The same concept applies to many aspects of residential security, like smart locks. Are smart locks right for you? This modern technology has its benefits, and conveniences, but there are a few factors to consider when deciding if it makes sense for you and your home or business.

Let’s go over, some pros, and cons of using smart locks.

Pros of Smart Locks

As with most modern technology, smart locks come with a variety of benefits, many of them related to convenience, and peace of mind. Here are some of the advantages of installing smart locks in your home:

• Convenience: Bid farewell to traditional keys, and welcome keyless entry through methods such as smartphone apps, key fobs or even biometric identification like fingerprints. This saves time, and helps you avoid forgetting them.
• Remote access: Whether you’re at work, on vacation or simply away from home, you can lock or unlock your doors using a mobile app. This is great for guests who may be watching or visiting your home while away (or every day use!).
• Customizability: Smart locks empower you to grant access to specific individuals for a designated period. This is ideal for allowing family members, friends, or housekeepers into your home without sharing physical keys. (Don’t worry, you can easily revoke access once it’s no longer needed.)
• Easily integrated: You can create scenarios so that unlocking the front door triggers lights to turn on, thermostats to adjust and security cameras to activate, enhancing both convenience, and security.

Cons of Smart Locks

There aren’t many cons to smart locks, though there is certain information you need to know about them if you don’t want to compromise your home security. Here are some potential or perceived disadvantages to smart locks

• Power dependent: Smart locks are electronic devices, which means they require a power, source. 
• Hacking risk: As with any connected device, there’s a potential risk of hacking or unauthorized access. It’s crucial to opt for reputable brands, and regularly update your smart lock’s firmware to stay ahead of security vulnerabilities.
• Complex install: Installing a smart lock might require some technical know-how. While some models are designed for DIY installation, the vast majority of them require assistance from a professional residential locksmith or other pro to ensure they’re properly set up, and integrated.

As you weigh these pros, and cons, remember that A-1 Locksmith is your trusted partner for new locks, smart or traditional. Whether you opt for the latter or decide to embrace the convenience of the former, our expert locksmiths are here to provide the guidance, and expertise you need to find, and install the right one for you.

Security follows the same trend.

This is why big businesses, and corporations perform security audits regularly, so they can identify, and minimize risks. Why can’t homeowners do the same? Well, because many don’t know where to start. 

Let’s highlight how you can conduct your own security audit (using several guidelines recommended by the National Center for State Courts).

Home Exterior Security Audit Checklist

First, let’s look at the exterior of your home. Here are some examples of security issues to watch for when performing an exterior security audit:

• Is there adequate lighting on the perimeter?
• Are there any overgrown shrubs or obstacles blocking views from inside?
• Are there any additional exterior buildings you need to inspect?
• Are all windows secured (including basement windows)?
• Is there an attached garage? Does it present a security risk?
• Does the mailbox or other signage reveal your identity?
• Is there a security system? Does it work? Does it need to be upgraded?
• Are door locks still functional, and do they provide adequate security?

Home Interior Security Audit Checklist

Next is the interior of the home. Here are some examples of security issues to watch for when performing an interior security audit

• Is there an alarm system? Does it work? Does it need to be upgraded?
• Are smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detectors functional, and installed throughout the home?
• Do the most important access points have deadbolt locks on them?
• Can you get into the home from any windows or openings?
• Do windows allow easy visibility into the home?
• Do you have a video doorbell that lets you identify visitors before you open the door?
• Do you have lighting on timers so onlookers don’t think you’re not at home?

These are just a few ideas for performing your own security audit, but why not turn to a professional instead? A professional residential locksmith, for example, knows what security issues to look for and how to address them. To get started on improving the security of your home or business, contact A-1 Locksmith today at (972) 284-7500.

Similarly, a door handle is more important than you might think. After all, it’s likely an entry or exit point for your home or vehicle. Let’s discuss reasons to replace these door handles, and how a professional locksmith can help.

When to Replace Car Door Handles

Your car only has so many handles. (Usually, there are only four or two total.) As such, a broken or missing handle is a big inconvenience. But there are other reasons to replace car door handles beyond functionality. Here are a few of them:

• You don’t like the look of the factory handles, and want to improve their appearance.
• Your handles are damaged or broken after an accident or mishap.
• The existing handles are challenging to use, due to their type or your mobility issues.
• You want a more convenient entry option, like a combination or fingerprint. 
• Handles have rusted, and worn down over time, or get stuck.

If any of these reasons speak to you, give a professional auto locksmith a call, and they can help you figure out the best solution for your handles, and identify other potential security issues.

When to Replace House Door Handles

Your house is another area where door handles are important, as your access points are where your home is most vulnerable. To protect your family, and belongings, all your handles need to be working properly, and connected to high-quality locks. Here are a few other reasons to replace household door handles:

• You just moved into a new home.
• There have been higher incidents of crime in your neighborhood. 
• The security level of your existing locks is lacking.
• Your doors keep getting stuck or jammed. 
• You want a more convenient entry option, like a combination or fingerprint. 
• Your handles are worn down, broken or unsightly 

Again, a professional residential locksmith can help you with replacing door handles, and every other security aspect of your home.

Regardless of where you need handles replaced or repaired, A-1 Locksmith can help you out with all the automobile, and residential security insights you need. Contact us today!

Option #1: Thaw the Lock

If the weather is cold, it’s possible the lock is frozen. If you have access to a hair dryer (ask the neighbor?), you can attempt to thaw the ice in, and around the lock, then pull the key out like normal. If you experience this issue often, there might be a ventilation issue. If the weather is warm, though, go ahead, and move on to other options.

Option #2: Add Lubricant

It’s also possible the key has sharp edges or there’s a loose component in the lock. Both situations can cause the key to stick. If you have access to WD-40 or another type of lubricant, you can spray it directly in the keyhole, and wiggle the key gently up, and down to try, and get it out. (Don’t wiggle side-to-side, as that’s a bigger risk for the key breaking.)

Option#3: Push and Pull

This is also risky for a key breaking off, but you can attempt to push the key in further and turn it so it’s in the same position it was when you put it in the lock. Then pull it out. If that doesn’t work, push and align like before, but push firmly on the face of the lock with your other hand, and try again. The goal here is to align the tumblers inside the lock so the key will come out.

Option #4: Call a Professional Locksmith

If you want to save yourself time, hassle, and possible further expense, consider calling a professional locksmith to handle it right away. A locksmith has the experience, and tools necessary to make it a quick job. Locksmiths handle hundreds of stuck keys a year and can also help repair your lock if needed.

Whether your key is stuck in the lock of your home or you have another residential security issue, you can trust the team at A-1 Locksmith. Give us a call at (972) 284-7500 today.