Preserving Your Locks with Regular Maintenance

Maintaining locks may sound silly to you but we assure you that if you want to be certain that your locks will always work when you need them to, regular maintenance is a must. They will not only continue to work efficiently but with regular maintenance, you’re able to avoid the misfortune of having them break. As much as locks are used, they are as equally neglected through maintenance. Even with the best quality locks, you can still experience problems when they are not being properly maintained. In fact, the problem that is experienced with many locks is due to the fact that they are not being properly maintained. You are probably like most people who make the assumption that a lock will last forever. At Locksmith Palatine in Palatine, IL, we predict that the average locks lifespan is around seven years. This, of course, will depend greatly on the amount of use and the maintenance of the door. If you want to be certain that all of your locks continue to work for as long as possible, here are some things to take into consideration.

1. Proper Installation Essential

The only way for your locks to work on your doors properly is if the door and lock is installed correctly. If your door is sagging or it binds, this will inevitably have an affect on the bolt or the latch of the door. This is what will cause you a problem with the locking mechanism. If the door is correctly installed you will not see binds. The gap of the doorframe should all be the same across the top and bottom. A qualified locksmith can see to it that the door is correctly installed for proper installation of your locks.

2. You’re Lock Might Not Be the Problem

The doorframe can be the problem. There should be a screw at the top of the hinge to secure the doorframe. It should be able to extent to the door and the wall frame situated around the door. In order to avoid sagging, a long screw that is at least three inches should be applied to the hinge. Although most hinge screws are staggered, the screw we are referencing should be in the center of your wall. Strike plates should also be inspected. The deadbolt plate should also be secured to the wall frame. These should also be installed with long screws.

3. Insure that the Deadbolt and Dead Latch Work Properly

Make sure the dead latch is not falling into the strike plate. If they are not correctly aligned with the strike plate, the security feature will not function properly. A broken dead latch or a binding dead latch will often cause lock problems. You will also need to make sure that the deadbolt lock is functioning properly. There is never a reason for you to push or pull on the lock in order for it to work correctly. It should fit into the latch with ease. The doorjamb hole should be deep enough so that the bolt of the lock extends in all the way. A deadbolt that isn’t fully extended is of no use to you.

4. Clean Your Locks

This is something that can be accomplished quit easily and is very simple to do. All that is required is a mild detergent and damp cloth to wipe down the lock. You wouldn’t want anything that is abrasive or any type of chemical cleaner. The locks finish can be damaged with the use of a petroleum-based product. The protective coating can sustain a lot of use but not a lot of abuse.

5. Inspect for Loose Parts

If you notice the slightest problem with a loose screw, tighten it up immediately. When you do not do this, you tend to allow the problem to persist until other screws have become loosened and the problem has escalated. You can tighten up screws on your own before the problem gets to the point that you’ll feel it is necessary to call on a locksmith. This will undoubtedly be more costly than if you had performed the job on your own.

6. Lubricating Your Locks

This is another simple job that you can do yourself. We do not advise you to use a petroleum-based product to lubricate your locks. A dry lubricant, such as Teflon, will work best for your needs. They are not only the best for lubricating locks but they are very easy to apply. You’ll just need to spray a little inside the keyhole. Turn the key back and forth and pulling the key out to clean any dirt and dust that comes off. You only need to lubricate your locks one a year. If you are moving into an older home and want to ensure that all of the locks are fully functional, lubrication may consist of completely removing the lock to clean its latch and bolt.

7. Duplicating Keys

Maintaining your locks also call for you to properly care for your keys. A key will wear out long before the lock. Whenever you have a new key installed, we suggest that you always keep one of the original keys for duplicating purposes. When you continue to duplicate a duplicate key, it can begin to wear on the locks. The further away from the original cut the more likely you will begin to have problems with your locking mechanism.

We know that you probably already have enough going on in your life, and the last thing you want to think about are your locks. This is why we make it possible for you to go on doing what you need to do and handing over the responsibility of maintaining your locks to our qualified locksmiths. If you decide to make the time to handle this maintenance on your own, you will be able to save some money in the long run. The question to you is, will you set aside the required time to take care of the maintenance of the locks of your home or car?

SECURITY FOR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

Does your Palatine, IL business need extra security? Or, does it need some security because you have none at all? Our Locksmith Service Palatine technicians help local commercial firms with their basic to advanced security needs and problems. You don’t have to use our locksmiths, of course. You can call your favorite lock and key experts and have them help you get the security protection you need. Remember; as the owner or manager it’s your responsibility to protect your staff, customers, location and inventory. After all, your business is your livelihood and that of your employees, too. No one wants to shop at or do business with a firm that is a security risk. Fortunately, there are simple and cost effective ways to add premium quality lock protection at just the right price!

Your customers
If you have customers that visit your location to shop or to access a service, they want and need to feel safe. No one wants to risk their safety by going to a dangerous location. This is especially true with the strong advance of online shopping and web services. It’s much easier and often safer to just stay home and conduct your business from there. You don’t have to be located in the ritziest part of town either. Even budget commercial properties can bolster security by making smart choices and additions to their security systems and lock hardware.

Your employees
It can be hard enough going to work every day without having to stress out over security and safety. No one wants to work in a dangerous and risky place. You will have a hard time hiring, training and keeping staff if they fear their workplace. Even if they decide to stay, work productivity will be down and if sales are low due to poor customer traffic, commissions and bonuses will be practically nonexistent too. Poor work morale is never good and something as simple as better lock security can make a difference in customer traffic, employee attitude and overall business health.

Your commercial locksmith
Not all locksmiths in Palatine, IL are qualified to render professional service for commercial use. Either call our shop or use another one of your liking, but please work with an experienced and licensed commercial lock and key shop that offers experienced and skilled technicians on a 24-hour basis. A “regular” locksmith will be able to add a peephole or rekey your front door lock but they might not be able or qualified to advise you on the best ways to enhance your business security. What you need are access to quality hardware, experienced technicians and round-the-clock mobile assistance that is fast responding and highly professional.

Can you justify the cost?
Sometimes business owners call our Palatine, IL shop and wonder if they can afford quality business locksmith service. They ponder the question of justifying the cost. There is no one-sized fits all commercial locksmith service or package. One firm may simply need to add high security locks to help cut down on burglaries. Another may have a cash theft problem and want CCTV cameras installed near the cash registers. Each circumstance is unique but one thing is for sure. All business owners should look at commercial lock security as an investment and not a cost. Many improvements and upgrades are even tax deductible so it’s wise to consult your tax professional as well as to save all receipts and records of purchase.

Commercial safe
One great way to secure cash, jewelry, documents, flash drives and other items of value is by keeping them in a commercial safe. Don’t be fooled by thinking that locking desk drawers or file cabinets are enough to protect these items. The cam locks that secure these drawers offer minimum security at best and are easy to pick or even smash off with a hammer. Your commercial safe can be built into the floor or a wall. It can be hidden behind a stairwell or in plain sight.

High security locks
These locks are near-impossible to pick or pry open. Burglars are not used to these locks and more often than not, they will simply give up and move on. You can even hammer these locks, shoot them, or try and blast them open but to no avail. They are build solid with brass and steel parts and best of all; they are affordable and once installed, become a legitimate building improvement for tax purposes.

Deadbolts
Who knew? Something as simple as a deadbolt can thwart burglars and keep them out of your store, office or shop. There are two catches, however. One, the deadbolt must be of quality construction and properly installed. Two, the deadbolt must be used! When these conditions are met, your commercial deadbolt can delay and frustrate your would-be burglar to the point that he or she simply stops trying to break-into your store or office.

CCTV
Video surveillance can help in many commercial applications. If your business deals with cash, heavy foot traffic, numerous employees or has a theft problem, one effective way to deal with all this is to use CCTV cameras. You’ll notice their use in most public places like airports and hospitals. You’ll also notice them in private businesses like convenience stores, restaurants and retail stores. Many are surprised at how affordable video surveillance can be. Consult your Palatine, IL locksmith shop of choice and learn more.

Keyless entry
Keyless entry is another smart way to help secure your business. You can dispense with keys while keeping better track of staff access, customer traffic and vendor allowed areas. Keyless entry when combined with video surveillance can provide you with better organization and greater peace of mind as you no longer have to worry about rekeys, lock change-outs, broken key extraction and other key related problems.

Find out more!
We encourage you to call a local Palatine commercial locksmith and learn more. Many offer free consultations and can help you plan and implement a more secure commercial environment for you and your staff and customers.

ARE YOU HAVING TROUBLE WITH YOUR IGNITION CYLINDER? HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO!

If you cannot start up your car, there are a good many reasons this is happening. One possibility is that your ignition switch is failing. A worn-out ignition can be a hazard, so don’t ignore it. Carefully examine your automobile. In some cases, you can determine the nature of the problem yourself.

Are You Having Problems Starting the Car?

Whenever you fire the engine, the ignition coil gets its power from the battery, and sends it to the sparkplugs, which ignites the fuel so that your vehicle will run. If you’ve turned the engine over too many times, then you’ve likely drained the battery. If so, there’s no power left to start it again.

Watch for These Warning Signs:

• you cannot get the key in the ignition at all
• while idling, you’re prone to stalling
• you may observe higher auto emissions
• the key comes out, even while your car is still running
• at times, the steering wheel sticks, or becomes immovable
• you might see increased fuel consumption
• you may notice car battery problems

Causes of Ignition Problems

The ignition has been faulty from the beginning. Consult the manufacturer. If your car is still under warranty, your dealership ought to replace your ignition cylinder for free. If it’s no longer under warranty, it’s time to hire an automotive locksmith.

Did you accidentally put the wrong key in the ignition switch? If you stuck the incorrect key into the ignition by mistake, don’t attempt to pull it out! You could easily cause irreparable damage. Call an automotive locksmith instead.

The transponder key isn’t properly communicating. This probably means its computer chip lost its programming. You can reprogram your existing key; or, you can hire a professional locksmith to duplicate the existing cuts and program a completely new one. An exceptional professional automotive locksmith technician will know how to do the exacting work needed to carry out this precise service.

Your car key has simply endured too much wear and tear. As time goes by, your car key will become less and less effective, and eventually stop working. If so, it needs to be remade, applying the factory key cutting codes so that it will be cut accurately and completely functional.

Your ignition’s set of wafers, which index with corresponding cuts on the key, are worn-out, or jammed up with grime, which will cause the ignition switch to fail. A thorough cleaning, or individual wafer replacement, will make a total replacement unnecessary.

Is the switch overheating? If your ignition switch is hot when you touch it, then there might be a short, which means the issue is in the electrical system. Since the ignition switch is connected to high-resistance wires, any of the terminals where the wires are connected could overheat, and may even melt the insulating base. If this occurs, your car will jerk violently and won’t start.

Is a broken-off key or other tiny object lodged inside the lock mechanism? Don’t try repairing this yourself, because unless you know what you’re doing, you might cause irreparable damage. The broken key, or whatever the obstacle is, can be removed properly by an automotive locksmith technician, so you will not need to replace the whole ignition switch.

Did a car thief attempt to steal your automobile? A bungled car theft can wreck havoc on your ignition switch and the steering column. If you’ve been unlucky enough to have this happen to you, the entire ignition assembly will require replacement.


Investigate the Ignition’s Status

One sure sign of a faulty ignition switch is that the instrument panel will not illuminate with your car key in the second position. When you insert your key into the ignition switch and turn it, there are three regular status positions:

1. The “off” status position: No power is being transmitted to the system.

2. The “on” status position: The dashboard lights come on, but the engine’s still off.

3. The “start” position: You place full pressure on the key, and the engine fires up.

Monitor the dashboard lights. Normal wear and tear will eventually lead to ignition switch failure, especially on an older car. If your ignition switch begins to fail, you might not hear clicks from the main relay. If you stall out, check the dashboard lights. When you turn the car key to the “on” status position, if the oil light, brake light, charge light, and other warning lights don’t come on, then something’s wrong.

Confirm the ignition switch’s integrity. Put the car key in the “start” status position, and the second you know it’s starting up, let go of the key, allowing it to snap back to the “on” status position. If the warning lights go out when the switch snaps back, then the switch is broken. You need to contact an automotive locksmith.


Do It Yourself

If you possess some automotive expertise, then you may be able to service the ignition switch yourself. Make sure you understand exactly what you’re up against, because replacing an ignition switch is no cakewalk, particularly on newer cars, because they generally have anti-theft devices. You’ll render your vehicle inoperable if you replace your ignition switch without using the proper tools, and without taking the recommended precautions! The electrical current running through your vehicle’s system can actually cause bodily harm, so keep all metallic objects away from all the electrical wires. Prior to installing a new ignition switch, the process involves disconnecting the battery cable from the battery terminal, removing the steering column, detaching the wiring harness connected to the ignition switch, and so forth. If you still have any doubts, contact an automotive locksmith.


Hire an Automotive Locksmith

Nine times out of ten, it is better to hire a reputable professional. If you’re located any place in Palatine, Illinois, hire a dependable automotive locksmith mobile specialist on staff at Locksmith Service Palatine, where, 24/7, free consultations are available.

Locksmith Service Palatine: How to Prevent Lockouts

Frustrating situations happen to the best of us. Of course, in hindsight, some are completely preventable. Let’s say, for instance, your tire blows out. Maybe you saw your tire pressure light go on, but figured that you could ignore it for a little bit of time because the leak from the tire didn’t seem to be too fast. When you’re stuck on the side of the road, you will look back and wish you had fixed the problem right away. But we aren’t here to talk about cars. Locksmith Service Palatine is a lock and security provider in Palatine, IL that gets calls quite frequently from locals who are locked out. Much of the time, they are very upset with themselves when they call. They realize that a simple mistake, like shutting the locked car door while the key was sitting on the driver’s seat, has just set them back and will end up costing them money. No matter where you are located, a lock and security provider will understand what you are going through if you end up getting locked out. But let’s talk about ways to prevent lockouts from happening at all. If you can prevent the problem from ever occurring, then you won’t have to worry about shelling out cash to have someone come out to help you. Here are some of the top ways to avoid getting locked out…

Prevent Automotive Lockouts

1. Don’t continue to use a key with a dead battery. Once you have to start physically pressing the interior lock button on your car’s door, you are risking a lockout. Get that battery swapped out as soon as you notice that it is dying or already dead.
2. If you are going to continue to use a car key with a dead battery, then get into a habit while using it. For instance, don’t ever get out of your car and hit the lock button inside of the door unless you physically have the key in the palm of your hand. Getting into a habit or routine will help to prevent a lockout from ever happening.
3. Get in the habit of not shutting the door unless you have your key in your pocket or in your hand.

Prevent Home Lockouts

1. Home lockouts tend to happen when keys become lost. You can set up devices that can be attached to your keys so that a sound alerts you as to where the key is, if you tend to sometimes be a bit forgetful.
2. Make sure that you have given a neighbor or trusted companion a copy of your house key. Knowing that someone nearby has a copy of the key to get into your home (that you can trust, of course) can bring you peace of mind during a lockout, and prevent you from having to call a locksmith. You will only be momentarily locked out, in this case.
3. Go keyless. Having a keyless entry system set up will prevent you from having to use a key at all. In this case, you will only get locked out if you don’t remember your code. But one solution to this is to keep the code written down in a secure spot, such as your wallet.
4. Buy a hide a key. You can install a hide a key in a discreet area on your property. Perhaps you have a pool with a waterfall and oversized rocks around the patio. A hide a key can take on the appearance of a rock! This way, you will have another copy of your key already on your property, so you won’t be locked out for too long.

Prevent Business Property Lockouts

Getting locked out of your place of work is certainly a pain. But again, it is something that is avoidable.

1. Make a couple of copies of your key, and hand them out to employees you know you can trust. If you run a clothing store, make sure any supervisors have keys so that they can access the property without you if need be.
2. Go keyless! This is becoming more and more popular for businesses, especially ones that are interested in access control (that is, eliminating access to certain points of their property so that only the most trusted, experienced individuals are granted entry). If you don’t have to carry a key around, then you won’t ever lose it and thereby get locked out.
3. As with a vehicle or home, get into the habit of making sure that you don’t lock any doors unless you have a key in your hand already.

It is a good idea to try to form habits that will prevent you from getting locked out. Lockouts are quite stressful, especially when they happen in the middle of the night. Locksmiths understand that they never occur at appropriate times, and that is why most are available to help customers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They make themselves available at all hours for your peace of mind. Locksmith Service Palatine is here to help anyone who is in this part of Illinois. And of course, the team can be reached at all hours of the day and night. Wherever you are, help is usually just around the corner. But some of the habits mentioned might eliminate the chance of getting locked out from ever taking place. Just keep in mind that if you do lock yourself out, you have automotive, residential and commercial lock and security experts who can get you back in, if you are unable to figure out an alternative way of getting back in. Don’t cause damage to the property, don’t break a window open, and don’t risk injury to get in to your property. An expert will be able to manipulate your locks and help you to regain access to your property.

Ways To Avoid Being Locked Out of Your Car

Any time you lock your keys in the car, you know that you are going to have to spend money you were not expecting to spend in order to get the keys out. The best way to avoid this problem is to avoid locking your keys in the car. We know this is easier said than done but there are some things that you can do to help you avoid locking your keys in the car. If you have never locked your keys in the car, you are likely doing something that helps you remember to take the keys with you when you get out of the car. Save yourself the aggravation and frustration by following some of the suggestions we’ve outlined for you below. At Locksmith Service Palatine in Palatine, IL, we receive most of our service calls from motorists who have locked their keys in the car. Since this is such a common occurrence, we felt obligated to help motorists by putting together some informative information about how they can avoid this in the future. Whether or not you take this information to heart and begin to implement some of the ideas offered, is completely up to you. If you have never locked your keys in the car, you may read this and think that it doesn’t apply to you. However, if you wish to avoid this from ever occurring, it would certainly be in your best interest to read over and consider some of the things you might implement in order to continue to avoid this from happening to you. If you are someone who has experienced this in the past, perhaps you’ll be able to benefit most from this. It may be something that you have experienced on more than one occasion. If this is the case, it is clear that there is something that you can do to help prevent this in the future. Save yourself the time and frustration by reading the below suggestions.

Remove Keys at the Right Time
You should remove your key as soon as you turn the car off. Even when you are collecting other things that may be in your car, it is best to remove the key as soon as you switch the engine off. We understand that you might have a lot on your mind but when you make it a habit to remove the key immediately upon turning off your ignition, you’re sure to avoid locking them in the car.

Get Another Key Made
No matter how logical this may sound to most people, you wouldn’t believe how many motorists do not have spare keys. We don’t have to tell you just how beneficial having a spare key is for situations like this, but we will. When you have a spare key, you don’t have to wait for too long to gain access back into your car. You can simply contact whoever has the spare key and have them come to your rescue. It might even be in your best interest to have more than one spare key made. Just be advised that when you do have another key made, don’t place your spare keys on your keychain, hand them over to someone who will be responsive to your request to bring them to you. It wouldn’t benefit you to have the keys on the same keychain with your other keys, given the chance that you could somehow lock your keys in the car. If you don’t already have spare keys, get them today!

Avoid Duplicating Keys

This might sound really confusing since we have suggested that you have spare keys made. You have to duplicate them in order to make a spare. What we are suggesting is that you try to have your spare keys made from the original key or always keep a copy from your original key simply for duplication purposes. The reason is that the more you duplicate the key, the further it gets from the cut of the original key. This means that when you get keys duplicated, you may run into a problem with them working because they are no longer being cut to the exact specifications of the keyhole.

Have Bad Locks Replaced
Some people find themselves locked out of their car because the locks are damaged. If you have damaged locks, the key will not fit it. When you begin to have problems opening your car door, don’t continue to force the key, this will only damage it further, instead, contact a locksmith in Palatine to help by replacing or rekeying the lock for you. The problem that you are experiencing will worsen if you continue to use it. Continuing to use the key can ultimately damage the key. While it might be a little pricey to have the locks changes, you can avoid being locked out. I know for most motorists, they would prefer to do this than to arrive to their car after a hard days work only to discover they can’t get in.

Create a Routine
Try to develop some type of routine before hoping out of your car. Do this every time you get out of your car. You might consider looking down into your hand every time you exit your car to make sure you see the keys in your hand. You might even consider glancing at the ignition to make sure the key isn’t still inside. Look in your handbag, if you carry one; make sure you see the keys inside before leaving your car. Do whatever you think will work best for you no matter what it is. Once you’ve established a routine, you will feel weird if you do not do it. This is what will help you avoid locking the key in the car. The moment you begin to notice that you haven’t done something that you should do, it will slow you down so that you can remember what it is that you should be doing.

Lock and key types

Locks and keys are almost as different and unique as snowflakes! Close your eyes and envision a lock or a key and you’ll most likely see the standard keyhole with a traditional key sticking out of it. In reality lock hardware can take on hundreds of forms and be made of quite a few materials. This is why Locksmith Service Palatine decided to make this post; to show you that there is a lock mechanism for every need or want imaginable!

Locks have been successfully used for literally thousands of years. Even the ancient folks in Babylon, Egypt and Greece used locks to protect their homes, tombs and shops. Today, there are more lock varieties than ever before, and you can enjoy this technology here in Palatine, IL and anywhere else in the country that you live.

Automotive keys
The traditional car key is easily recognizable. Its size and distinctive shape make it easy to use, easy to recognize, and often, easy to use for other things like ripping open boxes or prying open bottles. Our Locksmith Service Palatine professionals recommend that you only use keys for the purpose that they were meant for. Anything else can lead to key breakage, poor key performance and eventually lock damage.

Most key making places can duplicate car keys (not transponders). These include home improvement stores, convenience stores, hardware stores and sporting goods stores. Car keys are used to start ignitions, open trunks, lock car doors, and in some models they can lock glove compartments and front seat consoles, too.

Deadbolt locks
A deadbolt lock should be sturdy, well-installed, and on every front door! While Palatine, IL enjoys a low crime rate, it could be in part, due to the fact that many residential and commercial locations have deadbolt locks installed. Deadbolts are simple. One side has a key slot in it and the other a knob for turning. These locks do not make use of a spring and rely instead on the turning action of the user to manually lock or unlock. They are built into the door as opposed to being attached ON the door.
What’s important about deadbolts is that they offer a second line of protection for users. Burglars and other unauthorized intruders most always look for easy and fast ways to enter your home or business. Deadbolts can thwart this entry as they must now get past this lock after picking or prying open your main one. This lock now presents a second barrier that must be bypassed before entry and if they attempt to do this, it buys you time to call for help or even arm yourself!

Transponder keys
Most cars built after 1995 use transponder keys to operate them. Transponder means to “transmit” and that’s exactly what this key does! You insert your transponder key into the ignition and turn it. The chip embedded in the head of the key then transmits a signal to your car’s computer and if that signal is matched and recognized by your car, the car starts!
If not recognized the car will not start and this ability of your transponder key to transmit the right signal is what has drastically cut down on the incidents of car theft all over the world.

Keyless entry

Keyless entry systems eliminate the use of keys altogether! Instead, a number sequence is entered into a keypad and if done correctly, the lock opens. They add convenience as well as better security to cars, homes, businesses and industrial locations that now no longer have to cut and issue new keys at every turn or carry them around everywhere. Keyless entry allows you to no longer be concerned about lost, broken or stolen keys as all that is needed to work the lock is the proper key code or number sequence.

Master locks
Master locks allow users to use far fewer keys as all the locks on the system use one key. With fewer keys to carry and use, there is less breakage, loss and theft. Master keys open all of the locks on the system and this useful hardware can be applied in commercial, institutional and residential applications. Think of your elementary school custodian with that massive key ring he wore. You could always hear him coming down the halls! On it he had keys to classrooms, offices, cafeteria, gymnasium, storage rooms, closets, bathrooms and more. If the school had been on keyed to a Master system, he would have had one key to all of the above.

High security locks
High security locks are aptly named as they offer premium quality security at an affordable price. Most locks are made of tin or aluminum and are hollow. High security ones are solid steel or brass and covered with a steel plate to prevent tampering. They are virtually impossible to pick open, pry open or even shoot open. Their strength eliminates smashing, bumping and other violent and sneaky forms of lock bypassing. You can’t even drill these locks open as hardened steel pins are embedded in the lock face to prevent it.

Tubular keys and locks
These locks are familiar to anyone who has worked in an office setting or been to a coin operated laundry. Tubular locks are recognized by their hollow, cylindrical, shorter shape. They typically lock file cabinets and lock boxes. They can also be used to lock bicycles, laundromat dryers and washers, and laptop security cables. They afford minimum protection as they are easy to pry or smash open.

Many, many more!
We naturally can’t cover every kind of lock and key in use today, but you get the general picture! Find out more about the locks or keys you are interested in by going online and doing a little research or by calling your favorite Palatine, IL locksmith shop. Many offer free price quotes and free consultations to better educate you on your particular locksmith needs and wants. Always remember; there is a plethora of sturdy, affordable lock hardware for you to choose from.

EVERYTHING YOU WANT TO KNOW ABOUT LOCKSMITHS*

EVERYTHING

YOU WANT TO KNOW

ABOUT LOCKSMITHS*

*DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK!

We typically think about calling a locksmith only if we’ve just suddenly realized that we’re locked out. The fact is, a good locksmith is a lot more than a person who can come to your rescue when you’re stuck somewhere without your keys. A topnotch locksmith is a consummate professional you can rely on, eminently qualified to expertly handle not only problems with keys and locks, but also with safes, security systems, access control, and just about anything else you can imagine regarding the security of your property. Locksmiths adjust, repair, and install locks for cars, homes, and commercial buildings. Let’s look at the many services a locksmith offers.

24-hour lockout service. There are some locksmith companies that are available around the clock, to respond immediately anytime you need assistance. If you happen to be in a tight spot without your keys any place in Palatine, Illinois, you’ll be happy to know that Locksmith Service Palatine is open 24 hours, and staffed with mobile emergency locksmith specialists perpetually at the ready to assist you.

Automotive locksmiths are automotive locksmith specialists capable of getting you back into your vehicle right away if you’re stranded any place without your car keys. Not only that, they can also replace and program your transponder key, repair or replace your ignition cylinder, and so forth.

Residential locksmiths are residential locksmith experts who will offer you advice on security issues you may not have thought about before. The specialized services they bring will enhance your home’s security. They’ll evaluate the quality and condition of your doors and locks, the safety level of your points of entry, windows, garage, and the whole perimeter. A dependable professional residential locksmith will advise you on how best to safeguard your jewelry and other valuables, your essential documents, emergency cash, weapons, and anything else you want well protected. Trustworthy residential locksmiths are knowledgeable on the strategies burglars often employ to avoid detection and gain access, which means they’ll help you take logical measures to thwart vandalism, break-ins, or theft. If you’re planning to be away for a long time, an exceptional residential locksmith specialist can recommend optimal lighting, timers, and even security systems capable of being monitored with your smart phone.

Commercial locksmiths are commercial locksmith specialists who address key and lock issues at business properties. Anytime a security issue occurs at your commercial facility, it’s time to hire an accomplished professional commercial locksmith. You want to be able to depend on a person of utmost integrity who will become familiar with your building’s particulars ~ not just the doors and locks, but also the emergency exits, the high-security areas, and so on. Some commercial locksmiths may have master key sets, if you request them. They can also keep complete records of every kind of lock you have, and assist you with all your property’s security measures, such as identification passcodes, fire and panic devices, video surveillance systems, and more.

Access control. A prime locksmith is highly qualified to advise you on the most effective ways to control access to your business or home ~ such as gate entry, intercom systems, alarm systems, magnetic locks, keypads, key cards, and remote locks. Nowadays, there are even biometric locks (that is, high-security locks which can be opened only with a fingerprint or handprint; cutting-edge technology includes eye scan, facial recognition, voice recognition, ear scan, even DNA sampling).
When it comes to guarding the security and safety of your possessions and property, there are almost countless services a locksmith can do:

• keyless entry
• peepholes
• removing broken & stuck keys
• smart keys
• garage, pool, & fence locks
• intercom systems
• install and repair electronic security hardware
• window bars
• sliding glass door locks
• deadbolts
• replace or repair damaged door & window locks, hinges, & electric-locking release mechanisms
• smart-phone controlled surveillance systems
• security systems
• video surveillance systems
• master keys for business facilities & apartment complexes
• change combination locks on all types of safes & vault doors
• program transponder “chip” keys

An excellent locksmith is a competent professional who works with a great deal of skill, finesse, and discretion in any location or circumstance, and, ideally, at anytime, day or night.

Duplicating and making keys. A locksmith is able to expertly cut keys for virtually any sort of lock ~ keys for automobiles, businesses, and residences ~ such as filing cabinet locks, lockers, deadbolts, bump-proof locks, safes, padlocks, desk locks, transponder keys, dropboxes, mailboxes, cabinets, and really any other type of key mechanism you may come across.

Rekeying and lock changes. Whenever you move into a new place of residence, you must rekey or change the locks as soon as possible. There are also other reasons, such as preventing entrance by your ex-spouse, ex-roommate, or (if you own a business) former employee. Perhaps you require access for the disabled, or you want to alter the style of your locks. Or, if you’ve been burglarized, or even experienced an attempted theft, it’s wise to change out your locks ~ whether basic (with new locks and keys) or electronic (with new codes). Your building’s former tenants might still possess an old key, or recall an old password. Don’t take any risks!

Safes for business and home. If you’ve lost the combination to your safe, a legitimate professional will be prepared and possess the knowhow to open it without damaging it. A premium professional locksmith will repair or install any safe ~ for your business or your home ~ including specialized safes such as gun safes, anchored safes, fireproof and waterproof safes, and concealed safes (hidden in the wall or floor).

Would you like to be a locksmith? If you want to be a locksmith yourself, first you’ll have to be an apprentice for awhile. If you’re good at problem-solving, and you enjoy working outside normal hours, you’re probably well-suited to become a locksmith. You’ll have a big advantage over other locksmiths if you’re talented and experienced regarding electronics, metal fabricating, and/or construction. It’s important that you be an individual of the highest uprightness, comport yourself professionally, and be discreet, since you’ll routinely be privy to confidential information. Being a locksmith requires significant training, as well as a license, and you also must be a solid and patient person.