Get the Facts on Biometric Locks

Biometric-locks-Pop-A-Lock-Jacksonville
Could your fingerprint be your next key?

Biometric locks (also known as fingerprint locks) are no longer the stuff of science fiction: they’re here, and you can get one installed on your home or business in Jacksonville. Biometric locks vary, but all have some sort of optical or thermal reader that can identify individual fingerprints. Assuming you’re on the authorized list, all you need to do to unlock a door is put your finger on the reader and enter the right PIN. Pretty elegant, right?

In fact, biometric locks come with both pros and cons. It’s a good idea to learn about both before making a decision whether a biometric lock is right for you. If you have specific questions, give Pop-A-Lock of Jacksonville a call at 904-246-4590 or visit our page all about biometric locks.

 

 

Pros of biometric locks

  • No more keys! Are you prone to getting locked out? You’ll never be able to forget or lose your key if the key is your fingerprint.
  • Control access for multiple users. Biometric locks can recognize anywhere from 20 – 1000+ different fingerprints, depending on the model. It’s easy to delete or add users. Some of the more sophisticated locks even allow you to control who has access at what time or on what day. If you have guests, you can program them into the system for the duration of their stay and delete them after they leave. No need to get spare keys made.
  • Individuals who have access cannot share codes or keys. Only the people you intend to get in can.
  • Diverse applications. Biometric locks are available on locks, deadbolts, lockboxes, safes, and even computers. The technology is becoming more common every year, as are the number of applications. High security versions are also available.

Cons of Biometric Locks

  • Reader problems. Biometric locks are newer technology and can still be prone to reader failure, especially in wet weather or bright sunshine. If you have a cut or scar on your finger, it may not recognize your fingerprint.
  • User error. People who are unfamiliar with how to use a biometric lock may experience problems when they present their finger.
  • Expense. A biometric lock often costs a little more than a comparable mechanical or electronic lock.

Still have questions about how a biometric lock would work for you? Call Pop-A-Lock of Jacksonville, FL today at 904-246-4590 to get some honest answers and a free upfront quote on installation.

Photo by: Stefano Mortellaro

Jacksonville Residential Locksmith: Home Locks 101

Spring-Bolt-Lock-Jacksonsville Locksmith
A Key-In-The-Knob Spring Bolt Lock

A burglary takes place in the U.S. every 14 seconds, and the average loss per burglary is almost $2,000. Did you know that most burglars still get in through your front or back doors? Upgrading your home locks is a small investment with major payoffs. If you’re not sure what kind of locks are currently protecting your home in Jacksonville, take a look at the major types of locks to see what’s on your door — and how well it works.

Spring bolt locks

If your usual routine involves sticking a key in a door knob and turning the knob, you most likely have a spring bolt lock. Also known as key-in-the-knob locks, spring bolt locks are extremely common. The bolt is spring loaded and can be manually pushed in. Another giveaway that you have a spring bolt lock is if you can lock the door and then pull it shut behind you. The spring lets the bolt retract when it hits the door jamb. Unfortunately, spring bolt locks, while convenient, are not very secure. If there’s any gap between the door and the door frame, a burglar can simply push the bolt to retract it and then open the door. Spring bolt locks also make it easier to lock yourself out.

Schlage-Deadbolt-Jacksonville Locksmith
A Schlage Deadbolt

 

Deadbolts

Deadbolts are more secure than spring bolt locks because the lock cylinder must be rotated in order to retract the bolt, most commonly with a key on the outside and a thumb-turn on the inside. A half deadbolt is invisible from the outside (and therefore has no key way to be picked or bumped) and locks with a thumb-turn on the inside, making it a good way to stay secure while at home and overnight. A double deadbolt requires a key on either side to lock or unlock the door. If you currently only have a spring lock on your door, adding a deadbolt will deter thieves and increase your security.

 

Schlage-Keypad-Lock-JacksonvilleElectronic access / keypad locks

Once reserved for commercial buildings, electronic access locks are now available for homes. These locks use an electric current to lock and unlock. Although you’ve probably seen electric locks at hotels that operate with cards, residential locks usually have number pads. Enter the right code, and you’re in. One major advantage: if you ever need to keep out someone who has the code, you won’t need to hire a locksmith to rekey your locks. You can just change the code. Pop-A-Lock of Jacksonville offers electronic, biometric, and many other digital locks.

Bump resistant / bump proof locks

About 90% of American residential locks can be ‘bumped’ open with a modified key blank and very little effort. If you haven’t upgraded your locks within the last 5 years or so, your lock is most likely vulnerable to bumping. Fortunately, lock makers have gotten with the program and now offer locks that are sturdier and more resistant to bumping and picking. Bump proof locks come in all sizes, shapes, and finishes. Some can be retrofitted into your existing lockset. Burglars go for easy targets; don’t let your house stay one!

Do you have questions about your home locks? Call Pop-A-Lock Jacksonville today for a home security audit. We are a full-service automotive, residential, and commercial locksmith in Jacksonville!