Everything you need to know about finding a Locksmith

Security is vital these days and having a well secured home will give you and your family peace of mind. Whether you choose to secure your home using locks or an alarm system, choosing a good locksmith will ensure that your home security will meet your needs. Read on for more information about locksmiths:

What Locksmiths Do

Locksmiths perform many tasks including:

• Key cutting: Keys need to be cut for many reasons including when duplicates are required or when a set of keys is lost. Keys are cut using an electronic cutting machine or a punch system. For more information see key cutting.
  
  
• Lockouts: If you lose the keys to your home or have left them inside your home or car, you will need a locksmith to let you back in. The locksmith will either pick the lock by hand or use a lock picking machine. For more information see locksmiths - lockouts.
  
  
• Master keys: A master key system is one in which each lock has its own key, with a master key which can unlock all the locks. This service is typically carried out in commercial premises, requiring varying levels of security. For more information see master key systems.
  
  
• Safes: Safes are used to secure sensitive documents and other valuables. They are either manufactured using high-strength steel and come in many sizes suitable for both domestic or commercial areas. See locksmiths - safes for more information.
  
  
• Supplying and installing locks: If you need to install a lock in your home to protect your family, a locksmith can assist and advise on the most suitable lock for your space. As well as supplying and installing locks for your doors, a locksmith can provide and install padlocks for garden gates. For more info see lock supply & install.
  
  
• Electronic locks: Electronic and biometric locks are a very effective way to protect your premises from unwanted intruders. Utilising the latest technology, the locks dispense with the need for keys or codes, making them ultra-convenient. For more information see electronic & biometric locks.
  
  
• Automotive locks: Specialist locksmiths can provide spare keys, replace lost or stolen keys and even replace the entire lock on the car. Locksmiths can also extract broken keys in the barrel without damaging the lock. See locksmiths - automotive for more information.
  
  
• Emergency services: Locksmiths often provide a 24/7 emergency service for when keys are lost or security is compromised. This includes services for both residential and commercial premises, as well as emergency access to vehicles. See 24/7 emergency locksmiths for more information.

Before installing any security system, contact your home and contents insurance provider to find out what they require security-wise for your insurance.

Types of Locks

The most common types of locks are deadbolts, dead latches, window locks, and master keyed lock systems. If you choose to use deadbolts or dead latches, make sure that they have double cylinders for maximum security. Window locks or bolts are important to stop potential intruders from simply opening the windows of your home externally and entering via that way. Master keyed systems are great if you are not a fan of having a key ring full of keys as one key will open all of the locks in your home.

Alarm Systems and Safes

Alarm systems are a good way to protect your home against intruders. Alarm systems can detect the following:

• garage door opening
• window opening
• interior motion
• door opening
• glass breakage
• smoke and fire

Newer alarm systems can detect your pets in a way that your pet will not set off the alarm system when they cross a sensor or enter or exit the house. Systems can be hardwired to the house or wireless and some systems can be relocated when you move. When choosing a system, ask your professional if codes are available for different situations such as medical emergencies or situations where you are under duress. Alarm systems should also come with a panic button.

The locksmith should monitor and maintain your alarm system, but if this service is not provided, they should link you to a reputable security firm.

If you keep valuables within your home, a safe may be a good idea. Safes range in size and type – some examples are fire safes, gun safes, floor safes, wall safes, mini safes, and security safes. Your locksmith should be able to install the safe for you and provide you with the correct combination, and be able to change the combination if necessary.

Choosing a Locksmith

The professional you choose should be selected according to a set of criteria. Do they offer a 24-hour emergency service in case you lock yourself out of your home or another situation occurs? Can they repair broken or damaged locks or change locks or alarm codes if the property becomes insecure?

The locksmith should have a Police Clearance and a confidentiality policy so that the details of your home security remain secure. They should also be fully qualified and able to provide customer references.