While fake rocks were once a foolproof way to trick burglars, and hide spare keys around your residence, criminals are getting smarter these days. Your home security strategy should be revisited to see if it’s up to 2021 standards. Here are some smarter ways to keep that spare key accessible, yet out of sight.

1. Disguised Key Holder

The problem with fake rocks is that criminals know to look for them and will keep an eye out for any stone that seems unnatural. Some have better designs than others, but you might want to consider an innovative or non-traditional disguised key holder instead. Examples include drain caps, fake electrical outlets, pots with hidden compartments, lockboxes, and more. There are more options available today than you might think.

2. With a Friend, Family Member or Neighbor

If you don’t trust these key holders (or you have particularly clever thieves in your area), a friend, family member or neighbor might be a better option for your spare key. As long as you trust the individual (and that they’ll store it properly), you can have peace of mind knowing, someone close by has access to your home should you or your family ever need it.

3. In An Unexpected Location

If you don’t have anyone you trust and don’t want to spend money on a disguised key holder, finding a strategic on-property hiding spot is another option. There are lots of nooks, crannies, and little-known hiding places if you look hard enough. Examples include the backyard tree, a flower garden, buried in a bottle, and in your car’s license plate. As long as you’re the only one who knows where it is, no one else will find it easily.

4. Don’t Use One!

Finally, you may want to consider keyless entry to your home. With this option, you don’t even have to have a spare key if you don’t want to (though key overrides are available). Additional features of keyless locks include smartphone/Bluetooth compatibility, the ability to lock or unlock remotely, and the option to give temporary access to someone, and change your codes. 

If you’re interested in more home security-related advice, give us a call today or stop by any of our area A-1 Locksmith Security, and Safes locations.

When it comes to the keys for your business, though, who should you trust? Does a master key system make sense for you? How do they work? We cover all of this in today’s article.

How Master Keys Work

There are high-security locks available today that are pick-, bump- and drill-resistant—and keys that open them that cannot be copied by unauthorized personnel. Known as master keys, these devices function and look like traditional keys, but have extra security features, and technology that allow you to customize where they will work. Specifically, there are components known as “master wafers” that work with the cylinders in a lock to control access. It’s also important to note that master keys can open all locks, while “change keys” only open a master lock.

Who Should Get A Master Key

Any business owner who wants to enjoy top-quality security without sacrificing peace of mind about employee access can enjoy the benefits of a master key system. These products offer top quality security without sacrifice. From simple high-security deadbolts to digital deadbolts that only allow certain keys access depending on the time of day, we have you covered. Here are some of the benefits of master keys:

• Reduces the number of keys you carry around, and track
• It’s easier to open doors in emergency situations
• You have more control over who can access all areas of your business
• It’s much easier to track employees, and products
• Changing master key locks, keys or permissions is easy

How To Get A Master Key System

The only question now is, “How do you get one?” You’ll want to go with a professional locksmith for your master key system to ensure everything is installed, and works properly. Locksmiths have lots of experience with locks, keys, and master key systems and are the trusted choice for this area of security. Whether you need something simple or complex, a locksmith will be able to help you out.

If you’re considering a master key for your business, go with a commercial locksmith you can trust. Contact A-1 Locksmith today or visit any of our DFW-area locations.

Automobile, and house keys are no exception. Just because something is available online, though, doesn’t mean it’s a wise decision. From warranty issues to low-quality materials, there are several reasons to avoid purchasing home, and auto keys online. 

Let’s go over a few of them.

1. Modern keys are complicated.

When you don’t get a key from a professional locksmith or dealer, you can’t guarantee it will work—especially if it’s a car key. Modern vehicles feature advanced electrical components, precise cutting and specific programming. The online retailer might not accept refunds, either, so if the key doesn’t work, you’re out of luck.

2. The quality of the keys isn’t guaranteed.

Dealers, and locksmiths follow strict guidelines when it comes to materials, and machinery. Online retailers don’t necessarily do the same thing. In fact, many online retailers use the cheapest materials, and construction methods available to keep costs down. This results in a low-quality key.

3. You’re not really saving that much money.

The cost difference between an online key retailer and a professional locksmith isn’t significant, especially when you consider that the latter includes warrantied work, high-quality parts, and labor, and satisfaction guarantees. 

4. You likely won’t get a warranty, either.

Locksmiths, and dealers care about their reputation, which is why they value experience, licenses, and partnerships with professional organizations. As such, they often warranty their work. Online key retailers don’t rely on industry-recognized skill sets as much, and often don’t include warranties.

5. There’s less peace of mind.

Overall, you’re going to have less confidence in a key that you purchase online. If you’re talking about security for, something as important as a car or house, do you really want to trust an anonymous personline who could potentially keep a copy of your key on file? Do you really want something that controls access to your house or car going through the mail? With a professional locksmith, you can have peace of mind about your key purchase.

If you’re in need of a new automobile or home key, trust a professional locksmith instead of an online store. Contact the A-1 Locksmith team today for a consultation.