Tag: deadbolts

Keyless Locks Versus a Regular Deadbolt

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With all of this new technology on the rise, you might have been wondering about keyless locks and whether they’re right for you. Believe it or not, the bolts in keyless locks and deadbolts are essentially the same. However, if you go keyless, you might find it more convenient than the deadbolt.

Some benefits of keyless locks include:

  • Some systems lock automatically a few seconds after you leave.
  • You don’t risk someone finding a key you’ve hidden outside.
  • Some link to Blue tooth so you can operate the lock via a smartphone or tablet app.
  • It’s easy to change codes, and you can set temporary ones that expire after a designated time.
  • Weather can affect how they function; they might not perform well after prolonged exposure to extreme heat, sun or cold.

 

Some things to consider before committing to a keyless lock system:

  • You’ll need to change the battery about once a year.
  • Someone could observe the numbers you input and learn your code.
  • If you don’t change your code periodically, affected keys can wear down, increasing the chance of someone guessing the code.

Keyless locks are also more expensive than traditional deadbolts. Expect to pay $30 to $50 to install a traditional deadbolt, and $150 to $250 for a keyless version. Prices vary depending on brand and quality.

When hiring an installer, consider an experienced locksmith like Pop-A-Lock Jacksonville. We can help you spot defects like sagging hinges and other potential problems.

Perhaps not having to remember where your keys are sounds liberating? It might sound like an attractive option to parents whose kids frequently lose house keys. However, keyless systems are battery-operated and could fail if a battery isn’t changed in time. Fortunately, most systems provide a key override. These are just a few things to think about if you’re considering foregoing the traditional deadbolt with a multilock system and going keyless.

If you’d like more information about key installation, we at Pop-A-Lock Jacksonville will be glad to help in any way we can. Give us a call at 904-246-4590.

Jacksonville Residential Locksmith: Home Locks 101

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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!