Blog
Cutting Keys From Cylinder Numbers
Posted by admin in Locksmith, re-key | 3 comments
Cutting your keys from cylinder numbers are usually on the lock that is in your door, car etc., many lock manufacturers record the cutting depths and details to enable companies like us to reproduce keys without the need to replace locks. In most cases the key number will be stamped on the front of the lock next to where the key enters, in some cases the number may also be stamped on the original key as well.
The next step we take is to make sure that each key has smooth edges after key cutting, the reasons are as follows;
1. Most commonly finishing the new copy to ensure when the key is used in the lock it does not leave any scores or imperfections on the leavers/detainers inside the lock, 2. If the levers or detainers were to get scored this could result in more than one lever/detainer lifting inside the lock in operation causing a potential lock out situation. 3. The same applies to deburing cylinder type keys or any type of pin tumbler or wafer style lock as swarf (tiny fragments of metal) can get into the lock and cause issues with tolerances or reliability of that lock.These are actions and practices a licensed locksmith would take as they have a great understanding of what goes on inside the lock once the key is entered. That is why you should always have your keys cut at a professional locksmiths and not the hardware store as the extra measures we take to ensure you keys will not damage your lock will save you in the long term.
While your with us, take just an extra 5 minutes to chat to us, we are full of handy tips that may increase your security measures where you need it. Call Toowoomba Locksmiths today for any key cutting solutions or extra lock security you may require.
The graph below gives you an idea of just how different keys can be.
Security Doors Toowoomba
Posted by admin in Locksmith | 3 comments
Security door screens are usually installed to offer that extra bit of security when you are home on your own or when someone comes to the front door. But this doesn't deter break ins especially as opportunistic thieves rely on our complacency of leaving our keys in the door once we get home on the inside after we have locked the door.
There has been a spike of late in Brisbane and out lying areas creeping up to Toowoomba of people cutting through the screen doors to gain access, especially when the keys are left in the door. Security doors can be fitted with a device that offers extra depth and protection around the key area. When we attend break and enters that have either gained accessed via doors or windows, we offer upgrade advice for their situation. One of the key deterrents for security screen breakins is by installing one of the security screen protector ‘ad a guard’ (see final image) which is a plastic sheeting, this extends the security if someone tries to cut the screen to reach in and open the handle, this is a common trick that is used. This extra protection acts as a deterrent to this kind of crime.
A high number of victims (60 per cent) in the ABS research cited a door or window had been damaged or tampered with in attempted break-ins, so it pays to invest in strengthening these defences. A solid core door with a deadlock, for example, is harder to force, grilles and shutters prevent burglars from breaking in through windows, and a peep hole or lockable security screen can help keep burglars out. Alliance; Tips to Secure a Home
Mistakes That Compromise Your Home Security
Posted by admin in Home Security | 0 comments
The fact is that criminals are getting more creative in identifying houses that have weak links in their home security not only by what they can see by driving by your home, but also by what you do online, what you talk about out and about and key signs that someone is about to go on holidays or works away from home, and your every day patterns.
Alarm systems, sensor lights, good security screens and not leaving your spare keys in obvious places are all simple steps to upgrading your home security. This all has to be taken into consideration in relation to your neighbourhood, whether you live in a cul de sac or a busy street.
What are the easiest steps you can take to improve your home security?
Sensor lights; solar powered is ideal or hard wired by an electrician.
Security screens without the keys left in them and a security guard on your screen door so the fly screen can not be cut for easy access. Also look at improving the security on the ground floor windows of your home if they do not already have bars on them. Although at a recent security event we were told how some crims cut the bars off to gain access to the home, so it is a networked security solution that is definitely required.
An external/internal alarm/cctv system that allows you to turn on the sensors in the part of the home you are not in, controlled through your smart device; tablet or phone.
Digital Door locks; with custom codes for trades people, visiting extended family members, the kids, with an app notification to your phone which also allows the ability to revoke access anytime.
If you have spare keys for visitors or tradies, consider a Key Safe - link to blog post here.
ALWAYS LOCK YOUR GARAGE; no matter what, lock it. Opportunity = risk.
For security solutions when you are travelling please consider these suggestions;
holiday security tips
The biggest things to remember is, don't leave things on the front deck or with the windows open (curtains/blinds open) so that opportunists can't easily identify if your home is a worthwhile risk.
If you have some concerns with your home security, we would love to nut out some solutions that are custom to your lifestyle and location.
Call Nathan and the team at Toowoomba Locksmith, we have an inside view of what is going on in Toowoomba, night and day in regards to security.
