Effect Of Weather On Locks

Missouri City 24 Hour Locksmith

Locks are crucial security devices that protect our homes, offices, and valuable possessions. However, they are not impervious to the elements. Weather conditions can significantly affect the functionality and durability of locks. In this article, we explore the various ways in which weather can impact locks and discuss measures to mitigate potential issues.

1. Temperature Fluctuations and Metal Expansion/Contraction

Temperature variations have a notable impact on locks, particularly those made of metal. Metal expands in hot temperatures and contracts in cold temperatures. This natural phenomenon can cause locks to become sticky or loose over time, affecting their ability to open and close smoothly. Severe temperature fluctuations may even lead to warping or misalignment of lock components, rendering them ineffective.

To minimize the impact of temperature changes, lubricating locks with graphite or silicone-based lubricants is recommended. These lubricants provide a protective layer, reducing friction and allowing the lock mechanism to operate smoothly. Additionally, regular maintenance checks and adjustments by a professional locksmith can help identify and address any issues caused by temperature fluctuations.

2. Humidity and Corrosion

High levels of humidity can contribute to the corrosion of lock components, especially in areas close to water bodies or regions with a humid climate. Moisture in the air can cause metal parts to rust, impairing the lock’s functionality and weakening its structure. Corrosion can lead to key sticking, difficulty in turning the lock, or even complete lock failure.

To prevent corrosion, it is crucial to keep locks dry. Applying a rust inhibitor or moisture-repellent spray on the lock mechanism can provide protection against moisture damage. Additionally, choosing locks made from materials resistant to corrosion, such as stainless steel or brass, can extend their lifespan.

3. Rain, Snow, and External Exposure

Locks exposed to rain, snow, or other external elements are at higher risk of damage compared to those shielded from the weather. Water penetration can affect the inner workings of locks, causing them to seize up, rust, or freeze during colder temperatures. Additionally, exposure to direct sunlight over an extended period may cause materials like plastic to deteriorate, compromising the lock’s structural integrity.

4. Extreme Weather Events

Locks face their greatest challenge during extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, or heavy storms. The forceful impact of wind, debris, or water can cause severe damage to locks, rendering them useless or inoperable. In such cases, the best approach is to prioritize personal safety and seek professional assistance to assess and repair the damaged locks once the adverse weather conditions have subsided.

Weather conditions can significantly impact the functionality and durability of locks. Temperature fluctuations can cause sticky or loose locks, while high humidity levels can lead to corrosion. Exposure to rain, snow, and direct sunlight can also damage locks over time. Understanding these weather-related challenges allows us to take preventive measures, such as regular maintenance, lubrication, and installation of protective covers. Choosing weather-resistant materials and seeking professional locksmith services when needed can ensure that locks remain secure and reliable throughout different weather conditions. By protecting our locks, we enhance the overall security of our homes and belongings.

Ways To Avoid Being Locked Out Of Your Car

Getting locked out of your car can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. It often happens at the most inconvenient times, leaving you feeling helpless and stranded. However, there are several proactive steps you can take to prevent this situation from occurring. By following a few simple guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of finding yourself locked out of your vehicle. In this article, we will explore some practical ways to avoid being locked out of your car.

1. Spare Key Placement

One of the most effective ways to prevent car lockouts is to have a spare key accessible at all times. Keep a spare key in a safe and secure location, such as your wallet, purse, or a hidden magnetic key holder placed discreetly on the exterior of your vehicle. It’s important to remember not to hide the key in obvious places like under the car mat or above the sun visor, as these locations are easily discovered by potential thieves.

2. Duplicate Keys

Consider obtaining a duplicate set of keys for your car. Having an extra set allows you to keep one at home and another in a secure location outside of your vehicle. You may also consider giving a spare key to a trusted family member or friend who lives nearby. In the event that you lock yourself out, having a duplicate key can save you from a lot of hassle and expenses.

3. Keyless Entry Systems

Modern vehicles often come equipped with keyless entry systems, which offer convenient and secure access to your car. These systems typically involve a key fob or a smartphone app that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle remotely. By utilizing this technology, you can avoid the risk of accidentally locking your keys inside the car. However, it’s crucial to keep your key fob or smartphone secure to prevent theft or loss.

4. Awareness and Attention

Developing good habits and being mindful of your keys can go a long way in preventing lockouts. Make it a habit to always check that you have your keys before closing the car door. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid distractions while handling your keys. By staying present and paying attention, you can minimize the chances of locking yourself out of your vehicle.

5. Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your car’s locking system can help prevent unexpected lockouts. Over time, the mechanisms of locks and door handles can become worn or damaged, leading to potential malfunctions. By having your vehicle inspected and serviced by a professional regularly, you can identify and address any potential issues before they escalate and result in a lockout situation.

6. Emergency Lockout Services

In the unfortunate event that you do get locked out of your car, having access to emergency lockout services can be a lifesaver. It is advisable to have the contact information of a reputable locksmith readily available in case of emergencies. Research and identify local locksmiths who offer 24/7 service and keep their contact details in your phone or a secure location outside of your car.

7. Car Insurance Coverage

Check your car insurance policy to determine if it covers lockout situations. Some insurance providers offer coverage for locksmith services or emergency assistance as part of their comprehensive packages. Understanding your policy’s coverage can give you peace of mind knowing that you have a safety net in case of a lockout.

Being locked out of your car can be a frustrating experience, but it is a situation that can be avoided with some foresight and preparation. By implementing the strategies mentioned above, such as keeping spare keys accessible, utilizing keyless entry systems, staying aware, maintaining your car’s locking system, and having access to emergency lockout services, you can significantly reduce the risk of being locked out of your vehicle. Remember, prevention is key, and taking these precautionary measures will help ensure that you stay mobile and maintain peace of mind when it comes to your car’s security.

Master Pins In Locks, What They Are Used For, Why You Don’T Want Them

Locks are an essential part of our daily lives, keeping our valuables, homes, and businesses safe and secure. A lock typically consists of several components, one of which is the pin-tumbler mechanism. This mechanism is made up of a series of pins of varying lengths that prevent the lock from opening without the correct key. However, some individuals have found ways to bypass this mechanism by using master pins. In this article, we will explore what master pins are, what they are used for, and why you do not want them in your locks.

What are Master Pins?

Master pins are pins that are designed to fit in between the key pin and driver pin in a pin-tumbler lock. When the correct key is inserted, the key pin and driver pin align with the shear line, allowing the lock to turn and open. However, when a master pin is inserted, it can create an additional shear line, allowing the lock to be opened with a key that is not the original key for that lock.

What are Master Pins Used For?

Master pins are typically used by locksmiths who work with master key systems. Master key systems are designed to allow a single key to open multiple locks, each with its own unique key. This is useful in situations where someone needs access to multiple areas, but not everyone should have access to everything. For example, a hotel manager might have a master key that can open every room in the hotel, but each guest would have their own unique key that only opens their individual room.

Master key systems require the use of master pins to work. The locksmith will create a series of locks, each with their own unique key pin and driver pin combination. They will then add a master pin to each lock that will allow the master key to open that lock in addition to the individual key that belongs to that lock. This process is repeated for each lock in the system, allowing the master key to open all locks in the system, while each lock can only be opened by its individual key and the master key.

Why You Don’t Want Master Pins in Your Locks

While master key systems can be useful in certain situations, the use of master pins in individual locks is not recommended. There are several reasons for this:

1. Security Risk: The addition of a master pin to a lock creates an additional shear line, which means that the lock can be opened with a key that is not the original key for that lock. This creates a security risk, as anyone who has access to the master key can potentially open your lock.
2. Complexity: Master pins add complexity to the lock mechanism, making it more difficult to install and maintain. This can lead to increased costs and potential problems with the lock down the line.
3. Unnecessary: For most individuals, the use of master key systems is unnecessary. In most situations, a single key for each lock is sufficient. Adding master pins to individual locks adds an unnecessary level of complexity and risk.
4. Legal Concerns: The use of master keys in certain situations can potentially violate privacy laws. For example, if a landlord uses a master key to enter a tenant’s apartment without permission, they may be violating the tenant’s privacy rights.

Master pins are a useful tool for locksmiths who work with master key systems. However, for most individuals, the use of master pins in individual locks is unnecessary and can create security risks. It is important to choose locks that are designed to be secure without the use of master pins and to avoid the use of master key systems in situations where they are not needed. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure the security of your valuables, homes, and businesses.

Different types of Security Cameras and when to use them

Author: Robert Beagle

Security cameras come in a range of shapes, sizes, and functionalities that allow them to perform in different situations and settings. Surveillance cameras can be divided into a range of categories including Movement, Size & Shape, Functions, and Housing.

Keep in mind that security cameras can be organized into multiple categories and can include various features.

Movement

Fixed security cameras typically stay in the position they are mounted for the lifetime of their deployment. Since the only way to move them is to either reposition or remount the device, fixed cameras are used to make sure that the subject in frame is perpetually on surveillance.

“Fixed” can also refer to the type of lens on various types of security cameras. A fixed lens doesn’t let you adjust the focal length, angle of view, or level of zoom. Nearly all fixed lens cameras have a wide-angle lens. When it comes to security camera lenses, the opposite of fixed is varifocal.

Applications – Fixed area of focus for continuous recording of a single area.
Advantages – These low-cost, uncomplicated security cameras are ideal for most consumers as you can simply mount the camera and point it at a target area, with no adjustments to be made with lenses or motors.
Disadvantages – Since these security cameras can only be moved manually, footage just outside of frame will not be able to be captured. Additionally, the only way to enlarge video footage is to zoom digitally, which can cause pixelation at lower megapixel ratings.

A manual varifocal lens has an adjustable focal length. By adjusting the focal length, you can manually select the horizontal field of view of the security camera, allowing you to narrow the field of view to gain more detail of any monitored area. These varifocal lenses can also be motorized, which we will cover next.

Applications – Allows you to manually focus on an area from a distance when more detail is required. For example, capturing license plates and other details at an entrance when the security camera is mounted a distance away.
Advantages – These adjustable lenses allow you to manually select the level of detail of video recording you desire, only limited by the camera’s megapixel rating and lens.
Disadvantages – With a manual varifocal lens, you’ll have to physically take the lens off in order to manually adjust the lens to your desired focal length.

Read more at: Different types of Security Cameras and when to use them

Related Article: WHY YOU NEED TO ADD ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM

Learn how you can effectively install security cameras, visit missouricitylocksmith.net

How To Improve Your Home Security Easily And Quickly

By Eric Murrell

Security systems, camera systems, and locking systems have progressed a long way over the years. With the ever-increasing threat to home security, these improvements have been necessary. Every few seconds a home across the country is broken into. Then why is often a hard question to answer, but it does not negate the fact that home security is needed.

Many families have had the same security practices and devices in places for years. It’s important to regularly check and upgrade your security measures. Thieves are becoming more and more sophisticated and so should your security measures.

This guide will help you to improve your home security easily and quickly. You must make the needed adjustments to avoid coming home to a nasty surprise.
Improve Your Home Security

Improving your home security doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. There are simple tricks that can be used to create a big impact on how secure you feel in your own home. Thieves are opportunists. The best way to stop them is to not provide them with the opportunity to target you and your home.

1. Hide Valuables

This one is pretty simple to follow. Avoid giving burglars the temptation to target your home. Close windows and night to hide expensive TVs and other electronics. Keep your nice car parked in the garage. Dispose of product boxes and packaging discreetly. You don’t want to give others a full blow by blow of what you’ve recently purchased. This will only encourage them to raid your home.

2. Add Security Cameras

One of the best ways you can easily and quickly improve your home security is by installing security cameras. They help you to monitor what’s happening around your home 24/7 and can give you peace of mind even when you’re not at home. You can use the very thorough breakdown of camera systems from LifeRejoice.com to help you decide on a reliable system. Most modern systems allow you to see what’s happening in real-time from your phone or other mobile devices.

3. Opt For a Smart Lock

Invest in prop tech such as smart locks for your doors. No more hiding the spare key under the mat or flower pot. With a smart lock, you can control entry with your phone, no matter where you are, and when necessary, you can give the code to those you trust to have access to your home. It’s also a lot harder for robbers to pick a smart lock. This is a great added step of protection for your home.

4. Use Motion Detecting Lights

These are amazing add ons that are best for nighttime visibility. Once motion is dedicated, the light will be activated, giving a clear view of what is lurking around your yard. If you have cameras, they will also help to give a more crisp look at anyone trying to break into your home. The lights can also be adjusted for where you need them and when you need them. If you need to venture outside, they can also provide you with a clear view of where you’re going and let you see your surroundings.

5. Secure All Floors

Often the bottom level of the home is secured and armed but the second or third is left forgotten along with the basement. When putting in a security system, it’s a good idea to put in a system that offers protection for all floors of the house. You can also set alarms to allow motion in certain areas and to activate in others when needed. There is a lot of flexibility. The important thing is to have the system in place and to use it on all levels of your home.

6. Add Window Locks

Along with alarm systems, window locks are another beneficial security measure that can be utilized. Windows are the easiest point of entry into a home. Make sure to secure all of your windows with these locks. This also includes basement windows which many people forget about. Windows at the back of the house also need the added security of window locks as it’s one of the more popular points of entry along with basement windows.

In truth, your best protection is using common sense and avoiding things that tempt burglars. It doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t enjoy your home, but rather it’s important to be mindful. Pay attention to your surroundings. Look for weak spots in your security. Make sure to go through a security check before you leave the house and before bed at night. These extra steps will help you to keep your home and belongings safe.

Article Source: How To Improve Your Home Security Easily And Quickly

Related Article: Why You Should Consider Investing in Keyless Entry for Your Home

From lock rekey service to high security lock installation, learn more at missouricitylocksmith.net

7 Reasons Why a Top Notch Warehouse Security System is Essential

by Jacob Menke

7 Reasons Why a Top Notch Warehouse Security System Is Essential

Is your warehouse as secure as you think? Consider these 7 reasons why a top notch warehouse security system is essential.

Is your warehouse secure?

All warehouse owners know that safety should be their first priority, both during the workday and when the warehouse is closed. But, if you don’t have a warehouse security system, you might not be protecting your wares as well as you think you are.

But why do you need top-notch warehouse security? There are many different reasons, and we’ll go through 7 of them below. 

Keep reading to learn more about how these systems keep your warehouse safe!

1. A Warehouse Security System Alerts the Authorities

Put frankly, getting a warehouse security system makes you more prepared for an emergency break-in.

When someone forces their way into your warehouse, they will trip the alarm system, which gives people a certain amount of time to enter a code before setting off an alarm. Then, the system calls your phone and allows you to verify whether or not the alarm was set off by mistake. If it wasn’t, and it’s a true break-in, the authorities will be informed and dispatched to your location.

2. The Siren Scares Off Intruders

Many times, people who try to burglarize homes and warehouses try to do it without being noticed. When an alarm goes off, it disrupts the intruder’s hopes to remain unnoticed. An extremely loud siren inside or outside can be very effective.

Because of the alarm, the intruder may choose to run away. While you hope that the authorities will be able to catch this person, the alarm protects you by encouraging them to flee before they can rob you or do much damage to your property.

3. It Keeps Unauthorized People from Entering Your Warehouse

When you have our alarms, you have the opportunity to allow your employees to enter while keeping unauthorized people out.

Our devices come equipped with options for your employees to enter a code that will keep the alarm from going off. That way, should an authorized person need to either open the warehouse at the beginning of the day or access it during off-hours, they can do so if they know the code.

On the other hand, the alarm will go off if the code is not entered.

4. Take Advantage of Protection Against Window Entry

Many intruders don’t come in through the door. Instead, they choose to break windows and enter.

Fortunately, the best warehouse security system has already anticipated that. Your alarm will go off even if it senses an open window, motion or a break in the glass.

5. Whole Building Security

Gone are the days in which you have to worry about securing your whole building. Now, installing one security system can help you keep your whole building safe.

This applies even if your warehouse is large, giving warehouse owners greater peace of mind. The system can be wired, but most opt for a wireless system now which can have wireless ranges into the hundreds of feet away.

Read more at: 7 Reasons Why a Top Notch Warehouse Security System is Essential

Related Article: Signs Better Security Is Needed At Your BusinessTo learn more on how to improve the security system in your commercial building, visit missouricitylocksmith.net

The Best Fireproof Safe for Your Valuables

There are many good reasons to invest in a fireproof safe. Passports, IDs, permits, contracts, financial documentation, jewelry, heirlooms — anything you can think of storing in a safe is a good reason in its own right.

With such a large array of choices and options of fireproof safes available on the market, you may find yourself hesitating about the one best for you, wondering how to recognize which products have the features you need and which you should avoid.

But with so many fireproof safes to compare, the last question that remains is often “Which features should I look for?” Find the answers here so you can choose the best fireproof safe for your valuables.

Materials and Construction

The core of any safe’s protective capabilities lies in the materials used in its construction. Safe wall materials fall into two categories: steel and non-steel.

Steel

Most safes on the market employ metal in their construction, typically in the form of steel sheets. However, the vast majority of fireproof safes do not use heavy-duty sheets, as they are intended mainly to protect the contents against exposure to fire and heat and the resulting damage.

Steel wall thickness is measured using the standard gauge unit for plate iron and steel, as defined in the U.S. Code. The lower the steel gauge number, the higher the thickness, and, in turn, the heavier the safe. A 12-gauge steel sheet has a thickness equal to 7⁄64 of an inch. In decimal form, this value corresponds to approximately 0.106 of an inch or about 2.78 mm.

Typical fireproof safes intended for home use employ 16- to 18-gauge steel sheets as walls. More rarely, they may employ thicker sheets, such as 14-gauge. However, you seldom see models with thicker walls on regular fireproof safes. 12-gauge, 11-gauge, and higher thickness ratings are the realm of larger, heavier safe types, such as gun safes.

While there’s nothing wrong with using a gun safe or another heavy-duty safe for storing documents and other small valuables, you will lose many of the benefits of smaller, purpose-built models.

Smaller fireproof safes are not only easier to transport, but, if you know how to hide a safe in plain sight, they are also much easier to conceal in your house, granting you a definite advantage over potential burglars.

Non-Steel Materials

Although steel is the traditional material for safes of any kind, today’s technology grants manufacturers access to many newer, more advanced materials, allowing them to experiment and create new products.

You may find safes advertised as fireproof employing lighter metals, such as aluminum alloys. Others don’t even use metals at all, using ABS plastic or polymers instead. Unfortunately, while these materials are undoubtedly lightweight, they are also much easier to defeat. Aluminum does not have the strength and impact resistance of steel, and any plastic or polymer material is vulnerable to splitting or shattering.

Steel is the traditional choice for safes because there simply isn’t any other material available offering a similar combination of strength, impact resistance, and affordability. While better metals exist (tungsten is stronger and titanium has a better strength-to-weight ratio), they are vastly more expensive than steel and are never used in personal and home safes.

Get a Fireproof Safe to Protect Your Valuables

Fire Protection Rating

It isn’t enough to invest in a safe with a “fire-safe” material; even if the outer shell might resist burning or intense heat, the safe may still fail to protect its contents adequately.

Although many safes on the market are marketed as fireproof safes, they must receive certification from an accredited, independent organization with stringent testing processes to verify their resistance to fire.

One such organization is Underwriters Laboratories, a global safety certification company established in 1894 responsible for developing numerous safety standards, including the world’s most widely recognized fire safety testing and certification protocol: the UL 72 Fire Test.

A quality fireproof safe should meet or exceed the UL 72 testing standards and receive a UL label. This label is not a legal requirement, but many companies will refuse to buy products that have not been UL-certified.

There are multiple UL certification levels, ranging from ½-Hour Rated to 4-Hour Rated. You should look for a safe with at least a 1-Hour Rated certification (preferably 2-Hour). Even though most house fires last no more than a few minutes, some may, under the right circumstances, last up to two hours.

Depending on what you intend to store in your fireproof safe, you may want to ensure the safe has received an appropriate certification for maximum internal temperature. For example, a UL Class 350 safe has been certified not to exceed 350°F when exposed to fire for a duration equal to its certification level.

Temperatures around 350°F are safe for paper documents but may destroy electronics and digital media (CDs, DVDs, etc.). If you wish to protect electronics, look for a UL Class 125 safe, certifying it will not exceed 125°F when exposed to a house fire.

Read more at: The Best Fireproof Safe for Your Valuables

Related Article: What to Do in Different Lockout Situations

Visit www.missouricitylocksmith.net if you want to learn more about home safes and other ways to improve security in your home, business or automotive.

Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Keyless Locks

Missouri City High Security Locks

If you are a business owner, then chances are you have considered upgrading your building’s current locks to electronic models of some kind if you haven’t already. Lots of businesses benefit from keyless entry systems and other kinds of electronic locks models. If you are curious to learn more about keyless entry lock systems for commercial spaces, their benefits, and how to go about installing keyless entry locks for your business, read on!

Now is the perfect time for you to upgrade to keyless entry locks as so many other businesses have done. As these locking systems become more popular, they only get more affordable. Consider upgrading your business locks to keyless entry after reviewing the benefits, as well as the most popular lock types available on the market today.

The Benefits of Commercial Keyless Entry

Increased Security

The number one benefit to installing keyless entry systems is heightened security. Keyless entry locks are always electronically controlled, making them far more secure than traditional deadbolts and other kinds of locks you may be using to secure your business. These types of locks are nearly impossible to tamper with or break-in to and often come with enhanced safety features that prevent breaking and entering. For example, most models will have a security mechanism that will be triggered if the wrong code is entered in wrong one too many times. The device will then lock for about 10 minutes or so and not allow anyone inside, even if they eventually enter the right code.

Better Employee Tracking

One of the best things about keyless entry devices is the ability to externally monitor door activity from a computer or tablet device. Employers that need to carefully track employee hours for payroll purposes can greatly benefit from keyless entry systems since they can see exactly when employees leave or enter their business. Most keyless entry devices will allow you to customize each employee with a specific code. That way, you can track who is coming and going. This is important not only for payroll purposes, but security and safety measures as well.

Save on Company Expenditures

Using keyless entry devices means that you do not have to worry about lost employee keys or cutting new keys for each employee that you hire. Keys are easily lost and replacing them can take a toll on any company budget. With keyless entry locks, you can rest easy knowing that you will never have to go through the hassle of having new keys made, which can be a costly and time-consuming process.

The Most Popular Commercial Keyless Entry Locks

Keypad Devices

Keypad devices are the most common kind of keyless entry lock system you will see and most preferred by businesses everywhere. They are simple and easy to use and ultimately eliminate the need to cut individual keys for every employee. A 4-or-5-digit code allows employees to open doors with ease, while also maintaining a heightened sense of security. You can opt to have keypad devices installed for certain rooms or corridors of your buildings, as well as employee-only entrances.

Proximity Card Readers

Proximity card reader devices are most often found in hospitals, clinics, and other busy businesses. Card readers save employees time when moving from room to room or one area of the building to the next. All one must do is hover a card above a small, flat device on the wall and the door will open. Proximity readers come in handy if you have employees that need to move quickly without wasting time entering in a code or number combination, such as with a keypad device.

Biometric Locks

Biometric readers use fingerprints, thumbprints, or one’s retina to allow individuals access to a given space. If this sounds like something out of a sci-fi film, that is because biometric readers are some of the most sophisticated and advanced keyless entry locks available. They are arguably the most secure, but also the most expensive keyless entry lock models available.

How to Install Commercial Keyless Locks

Are you ready to install keyless entry locks for your business? If so, you will want to get in touch with a locksmithing service in your area and hire a professional that has prior experience working with and installing keyless entry locks. Regardless of which kind of locks you choose, they will inevitably need to be programmed and installed by someone who knows what they are doing.

It is also a good idea to work closely with a professional, especially if you need any kind of maintenance of reprogramming performed in the future. Having a contact in your area that you can turn to if and when you experience any problems with your keyless entry locks is always preferred. Contact a local, trustworthy, and experienced locksmith in your area that you can work with now and in the future. Even though keyless entry locks are more secure and durable than traditional locks, you will want to have a contact you can reach out to for upgrades, repairs, and other maintenance needs.

Need a Professional Locksmithing Service in Missouri City, TX?

Do you currently own or run a business in the Missouri City, TX area? Are you ready to hire a trusted and experienced locksmith to help with your property needs? Missouri City Locksmith is the number one resource to turn to! Did you know we offer around-the-clock services 24-hours a day, seven days a week? That’s right! Whenever you need assistance with your business security, you can count on us. Break-ins, lock repairs, key replacements, and other requests may be necessary at all hours of the day or night. That is why we are committed to offering all of our professional locksmithing services 24/7. No matter what, you can count on Missouri City Locksmith to provide superior services, repairs, upgrades, and installations anytime that will help keep your business, employees, and assets safe. Call and schedule your emergency, same-day, or next day appointment with our experts now!

Article Source: Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Keyless Locks

Weather Changes and Your Home Security

Missouri City Commercial Locksmith

Do you live in a region that experiences hotter or colder weather compared to other areas? Maybe you live in a location that has really hot summers and extremely cold winters, such as in Utah? If so, it is important to consider how weather extremes can affect your door locks and other security devices around your home. The more you know about how the weather can affect your home locks and even your home security cameras, the more prepared you will be to repair or deal with any kind of issues that may arise. Keep reading to find out more about how colder and warmer weather conditions can impact your locks and how they function.

Home Locks and Cold Weather

During colder weather, materials are bound to contract. Your door and its frame may no longer fit properly or create a proper seal when shut. This can cause a misalignment of your home locks, since the door and frame may not line up. You may have trouble shutting and locking the door. There is also more likely to be a draft coming through your front door since the door and frame may not be properly sealed together.

Rising humidity levels during winter months can also affect your home’s doors and locks. Excess moisture may be another reason why you may find it difficult to center the door in the frame during colder weather. The locks themselves may also be affected and can become frozen, making it difficult to insert or turn your key once it is in the slot.

Home Locks and Warm Weather

Just like colder weather, warmer weather can have a negative impact on your home locks. Warmer weather will make your door and the lock materials on your door expand, rather than contract. When these materials expand, this may make the lock perform differently. If the door frame swells, the lock may not fit correctly into position. If the door itself expands, then the deadbolt lock may not turn properly.

Issues with one’s locks during the summer is common. It is important to not let a misalignment go unattended for too long. In both cases, whether you are dealing with colder or warmer weather problems, it is important to have your door and locks looked at. An annual adjustment will help keep your locks operating properly, even in extreme weather.

Security Cameras and Weather Extremes

It is important to note that colder or warmer weather can also affect security cameras around your home. If you have yet to install security cameras, you will want to consider the temperature in your local area. Most security cameras are highly resistant to weather conditions since they are outdoors 24/7. If you live in an area with lots of snow and rainfall or extremely low temperatures, you will want to make sure you purchase security cameras that will still operate under these conditions. Similarly, if you live in a warmer climate, you will want to make sure your security cameras will not become damaged or warped by extreme heat and sunlight.

Automotive Locks and Freezing Temperatures

The locks on your vehicle are more likely than the locks on your home to freeze up. Since home locks are usually covered by one’s roof, they are less likely to freeze from water build-up. Vehicle locks do not have any sort of protection from rain and snowfall unless the car is in a garage. If a vehicle owner has to park their car outdoors overnight during a snowstorm, it is possible that their locks may be frozen in the morning, especially if temperatures remained below freezing for some time.

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What to Do with Old Keys

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  Missouri City Broken Key Extraction

If you have moved a handful of times in your life, if it possible you have some old keys lying around that you no longer use. Over the years, keys from past homes and apartments can pile up in our junk drawers and in other places in our homes. Just simply throwing out these old keys may not be the best option. In fact, there are several ways you can reuse or recycle your old keys. You can even save them for various arts and crafts projects or practical uses around your home. Find out more about what you can and should do with your old keys and consider the following ideas about how you can best reuse or recycle them.

Recycle Them

Depending on where you live, there are several organizations nationwide that recycle keys. These specialized organizations are helpful since most scrap metal is not recyclable when put in traditional, roadside bins. The actual location of your local recycling center may have a designated spot where you can drop off old keys and other scrap metal, but this will depend on the location. Call the recycling center nearest to your home to see if they have a way for residents to recycle old keys. Some cities and states have specific organizations though that only take care of key recycling in order to raise money for various causes or other means. There are even programs directed at students that work to provide scholarships through their key and scrap metal recycling initiatives. Other key recycling programs even provide assistance for individuals with disabilities in terms of job placement. Depending on your area, you may have some luck finding an organization that will take your old keys and also help those in need at the same time.

Reuse Them in Creative Ways

You can search through hundreds of arts and crafts projects online that utilize old keys. There are plenty of ways to use keys after their original purpose has expired. For adults and kids alike, there are plenty of fun and creative ways to use old keys. Try some of the following projects and suggestions for your old keys:

• Use them as anchors for helium balloons at parties. Keys are perfect for this purpose since they are small, but also heavy enough to keep a balloon positioned on a table or elsewhere during a party.
• Clean the bottom of your shoes. Using an old key is a great way to get in between the crevices on the bottom of one’s work boots or sneakers. Mud and dirt can become caked on the bottom of shoes and seem nearly impossible to get out. By maneuvering an old key in between the grooves on the bottom of one’s shoes, dirt and mud are easily scraped away. Keys can also be used to clean or scrape other surfaces that are difficult to reach, such as in between tire treads on a bike.
• Place an old key at the bottom of curtains. This can help weigh down lighter fabrics and help them stay in place. You may even be able to just slip a key into the folded seam or hem at the bottom of the curtains without having to do any sewing.
• Use old keys to create jewelry. You can make a simple necklace using an old key. If you are up for an arts and crafts project that is really easy, you can paint an old key and then use a chain to turn it into a necklace. This can actually make a great gift, especially if you use an old house or apartment key that means something to the recipient.
• Turn old keys into artwork. Get creative and use old keys to add some dimension to paintings, drawings, or picture frames. Depending on the tools at your disposal, you can reshape keys and transform them into different designs.
• Make a windchime. If you have enough keys, you can make a windchime by stringing the keys together around a ring. This can be a fun project for kids of any age and is a great way to reuse your old keys in a creative and fun way.

Do not limit your imagination to only the suggestions listed above. There are countless project ideas out there that use old keys. Depending on the age of your children, some creative uses may be more appropriate than others. Regardless, keeping an extra key or two around for cleaning and other purposes is a great idea.

Read more: What to Do with Old Keys