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What to do when Transponder Key is Lost

Are you having a new home built and now have to determine which locks to use where? This is something that you probably haven’t given much consideration to. However, it you are having a brand-new home built, this may be what you are tasked to do. If you are having some remodeling work performed around your home then you may have to determine which locks will be used on your interior or exterior doors.

First and foremost, if you are looking for exterior locks, undoubtedly you will want a lock that offers a great deal of durability. You may simply select a lock based on the fact that you are familiar with the brand. This wouldn’t be the best way to go about choosing the right locks. All that this means is that the manufacturer is using their marketing dollars for brand recognition. Whereas, a less known brand may be putting their marketing dollars elsewhere. They may not even allocate as much money to marketing their locks because they want to pay the designers of their locks more to create a durable and effective lock. Just keep this in mind when you are thinking about purchasing new locks. 

There is a serious possibility that someone could break into your house when you least expect it, especially if you do not have durable exterior locks. Locks have ratings and even if you find the rating you may not know what it means. Our locksmiths can help you determine the durability rating on any lock. That is why it is in your best interest to consult with a locksmith when you are considering purchasing new locks. They can advise you on the best locks for your needs. 

How Locks Work

It is a good idea to know how the mechanics of locks actually work when you are looking for new locks. Knowing how they function may help you to determine which ones will be best suited to your needs. The most standard type of lock is a doorknob lock. This is a rather simple lock. Unfortunately, there are those doorknob locks that can only be used on interior doors and shouldn’t be used on exterior doors. A qualified locksmith would be able to tell you exactly which type of lock would be suitable for your needs, whether it is for interior or exterior use.

We have highlighted some of the most commonly installed locks for your consideration:

Pin Tumbler Locks – The pin tumbler has a set of pins that should be perfectly aligned with its locking mechanism in order to disengage. If the wrong key is placed in the keyhole then the pins will not align properly and this means the turning mechanism will not turn to unlock the lock.

Warded Locks – This type of lock has a bolt inside of it that will only move once the correct key has been inserted into the lock. It is the ward that actually obstructs the movement. It only moves when the right key has been inserted.

Lever Tumbler Locks – This type of lock doesn’t allow the bolt to move within the locking mechanism. This prevents the lock from disengaging. 

The locking mechanism may be different for every lock. The key to being able to successfully unlock the door is to make sure you have the right key. If you don’t then chances are that you won’t be able to gain access.

Electronic/Digital Locks

Let’s face it. Most people appreciate convenience. In fact, more and more products that are designed today are designed with convenience in mind. Most people do not mind paying a little more convenience. With the invention of electronic locks, users have a lot more convenience than they would have through the use of a traditional key. The cost is higher but if you like convenience, it is likely worth the added expense to have one installed. The other thing that you are paying for when you buy an electronic lock is the safety of this type of lock. It is very difficult for someone to compromise this type of lock. When a burglar notices that you have an electronic lock, they will often go somewhere else because they realize just how difficult it is to break through it.

Below is information about the two types of electronic locks used most often:

Push Button Locks – The push button lock requires a code that is used to lock and unlock the door. When the right code is entered into the keypad, you will be able to gain access. There are some push button locks that actually have internal motors and others with a magnet that engages the locking mechanism. It is an easy lock to program, which is why it is also one of the most widely used types of electronic locks used today by many homeowners. If you’re interested in high-security locks then this would be a good option due to its durability and inability to compromise.

Fingerprint Locks – This type of lock was once only found at businesses but today, many homeowners are now using this type of lock, also known as a digital or biometric lock. A keypad is installed and your fingerprint and that of your family members are entered into the system. When the right fingerprints are recognized then the lock will disengage. This type of lock is highly effective and thus is the reason it is one of the most expensive types of locks on the market today.