Things to know about locks, and what to do and not do in an emergency.
Though locks are something we take for granted, it maybe of interest to know a few little facts about them, and what to do should something go wrong with them. This also involves what not to do, and what to tell a locksmith if you need one.
Always use a deadlock if you go out, as most break - ins occur when the door was only latched shut. Latched shut doors are easy to compromise by force or by non destructive entry.
If you have a non standard lock, ensure that you tell your locksmith should you need one. Many locksmiths come prepared for the most common in use locks, and do not appreciate traipsing backwards and forwards to get the right tools for the jobs, especially if you live in a tall block of flats.
If you have a high security lock fitted to your house, try and keep the number of the locksmith that fitted and supplied it. High security locks are hard to compromise and the locksmith that fitted it will have a better idea on how to tackle this in a non-destructive way.
If any of your locks get harder to use or make strange noises, call in a locksmith to service it. Prevention is far better than cure where locks are concerned and it may save the destruction of your door. This is especially relevant for multi-point locks.
If you can make a note of what kind of locks you have, and are able to give this information to a locksmith, you may well find yourself in your house a lot faster than if you have no idea what kind of locks they are. The chances are the locksmith can do it a non destructive way too. Some locks imprint their name on the part where the bolt comes out of the edge of the door, some on the part where you insert the key.
Should your key snap in the lock, it is best not to touch it and call a locksmith straight away. Retrieving snapped off keys is fairly straight forward for a locksmith providing there has been no interference from people poking at it, or trying elaborate schemes involving superglue. Interference will not only will you prolong the time involved at sorting the problem, but it could well involve fitting a new lock, so more cost too.
It is important that you cover your locks when painting. Preventing paint from gaining entry into a lock means the lock mechanisms wont stop working due to dried paint gluing them together. Also, by covering the lock, the finish on the door wont be damaged should a new lock need to be fitted.
If you need a key cut, use a reputable establishment and one that is near to where you live. Key cutting machines need to be calibrated from time to time and used correctly, otherwise the cut key simply will not work, and the key will have to be returned. By ensuring you use someone who knows what they are doing, you will not have this extra hassle.
Multi-point locks look impressive, as a turn of the key makes bolts and levers swing into action to lock the door, but they are very easily compromised. As a result manufactures are bringing out new add - ons to make the door more secure. If you have one of these locks fitted to one of your doors, it could well be worth considering have a locksmith come out and fit an add on, just to bring the lock to the same standard as a Yale lock.
Emergency locksmith feel that by following this guide will make their lives a lot easier and save you a lot of money and time.