LOCK AND KEY TYPES

Keys and locks come in many types and after reading this post you’ll know more about them than most! Hardware of this type is often taken for granted but we’d be hard pressed to protect our valuables without them. Even as far back as ancient Egypt and Sumer keys and locks were used to secure buildings, temples, palaces, and treasure stashes. That’s how the famous archaeologist Howard Carter knew that he had discovered the find of the century – King Tut’s tomb; it’s royal seal/lock was still in place, guaranteeing that the tomb was intact! The ancient Romans used to keep sealed boxes at home filled with gold or coins and the keys were part of their jewelry, worn as rings. These made having their keys handy as well as allowed them to show off their affluence in the form of fancy jewelry.

COMMONLY USED KEYS

Pin tumbler lock key – do a Google images search for “key” and you will most often find these. You’ve seen and used these keys all your life. One end is larger for holding while the blade of the key has a series of grooves on it that when slid into the lock allows entry into the cylinder. This opens the lock after the pointed teeth and notches on the blade allow the pins to move up and down until they align. These keys are very easy to duplicate and you don’t need a locksmith in Maple Grove, MN to have one made as most mailbox centers, home improvement stores and sporting goods locations can easily and affordably make them.

Tubular keys – these are used to open tubular pin tumbler locks. These keys are easily recognized as they look so different from “regular” keys. They are cylindrical, hollow and shorter. You see them often in laundromats, bike locks, laptop security cables and portable lock boxes. These keys come in 4 and 8 pin models and are harder to duplicate due as they are less common and need different equipment.

Car keys – you obviously know what a car key is but did you know that there are different types? The typical car key can open the door, trunk, glove box and of course, start the ignition. These keys are usually symmetrical with grooves on both sides. Some models of cars come with valet keys which open the driver’s side door and start the ignition but do not open the trunk or glove compartment where important papers like registration and insurance documents are kept.

Keyless entry systems – just like the name says; there’s no key needed. Instead, access gained by using a keypad mounted on the car door or from a remote control (remote keys). Keyless entry is both loved and hated by drivers. Many won’t have it and others won’t do without it. In its favor, it does dispense with the actual “key” and is convenient. It also cuts down on theft as only the person who knows the actual code can access the vehicle and drive it. If someone was to enter numerous codes into the keypad in the hopes of striking the right one; the car would not open and additionally an alarm would sound and thieves know this.

Transponder chip keys – these are the most common automotive keys in modern cars. Each key has an embedded chip contained within that transmits a signal to the car’s computer system. When you turn the key a coded signal is sent to the circuit telling it to turn on. If the wrong key is used, no signal is sent and the car won’t start. These are also known as chip keys or transponder keys. Their big advantages are that theft prevention and also their difficulty in duplicating. Keys are easy to make and you certainly don’t need a locksmith in Maple Grove, MN to duplicate a regular pin tumbler key. Transponder keys on the other hand are much harder to make and the usual method is to work with your car dealership and pay large fees for chip key duplication and/or programming.

Here at Maple Grove Master Locksmith our service includes transponder key service. Using our technicians can save you money and time as we come directly to your location and program or duplicate your transponder key on site. Our service includes any key mentioned in this post and many others so don’t hesitate to call us for additional details and for free price quotes.

Master Keys – these useful keys operate a set of several locks. The key itself is nothing special but they allow you to access several locks at the same time. This is so useful in schools, apartment buildings, stores and office locations as management or custodial staff only needs one key to open multiple doors or units. Before master keys it was common to see the janitor with a huge key ring that had to carried around everywhere. On the downside, losing the master key or having a copy fall into the wrong hands can cause problems as whoever has that key now can access every door or unit that it opens. Also every lock involved will have to be replaced or at least rekeyed and that task is both expensive and time consuming.

Magnetic key cards – these handy keys look much like credit cards in both their size and material. Modern hotels and high rise apartments use these with greater frequency as they are convenient, easy to program, and light weight. Each card contains a magnetic strip on the backside that is encoded with a long string of numbers and characters. These are compared with the lock’s interior reader and if the code matches, the door opens.

These are just some of the dozens of key and lock types available on the market today. Maple Grove Master Locksmith invites you to call us anytime to discuss any of the above and if needed, to access 24-hour locksmith care that is always done right and always done to your standards.

Article source here: LOCK AND KEY TYPES

WHAT DOES A LOCKSMITH DO?

We usually think of a locksmith only when we have discovered we are locked out. But a locksmith is so much more than just a person who can get you back inside your place if you’re stranded. A locksmith is a professional who works not only with locks and keys, but also with security systems, safes, and just about anything you can think of regarding the securing of your property. They install, adjust, and repair keys and locks for homes, automobiles, and commercial properties. Here is a brief overview of the services a locksmith will provide.

Rekeying and lock changes. If you’ve just moved into a new house, of course you’ll need to change the locks right away. There are additional reasons you may want to change your locks, such as keeping out an ex-spouse, an ex-roommate, or (if you have a business), a former disgruntled employee. If you have had a break-in, or even an attempted theft, it’s a good idea to change your locks, whether conventional (new keys and locks) or electronic (new passcodes). You never know if any of your building’s previous residents might still have one of their keys around, or they might still remember a code from the past. Don’t take any chances!

Window and sliding glass doors need locks, too, and a locksmith can help you find what’s just right for you.

Key making and key duplication. A locksmith cuts keys for virtually any kind of lock there is (keys for car, home, and business: bump-proof locks, deadbolts, garages, pools, fences, padlocks, lockers, desks, safes, filing cabinets, transponder keys, dropboxes, mailboxes, remote locks, etc.)

Safes. A locksmith will install or repair your safe ~ for your home or your business, including all sorts of specialized safes such as gun safes, anchored safes, fireproof safes, and hidden safes (in the wall or in the floor). A genuine professional will be sufficiently equipped and skilled to open it without damaging it, if you’ve misplaced the combination.

Automotive locksmiths are specialists who can get you right back into your vehicle if you are ever stranded without your car keys. They can also replace and program transponder keys, replace your ignition cylinder, and so on.

Commercial locksmiths do work for business facilities. When you track down an accomplished professional commercial locksmith you can count on to be trustworthy, you’ll know you can always rely upon that locksmith to end your troubles anytime issues regarding your security may arise, because that person will be familiar with the building’s ins and outs, including not just the locks, but also the emergency exits, the high-security areas, and so forth. Some commercial locksmiths may keep extra master key sets for you as backups, if you ask. They can also keep thorough records of every type of lock you have in place, and assist you with all the security measures you’ve taken in your building, such as video surveillance systems, ID passcodes, panic/fire devices, and more.

Residential locksmiths can advise you on many types of security issues you may not have thought of before, providing specialized services that can enhance the security at your place of residence. They can evaluate the safety of all your outside entries, the quality level of your doors and locks, your garage, your windows, and even your landscaping. An expert will advise you on how best to store your jewelry, valuables, emergency cash, important documents, guns, and so on. Experienced locksmiths know all about burglars’ typical strategies for avoiding detection and gaining access, so they will help you do as much as humanly possible to prevent the likelihood of vandalism, break-ins, or theft. If you’re going to be gone for extended periods, they can advise you on lighting, timers, and even security systems with smart-phone monitoring and control.

Security and access control. Indeed, a premium locksmith can advise you on all sorts of ways to control access to your business or home ~ such as intercom systems, gate entry, magnetic locks, keypads, remote locks, key cards, and even biometric locks (that is, high-security locks that can be opened only with a fingerprint or hand print; cutting-edge technology includes facial recognition, voice recognition, or retina scan).

24-hour lockout service. Some locksmiths work around the clock to be available to you anytime you need help. If you’re anywhere in Maple Grove, Minnesota, Maple Grove Master Locksmith is open 24 hours and staffed with mobile experts perpetually at the ready to assist you.

When it comes to the safety and security of your property and possessions, besides what we’ve already mentioned, there are numerous additional services a locksmith can provide. The list is long:

* deadbolts for doors & windows

* peepholes

* opening frozen car locks

* keyless entry

* broken & stuck key removal

* fence & garage locks

* smart-phone controlled surveillance systems

* window bars

* security systems

* intercom systems

* smart keys

* repair or replace damaged door & window locks, hinges, & electric-locking release mechanisms

* video surveillance

* master key sets for large business facilities & apartments

* install and repair electronic security hardware

* change combination locks on all types of safes & vault doors

* programming transponder “chip” keys

A good locksmith is a consummate professional who works with exceptional skill, finesse, and discretion in all sorts of situations and at all types of locales, ideally at any hour of the day or night. Being a locksmith requires extensive training and a license, and calls for patience and steadiness.

Are you thinking about becoming a locksmith yourself? You’ll need to train as an apprentice first. You’ll have an advantage if you possess construction, electronics, and metal fabricating skills. If you’re really talented at solving problems, and willing to work unusual hours, you may be well-suited to be a locksmith. You must always maintain a professional demeanor, be of the utmost integrity, and of course be discreet, as you will often be made aware of confidential information.

Article source here: WHAT DOES A LOCKSMITH DO?

Why All Homeowners Should Consider Installing Deadbolts

A sturdy deadbolt is a much better deterrent than your standard home lock. Maple Grove, MN, homeowners who do not have these installed in their residential properties should seriously consider placing these at the top of their security checklists. Why? That is what we are here to tell you.

Here is everything you need to know about residential deadbolts. From the basics to the benefits that these will bring, we will highlight all of the best features that make these components a great security asset for all Maple Grove, MN, homes. Of course, any questions should be directed towards a professional such as Maple Grove Master Locksmith, or the lock and security provider in your area.

What exactly is a deadbolt lock?

You will definitely have seen them before, but showing you the basics will help you get a better understanding of the type of protection that you can get from these components.

A deadbolt is a lock bolt that is highly resistant to forced entry. Like your standard lock, a deadbolt is moved by turning a key or knob. The crucial difference is that deadbolts are not operated by springs. This allows for improved protection as the lack of springs prevent thieves from prying into them using knives, lock picks or any sharp objects.

There are three types of deadbolt locks, which provide different levels of protection:

* Single cylinder deadbolts can be accessed from the outside by key, and from the inside using a thumb piece. These are more suited for doors that are not surrounded by breakable glass, for the simple reason that if someone breaks that glass they could reach and unlock the deadbolt.

* Double cylinder deadbolts are better for situations where there is breakable glass by the knob. These can be accessed by key on both sides, making them harder to break into. The only downside is that these can make emergency evacuations more difficult.

* Keyless cylinder deadbolts are the easiest to operate. As the name suggests, these can be opened by fingerprint scans or password codes, and closed with a button or knob inside your property.

You can probably get an idea of some of the benefits that come from installing deadbolts, but let’s take a look at them in more detail now.

Key deadbolt advantages

Pun not intended, of course. These are some of the main reasons why Maple Grove, MN, locksmiths recommend deadbolts to all local homeowners:

Durable protection. Deadbolts are made to last, especially if you select one made of hardened steel. This means that they will not wear and tear easily, and will be very difficult to break through.

Enhanced security. As you can already tell, deadbolts can protect all homes from forceful entry. Standard locks can be easily broken into using crowbars, knives, lock picking equipment and other tools, whereas you cannot do the same with a deadbolt.

Tougher to break into. Of course, nothing is ever fool proof, but the fact that they are tougher to break into is a strong selling point in itself. It takes longer to try and break into a deadbolt, meaning that even if someone tries to do it, they will easily get caught.

Convenience. Their protection is highly accessible. Deadbolts are very affordable to install, no matter the class of deadbolt you are considering for your home.

Ready to install your new deadbolt? Great! Here is what you need to do.

Talk to a qualified locksmith

We recommend that you hire a licensed and insured residential locksmith to provide you with full peace of mind about the deadbolts that you are about to install in your Maple Grove, MN, home.

Why? Because locksmiths will ensure the deadbolts are installed properly. In order for your deadbolt to function, it needs to fully extend into the hole from the door jamb. This hole should be reinforced using a metal spike blade. Without these crucial procedures, the security of your deadbolt will be compromised. Locksmiths will have all the required training, practical experience and tools to do the job with aptitude and precision the first time around. They will know how to install the deadbolts, taking into consideration all the right mechanisms that make it work.

We recommend you contact a Maple Grove, MN, based professional to schedule a consultation prior to getting your deadbolts installed. That will help ensure that your selection is suitable for your property. Locksmiths will guide you along the many options their company has on offer, will explain the different features that you can get from these, and will provide you with a full price quote for their installations. Usually a trustworthy lock and key service provider will provide their wisdom and that much needed price quote at no extra cost to their customers. They will be concerned about helping you improve your residential security, and will try as hard as they can to cater to all your needs.

Happy with the locksmith you are hiring? Brilliant. Then they will get on to installing your brand new deadbolt for you. This affordably priced service shouldn’t take too long, and you can expect your locksmith to schedule a time to do the job at your convenience. Before you know it, your brand new deadbolt will be ready to go.

Make sure to keep the number of your preferred locksmith service provider handy, just in case you encounter any issues. Use a quality business with expert locksmiths trained to do more than just installations, that you can count on to quickly tend to all required deadbolt repairs or replacements needs. Of course, these are meant to last you several years without any chance of wear and tear – but it’s better to be prepared just in case you need some extra assistance in the future.

Just remember not to neglect using your new deadbolt. They are there to protect, after all. It may take a couple of days to get used to locking and unlocking these, but the security that you will get truly is valuable.

Article source here: Why All Homeowners Should Consider Installing Deadbolts

TIPS FOR IMPROVING HOME ACCESSIBILITY AND SAFETY AS WE AGE

Tips for Improving Home Accessibility and Safety as We Age

Research from AARP finds that 73% of people ages 45 and older want to remain in their current residence as long as possible, while 90% of older adults ages 65 and older wish to do so. For many seniors, this decision is motivated at least in part by finances. With the cost of senior living on the rise – from independent living communities to assisted living and nursing homes – staying in a private home can offer substantial savings over moving to an expensive senior housing complex.

In order to age in place, however, it’s often necessary for seniors to make home modifications to ensure accessibility and safety as the activities of daily living become more challenging. Still, the cost of such modifications is often a more affordable approach than paying for care in a senior living community. These tips will help you improve home accessibility and safety:

Keep Costs Down By Hiring a Trustworthy Contractor

Some home safety improvements, such as eliminating clutter and ensuring clear walkways, can be achieved on your own. But for homes that require more extensive modifications, such as installing a bathroom on the first floor, you’ll need to hire a contractor.

Finding a trustworthy, efficient contractor is one way to keep the costs of your home modifications as low as possible. Eldercare.gov provides advice on what to look for in a contractor. The site suggests finding a contractor that is “licensed, bonded, and insured” and checking with friends and family members to get recommendations.

You might also check out consumer review pages to find quality contractors in your area. As the YP page for Massachusetts roofer, Duval Roofing, shows, it and similar sites offer an easy way to see what other customers have to say about area contractors.

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