Pro Durham Locksmith

If you need a locksmith, Durham is home to one company that you can always depend upon – Pro Durham Locksmith!

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10 PRACTICAL HOME SECURITY TIPS THAT YOU CAN USE TODAY

A burglar is out for one thing: to find a home that is easy to enter. If your home appears too difficult or the risk of being caught is too great, they will move on to the next house. It does not take a lot to make your home appear intimidating to burglars – in fact, it is very simple. Unfortunately, too many homeowners ignore these super simple security tips that could significantly reduce the likelihood their home is robbed in the future.

Everybody loves a top 10 list, so here’s our checklist for living safely!

10 Simple Home Security Tips That You Can Use Today

Locking Doors and Windows – Before you leave your home or go to bed, lock the doors and windows of your home. If you have a home automation system, use your computer or smartphone to remotely lock your doors if you forget to do so before leaving.

Use a Home Security System – A home security system is your best defense against burglaries. There are numerous systems available that can be customized to your home and budget. Your local home security company can help you choose one. Simply installing it is not enough – you must also activate it!

Check the Locks – Locks need maintenance just like every other area of your home. Be sure to install deadbolt locks on outside doors, use the right locks on sliding doors and secure dog/cat entrances when you are away.

Occupied, Even When Vacant – Regardless if you are home, your house should appear occupied. That means turning lights on at night and having them turn off with a timer (if you will not be home in time to turn them off).

Reduce Shrubbery – One thing burglars look for is how easily they can hide around the perimeter of your property. Cut back shrubs and trees, especially those near upper levels and windows, so that burglars have nowhere to hide.

Secure Your Garage – Your garage has an entrance into your home, and it’s a common target for burglars. Secure your garage just like you do your home. Park your car in the garage too, if you can, as this will make it harder for burglars to tell when you are home and when you are out.

Lights – Use exterior lights and schedule them to turn on when the sun sets. Use motion sensing lights for dark areas on the lawn too.

Mail – If you go out of town, stop your mail delivery or have a neighbor pick it up for you. Mail that builds up in the box tells burglars right away that no one is home.

Outdoor Wires – Make sure the telephone lines and electrical wires are not easily accessible by burglars. Burglars will usually attempt to disarm security systems by cutting these.

Change the Locks – If you lose your house keys, move into a new home or have someone move out of your home, change the locks on the doors.

Original Article Here: 10 PRACTICAL HOME SECURITY TIPS THAT YOU CAN USE TODAY

Related Article Here: How To Secure Your Home With 6 Key Home Security Tips

Securing our homes is the topmost priority that every homeowner must bear in mind. You can consult a locksmith expert for some advices about the appropriate locking system like Pro Durham Locksmith.

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Why You Should Own a Home Safe

You might reason that there is no need for a safe as long as you have sufficient security for your home. However, at Pro Durham Locksmith, we know just how beneficial having a safe can be even when you have sufficient home security. If you have people in your home visiting, for whatever reason, you want to make sure your belongings are safe. If there are workers in your home, you should have peace-of-mind in knowing that your valuables will be right where you left them. We don’t think you should take any unnecessary chances with your possessions. You may have things like family heirlooms, which can’t be replaced. This is usually why many people have home safes. Make sure you don’t have any regrets by buying a good safe to place the things that are of value in. A safe will not only protect your valuables from theft but it will also protect it against things, such as fire or water damage.  

With so many safes to choose from, we are certain that you’ll be able to find one that is best suited to your needs and your desires. Here are some additional reasons why we think it is good idea to invest in a safe. 

Natural Disasters – This is something that you can’t predict. When there is a hurricane, flood, earthquake or fire, the first thing you might think about, after making sure your loved ones are safe, are your valuables. When you have a safe that can protect your valuables from these things, it gives you peace-of-mind and you are able to take care of more important things. 

Minimize the Chance of Theft 

Most people realize that when someone breaks into their home, they are looking for things they can get away with as quickly as possible. Surely if they see a safe, they are not going to stand there, wasting their time, trying to figure out how to open it. Nope a thief is looking for a quick in and out. They will not see much value in standing around trying to open your safe, therefore, it is a good chance that when you have a safe, you can hold on to those items that are of value to you. We will usually install safes in areas where the lighting is poor so that there is no chance of them being able to gain access inside your safe. 

Convenience – If you don’t like the idea of your valuables being in several different places, having a home safe will surely give you the level of convenience you desire. Why leave your home to get what you need when you do not have to? You could pay a monthly fee to place your belongings in a storage unit or a safe deposit box, but why do that when you can just as easily save yourself the money and trouble of leaving your home? You can do something else with the money you would be spending on a monthly storage unit or safe deposit box. Just think about it. You pay a one-time fee for your safe and you don’t have to pay again. 

Strong & Durable – When you are thinking about purchasing a safe, why not get some advise from one of our expert locksmiths at Pro Durham Locksmith. They will undoubtedly know which types of safes offer the most durability and are strong enough to withstand the pressure applied by someone trying to break inside your safe. They can advise you of the types of safes that are most resistant to extreme heat, water and even the pressure of an experienced thief.  

Customizable – Again, since there are so many types of safes available to you today, you’re sure to be able to get exactly what you want and need at a price you’ll be able to afford. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, there is a safe that is best suited for this type of situation. If you live in an area surrounded by trees and where there is always the threat of fires, there are fire resistant safes that will surely help to keep your valuables safe whenever a fire breaks out. No matter what your individual needs are with regard to a safe, you are able to get exactly what you need. With the help of our professional locksmiths, they can make sure you receive exactly what you want and need at a price you can afford. 

Maintain Peace-of-Mind – No one wants to worry about whether or not their things are safe or not. Having a safe ensures you of this. You are not able to put a price on peace-of-mind because it is invaluable. When it is time to invest in a safe, do a little research first so that you are not wasting your money buying a safe that will not serve your purpose. Even if you are not prepared to get exactly what you would like, it may not be a bad idea to get something for now and upgrade when your circumstances enable you to do so.  

Getting What is Best for Your Needs 

We don’t want you to simply take our word for it; we want you to do some homework before making a final decision. If you consult with us and we make a recommendation, research it to make sure it is a good fit for you and that it offers you the features that you would like. Nobody knows your needs better than you do. We are simply here to aid you in your decision process. You should know what you’ll need to store in the safe, size of the safe and what you want to protect it from, when you set out to buy a home safe. We understand that this is a lot to think about but it is necessary to do so when you want to buy a safe that will be of use to you. 

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WHAT TO DO; IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS

Are you experiencing ignition cylinder problems? Are you close to pulling your hair out because you need to be somewhere but the car won’t even start? Does the thought of a big mechanic’s bill sicken you? You’re not alone! Car ignitions sometimes act up and this happens not only here in Durham, NC but everywhere in the world. It’s just that we don’t really concern ourselves about this issue unless it’s happening to us! Our Pro Durham Locksmith techs handle ignition cylinder problems regularly. Sometimes we are needed in order to get the issue solved. Other times, we are not, and the driver could easily have made a small adjustment or two and would have been on his or her merry way in no time!

Let’s go back a bit…

In the “early days” of the automotive industry, ignition cylinders helped start your car’s engine; end of story. Those were simpler times. Now, in the modern era, automotive ignitions are also supplying power to a plethora of other components. Some of these include power windows, radio, heater, air conditioner, power seats, GPS system, headlights, dashboard lights, music system and lots more. What does this tell you? It means that the more parts, the more that can go wrong! Since we like having our “extras” we’d better get used to dealing with ignition cylinder problems and expectations. One smart way to do this is to keep reading below!

Don’t jump to conclusions!

Here’s what we mean by this. If you insert your key in the ignition and nothing happens, you assume that you have a problem with the ignition. Sometimes that’s true, but many other times, it’s not. For instance, have you checked your gears? Which one is your car in? You need to be in the PARK gear in order to start the car. No other gear will do; not DRIVE, NEUTRAL or anything else; only PARK! Check it and see. Jiggle the gear shift around if needed but make double sure. Not only must you be in gear in order to start your car, but you run the risk of rolling forward or backward if you are in NEUTRAL or in-between gears. People are injured and even killed every year by not checking this. Be sure that anytime you are working on or adjusting items on your car that you put the parking brake on; don’t take chances!

Another culprit

Here’s another culprit that often leads to the ignition cylinder being blamed; the steering wheel. It’s a little known fact, but steering wheels do lock up at times. This is usually when they are leaned upon too heavily or jerked roughly. No problem – simply move the steering wheel back and forth to unlock it. Note – on some car models you may have to apply some force in order to do this so don’t panic and call for a repair tech. It’s a side effect of steering wheel lock-up – your ignition key won’t turn and this gives the impression that your ignition cylinder is damaged when in fact, it isn’t.

Time to check your battery

Believe it or not, your car battery can affect your ability to start your car. A drained or dead car battery will not have sufficient power to let your engine turn over. Your ignition key will do nothing once turned to the START position and this too can look like your ignition switch is damaged. For an accurate check, be sure to see if your headlights, radio or windshield wipers are working. If they are, it’s not your battery.

What if my key is stuck?

If your transponder key is stuck in the ignition, this can lead you to think that your ignition cylinder is damaged. Our Durham, NC automotive locksmiths sometimes get calls saying that the customer’s damage ignition switch won’t let go of the key. In reality, the wrong key was used. This is easily possible as some households have more than one car and many transponder keys look similar. While a different ignition key might go in; coming out might be a problem if it sticks. So what can you do about it? Try tapping the top of the key and hopefully it will loosen it enough to allow it to come back out. Be careful to not hit too hard as you risk key breakage and then you have another problem!

How can you avoid accidentally grabbing the wrong transponder key and using it? Try putting your car keys in the same place when not using them. It might be on a nail or on the dresser but if you get in the habit of keeping your transponder keys in the same place, it will just “feel” wrong when you pick up someone’s else’s set by mistake.

Call a friend; NOT!

Be careful when calling friends, co-workers, and family members for help. All mean well, but they may not be experienced, trained, or qualified to actually be of help. Just because someone dabbles or is interested in auto mechanics doesn’t mean that they actually are. Keep in mind that it’s your car that is involved and you are the one responsible for any damage or breakage caused by others. What you CAN do is call them and let them know that you are having a delay in your driving plans. Many times the act of speaking to someone on the cell phone can act as a calming effect to lessen the stress of automotive locksmith issues.

Call a pro!

If you have tried the above to no avail, it may be time to call for help. A mechanic won’t come to you after-hours and may recommend tow charges to his shop. Why not call the real pros and get help from a local Durham, NC automotive locksmith? Most full service shops offer round the clock service with mobile convenience that comes directly to your car’s location. Your ignition cylinder may be a car part, but it is also a piece of lock hardware and no one can service it like a licensed, bonded and insured lock professional!

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IF YOU EVER GET INTO TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS, HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO!

We don’t normally think much about our locks and keys. . .until something goes wrong. The truth is, whether residential, automotive, or commercial, they play a major role in our personal and business lives. If an emergency arises, it’s unnerving, but you don’t have to let it get to you. There are a good number of steps you can take to make yourself more secure. You can prevent most typical lock and key problems. 

Prolong the life of your locks. Here’s what to do to prolong the life of your locks: 

If a key doesn’t turn, don’t worry. Sometimes the pins will become jammed. Spray the lock mechanism with silicone spray or WD-40, which will usually solve the problem so you won’t need to call a locksmith. 

Lubrication. If you ever see any excess friction or grinding in the lock mechanism ~ or, at least twice a year ~ apply a silicone-based lubricant to the keyhole. 

Replace your keys periodically. Our keys take a lot of abuse, because we use them many times a day, store them who knows where, and throw them all over. If you notice that your keys are beginning to wear down, or if they’re damaged somehow, then you ought to make a new key. Don’t neglect to responsibly discard your old keys; a recycling facility is best. 

Do you have a broken or stuck key? Haste makes waste, so don’t rush with your keys. You could find yourself in a tough situation, because your key might break off in the lock mechanism! Take a few extra seconds to be patient with your key, and save yourself some grief. 

If you’re unfortunate enough to watch your key break off inside a lock mechanism, if this occurs before you close the door, then you won’t be able to lock it, which obviously will leave you susceptible to theft. If your key breaks off after you’ve closed the door, you likely will not be able to open the door again later. A broken key can also damage the lock itself. Here’s what to do: 

If you don’t see any part of your key coming out of the lock, it will be risky to attempt to pull it out, because you could easily damage it, but it’s still worth a try: Use a flathead screwdriver ~ one small enough to fit in the keyhole. Pry the key, just a bit, to the point where it comes out slightly. If you do it just right, you should be able to extract it with needle-nose pliers or your fingers. If there’s any damage, it’s time hire a locksmith. 

If any part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and there is any part of it visible, you might be able to get it out more easily. If there’s enough of the key showing, now you’ll probably be able to pull it out with your fingers or needle-nose pliers. If you observe any damage, you’ll have to call a locksmith. 

Additional Security Measures 

If you’re concerned about circumstances at your place of residence or at your commercial property, there are many ways to find peace of mind.  

Professional locksmiths often recommend deadbolts as the most effective way to enhance your security. Be sure they’re properly installed. A deadbolt should have at least a 1″ throw. On the strike side, there ought to be a security plate with screws that are at least 3″ long, going all the way into the wooden frame of the door. Do you have a window on or close by your door? If so, a thumbturn deadbolt actually won’t do you much good, because a thief can break the glass, reach a hand in, and turn. To stop this scenario, install a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires an inside key. 

Know when it’s time to change out your locks. 

After a break-in happens. If there has been a burglary, then replace all outdoor locks immediately. After that, replace any indoor locks in the order of your personal security preferences. 

New occupants or roommates. If you rent out any space in your apartment or home, or if you have rental properties, then replace the locks every time you change tenants. Even if the previous residents returned their keys, you can’t really be totally sure that there aren’t some extra spare keys still out there. 

A new home. When you move into a new place, you must change your locks right away. You just never know which former residents might still be in possession of their old keys. 

Lost keys. If you know for certain that your keys are lost, change the locks as soon as possible, since you don’t want to risk an intruder gaining access to your property. 

More ways to feel secure and safe: 

keyless remote entries 

alarm systems 

combination locks 

use only reputable top-quality brands, at least grade 2 

magnetic locks 

safes for business and home  

keypad systems 

Adhere to preventive maintenance, and you’ll avoid most lockouts. Do your part to keep your locks well maintained, and you might never need to hire a locksmith. Always stay on the lookout for: 

difficulties sticking the key in the lock mechanism  

wear and tear 

rust 

problems turning the key in the lock mechanism 

If you spot any of these issues, it’s smart to change out the locks, because worn-out locks will undoubtedly break or become stuck, meaning it’s more likely that you’ll find yourself locked out. Faulty locks will also make you more vulnerable to robbery. 

Know When You Have to Hire a Locksmith 

If you definitely realize that you need to track down a professional locksmith, and you’re located anywhere in Durham, North Carolina, then consider hiring a trustworthy company such as Pro Durham Locksmith, where free consultations are available to you.

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IF YOU EVER GET INTO TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS, HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO!

We don’t normally think much about our locks and keys. . .until something goes wrong. The truth is, whether residential, automotive, or commercial, they play a major role in our personal and business lives. If an emergency arises, it’s unnerving, but you don’t have to let it get to you. There are a good number of steps you can take to make yourself more secure. You can prevent most typical lock and key problems.

Prolong the life of your locks. Here’s what to do to prolong the life of your locks:

If a key doesn’t turn, don’t worry. Sometimes the pins will become jammed. Spray the lock mechanism with silicone spray or WD-40, which will usually solve the problem so you won’t need to call a locksmith.

Lubrication. If you ever see any excess friction or grinding in the lock mechanism ~ or, at least twice a year ~ apply a silicone-based lubricant to the keyhole.

Replace your keys periodically. Our keys take a lot of abuse, because we use them many times a day, store them who knows where, and throw them all over. If you notice that your keys are beginning to wear down, or if they’re damaged somehow, then you ought to make a new key. Don’t neglect to responsibly discard your old keys; a recycling facility is best.

Do you have a broken or stuck key? Haste makes waste, so don’t rush with your keys. You could find yourself in a tough situation, because your key might break off in the lock mechanism! Take a few extra seconds to be patient with your key, and save yourself some grief.

If you’re unfortunate enough to watch your key break off inside a lock mechanism, if this occurs before you close the door, then you won’t be able to lock it, which obviously will leave you susceptible to theft. If your key breaks off after you’ve closed the door, you likely will not be able to open the door again later. A broken key can also damage the lock itself. Here’s what to do:

If you don’t see any part of your key coming out of the lock, it will be risky to attempt to pull it out, because you could easily damage it, but it’s still worth a try: Use a flathead screwdriver ~ one small enough to fit in the keyhole. Pry the key, just a bit, to the point where it comes out slightly. If you do it just right, you should be able to extract it with needle-nose pliers or your fingers. If there’s any damage, it’s time hire a locksmith.

If any part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and there is any part of it visible, you might be able to get it out more easily. If there’s enough of the key showing, now you’ll probably be able to pull it out with your fingers or needle-nose pliers. If you observe any damage, you’ll have to call a locksmith.

Additional Security Measures

If you’re concerned about circumstances at your place of residence or at your commercial property, there are many ways to find peace of mind.  

Professional locksmiths often recommend deadbolts as the most effective way to enhance your security. Be sure they’re properly installed. A deadbolt should have at least a 1″ throw. On the strike side, there ought to be a security plate with screws that are at least 3″ long, going all the way into the wooden frame of the door. Do you have a window on or close by your door? If so, a thumbturn deadbolt actually won’t do you much good, because a thief can break the glass, reach a hand in, and turn. To stop this scenario, install a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires an inside key.

Know when it’s time to change out your locks.

After a break-in happens. If there has been a burglary, then replace all outdoor locks immediately. After that, replace any indoor locks in the order of your personal security preferences.

New occupants or roommates. If you rent out any space in your apartment or home, or if you have rental properties, then replace the locks every time you change tenants. Even if the previous residents returned their keys, you can’t really be totally sure that there aren’t some extra spare keys still out there.

A new home. When you move into a new place, you must change your locks right away. You just never know which former residents might still be in possession of their old keys.

Lost keys. If you know for certain that your keys are lost, change the locks as soon as possible, since you don’t want to risk an intruder gaining access to your property.

More ways to feel secure and safe:

keyless remote entries

alarm systems

combination locks

use only reputable top-quality brands, at least grade 2

magnetic locks

safes for business and home  

keypad systems

Adhere to preventive maintenance, and you’ll avoid most lockouts. Do your part to keep your locks well maintained, and you might never need to hire a locksmith. Always stay on the lookout for:

difficulties sticking the key in the lock mechanism  

wear and tear

rust

problems turning the key in the lock mechanism

If you spot any of these issues, it’s smart to change out the locks, because worn-out locks will undoubtedly break or become stuck, meaning it’s more likely that you’ll find yourself locked out. Faulty locks will also make you more vulnerable to robbery.

Know When You Have to Hire a Locksmith

If you definitely realize that you need to track down a professional locksmith, and you’re located anywhere in Durham, North Carolina, then consider hiring a trustworthy company such as Pro Durham Locksmith, where free consultations are available to you.

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Pro Durham Locksmith: WHEN TO REPLACE LOCKS

Knowing when to replace locks is key (no pun intended). In Durham, NC you have access to Pro Durham Locksmith, a team that is able to tell you exactly when it is appropriate to swap out locks by doing an inspection or by simply listening to concerns over the phone that customers notice – some signs are more obvious than others. Of course, not everyone reading this will be located in a spot that is convenient to access this company’s services, but this information will still be useful to them.

There are many people who have actually never had their locks changed, even though they have been living in their home for a decade or longer. There are many business owners who have lock inspections on their to-do list, but it is a task that always seems to fall to the backburner. Personal security is important and of course necessary. Business security is mandatory. If you’re wondering whether or not it is time to replace locks, just look at the information provided. This will provide the guidance that you need.

  Stolen or Misplaced Keys

  When keys end up lost or stolen, it is critical to have the locks changed. The last thing that you want is for someone to be able to access your property because they managed to pick up your key, or a copy of your key. There are a couple of ways around replacing locks in this situation, though. You can consider having your locks rekeyed – this is something to talk with a locksmith about. You can also consider going keyless and having a totally different kind of lock installed (this is a useful solution for persons who tend to lose their keys frequently). With keyless entry, you just have to remember a code.

  Wear and Tear

  Wear and tear is a problem that you are going to have to deal with eventually with most parts of your property. Over time, and because of circumstances like weather, items will begin to show wear and tear. They might even eventually fall apart. If you notice issues like your key needing to be moved around from one end to another while inside of your lock, then the inside might be falling apart. If you can see tarnishing and rust on the outside, this is an indication that the lock might fall apart soon. Customers should avoid waiting to change locks, because there will come a time when they completely fail to work, and it is best to have another set of locks ready for when this happens.

  Property Break-in

  A break-in is a horrific experience to have to go through. The shock that one feels when they walk through their front door, only to realize some of their valuables have been taken from them, is indescribable. Most locksmiths will understand the stress that one is feeling after a break-in occurs, and they will tell you that the best thing to do is to have your locks changed. The locks might have been visibly damaged during the break-in. It is an important step to take to change those locks.

  Change of Tenant

  Anyone who rents out a room at their property should be mindful of changing the locks when a new person comes in to rent. A tenant might be very trustworthy, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a copy of their house key sitting around. When tenants change, locks should, too. Locks can also be rekeyed in this situation.

  Aesthetic Reasons

  Maybe you are just tired of how your locks look. Or perhaps your locks stand out a bit more than they should. Electronic locks are definitely gaining popularity, so this is another option to consider. If you just don’t like the look of your locks, consider having them replaced with something more fitting.

  Moving into a New Home

  It is so exciting when you are finally handed the set of keys to your home that you worked so hard to be able to afford. But before you get too excited, think about how many people might have had access to this property – realtors, contractors, painters, etc. were likely able to access your new property at some point. It is best to avoid stress and risk, and have the locks changed.

  Key Keeps Getting Stuck in the Lock

  If a key is getting stuck inside of a lock, it tells you right away that something is wrong with the interior of the lock. A key shouldn’t get stuck at all, and it shouldn’t take much effort to insert it into a lock and to get the lock to work. When effort is exerted, it tells a person that it might be time for a lock change. Sure, you might consider rekeying the locks, but if the lock is damaged to a certain point, rekeying will be a waste of time and money. Replace your locks if the keys are getting stuck inside!

  Change Locks to Accommodate a Disability

  Locks might need to be swapped out in an effort to accommodate a person with a disability. This is a very valid reason to look into new options, and of course there are a great deal of options available.

  Pro Durham Locksmith is available to assist customers looking for a lock change in Durham, but if you happen to be located in another state or area, be sure to go online and look for a locksmith that can be trusted in your location. Places like Yelp and even Facebook allow you to see reviews of businesses, so you can see some feedback that other people have had with the business, and use their experience as guidance as to who to hire for the job. Changing locks without the necessary tools and experience can prove to be a huge waste of time – it can also lead to locks failing to operate correctly. No one wants this to happen, so turn to an expert when it comes to the need for new lock installation!

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The Best and Most Effective Ways to Secure Your Garage

If you’re able to gain access into your home through your garage, this is certainly convenient for you and the rest of your family. Although you may like this and find it beneficial, you must also consider that a home invasion is also possible by way of your garage. Far too many homeowners are unaware of the potential for harm that they may experience due to someone breaking into their garage but the threat is very real. If you want to secure your garage and protect the ones who mean the most to you, do yourself a favor by considering the best and most effective ways for you to secure your garage.

Effectively Secure Your Garage 

Utilizing Advanced Technology

The advances in technology make it possible for homeowners to see what is happening inside their homes at any time of the day. The only thing required is a reliable Internet connection. With a remote security system, you are able to see when someone is in your garage or attempting to break-in. Remember to ask one of our qualified locksmiths at Pro Durham Locksmith in Durham, NC about how your home security system can also be connected to the door leading from your garage into your home. This is the same technology that also enables you to open and close your door remotely. Instead of giving someone a code to enter your home, you can let them in and out as you choose. This means that there is no possibility of them coming back to take any of your things. The most effective type of remote is a rolling code remote. This type of remote makes it a lot more challenging for the code to be stolen by changing it whenever it is entered incorrectly. Many remotes come with the rolling code feature. If you want to know if yours does, simply consult your owner’s manual.

  Purchasing Better Door Panels

  A burglar wants to get in and out. They aren’t looking for a home that is going to be too complicated or present them with any challenges. If they notice that you have some of the sturdiest doors on your garage, they’ll just move on to the one next to yours that doesn’t. Yes, just by looking at the type of door panels you have, you can avoid a break-in. If the burglar does happen to get into your garage, you’re main objective should be making sure they don’t go any further than that. The door from your garage into your home should also have strong, durable doors in order to make sure they are unable to get inside.

  What if you have a door in the back of the garage that goes into your back yard or a side door? You should be sure that you have solid-core doors installed. These types of doors are difficult to compromise. One of the most durable types of locks to install anywhere is a deadbolt lock. Since you now know this, what are you waiting for, get yourself a deadbolt lock for every door in your garage. Our professional locksmiths can attest to the fact that when there is a deadbolt lock present, the probability of your experiencing a break-in is minimum.

  Also keep in mind that if you have a lovely garage door that has windows, the best way for you to avoid someone breaking into your garage is to conceal what you have inside. Not only do you need to conceal what you have inside but you don’t want a would-be-intruder to know that they can gain entry into your home through your garage. You can put blinds or curtains over your windows or tint them to keep others from looking inside. Don’t allow anyone to see the layout of your garage if you can help it.

  Replacing Your Old Garage Door

  Even if you have a garage door that still operates properly, it may be easier to break into despite its functioning correctly. In some cases, a homeowner may continue replacing the door opener but never replaces the actual door itself. If you have a dated garage door, this may send the wrong message to a possible intruder. The message you may be sending is that your garage door will not be able to withstand the level of pressure they may put on it in to break-in. You’re door may look like an easy target simple because it is not as attractive as the others in the area. The best way to remedy this is to upgrade your existing garage door with a newer door. By replacing the door with a newer door, you will be able to divert an intruder and get them to start considering another home. With so many different types of garage doors offered today, it is possible to find one to fit anyone’s budget.

  Remain Alert & Stay Safe

  Whether you are coming or going, you should always keep your safety and security in mind. It doesn’t matter just how much security your door has, if you have a habit of leaving the door open, you can expect intruders to come in at-will. If others in the household use the garage, alert them to the probability of someone coming into your garage by way of your garage door. In addition to alerting them to the fact that you can experience an intrusion through your garage, give everyone instructions on how they can help avoid a break-in.

  Here are a few or our suggestions for doing so:

  Keep door remotes out of sight

Remember to set the alarm when coming and going

Look behind you to make sure door is fully shut

Don’t be offended because these things seem like common sense. These are things that you should be doing already but sometimes we get relaxed and don’t always keep up these good habits. Make sure everyone in the household to know how he or she can do their part by encouraging them to follow the above habits.

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Interior Door Locks 

Close your eyes for a moment and think of your door locks. What did you picture? 9 times out of 10 people think of their front door and the lock that is on it. Locks on doors can also be on interior doors, even if they don’t come to mind as much. Front and back door locks are mainly meant for security purposes while interior locks are more privacy oriented as they are on bedroom, bathroom and closet doors.

Residential interior door locks

As stated above, interior doors at home usually have locks for privacy. It’s nice to be able to shut your bedroom door, lock it, and keep out the world. Whether you are a teenager, roommate, or grown up, privacy is always important to maintain a sense of individualized space and harmony that you don’t share with everyone else. Bedroom doors aren’t the only ones that can enjoy lock use; bathrooms are a great place for privacy, too! Even if you or your loved ones are believers in free, open and relaxed living while at home, your guests will certainly appreciate being able to visit, sleep over and enjoy your guest room or bathroom with its lock on the door!

Commercial interior door locks

Here in Durham, NC we have thousands of local businesses ranging from one person realtor offices to the several thousand employees found at IBM or Blue Cross Blue Shield. Interior doors are found at all these locations and a large percentage of them have locks on them. Just like their residential counterparts, commercial interior door locks are more for privacy than anything else. Of course, you will find some business interior locks that are designed and used for security reasons but overall, those are reserved for entrance and exit doors.

With today’s more modern furniture layout and floor plan concepts, many Durham, NC firms are using cubicles, work stations and open seating involving tables, customer service counters, and even stand up desks. Locking interior doors are then reserved for executive offices, board rooms, conference rooms, server rooms and maintenance closets.

Kinds of interior locks

Since for the most part, interior locks are not made for security reasons, they are often referred to as “nuisance locks” as they aren’t meant for keeping the crooks out. Our Pro Durham Locksmith shop offers both security locks and these interior locks as do most other local lock and key firms in the area.

Bed and bath locks

These are those “nuisance” locks we referenced earlier. They are typically bought and used to prevent accidental entry into a bathroom or bedroom and since they are not meant for keeping out burglars they can be rated Grade 3 security. These locks are usually combined with door knobs that include a center knob that can lock by turning or with the push of a button. Sometimes, they even have a key hole or pin hole on the outside that can fit a thin screwdriver or paper clip for emergency release.

Padlocks and combination locks

No, you won’t typically find these on residential bathroom doors, but many commercial interior doors have them; mainly for storage rooms, warehouse units and such. Locks like these can be accessed by a number combination or a key. These types of locks offer medium level security but they can be cut by bolt cutters or smashed open so they should not be used for high security purposes.

Installing or replacing your interior locks

Are you somewhat of a handyman? If so, you can buy interior locks at dozens of places around town as many Durham, NC stores sell them in all price ranges and styles. Since they are for inside use, you don’t have to be concerned with all-weather finishes or high security ratings for these locks. You check well known retailers like Sears, Ace Hardware, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Best Buy. If you have questions about lock strength or installation methods, your best bet is to shop at Home Depot or Lowe’s as they have staff on hand that can answer questions and provide free, helpful tips.

Online

If you already know what locks you want to purchase, don’t forget to check Amazon or E-Bay. Both sites offer great prices and useful descriptions. Amazon also provides ratings from other users or buyers and those are always helpful. Don’t forget to factor in shipping charges!

You can always buy your locks wherever you choose and have a handyman do the installation work if you don’t have the time or inclination to do the job yourself. Most new locks will come with instructions and you can always check YouTube for helpful (and free) videos on how to do this.

Lockouts

Once in a while you will get locked out of your bathroom, bedroom or office. It happens; these interior locks are easy to accidentally lock, and if the door closes, you are temporarily out of luck! Don’t despair – these locks are almost as easy to “break” back into!

Some lockouts are done by accident, but if you have small children or moody teenagers that are expressing themselves, you may need to use a small tool like a thin screwdriver, paperclip or coat hanger to let yourself back in. If you bought your locks new, there should have been a small tool included in the package that you can easily insert into the outside of the door knob, and either turn the small locking knob on the other side or push the interior lock open and let yourself back in. If you are renting the property or have long since lost your tool, you can find a replacement for it at any hardware or home improvement store.

Call a locksmith!

You are always free to call a local Durham, NC locksmith to help you install your interior locks. Doing so frees up your time and assures you of professional lock and key service that is done right by a real expert. You can take advantage of the opportunity and have your locksmith check you exterior door locks while he is there. This can be the perfect time for lock upgrades or for simple lock maintenance and cleaning, too!

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IF YOU HAVE SLIDING GLASS DOORS, HERE’S HOW TO AUGMENT YOUR HOME SECURITY

Obviously, everyone desires safety, privacy, and peace at home. Accordingly, if you want to maintain your peace of mind, it’s essential to be on the lookout for weaknesses at your points of entry, the state of your locks, and the general condition of your premises. A glass sliding door, although certainly a desirable addition to your house ~ often allowing sunlight in from your patio area ~ is also an unfortunate security risk, for numerous reasons. Here’s an overview:

Glass Door Disadvantages

Sliding glass doors are prime targets for intruders, due to these vulnerabilities:

The whole door can be lifted out of the tracks by an expert thief using basic tools.

The glass itself is susceptible. With enough force, any reckless crook can break through the glass.

The door’s location doesn’t help, since a potential robber knows they’re often found in the back of your house, where tampering can be done most likely without the neighbors knowing.

The brackets that hold the stationary panel in place have screws that theoretically could be unscrewed from the outside by a prowler.

The lock is in fact the weakest aspect to your sliding glass door. The single-locking mechanism isn’t very hard to breach. A burglar with knowhow can cut the lock with a hacksaw or pry it open. With some glass doors, if you just shake it hard enough, it can come unlatched.

  How to Better Secure Your Sliding Glass Door

To deter a potential intruder and more effectively secure your patio glass door, first, keep a robber from even thinking about breaking in. Delay anyone who may have any success whatsoever, and detect that person immediately for a fast arrest.

Discourage & Postpone

Replace the glass with better glass, such as double-paned glass, premium-quality glass, or glass with embedded wire.

Put in an extra lock. There are outstanding locking devices that will complement a regular lock. Most you can easily operate from the inside. The best will fasten your sliding door to the frame. The advantage of these locks is that they keep the door from moving vertically or horizontally. Even if someone breaks the conventional lock, it will still be difficult to open the door. You can also install a battery-powered lock that has an audible alarm attached to it.

Install window film, which helps secure the glass door. You can do this yourself. The film holds the glass together even if shattered ~ making the door virtually shatter-proof, because the shards will be held in place ~ preventing, or at least delaying, trespass.

A safety bar makes it so that the door can’t be moved horizontally across the exposed track. Put in a dowel, a piece of wood, or a pipe of the right length. Some safety bars are extra strong, capable of withstanding up to 1,000 pounds of force. You can also put in a security bar attached to the doorjamb and the bracket at the edge of the door. This kind of bar will be instantly seen by a potential thief. This strategy also allows you to keep your door open slightly for ventilation, yet still preventing someone from getting in.

Put a decal on the glass door, near the latch to warn any potential prowler that there’s a Neighborhood Watch in place, or that you have an alarm system (even if it isn’t true).

Always keep your glass door locked! Criminals often look for this, because people often forget to lock the patio doors at night or when they’re out.

  Detect

If you have an alarm system, wire it to a contact on your sliding glass door, so that if a break-in happens, it will alert you and the security company.

Use sensors or cameras to identify a breach the instant it arises. Surveillance cameras, glass-shatter sensors, and motion sensors will add an additional security layer. If you install a video surveillance system, you can choose cameras that record all activity, so you’ll retain video footage as evidence for the police.

Stay in touch with your neighbors and always be a good neighbor. Get in the habit of communicating to establish trust. A good neighbor watches out for your home while you’re away. It’s the right thing to do to look out for each other, and be aware of any suspicious activity. Let next-door neighbors know when you’ll be on vacation.

  Preventive Maintenance

Keep door tracks and rollers in good condition. If they don’t move easily, the door might be able to be lifted right up from its tracks. Keep out dirt and debris, because they can cause eventual breakdown. If, even after cleaning, the door still doesn’t move properly, modify the size of the rollers. Some doors have tiny adjustment holes on the bottom, and top edges that fit a Phillips screwdriver, so that you can compress or expand the rollers.

  DIY

In general, you can do a lot yourself to make your home more safe and secure. No property is totally impermeable, but there are many ways you can protect your residence and your loved ones from criminal trespass. The same strategies applying to your sliding glass doors go for your sliding glass windows. Place a wooden dowel on each of these windows, for example, to prevent a prowler from sliding it open from the outside. To follow your local fire code, be sure any window-blocking devices can be removed from the inside quickly. Also, install screws half-way into the upper track of a window’s movable glass panel, and this will keep it from being lifted out in the closed position.

  Choose to Hire a Professional

If you want to install a sliding glass door, simply ask an expert to do it for you. Why take risks? Slipshod installation will cancel out all the security measures you intended.

When going over home security issues, it’s best to hire a reliable professional you can trust. If you observe any flaws in your home’s security, bring your concerns and questions to a reputable residential locksmith specialist to find out how to remedy each problem. If you reside in Durham, North Carolina, consider requesting a free consultation from a dependable local company such as Pro Durham Locksmith.

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Pro Durham Locksmith: The Pros and Cons of Having a Keyless Entry System Installed in Your Home

Residential security technology is increasingly becoming more and more sophisticated over time. Keyless entry systems are at the top of the list of smart security solutions for the average homeowner – and for a very good reason.

There are a variety of systems to choose from, including pin pads, electromagnetic fobs, swipe cards, and even fingerprint scanners.  These all come with their pros and cons, which you should keep in mind if you are considering upgrading your security to some of the latest keyless technologies.

To help make your decision easier, here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the right locking mechanism for your residential property.

Firstly, the benefits

No chance of keys getting lost

When we say keyless, we mean it. No more fumbling around trying to find the right key for you lock, no more fears losing keys along the way and – most importantly – no longer will there be any uncertainty about who has a copy of your spare key. The latter is one of the main reasons why a lock replacement is recommended as soon as you move into a new house, so investing in a good keyless system will have long-term benefits too.

More control over who gets to access your property

Only people with the right key cards, codes, or any other access mechanism will be able to enter and exit the property at any given time. Keyless systems can be customized to restrict access to some areas too – for instance, a swipe card for a commercial property may only work on certain doors during business hours.

Enhanced deterrence

Have you ever hidden a spare key under your carpet? Then you may have left your property vulnerable to theft. Burglars know to look for spare keys, and will likely do so before trying to force their way inside. As far as your average thief is concerned, the easier a property is to access, the better – which is also the reason why they will think twice before trying to tamper with a keyless entry system.

You get to see who is coming in and out of your property at any given time

A lot of keyless systems come with CCTV cameras, and other real-time monitoring capabilities. So if anything goes amiss, you just need to check back the record of who has been in your property throughout the day.

Now, the drawbacks

It can be expensive

Installing, setting up and using a keyless system can be fairly intuitive. On the other hand, because there is a wide range of systems in the market, prices fluctuate too – you can pay as little as $125 and as high as $1000 per door. If you are in the market for a keyless system, make sure to shop around to get the best bang for your buck.

Keyless systems can fail too

Just as traditional keys have their limitations, there are ways to circumvent the heightened security that comes from a good keyless system too. While these are generally safe, and can even alert the police after too many failed attempts at breaking a code, a tech-savvy criminal could still hack their way into it.

What happens if you forget your code?

Nobody likes lockout situations, and these tend to be even more frustrating when a backfiring keyless system is involved. If you’re not good at remembering numeric combinations and codes, a security mechanism that requires committing things to memory might not be a wise decision. In which case, swipe cards or fingerprint scanners might be the best option for you.

There’s always the chance of a power failure too

While most keyless systems come with backup batteries, power failures could be troublesome. These can go both ways – you’ll either be unable to unlock your door, or you might find that you can’t close it. Before committing yourself to a keyless entry system, try to find out what kind of assistance is available if things do go awry. Planning in advance will help you understand the worst case scenarios, and budget for them too.

  Trying to decide if a keyless entry system is the right choice for you?

Talk to a residential locksmith in your area to get more information about your options. Not only will they have access to some of the best technologies available, they will have plenty of experience installing these too – so you should be able to trust that they will be able to explain the pros and cons of each system in more detail.

If you’ve never had to hire a locksmith before, remember to find someone who is locally-based. Be wary of your choices and make sure to do a bit of background checking: a locksmith from outside your vicinity will charge extra for travel, and some scammers will try to get money out of you by listing an address that doesn’t exist. Best rule of thumb to follow is to ask around for recommendations, note down a few business names, and inquire with your locksmith professional about their residential solutions. Remember: some locksmiths may specialize in different areas, so clarify whether your chosen business actually offers residential services, and get a full breakdown of costs from the person you are talking to on the phone. While you’re at it, ask about licensing and insurance information and don’t hire any business who gets defensive about providing a full business name upon request (you’ll only really need to verify this if the person on the other side answers the phone using a generic sentence like “locksmith service”).

Do you happen to reside in Durham, North Carolina? The licensed and insured team at Pro Durham Locksmith is more than happy to help you out. Call us to discuss one of our various keyless entry systems – we don’t charge for consultations and will provide a complimentary price quote to go along with your queries.

Regardless of whether you live in Durham, NC or elsewhere, we hope the tips we have given in this post will help you make a wise decision. Take a closer look at some of the keyless entry systems offered by a locksmith in your area to decide whether these are the best security choice for your home.

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Burglary Prevention: Should You Leave the Lights On?

It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this time of year, when the days keep getting shorter and shorter?

Those answers can differ depending on a number of factors. However, one thing is clear: With more than 1.5 million residential burglaries in the U.S. in 2015, according to the FBI’s Crime in the United States report, it takes more than flipping a switch to prevent property crime.

So, if you are relying on lights as part of your home security routine, be sure to put some thought into how you’re using them. Here are recommendations about when to light things up — and some instances where it may be better to go dark. Contact your local law enforcement if you’re curious about recommendations specific to your area.

When to Keep Your Lights On

There are plenty of instances where it makes sense to leave your porch light on:

When you’re home (and awake). This doesn’t simply alert people to the fact that someone is home; it allows you to see anyone approaching or prowling around outside. Having a variety of interior lights on, of course, also shows that the home is occupied and not the best target.

When you go out at night. You’ll be able to get to the door easier and unlock it more quickly when you get home — which is nice, but also important if someone happens to be lurking nearby.

If possible, combine a porch light with other lights. If you have lighting in your back yard, for example, or by the garage, use those in conjunction with the one by your front door and interior lights. This can add to the appearance that someone is home.

When to Keep Your Lights Off

Despite what many people think, having your lights on all the time isn’t helpful. In fact, it may actually attract burglars. Here’s when you should think about leaving them off:

When it’s light out. Exterior lights left on all day can give the impression that nobody is home. After all, wouldn’t someone turn them off during the daytime?

When you’re on vacation. The same principle applies here — if a burglar notices lights on for several days at a time, that’s a pretty clear sign that you’re gone.

When you go to sleep. This seems counterintuitive, but most residential crime happens during daylight hours, according to SecurAmerica, a firm providing security personnel for businesses, schools and residential communities. So, that porch light at 3 a.m. might not make much of a difference.

If you live in a rural area. In this instance, lights might help burglars more than deter them by providing light to help them see. And, unlike in an urban area, there are few people around to spot them milling about suspiciously in the glow of that porch light.

An Even Better Option: Automate Your Lights

The goal of lighting, at least from a security standpoint, is to make burglars think someone is home. The most effective way to do that is through lights, both inside and out, that turn on and off at varying times. You can accomplish this through systems that automatically turn lights on after sundown, or even new options that allow you to control lights from your phone or other mobile device.

And, don’t forget motion-sensing lights. They’re affordable, and they can startle burglars and even impair their vision in the moments after they illuminate.

Other Things to Consider

However you use your lights, it might not matter if you don’t take other security measures. For example, are your trees and shrubs trimmed, or do they instead provide cover for someone casing your home? Do you have a good relationship with your neighbors? Will they notice if someone suspicious is outside? Do they even know when you’re going out of town?

Remember, turning on your lights may only be truly effective as part of an overall strategy to keep your home secure.

For more tips on keeping your home secured, visit Burglary Prevention: Should You Leave the Lights On?.

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Auto Theft and Burglary Prevention - How to protect what’s yours

It doesn’t matter what kind of car you drive, all vehicles are a potential target of theft. Nearly 65,000 cars and trucks are stolen in the state of Texas each year, and thousands more are burglarized. Almost half of all vehicles stolen had the keys left inside.

Tips for protecting your vehicle:

·        Always lock your vehicle and take your keys.

·        Never leave your car running and unattended.

·        Park in a well-lit area.

·        Take valuables with you when you are not in your vehicle.

·        Keep valuables out of sight.

·        Give parking attendants the ignition key only. Keep your trunk and glove box locked at all times. If possible, get separate keys for the ignition and the trunk and glove box.

·        Install an anti-theft device. Many insurance companies may give you a discount for certain anti-theft devices. Check with your agent for details.

Top 10 most stolen vehicles:

·        Ford Pick-Up (Full Size)

·        Chevrolet Pick-Up (Full Size)

·        Dodge Pick-Up (Full Size)

·        Honda Civic

·        Honda Accord

·        GMC Pick-Up (Full Size)

·        Chevrolet Tahoe

·        Chevrolet Impala

·        Toyota Camry

·        Chevrolet Pick-Up (Small Size)

What to do if your car is stolen:

Although the rate of auto theft is declining, thousands of Texas vehicles are stolen every year. If your car is stolen, the first thing to do is to remain calm and then follow these steps:

Immediately contact the police and file a report. Make sure you provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) number to help law enforcement agencies locate your vehicle if it has been stolen. If you do not have your VIN number readily available, contact your insurance company or financial lender.

Report the theft or burglary to your insurance provider. Even if the loss is not covered, reporting the crime will protect you if the automobile causes harm to others after being stolen. If possible, have the vehicle’s title, the location of all keys before the theft, a thorough description of the vehicle and any personal property that was stolen with the vehicle.

Contact your financial institution if the vehicle is leased or still being financed.

To read more informative tips, just visit Auto Theft and Burglary Prevention.