Home Security Keying Options
There are many ways to enter your home. Home security is paramount to keeping your home secure and your family safe. From mechanical key scenarios to electronic locking scenarios the choice is varied. What is best for you?
The cheapest method of securing your home is via a metal key and a lock. The most common process is a lock and key combination with or without levers. Today there are electronic solutions with key pad and remote access app. When we look at securing your home, there are many decisions you need to consider.
But a lock of any description is not going to ensure security or safety. You need to consider other areas of your home. The weakest component of the home is an entry point. Most burglary's occur via the front door entry point because it was not locked at the time!
The front door is one. Is it a strong wooden door or a soft wooden door. No matter how good the lock is, if the housing (i.e. the door) is not strong it may be the weakest entry point. What construction is the back door, or side door entry from garage.
Windows are another consideration. Are your windows secure? How are they constructed, are they strong framed, glass, or are they possible entry points.
Again the roof is a common entry point for would be burglars. How easy is it to access the roof (usually via the back yard). Have you left your ladder freely available for unwanted visitors. Do you have trees with branches over the roof? Is there a fence line that provides easy access to the roof.
Sliding doors and garage door entry points are another easy access point. Usually due to forgetting to lock the doors.
First floor balcony doors are easy access for fit burgler's.
Many people think a burglar would never be brazen enough to simply walk through the front door, but it is one of the most common entry points for thieves. About 34% of burglaries occur through the front door of the home. This may seem like a bold move, however, if an intruder has done a good job watching your home and knowing when you are away, the front door is the easiest place to slip into, day or night.
We do not pretend to be security experts. You would be advised to consult a security advisor to assess your home if you feel the need. But a simple understanding of what to look for and how to ensure your surrounding yard is structured will go a long way to protecting your home.
We can offer a number of locking solutions to suit your budget. Probably the most effective mechanical lock is the MyLock from Austyle, which provides simple immediate privacy locking when you enter your home. Simple yet effective.
We have electronic options, commercial options including keypad options to suit most needs. The new electronic locks for narrow styles like patio doors can improve security issues, like self locking and keypad entry.
We won't sell you a high security lock if your door is made of cardboard. You need to have practicality applied to the locking system. Maybe a simple yet effective deadbolt or night latch is sufficient for what you need.
If you live in an apartment we can offer suitable replacement lever locks with new keying if you are unsure the previous tenant has returned all keys. There are various options that may suit your needs.
Architectural Design Hardware in association with our locksmith offer the following keying services to clients:
Keying Alike (KA): Keying Alike allows for a number of locks to be operated by the same key.
Keyed to Differ (KD): Keyed to differ means each lock can only be opened by its own unique key.
Construction Keying (CK): The ADH construction key system is used to allow contractors to gain entry to a building during construction but to prevent entry by the same contractors after the building has been handed over. On completion of the building, the owners key is activated rendering the construction key inoperative and preventing further entry by the contractor.
Master Keying (MK): Master Keying is where each lock will have its own individual key which will not operate any other locks in the system, but where all locks can be operated by the one master key.
Grand Master Keying (GMK): Grand Master Keying is an extension of the master keyed system. Each lock has its own individual key however the locks are divided into two or more groups. Each lock group is operated by a master key, and the entire system is operated by one grand master key.
Maison Keying: Maison keying is widely used in apartments, flats, offices, and hotels. Each unit has its own key which will not operate the locks to another unit. The key will however, operate the locks to communal entrances and service areas such as a gym.
Restricted Keying: A restricted keying system consists of locks & keys which are on a restricted profile. A restricted system offers the same 'tree system' as a master keying system but has added security features. These profiles are protected by patent are stamped 'Do Not Duplicate' & copies can only be cut by the locksmith that created the system. This gives you security & control over who has copies of your keys & how many are given out. Having a restricted system will require having one or more authorized signatories to order keys & will require production of identification & signature.
Security Entry Systems: Security Entry Systems come in a range of different options including electronic as well as a number of different brand restricted key profiles. All systems enable you to control access and duplication of keys.
Home Security and Keying options are an important part of your home safety. For further information talk to our sales staff.