Various Types of Door Locks

When you need a new lock, you likely just go to the nearest hardware store and tell them you need a lock. You might choose your lock simply based on how much you want to pay for it rather than its level of durability. This can be a huge mistake on your part. Remember that your homes first point of defense begins with the type of locks you have on your home. At Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA, we encourage you to think seriously about the next lock you purchase. Your safety and security should be of utmost importance to you not how much you can save on a lock. When you do not have the right type of lock for your home doors, you risk the possibility of a home intrusion. Finding the right lock might take a little more time to do but it is well worth knowing that the lock you choose will keep out intruders who might cause you harm. You may pick up a lock for your exterior door that should only be used for interior doors. A burglar would be able to see this and might just make your home their next target.

It is helpful to know what you are looking for before you head to the store to buy a new lock for your door. Even though you may be familiar with the names of some of the popular lock brands, this doesn’t mean that they are good locks. Just because you have heard of the brand doesn’t mean that it is a good brand. Perhaps the manufacturer is able to afford more advertising or needs to do more advertising than those lock brands with a known reputation. If you have the right type of lock on your home doors, you minimize the chances of anyone being able to break into your home.

Types of Locks to Consider

Deadbolt Locks – Everyone has heard of deadbolt locks. The reason that deadbolt locks are so popular is because they are effective in keeping out intruders. They are amongst the most durable locks offered and just about every home has one. If you do not have deadbolt locks on your home, call our locksmiths today and let us determine where you should have them installed. There is no reason that you should go without the amount of security needed to protect you and your loved ones. They are not only effective in keeping out intruders but they are also very affordable. This is why everyone should have a deadbolt lock on their home doors. You may not be aware of this but there are several types of deadbolt locks. The one that we install most often is the single deadbolt lock. This one only requires one key to open it. Unlike the double deadbolt, which requires two different keys to unlock. This could be dangerous in a high-risk situation.

Jimmy Proof Deadbolts  - This type of deadbolt lock is installed on double doors. The bolt is installed in the doorjamb bracket. It is harder for someone to pull apart this type of deadbolt lock than a standard lock. There are lock screws inside the door.

Knob Locks  - This is the type of lock that most people are familiar with since you’ll also find them in every home you enter. They are generally installed on front doors, patio doors, garage doors and even interior doors. There is a knob on one side of the door and a keyhole on the other. You need to make sure that the right knob is being applied to the correct door. If your doorknob is on the right, you need a right-hand knob. If it is on the left, you need a left-hand knob. Unfortunately, despite this being such a popular lock, it is easy to break this type of lock. This is why this type of lock is usually accompanied by a deadbolt lock. It should never be the main lock on your door since it is easy to break in with this type of lock on your door. It doesn’t even take a professional thief to compromise this type of lock, just someone with enough manpower. Make sure you ask about other lock options that can be used as a standalone door lock.

Lever Locks– This is the type of lock that you will generally find on the interior doors of your home. They are offered in various colors and styles. With so many different types of lever locks, it is possible for everyone to find the one that will suit their taste preferences. This type of lock doesn’t require a key to open; they simply require that you push a button to disengage the locking mechanism. Since this type of door lock is easy to open, it is only intended for interior doors. It is also another lock that we would never suggest standalone or used as a primary front door lock. They are simply too easy to break into.

Keyless Locks – This type of lock is becoming more and more popular because it prevents illegal entry and it doesn’t require the use of a key to gain access. Many commercial businesses have keyless locks but they have become more popular for homeowners in recent years. The installation of a keyless lock means that all you’ll need to get inside is a code to type into the keypad or a fob card to swipe in front of the keypad. This is a great lock that is both dependable and prevents unauthorized entry. The only way someone could get inside is if you gave them the code to do so.

Pro Newport News Locksmith: Keyless Entry Benefits

For years, many of us have watched movies which showcase high-tech security products that we never thought possible any time soon. But today, many of these products are merging on the market. One of these products is Keyless Entry Systems. In fact, keyless entry has been around for some time now. It is available for commercial and residential properties too. Plus, nowadays there are many vehicles that come with this option.
If you have been resisting the change, now is a good time to get on board. You could be experiencing the benefits of having these locks in place. Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA has all the latest on keyless entry systems. If you’re in Virginia, head on over to our store or give us a call. Our team will assist you in the best way possible.

Are Keyless Entry Systems Really Advantageous?
Many people hesitate to gravitate toward new products that hit the market. And rightly so. Why not wait until these products are tried and proven before you dive in? That certainly makes a lot of sense. But, keyless entry systems have been around for quite some time now. Their benefits are no longer questionable. They really do what they say, and they have been proven effective and safe.
If you’re thinking about purchasing and installing a keyless entry system in your home or business, here are a few things that you will love about them.

• They offer a very high level of security.

Compared to traditional lock and key systems, keyless systems are much more secure. Since they do not require the use of a key for access, it is often much more difficult for criminals to breach the system. Plus, access to your property can be restricted to a select few.

With this being so, random persons won’t be able to enter. If you are trying to find a security system that offers more security than your regular locks, keyless entry system is a great alternative to consider.

• They’re very convenient to own.

Many people complain about having to walk around with a big batch of keys. It is even more hassle if you own several properties so you have several sets of keys in your possession at once. Sure, it may seem like a trivial matter to you. But, can you imagine the big convenience of not having to walk around with so many keys at once? Not only will you have less weight to worry about, but you won’t have to wonder about where to store those keys as you move around with them.

This is definitely convenience at its finest. Instead of having the trouble of determining which key fits in what lock, you simply use your access code, RFID card, fingerprint etc., to gain access to your property. Many people may agree that you really can’t put a price tag on convenience, but keyless entry systems certainly seem to be a great option if you’re thinking about the most convenient ways of accessing your property.

• You can get as many or as few features as you want.

There are many different types of keyless entry systems on the market today. Naturally, they have many different features too. While there are systems that have a ton of features, making them highly complex and require a high level of expertise to operate, there are also simple ones. The system you select should match your needs and capabilities.

If you know that you are not very tech savvy and you will be the primary person handling the system, it’s best if you do not choose a system that requires a high level of expertise. But, if you have someone to take care of all those things for you, by all means, go all out with your purchase.

• You won’t have to worry about your keys being stolen/lost/duplicated.

This is an extension of the convenience of these systems. With keys, you have to be extremely careful with where you place them and so on. Not that you won’t be careful with your RFID card or make sure no one has access to your user code. But, getting rid of keys is a freedom that can be very enjoyable.

You won’t have to worry about losing your keys and you won’t have to think about replacing locks because of that either. This certainly may be worth the extra bucks that go into purchasing keyless entry systems. If you have experienced a lot of lock changes because of lost or stolen keys, or even for other reasons, you should consider beefing up the security of your property with a keyless entry system.

Unfortunately, There Are a Few Drawbacks to Keyless Entry Systems
As with most things in life, there are pros and cons. Despite this fact, you shouldn’t be totally turned off from purchasing keyless entry systems. Instead, weigh the pros and cons to see which outweighs the other. Additionally, make sure that having a new security system will truly benefit you and will provide the security that you desire for your property.
So, what are the negatives? Here are a few.

1. They’re expensive.

Keyless entry tends to cost much more than your traditional locks. If you are accustomed to purchasing deadbolts and knob locks, the price of a keyless entry system may take you by surprise. But, many people may tell you that the price is totally worth it based on the amount of security they provide.

2. You have to have some knowledge of technology to operate them.

Although there are very simple systems, at some point you may need some technical knowledge to operate them. Whether it is installing the system, programming codes, reprogramming the system or some other function, be prepared to utilize your knowledge of technology. Thankfully, most of these systems have user manuals so you should be able to follow the instructions given.

Do you have any other questions about keyless entry systems? For more information, call Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA.

How Access Control Can Benefit Your Business

Have you performed a security audit for your business recently? If not, you may not realize that you are in need of additional security. When you begin to consult with someone about your business security, you may want to inquire about access control security. This is the sort of security that will allow you to monitor your property remotely. You are able to see who comes in and out and the system will even record the day and time that someone enters and leaves. It is like having another set of eyes. If you own a business that receives a lot of traffic, it is a good idea to consider the benefits of having access control installed. These types of systems are often seen in hospitals, schools, government buildings, airport and other popular public places. Anywhere that there is sensitive material; you will usually find access control. This type of system is considered a high security system due to its ability to capture images in real-time.

Having access control also helps to limit your amount of liability. This makes it all worth the extra expense of having it installed. There is a lot of truth in the saying that you get what you pay for. Since thieves are becoming more skilled at compromising certain security measures, it is important that security is improved. Access control can be inconspicuously installed so that they do not even know whether it exists or not. Since they are so smart about getting in and out of businesses, it is in your best interest to determine the best way to prevent theft in your business. Certainly having an extra set of eyes will be a good option since it can help comprehend anyone who is stealing or breaking in. Despite what you might think, a locksmith can actually help by installing your access control systems for you. At Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, Virginia, we have a team of qualified locksmiths who have received the necessary training to effectively install a variety of security features, including access control systems. If we have peaked your interest and you would like to know more about this type of security, contact our helpful associates today. However, in the meantime, we have decided to share additional information with you that we believe will be useful in helping you determine if this type of system is a good choice for you.

Access control enables your visitors and employees enter and exit your property more effectively. Since systems do not require keys, you don’t have the problem of lost keys or people taking time to locate their keys to gain access. Some access control systems use personal characteristics to gain entry. This is often in the form of a fingerprint or retinal recognition. Our locksmiths also install systems that only require a code in order to gain entry inside.

Once you have used an access control system, it is likely that you will see how beneficial this type of system is. It is a convenient and reliable way to monitor your business.

Below are additional features and benefits that are offered with the different types of access control systems:

No Duplication of Keys – Regular keys can easily be duplicated. No one knows this better than a burglar who has done this before. On the other hand, they also know how difficult it is to gain access through an access control system. Many of the systems we install require a fob key car or an electronic key, which is difficult for a burglar to duplicate. This minimizes your chances of a break-in. A thief would need some very specific high tech equipment to duplicate an electronic key. If they can find and get a hold of the equipment, there is so much red tape that they would have to go through that they likely wouldn’t even bother. This would simply be a waste of their time. The longer they take to figure out how to duplicate electronic keys and compromise this type of system, the more money they lose.

Convenient – What could be easier than simply swiping something in front of the keyhole? We don’t think anything is easier than doing this and just walking through the door. You have the ability to determine who can get in and out and when they will be able to do so. You are in control when you have access control installed. When you have temporary employees and you no longer want them to have access onto the property, you can deactivate their access. This is helpful even if the temporary employee forgets to return their temporary card. This also applies if you have to terminate the employment of a permanent employee; you can deactivate their access.

Tracking Visitors and Employees – While there are still some businesses that will have someone at the front to sign visitors and employees in and out, with access control, this is slowly becoming a thing of the past. Your access control system will do it all for you. Whenever someone enters or leaves, the system will automatically record this information. Therefore, there is no need to have someone to sign people in and out. You are even capable of pulling the recording whenever needed. The system does all the work that a human would do for you.

Quick and Simple Entry – Since keys are not necessary to gain entry, having access control gives you quick and simply entry into the business. All that is required is the swipe of a key card or an access code entered. This keeps the flow of traffic moving swiftly without backing up.

Remote Access – You can give someone access without physically being present. As long as they have the right code or you have given them a key fob, you don’t have to be there to let them in. The key fob or code is the only thing needed to gain entry.