When to replace locks
Which is which?
A lock replacement is just like it sounds; the lock is taken off and replaced with another one.
Rekey service is different. You keep the same lock and only alter it by having the inside pins changed so that the old keys no longer work.
Home lock replacement
One of the best reasons for replacing residential locks is because of damage inflicted on the old one. With today’s rising crime rate it is not uncommon for home locks to be picked, pried or smashed open. Some locks can be repaired; others not. Obviously, if a lock has been rendered useless, it needs to be replaced immediately! Imagine coming home from work to a burglarized home. The lock has been so badly damaged that it can’t be used, yet you HAVE to lock your door tonight! Not only do you need your rest, but you must go to work, or to the police station in the morning.
Home lock upgrades
Upgrading your residential locks is a great reason to replace your old ones with newer, better ones. Most people don’t realize that builders almost always install the cheapest locks on homes that they construct. Unless these are luxury homes or custom ones, the locks are ordered in bulk and come with master pins inside so that the construction crew can all access every home with one key whenever needed. It’s smart because it is both efficient and a real time saver for the builder and his staff. When the home is sold, the buyer uses his key for the first time and the lock converts over to a non-master lock system. All is good…except for two things. There are still some master pins inside your door lock and this can lead to anyone with a knowledge of this system and key making to recreate the master key and get access to all of the front door locks in your development!
Also, these locks are SO easy to pick or bump open. It only takes seconds for ANYONE with a bump key (easily and quickly obtained) to do so. Lock bumping is fast and leaves NO evidence of forced entry. This renders police reports and insurance claims as practically useless!
Changing the home locks eliminates both of these problems! Lock replacement at home can be easily done, affordable, and have positive results like peace of mind and an increase in property values.
Automotive lock replacement
Changing the locks on your automotive vehicle is not done as much as with home locks but it mostly done for the same reasons. Door, trunk and ignition locks can be damaged by vandalism, theft attempt and even by more innocent things like weather, age and excessive use. Humidity and freezing are harsh on auto locks and do their part to wear them out sooner. Many times car owners buy vehicles at auction or from tow yards and often there are no keys to these vehicles. Installing a new lock also allows for a new set of keys to be used. Upgrades happen with car locks, too. Many are converted to keyless entry systems and equipped with a keyless remote for convenience.
Lock replacement for businesses
Kent, WA is home to thousands of different businesses. These can range from mom and pop convenience stores to giant corporate headquarters. Every one of these firms is unique and requires its own commercial locks, keys and hardware. Business locks protect the entire business including customers, staff, inventory, location and records. Companies are often bought, sold and taken over, and each time this happens, the locks are always either rekeyed or completely changed out. If new keys are all this is needed; a rekey job is usually ordered but if the firm’s locks are worn, old or damaged, lock replacement is always the best choice.
Commercial lock upgrades will always require a replacement from the old locks. Top hardware manufacturers like Medeco, Baldwin, Primus, Schlage and many others offer high security locks, bump proof locks and other hardware designed for maximum safety and protection of the company location and its assets.
Get what YOU need!
We encourage you to get the locks and lock service that you need most. Do you only need some spare keys for safekeeping? Just order some additional ones cut. Do you want better control over keys to your house, business or other property? Ask for rekeys to be done. Are you struggling with worn or damaged locks that could be easily picked or pried open? Upgrade to a better quality lockset for that added peace of mind and security that it brings. Keep one thing in mind. Not all locks or locksmiths are the same. Choose to work with only legitimate shops that are insured, bonded and fully licensed. Many are honest and affordable so do your homework and ask questions! Check reviews and ask your loved ones, neighbors and co-workers for opinions and referrals. Do the same for your locks; check them out online (or in person) by going to Amazon, Best-Buy, Lowe’s and Home Depot for additional details. Don’t be tempted to go “cheap” but on the other hand, you don’t need to overspend, either! Lock replacement can give you added security and much peace of mind so seriously consider it!