Locksmiths: 4 Basic Security Errors You May Have Made Around Your Home
When it comes to keeping your home safe and secure, the locks on the doors and windows of your property are often the primary defence against intruders. However, many homeowners undermine their home security by making some common mistakes when it comes to locks and keys. Below is a guide to 4 errors you should avoid.
Not having new keys cut
When you move into a new property, you should immediately have the locks changed and new keys cut. This will prevent people who have keys from previously owning or renting the property from returning and entering your home. Opt for professional key cutting services.
Fitting high-quality locks to cheap doors and windows
Your local locksmith will be able to offer you advice about high-quality locks which will keep burglars out of your home. However, if these locks are installed on a cheap door or window which is made of thin wood or plastic, it is likely that a determined attacker will simply smash their way through the window or door in order to bypass the lock.
Installing low-quality locks on some doors and windows
Some people make the mistake of investing a lot of money installing high-quality locks on the front door and windows of their home, while opting to install low cost and low-quality locks on windows and doors which are positioned out of view on the side or the rear of the property. Not only does installing low-quality locks increase the chance that a skilled housebreaker will gain entry by forcing the mechanism on the door or window, but installing them on areas which are out of public view increases the chance that a would-be intruder will target them.
Using a damaged key
A lot of people keep their keys in their pockets along with loose change and other items. Over time, the surface of the key may become worn or damaged. When the shape of the key is changed, it will not quite fit into the lock. While the effect of this misalignment will at first be minimal, as time passes you may notice that you need to expand more force to turn the key in the lock. This increased use of force could result in the key snapping while in the lock and becoming jammed.
If you would like further advice about home security, you should call your local locksmith. The locksmith will be happy to visit your property so they can offer you the help you need.
