The Effects of Foundation Movement in Your Home or Business

Foundation movement in North Texas is most often the result of the expansive clay soil that permeates the regional landscape. Most often these seismic shifts are minor and cause only cosmetic damage. However, the effects over time can become more bothersome. 

Foundation issues are often noted by way of cracks in walls, and ceilings. As the foundation of a building or home shifts, these cracks appear. They might be particularly notable around doorways. 

You may also note cracks around windows. As a result, windows might not close or lock properly. This is generally the result of a larger shift as doors, and windows become misaligned. 

If you’re seeing the other signs, you will likely notice cracks in the flooring. Over time cracks can lead to gaps. Foundation movement doesn’t always result in gaps but if you see cracks forming on your floor or around baseboards then you may presume that this is an effect of foundation movement. 

These effects are generally cumulative. If you see cracks in the floor they typically lead to or result in cracks in a nearby wall. Over time this can create issues with doorways, and windows… and that’s where a North Texas locksmith can help. 

How Can a Locksmith Help with the Effects of Foundation Movement?

While foundation damage generally affects a building’s structure, and sometimes calls for the attention of foundation experts, a qualified locksmith can help in a number of ways. Remember, there are a number of consequences that arise because of routine foundation movement and while we might not be able to assist with larger concerns, a locksmith can help with some aftereffects of a shifting foundation. 

Door and Lock Alignment

Aside from obvious concerns about structural damage, securing your home or business is essential. Your ability to properly lock or even align a door might become a problem if there is considerable movement in your foundation.  Here at A-1 Locksmith Security & Safes we are happy to lend a hand if this is an issue on your property. 

A qualified locksmith will be able to adjust and/or realign your doorknobs, and hardware so that your doors can be secured, and properly locked. When your home or business is damaged because of foundation movement, peace of mind should be first on your list of things to acquire. A secured property is paramount. 

We can also assist with replacing damaged locks. A misaligned door can lead to wear and tear on a lock and the strike plates associated with that lock. If your lock has suffered damage for any reason, just give our team of experts a quick call, and we will make it right. 

If the foundation movement has caused considerable damage, and you need to temporarily evacuate the home or business for repairs, we can help you to rekey the locks on your property. You might wish to do this to ensure no one will have access to the property in question except those who are authorized to be there. 

Window Locks, and Adjustments

Another entry point of concern will be your windows. Do your windows close properly or are they difficult to close? Will they latch or lock in place? If your windows are misaligned due to foundation movement we can help. A properly trained locksmith knows how to replace your window locks, and make sure that your windows can latch. This is also essential to securing your home from unauthorized entry. 

What About Security Systems that are Affected by Foundation Movement?

These days, advanced security systems rely on secured entry, and exit points in your home or business. If a door or window cannot properly close, this may trigger issues with your security hardware. A qualified locksmith knows how to make sure that your property is able to comply with the requirements of a home or business security system. 

We can also help you install a proper keypad or smart lock. This means that you would no longer need to rely solely on a hard key system. Smart locks can also notify you when codes are used or a false code/entry is attempted. When properly tied into a home or business security system smart locks, and keypads are a reliable way of truly securing a home or business.

Foundation Movement in North Texas is Not Just About Foundation Repair

Home, and business owners shudder at the words “foundation repair.” It sounds expensive, and it sounds like there’s no way out. However, foundation issues such as misalignment can offer a quick and temporary band-aid of sorts.

A lot of homes have small, simple foundation issues that likely won’t amount to structural damage. However, North Texas has its fill of foundation movement because of its clay soil. This means that foundation issues can slowly develop, and become a problem down the road. 

Keep an eye out for cracks in flooring tiles. See if they lead to cracks in a wall or near an entry or exit point. Doorways, and windows are where one will often find signs of potential foundation issues. 

If your doors, and windows are misaligned or will not secure because of foundation movement, give A-1 Locksmith in North Texas a call. Our locksmithing experts know how to deal with misalignment. The first step you need to take when faced with potential foundation issues is to make sure you are able to properly secure your home or business. 

“What is a sliding glass door, Alex?” Ding ding!

You might think sliding glass doors are just as secure as any other entry point in your home, but they’re actually one of the most vulnerable. We discuss why this is the case, and the steps you can take to address it.

Why Sliding Glass Doors Are Vulnerable

Of course, when you leave a door or window unlocked, that’s when your home is most vulnerable. But otherwise, sliding glass doors are one of the main culprits. According to a survey from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), only 34% of burglars enter a home through the front door. You would think that number would be higher since it’s the main point of entry, right? Well, 81% of burglars still enter a home through the first floor; they just choose the most vulnerable spot instead.

Sliding glass doors are vulnerable because of a variety of reasons. For one, they’re mashable. But their locks can also easily be opened. These types of doors can also be lifted off their tracks — even without tools. If the thief does have a tool (like a screwdriver), it makes the job even easier.

How To Improve the Security of Your Home

So, what can you do about the vulnerabilities of sliding glass doors? You basically have two options: do it yourself or call a residential locksmith. Here’s a little more about each of these options:

• DIY: One MacGuyver-like way you can improve the security of these doors is to jam the track from opening by putting, something like a wood dowel on it. Or, you could purchase a door lock or sliding bolt and install it. The former will likely only slow the criminal down, while the latter may not work if you don’t do it right. This might be the cheaper option, but is it worth it?
• Residential locksmith: A professional locksmith, on the other hand, can identify the door’s weaknesses, give you an expert’s opinion solutions, and install any needed security upgrades. For example, the locksmith might suggest putting in some type of alarm system. Or, they could replace the standard factory locks in the door with premium, high-security locks. This option may be a little more expensive, but it will go a long way toward keeping your home safe.

If you’d like help improving the security of your home, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500.

When it comes to residential locksmith costs, would you rather pay a little now or pay more later? When someone breaks into your home, replacing the broken door, lock or window (as well as any stolen belongings) can be much more costly than preventative security measures.

Reactive Locksmithing Services

Reactive services are when you react to an incident that occurred by hiring, someone to address it. Many of these situations can be avoided with proper preparation and prevention. But once there’s an incident — especially one involving the security of your home — you have no choice but to address it. Burglaries aren’t the only situations that lead to reactively hiring a locksmith, however. Here are six examples of situations that require reactive locksmithing services:

1. Locked out of your home
2. Lost the keys to your home
3. Had a home lock broken or stolen
4. Moved into a new home where you don’t have the locks
5. Had your property vandalized
6. Had valuables or firearms stolen from your home

All these situations have other consequences as well. Many also involve lost time, as you have to deal with getting everything back to the way it was. There can also be a lot of stress involved, in addition to other negative consequences.

Proactive Locksmithing Services

Proactive services, on the other hand, are when you prepare for an incident ahead of time so it doesn’t happen (or you at least minimize the possibility of it happening). Let’s take the six example situations mentioned above, and see how a residential locksmith could have addressed them with proactive locksmithing services:

1. Spare key creation, so you can access your home even if you’ve locked your main keys inside
2. Key duplication (even if you don’t have the key) so you don’t have to worry about lost keys
3. High-security locks that are difficult to break or manipulate
4. New locks, and rekeying so you’re all set once you move in
5. Security system and/or security camera installation to catch criminals in the act
6. Home, and gun safe sales, and installation to protect valuables, and firearms

Invest in proactive locksmithing services now so you can avoid paying more for reactive services later. Give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500 to schedule a consultation or appointment.

Cities in Texas are often ranked on safe-area lists, but the crime rates of Dallas-Fort Worth might surprise you when compared to the national average. Let’s take a look at Dallas burglary rates, and Fort Worth burglary rates, and why it’s important to know a good Dallas-Fort Worth locksmith company.

Dallas Burglary Rates

Using raw data from 18,000 local law enforcement agencies in the United States, NeighborhoodScout is a trusted source for crime statistics. According to their nationwide meta-analysis, Dallas has a crime index of 9 out of 100, meaning Dallas is safer than 9% of U.S. cities. This is partly calculated by violent crime, but property crime plays a big part. There are 32.38 property crimes per 1,000 Dallas residents, compared to 25.63 for Texas, and 24 for the national average. Furthermore, Dallas had more than 9,900 incidents of burglary in 2017 alone, a rate of 7.4 burglaries for every 1,000 people. To put it in perspective, your chances of becoming a victim of property crime in Dallas is 1 in 31. 

Fort Worth Burglary Rates

The data for Fort Worth isn’t much better. The crime index for Fort Worth is 11, meaning the city is safer than just 11% of U.S. cities. Property crime is similar to Dallas in that there are approximately 32.29 crimes per 1,000 residents (again, compared to 25.63 for Texas, and 24 for the national average). Fort Worth had 5,129 burglaries in 2017, a rate of 5.9 burglaries for every 1,000 people. Like Dallas, your chances of becoming a victim of property crime in Fort Worth is also 1 in 31.

Addressing the Dallas-Fort Worth Burglary Problem

Crime rates vary by where you are located in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Regardless of your location, however, there are certain things you can do to ensure your home is as secure as possible. Fort example, local DFW locksmith company can help you with:

• Lockouts, and emergency locksmithing services
• Keys, and key duplication
• Lock repair and installation
• New locks, and rekeys
• Security systems, and cameras
• Home, and gun safes

If you live in Dallas-Fort Worth and would like to increase the security of your home, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500.

When it comes to locksmith needs such as rekeying, lockout services, security system monitoring, repair and more, things get even more murky.  Here we delve into the world of home warranties, and whether they make sense or provide value when it comes to much needed locksmith services.

Cost vs Value

If you’ve received an offer for a home warranty package or are considering adding one on to your home purchase or refinance, you should compare the price of the plan versus the overall value.  Most plans provide some basic level of handyman repair to things such as gutters, squeaky, and broken windows, and even appliances.  Increasingly, plans are also including locksmith services such as rekeying or installation of new locks in existing doors.  In the DFW area, these service calls can often be several hundred dollars or more.  When deciding whether to purchase a home warranty, compile these pros, and cons of expenses, and see if the math adds up.

Deductibles, Percentages, and Fees

Before choosing a specific home warranty plan, it’s vital to ask about any copays, deductibles, service or one-time house call fees.  Many buyers think that purchasing the home warranty is the end of any out-of-pocket expenses.  In fact, most home warranties have maximum caps on amounts they will pay out.  In addition, a flat service fee for each warranty claim is typical in most home warranty plans. The cap will usually be more than most homeowners will need for coverage, and the service fee smaller than a typical house call for the service.  If you’re dealing with a smaller or less reputable home warranty service, however, these types of nickel-and-dime costs may be larger than expected, in many cases outpacing the cost of the underlying service, negating any value received from the warranty itself.

The Bottom Line: Read the Fine Print

Whether a home warranty is right for your needs will depend on your individual situation and the details, and provisions of your particular policy.  While more home warranty policies are including valuable services such as rekeying, lock changes, security system discounts, and more, coverage isn’t industry wide, and inclusions will vary from company to company, and, in some cases from policy to policy.

If you’re unsure whether your home warranty policy covers the services of a skilled locksmith, call A-1 Locksmith for a free assessment.  Our many years of experience in the Dallas Fort Worth area will help in interpreting the minutia of your individual policy to determine whether you’re covered.  In addition, A-1 Locksmith has partnered with many home warranty companies in the past and may be able to recommend one that caters to those with security in mind.

What Each Type of Locksmith Does

A residential locksmith can do more than just help you enter your home if you’ve locked yourself out; a residential locksmith can also help you to assess your home’s security, and provide tips for upgrading your locks.

An automotive locksmith, on the other hand, specifically deals with the locks of cars. Automotive locksmiths can create, and replace keys, extract a broken key from a door or ignition, and help you enter your car if you’re locked out.

Finally, a commercial locksmith specializes in lock systems for commercial properties, and businesses. Some commercial locksmith services are in regards to:

• Commercial safes, and vaults;
• Panic bars;
• Automatic doors;
• Filing cabinets; and
• Master key systems.

Why It Is Important to Call the Right Type of Locksmith for the Job

Calling any old locksmith when you have a very specific need isn’t advised. In fact, some locksmiths may try to fool you into believing that they have the skill set necessary to get a locksmith job done when really they are just hoping to make money fast. To ensure that you are not taken advantage of, it is within your interest to only hire a locksmith who is licensed, insured, and bonded. Before calling the locksmith out to your house, car, or business, ask what they specialize in – it would waste time, and money to call an automotive locksmith for a commercial job, or visa versa.

Serving Commercial Businesses in Texas

At A-1 Locksmith, our locksmiths are trained in automotive, residential, and commercial locksmith skills. When your commercial business is facing a security issue, do not waste time searching for a commercial locksmith near you; instead, call A-1 Locksmith for fast and friendly service that you can count on. With more than 50 service technicians on the road at any given time, we are ready to serve you. Call us now for a free quote.

Of course, in order to properly install an automated lock system in your home you will need to consider a variety of factors, and you may wish to even conduct minor research before making the decision. And here, your best resource to educate you on the matter, and help you take the first step in the process, is the team of professionals at A-1 Locksmith in the DFW area.

Fully Automated Lock Systems

What are some of the benefits provided by fully automated lock systems? For one, a fully automated set of home locks allows you to come, and go without concern about the location of your keys; instead, you can rest assured that you will always be able to open the front door. In addition, it gives you the freedom of providing access to friends, and family members without the necessity of creating duplicate keys.

And there are a variety of different automated lock systems from which you can choose to install on your home. Some automated lock systems allow you to lock and unlock your home using an app installed on your smartphone or tablet. Others give you the option of sending a “virtual key” to friends, family members, or anyone else you choose. Others still can detect your presence near the door through a Bluetooth connection, and can connect directly to your home’s security system so that when you lock the doors the alarms are set as well.

Why You Need a Locksmith for the Job

Clearly, there are numerous benefits to installing an automated lock system in your home. But before you do, it is important to contact a professional locksmith for help, who can assist you in a number of ways. Most importantly, due to his or her experience, a locksmith will be able to educate you on the various options, and help you decide which automated system is right for you. In addition to this, a locksmith can help you install the system in your home comprehensively, and professionally, ensuring that your home is protected.

Are You Looking for a Locksmith in DFW?

Have you been searching for an experienced locksmith in the DFW area? Don’t hesitate to reach out to the skilled professionals at A-1 Locksmith at one of our many locations. We have broad experience with different types of automated home lock systems, and are willing to put that to work with you today.

As a professional Residential Locksmith, we have a team of well-trained technicians. We offer you round-the-clock services so as to meet your emergency requirements at any time of the day or night. A good technician would respond to your call in the shortest possible time. We are equipped with all the required tools needed to tackle any type of situation. In addition, you can remain assured that our Residential Locksmith services come along with all the requisite warranties, and guarantees.

You can have any type of locking systems in your home. They can be the traditional, and simple locks, or they can be modern and sophisticated locking systems. But, calling a professional Residential Locksmith service means that, you care calling a service that can handle both modern and traditional types of locks. So, our Residential Locksmith team can also handle any brand of locks available in the market.

When someone from outside your home has had access to your keys, it is a must that you call for the services of a professional Residential Locksmith. In such a case, you would need to change the locks otherwise the security of your home can get compromised.

A good example when you would need to call for our professional Residential Locksmith services is when some of your nanny or governance or any other home staff has left the job. Another occasion when you need to call in the Residential Locksmith is when you have moved into a new home. In such cases it would not be wise that you don’t change the locks.

We, as a professionals offer instant support not just to meet emergency situations but also to beat their competition. So, you can expect our Residential Locksmith technicians to reach you within an hour and also be offering services at the middle of the night and even on holidays. So, even when you get locked out of your home, instead of panicking and damaging the lock, it would be best to call A-1 Locksmith DFW for our Residential Locksmith services.

Most companies nowadays offer various locksmith services. Whether it is commercial, automotive, industrial, and residential, they tend to offer lots of services. Among the many areas which they cater, residential locksmiths are commonly found. This entails to the fact that they serve the people living in houses, mansions, lofts, bungalows, apartments, and everything that fits the residential category. Now we all know that homes are just the most important part of our lives. This one valuable possession actually guards all the other possessions in our lives. This means that it is mandatory for your house to be secured in every way possible. This is done to ensure you feel safe within the comforts of your house. There are many residential locksmiths that install a very efficient locking mechanism that is hardly seen in houses. Some even require codes so that you may find it safer even more than usual. Thus, you have to make sure that you opt for a very strict locking mechanism if you want to feel secure. This is even important if you are often out on trips, and need to have some solution so that your family is safe in your absence, and you do not have to worry much. Furthermore, if you find that you need to lock the house because it has valuable possessions, and you are often out of town, turn to the residential locksmiths for all the necessary assistance.

There are many companies that even give you the option of free security audits, thus, you should call them whenever the need arises. They will be at your service right away without delaying much.

It is important for you to know that the story does not end here. There is much more to it. Residential locksmiths do not simply find you a locking key system. They can be hired for other relevant services too. Is your house locking such where it takes you a few minutes to unlock it? If this is so, then you would like to ring the residential locksmiths because a failing lock and a damaged lock can be quite troublesome. This is basically an open invitation to all those robbers, and burglars who might be keeping checks on you and waiting for the right moment to attack. In such cases, these lock systems will only make things worse for you and will give them a favor allowing them to attack just when you would step out of the house. At A-1 we can fix those broken locks fast!

Surveillance systems are just another offering by these residential locksmiths. Some people have cameras installed inside their homes to keep a check on the movements or maybe because they have doubts. A-1 Locksmith DFW’s Residential Locksmiths help you with this too!

Attractive entrances increase the selling value of a home, and one of the ways you can spruce up your home’s appearance is by installing beautiful front door locks with ornate handles that fit in with your home’s style. Our reliable locksmiths carry a wide variety of beautiful locks from manufacturers who are famous for producing high quality reliable locks. With these devices installed, your home will be both beautiful, and secure!

What about duplicate keys? When your children are old enough to have their own keys to the house, don’t waste money on flimsy department store key copies. Although they might seem to save you money in the short term, these cheap keys are much more likely to bend or break off in locks, which means you have to keep buying more! Reliable locksmiths use high quality key blanks to make sure that your keys are high quality.

High security locks are becoming more of a necessity these days. When times are tough, we know that some people turn to petty crime, and you don’t want your house to be a target. A quick Google search shows how easy it is to learn how to pick locks, so why not buy a pick proof high security lock from reliable locksmiths such as ourselves? Our fully licensed, and insured locksmiths install your locks right the first time, for maximum safety.

When you need experienced, reliable locksmiths, we’re just a phone call away. Our phone lines are open twenty four hours a day, and seven days a week, which means we’re easy to get a hold of. We can’t wait to help make your home safer! Call A-1 Locksmith DFW today to get everything you need in the lock business.