Hardware Security, and Your Home

There are many components that make up locks in general, and deadbolts are no exception. People often ask us which part of the deadbolt provides the most security. Is it the knob? The lever? The lock above it? The actual deadbolt is what will protect your home, as it helps prevent criminals from breaking in by force. To learn more about the specifics of hardware security and see what components make up a deadbolt, watch our video on the topic here:

Pros, and Cons of Standard Deadbolts

Standard deadbolts are the traditional deadbolt option, and they’re often called mechanical deadbolts as well. You’re likely familiar with these types of deadbolts, so let’s just get into some of their advantages:

• Most time-tested, and affordable deadbolt option
• More style options, and customizability
• Easier to install than keyless deadbolts
• Limited people have access

And here are some of the disadvantages of standard deadbolts

• You have to carry a key around
• A spare key is an additional risk
• Only someone with a physical key has access
• It’s easier to get locked out 
• Not compatible with smart home technology

Pros, and Cons of Keyless Deadbolts

Keyless deadbolts are becoming more, and more popular these days. There are a variety of brands of keyless deadbolts and features can vary depending on the model. Here are some of the advantages that keyless deadbolts provide:

• Often compatible with smartphones, Bluetooth technology, and/or other systems
• Can be locked or unlock remotely; easy to give access, and change codes
• Great for securing small businesses with few employees
• You don’t have to hide a spare key (though key overrides are available)

And here are some of the disadvantages to keyless deadbolts:

• May require professional installation
• Can be more expensive than standard deadbolts
• Batteries need to be changed at a manufacturer recommended timeline
• Weather may impact functionality depending on model
• Someone can learn the code if it’s written down or there is keypad wear

If you’re deciding on the best hardware security for your home or business, contact us today or visit any of our area locations, and we’ll help you out.

Like any other home appliance, a door and its related hardware requires routine inspection and maintenance to make sure that everything works correctly. The following guide is meant to help you understand the hardware of your door, as well as what you can do if it needs repair or replacement.

Door Hardware Specifics

Nearly all doors are installed with the same (or similar) hardware. To be sure, in order to latch shut, the door must contain a latch on the door, as well as a latch strike on the door frame. And, if the door utilizes a deadbolt, opposite this will be a deadbolt strike in the door frame, as well. Finally, the door will possess a mortise plate that surrounds the latch, as well as a lever or knob to open the door itself. This is not an exhaustive list of the hardware you may see on your door; however, issues often arise with these specifically, so understanding their placement and purpose can help in the pursuit of a remedy.

Inspecting and Maintaining Door Hardware

In general, as a homeowner or business owner, it is imperative that you take action immediately if you notice an issue with one of your doors. And, one of the most common issues to arise with door hardware involves the door not latching easily when shut, or not latching at all. This can be an inconvenience, at best; or a safety hazard, if the door cannot be locked.

Ultimately, if the door is unable to latch, it means either the latch or the deadbolt (or both) is missing the strike on the door foundation; this could be due to the house foundation shifting over time, or the door pulling the hinges downwards.

Check Your Hardware Routinely, and Call a Locksmith for Help

While there is no exact amount of time after which you must check your door hardware, doing, so on a routine basis, especially if you notice wear and tear, can help you catch problems before they arise.

Of course, if you do notice a problem with your door hardware, it is imperative that you contact a locksmith. A skilled locksmith can identify the source of the issue, and find a quick solution to help you protect your home.

Do you need a locksmith in the Dallas area? Reach out to us today at A-1 Locksmith for assistance. We have been helping Dallas residents for over 65 years, and we would like to put our experience to work for you immediately.

But no matter where you live, there are certain tactics you can employ that will help prevent burglars from entering your home, and that may even make them think twice about even attempting to break in. Consider these three simple things burglars don’t want you to know that will help keep you and your home safe from intruders.

1. Make the House Look Occupied

One of the best ways to deter potential burglars from breaking and entering into your home is by making it look as if it is occupied at all times. In reality, it is unlikely that a burglar would be interested in targeting a home with a family inside; instead, he or she may look for another house that looks uninhabited.

How can you make your home look alive, even when you’re gone? Consider leaving one or two lights on when you leave the house, or utilize an automatic timer that turns on lights when it gets dark. And if you plan on leaving for longer periods of time, have friends or neighbors pick up your mail, and newspapers each day, as well.

2. Ditch the Old Locks – and Install a Deadbolt

If a burglar does decide to target your home, one simple way to stop him or her from getting in is by ensuring that all the doors to the outside can be locked with deadbolts. Many modern burglars are aided by the existence of pushbutton locks on doorknobs; it is much easier to enter a home installed with these, even without a key. By installing a deadbolt on all of your doors, you may, in fact, help the burglar decide that he or she should try elsewhere.

3. Install a Security System

Finally, even the most daring burglars may not turn away from an occupied home with a deadbolt on the door. And in this scenario, it is imperative that you have a security system installed by a skilled locksmith. A number of security systems for your home, including smart home features, video surveillance, and even alarm monitoring, can keep you notified of any illegal entry, and will alert law enforcement as well if your home is being burglarized. This is truly a necessity for those residents who wish to protect the valuables in their house.

By following these few simple tips, you can help ensure that burglars won’t target your home. Contact a professional at A-1 Locksmith today; we are prepared to assist you do everything necessary to protect both your house, and your family within.