defeat
the locks.
Signs that your locks are becoming aged include your key sticking in
the lock, visible scratches or damage, and difficulty turning the lock
mechanism. Instead of jiggling your keys in your locks every time you go
to open them, which will only inevitably cause more damage, consider
having a locksmith coming in to assess your locks and provide you with
solutions for replacing and even upgrading your existing hardware.
If Someone Leaves Your Residence
None of us want to think of our former friends or roommates as being
criminals, but you never know who they may have shared keys with. It’s
not worth the risk to trust that your locks are still safe. Let your
roommate or other party know a specific deadline that they have to be
out by and that you are changing the locks. Even if they claim to be
giving you any spare keys, it’s best to trust your gut instincts in the
situation and decide for yourself whether it’s worth the cost to change
the locks.
Another scenario is if you’ve just experienced a bad breakup, are
fighting with a friend, or are in the middle of a divorce. If that other
party has a copy of your keys, it’s important just to be safe to
completely change the locks. This avoids any unpleasant scenarios where
they try to claim access to your residence.
As you can see, there are many situations in which it might be
appropriate to change your locks. Only you can decide if it’s really
necessary, but if you’re worried about the cost or the hassle, be sure
to consider the potential cost of a break-in or other issues if you don’t change your locks. If you’re ready to discuss changing your locks, select a quality locksmith company like A1 Elmwood Park Locksmith
to perform the job for you. Don’t try to change the locks yourself, as
you want to make sure that they are installed expertly, without any
issues that would make them vulnerable.
