General Archives - West Hollywood Locksmith

Is high security locks really safer?

Feeling safe and secure is by far the most important element when it comes to your home, and that feeling is weaved around the doorstep. With the passage of time and technological advancements, we’re seeing a considerable change in something as simple as locking a door.

Modern-day door locks are feature-rich in many aspects, but do they offer the needed security, basic purpose of this existence?

Let’s analyze how secure are modern security locks. Only a handful of door locks dominate the US market, and just two companies, i.e., Kwikset or Schlage occupy over 90 percent share of all residential locks. Despite being younger than Schlage, Kwikset holds a much bigger share, possibly because of a significantly cheaper price tag.

Having a look at doors reveal that 4 out of 5 homes in the US choose has standard Kwikset lock installed at their front door, so it’s quite natural to analyze this particular lock. The next popular brands include Kwikset SmartKey, Standard Schlage lock, and Defiant Deadbolt. The last in the list is has gained quite some share in the market in recent years.

1. How safe are these Popular Traditional Locks
There are 5 ways burglars used to compromise a standard deadbolt i.e., Picking, Raking, Bumping, Drilling, and using Pick Gun.

To test the resilience of each of the four locks, our security experts applied all the compromised methods in a testing environment. The results showed that these locks provide weak to moderate level security and can be compromised using one method or the other.

2. The Case of Smart Locks (Keypad, Bluetooth & Biometric)
With technological advancements in home security, keypad locks are becoming increasingly common, as well as biometric and Bluetooth locks.

These locks often give a false impression of being secure than the traditional mechanical pin-tumbler locks. Having a closer look reveals that all these smart locks are also equipped with a traditional keyhole and a key. The traditional key is used to bypass the electronic system in case of a failure or an exhausted battery. Instead of making the lock more secure, it adds a vulnerability that can be compromised and manipulated.

Although keypad or biometric locks provide relatively better security, cylinder remains the lock’s weakest link remains the cylinder. In fact, if the cylinder of any lock is easy to compromise, the lock is not secure at all.

3. Benefits of High-Security Locks
High-security locks are mechanical locks that are 100 percent secure. Due to the modifications made in their internal systems, not even the most skilled locksmith can compromise them in as much time as burglars have.

High-security locks rake, pick, and bump proof. Drilling is the only option to compromise these locks, but that could take hours because of the materials used in the locks.

Making a duplicate key is not easy as the key can only be copied from a special card that comes packaged with the lock.

People often think that having a high-security lock on their front doors will make robbers think they are trying to secure something precious, motivating them to break in. However, data suggests; otherwise, burglars tend to look for the easiest homes to break into. A high-security lock will most likely make them walk away and look for a different house.

4. West Hollywood Locksmith
If you are curious about the security of your home and looking to install a high-security lock, look no further. West Hollywood Locksmith goes beyond the call of duty when it comes to installing a home security system that given you much needed peace of mind.

We particularly offer state of the art and cutting-edge security solutions that ensure your protection and safety from all sorts of criminal elements.

5 things to know when buying a new door lock

Factors to consider prior purchasing a new door lock

When upgrading your security system the locks could be easily forgotten. To feel home and secure, many of people consider installing a strong garage door. Unfortunately, they forget about the door locks. Did you know that the locks count when it comes to securing your belongings and safety of your children? In this post, we are going to look at some important considerations when you want to change locks on house. By the end, you will learn how to choose the perfect lock for your house.

Factor the intended daily use

The number one factor when purchasing new replacement locks for your house is the intended daily use. Today, you will find a growing number of front door locks available on the market. Each of the options you find is suitable for specific use. Before purchasing a replacement lock, consider how you will be using the lock. For instance, let us say you are purchasing a replacement door lock for the front door. Number one, you expect to use the lock for several times a day especially when living with relatives. It is without doubt that the front door lock is one of the most used locks in a house. Therefore, you will consider a mortise lock compared to the standard rim cylinder deadbolt.

Determine the desired security level

The second factor to consider when purchasing the door lock is the desired security level. If you are protecting your valuables, the security level here is higher than just locking up a house to control entry. Realistically, everyone wants to feel as safe as possible. Finding out the level of security when purchasing a replacement lock for your house door is very important. Therefore, ask the dealer to give an explanation of the deadbolt features. Why is the dealer recommending the particular lock? Ask yourself whether the lock really meets the security standards as expected. You should be sure to pick appropriate lock that will meet the expectations when it comes to security levels.

To evaluate the security level, consider how easy it is picking the particular lock. What resources and time is required to pick the particular lock? For high-level security, you want to ensure a lock that takes time to pick and requires advanced technology to pick.

Do not be carried away by the brand name

A serious mistake that many people make when purchasing a replacement door lock is being carried away by the brand name. Ensure that you consider quality rather than purchasing base on brand name. Ask for the best door locks that meet your desired security level and is best for the intended use. This way, you will be able to choose a better door lock for your house.

Consider the smart locks

We are in an era when everyone wants to consider the smart door locks. The smart locks provide curb appeal ensuring high-level security, and enjoy convenience. There are various smart lock options available in the market.

Ease of installation

Some door locks provide an easy installation experience while others are complicated. It is advisable that you go for the door locks that are easy to install and provide the user simplified use experience.

Consider the above factors when purchasing the replacement locks for your house. Remember that security is an important consideration when purchasing the door locks. Do not forget to engage a professional to assist you in choosing an appropriate replacement lock. At West Hollywood Locksmith, we provide the best door lock installation. Contact us today for professional expertise.

Top 5 Benefits of Smart Locks for Home

Smart Technology Locks

If you are planning to purchase a replacement door lock for your house, consider the smart locks for home. The leaps and bounds that technology has made in the recent years have helped to enhance home security. This is through the invention of smart door locks for home, with distinct features. In this post, we tell you why you need to consider the latest locking technologies. Here are some good reasons to purchase smart locks for home.

Compatible with the Smartphone

Also referred to as the friendly locking systems, the smart locks smart house locks provide compatibility with your smart devices. Therefore, you do not have to worry about lost house keys any more. Alternatively, you know how difficult it can be trying to reach your keys sometimes. This is especially when you have some items stuffed in the handbag, or your handbag has several pockets, making it difficult remembering where the keys are kept. These problems could be things of the past if you purchase the smart house door locks. With the smart locks, all you need is pairing the deadbolt through Bluetooth, making it easier to access the room without using the traditional keys. Talk to a professional locksmith near you to find out the different smart lock options available in the market.

You can share the E-keys electronically

Are you stuck at the office while your relative is waiting for you at the balcony of your home? Some electronic keys allow you to share the E-keys electronically. Therefore, you do not have to worry about someone having to wait for you to arrive home for you to let them into the house. You can send the E-keys conveniently from any location across the globe. The different situations where this feature comes in handy include:

When renting out your house while on a vacation
Deliveries need to be kept inside the house while you are away
Letting a relative in to allow them relax waiting for you to arrive

Better security

Another advantage of using the smart home locks is that they provide better security levels. You can set the smart locks to lock the door seconds after walking out, or when you are a certain distance away from the house. All you need is connectivity via the smart device to enjoy this feature. In addition, the smart locks require advanced knowledge to pick. Therefore, these locks will keep you secure from theft.

Modern look

With a smart lock on your house door, you are certainly sending the message that you belong to the current generation. In other words, you are no longer using the traditional deadbolts. Therefore, the smart locks are good for those who want to appear current.

Smart Locks helps to increase the property value

Are you renovating your home in readiness for resale? Consider installing the smart locks to increase the property value. The smart locks are a great approach to increase the property value. This is because of added convenience and higher security levels. Therefore, consider the smart door locking technology today.

Talk to Locksmith West Hollywood for smart locking technology. We provide modern locks for residential and commercial customers.

Why Mobile Locksmiths in West Hollywood are the Best Choice

The Best Choice for Fast & Convenient Services

When it comes to what types of services they offer, Mobile Locksmiths are really no different from other locksmiths.

However, there is a notable difference when it comes to service delivery.

In this article, I highlight some of the advantages of hiring a mobile locksmith for your locksmith needs. Keep reading to find out why you need to consider a mobile locksmith the next time you’ve misplaced your keys.

1. Fast Turnaround time

Hire a mobile locksmith in West Hollywood and you will enjoy a super fast turnaround time. We, the mobile locksmiths in West Hollywood, understand that urgency is of great importance when it comes to service delivery.

Therefore, we are always working extra hard to make sure that we meet your requirements within a very short period. Rest assured that our mobile team will arrive at your location soon after your service call.

Are you looking for a quick, professional response to lock and key services? Contact the mobile locksmiths in West Hollywood.

2. Enjoy Greater Convenience

Mobile locksmiths will serve you at the comfort of your home or office. In addition, you do not have to hire towing service providers to get to the nearest locksmiths.

Instead, you can contact mobile West Hollywood locksmiths for fast service delivery. Technicians will use a service van to get to the client’s site, so response times are usually 20 minutes or less.

3. Mobile Locksmiths Have the Right Equipment

The mobile technical team is fully equipped with the latest tools and equipment. They have what it takes to serve the client right on site and without any excuse relating to missing required equipment. Do not forget that they are highly trained, so they will be able to execute the task within a short period.

This makes mobile locksmiths the most preferred service providers for your locksmith needs. Contact your local mobile locksmiths for speedy rescue from lockouts or installation of new door locks. They are already fully equipped, so rest assured that they will accomplish the task.

4. They offer 24/7 Services

Furthermore, the majority of mobile locksmiths offer their services through the night, and even during the holidays. They are there to ensure that homeowners, business people and auto owners are enjoying convenience.

Do not spend the night in the cold because of a lockout or misplaced keys. The mobile locksmiths in West Hollywood will help you no matter the time of day or night. They are on duty even during the holidays and committed to serving you. Call us today.

West Hollywood Locksmiths Ensure Greater Convenience

Ensuring that you hire a qualified mobile locksmith will go a long way to ensure greater convenience. Take advantage of West Hollywood locksmiths today. Call our customer service desk for an estimate on the services you require.

When to Consider A Commercial Lock Change

Business owners want to always remain vigilant to the dangers that might hit their businesses. Whereas most of them will do whatever it takes to ensure the safety of their business premises, some will fail to take care of some important basics.

In this article, we talk about whether you should get a commercial lock change for your business premises.

Another way to put it is: under what circumstances do business managers require a lock change? This question bothers many people. Therefore, it is important that we address this issue of concern at the root.

Consider A Commercial Lock Change in These Situations

By knowing these important considerations for a lock change, you can always keep your business safe and secure. Keep reading to find out the situations when a business should consider a lock change.

You Have Lost Your Office Keys

Although it might seem obvious, some people do not take losing their keys seriously enough. Instead, they will get their key duplicated and ignore the lock altogether once they have access to their door again. This is not only careless but dangerous, especially in a busy office complex.

A lock change is necessary if you lose the keys to your office and you know that you have some important possessions in that office. They can be your business records, computers or even personal belongings. This gives you peace of mind knowing that nothing can lead to a mishap as you have controlled the situation.

You Just Moved to a New Office

After you have signed a new contract and moved to your new office, consider changing the locks immediately. You want to guarantee that it is only you who has access to that office at any time. In that regard, you can get a lock change request and submit it to the property manager or whatever protocols are required.

Remember that, in the case of a rental office, the property owner or management requires to be notified of these changes. Therefore, depending on the conditions, consider a lock change when you move to a new office.

Your Staff has Resigned

When a member of your staff resigns, it is not necessarily suspicious when you order a lock change. Because yes, you are indeed securing your property, but you are also doing it to make sure you do not suspect them in case anything bad happens. Do not ignore the possibility that a disgruntled ex-employee might come back if they have access to the office. Therefore, make sure you’ve changed the locks on the cabinets as well as the drawers.

A Stranger Has Access To your Keys

In some instances, people we do not trust might come across our keys. When that happens, you definitely want to be sure that your office is safe. And the best way to do that is to get a lock change from a reliable locksmith in your area.

As you can see, there are many different scenarios when a lock change should certainly cross your mind. It will guarantee that your office stays secure and safe regardless of the hardship. Do you require an urgent lock change? Contact West Hollywood Locksmith for the best prices for a commercial lock change in your area.

Why You Should Consider Purchasing High Security Locks

Why you should consider purchasing High-Security Locks for homes

You may be going on a trip with your family for the holidays, as will most of your neighbors. What you don’t know, is that every burglar in town is going to be browsing neighborhoods that look particularly vulnerable. If they happen to pick your house, it’s going to be difficult to return to your normal, everyday activities. Therefore, you have every reason to secure your house for the holidays with high security locks for peace of mind.

Better to Be Safe than Sorry

Just because your house has never been broken into before, doesn’t mean it won’t possibly happen in the future. That’s why having High-Security Locks will ensure that your house stays secure while you and your family are away. And most of them are not as expensive as you think! However, the general rule of thumb is that the more secure the lock is, the higher the price will be.

Invest in Lasting Security

But think about it- it only takes one break-in to completely turn your life upside down. So wouldn’t you rather be safe and prevent this event from ever occurring in the first place rather than risk it for a few measly dollars? It’s up to you to decide if you want to trade your security for convenience, but if you’re reading this article right now, I’m going to assume you care about your security and want what’s best for you and your family.

Therefore, the sooner you take action on securing your home, the better you will feel. High Security Locks for homes vary in access and security, so you’ll want to find one that best fits your security requirements.

Consider these characteristics when purchasing high security locks for homes:

Key Control- the ability to harness the creation, distribution, and cutting of the keys for a given lock. This can significantly increase the security of the keying system for a given lock.

Manipulation Resistance- Most high security locks have components that are built to resist manipulation from lockpicking and decoding attacks. Examples include security pins that resist manipulation in tumbler locks.

Restrictive Keyways- Some key manufacturers use complicated keyways to aggravate attacks by making it much harder to insert and move tools around within the lock.

Forced Entry Resistance– All high security locks are made out of strong materials and designs that make them durable against destructive entry techniques. Think Ball bearings, steel rods, and hardened materials.

Ultimately, High Security Locks are what will keep you happy when you come home from your relatives during the holidays. If you still need some advice on what locks to buy, you can call West Hollywood Locksmith and get an accurate assessment of your house security and the best high security locks for homes that will keep it secure day and night.

5 ways To Successfully Prevent House Lockout

5 Ways To Successfully Prevent House Lockout

Being locked out of your house can feel frustrating and dispiriting to say the least. However, not all hope is lost. There are ways in which you can ensure that this will never happen to you in the future.

Therefore, here are 5 ways to guard yourself from sitting on the curb and prevent house lockout at all costs!

1. Stash the House Key

While it is best to avoid easy places to hide the key, stashing it in the correct places will significantly increase your chances of getting back into your house without resorting to dire measures.

Good places to keep your key include buying a fake object such as an ornament, placing the key inside it, and hiding it in the garden. You can also carry an extra key in your purse or briefcase, or lock the key inside your electrical panel.

2. Give the Key to a family member or friend

One of the best ways to protect yourself in case of a lockout is to make a spare key. Give it to a neighbor or immediate family member so that you can easily access it.

3. Routinely check your things

Keeping a spare with you at all times is a great idea in theory, but it doesn’t always happen that way. Therefore, it is best to routinely check your pockets before you leave the house.

Studies show that habits form over 1 to 2 months of daily practice, so if you develop this routine, you have a much lower risk of getting locked out statistically speaking.

4. Replace Bad Locks

It’s a good idea to check your locks often in case a lockout happens. If they’re not turning well, or too much, then it may be time to replace or rekey them.

5. Call A Locksmith

If you’re still having trouble deciding on how best to prevent house lockout, try calling a locksmith. A professional locksmith can give you a good, reasonable estimate on repairing your lock or making a new key, and they can usually do it the same day. Remember, never underestimate your home’s security, especially in a bad neighborhood.

Avoid these steps:

Leaving key under the mat
In car glove box
On a window ledge
In mailbox
Under plants

Conclusion

Nobody wants to be locked out of their own home, especially at night. We hope that our list has alerted you to take action to prevent house lockout from happening in your life.

If you need more direction or help on how best to prevent house lockout, give our friendly technicians at West Hollywood Locksmith a call. We can help rekey/change your locks for your home or business at prices that won’t break the bank.

How To Successfully Prevent A Lockout Issue

How to Successfully Stay Away from a Lockout Issue

Many lockout issues are a direct result of locking the keys in the office, residential home, the trunk and the driver’s seat.

So how can homeowners, commercial business owners and automotive owners prevent lockout issues? In this article, we explain some of the important tips through which you can stay away from the lockout experience. Let`s get started.

Have a Routine of Placing the Keys at the Same Position.

When you develop a habit, it is difficult to avoid doing it. When it comes to keeping your keys, you can form a habit of placing them at the same position to reduce the chances of locking them into the car, your residential home or the office.

For automobiles, when you switch off the engine, ensure you hold the keys and leave with them before locking the vehicle. For commercial or business owners, ensure you place the keys at the same position and form a habit of picking them every time you are leaving the office.

Invest in Technology that lets you Find Keys Easily

Technology is the best thing that ever happened to mankind! With Infrared and Bluetooth technology, innovative companies have come up with an easy way of finding your keys. All you need is to have a Bluetooth or Infrared device attached to the key holder and whenever you misplace the keys, use this technology to easily locate them. This way, you can be assisted easily.

Keep it Old School

The old fashioned key ring still does a lot when it comes to preventing you from experiencing a lockout. You can place the key holder on your pants and easily ensure you always have the keys. Ideally, all you need to do is to ensure that you always have your keys with you. This might feel cumbersome for the first time, but it is actually a good approach when it comes to preventing a lockout issue.

These are some of the common tips for preventing a lockout issue. Experiencing a car lockout, house lockout or office lockout? Contact West Hollywood Locksmith for the best locksmith services. We have a highly trained workforce, are available 24/7 and have invested in the best equipment for your lockout issues.

5 Reasons to install CCTV Cameras in your Building

Why CCTV Cameras are a Good Idea

Installing CCTV Cameras is quite necessary whether it is for a home, an office or a Business. It is one of the best ways in which you can maintain security and surveillance. With crime increasing and burglaries very common. It is very important to consider the available security options and choose one that is the best fit for you. Here are some good reasons why you should consider installing CCTV Security Cameras in your building.

Reason # 1 Prevent Theft

If you suspect one of your employees of wrong-doing but don’t know where to begin, start with these helpful tips. First, try to get to the bottom of things. A camera can be a very helpful tool. This is especially true if you own an establishment where cash is exchanged. Cameras are posted near cash registers sometimes or other places where employees are often stationed.

They’ll show you not only if an employee is stealing, but may even discourage an employee from committing a crime. It wouldn’t only prevent theft from employees but also from criminals. Think about it, if you were planning to rob or vandalize a store or office, would you want to do it if you knew you were being recorded?

Reason #2 Have useful Evidence

If a crime is committed in or around your business and the person accused of committing the crime was caught on camera, you’ve got an extra piece of evidence for a court case. Jurors and judges can watch footage or view photos from your security cameras and establish that the person on trial did indeed commit the crime.

Not only will you be preventing the same person from causing you more trouble in the future, you’ll be helping your entire community.

Reason #3 Keep an eye on your Business

Having a CCTV camera inside offices may help in creating discipline among the employees. For bosses who want their presence felt so that efficiency at work is optimized, a camera hovering over the employees will give the same effect.

You can keep an eye on things from your home computer with a few quick clicks of your mouse and make sure your business is running smoothly and nothing out of the ordinary is going on.

Reason #4 Monitor a High-Risk Area

Cameras may be placed in high-risk areas inside a factory. Such areas may include those in which fires can possibly break out. A camera in place there will lessen potential damages because emergency measures can be made immediately.

Cameras may also be placed in areas where accidents can happen. This is important so that life-saving measures can be employed promptly.

Reason #5 Watch out for kids and elderly people

With a CCTV framework at home, you can screen the wellbeing of your kids and elderly people while you are away. You can watch out for your housekeeper or your Babysitter and ensure nothing strange is going on.

Knowing that you can keep an eye on your kids through your computer or even your phone when you’re at the office can be very comforting. Therefore, the next time you’re looking to improve your office building’s security, why not give West Hollywood Locksmith a try!

Locksmith West Hollywood (323) 306-5221

Home And Car Security

Car Security

West Hollywood is a very beautiful and vibrant city and a lovely place to live but the unforeseen can always occur, especially if you happen to be burgled or your car broken into or even worse being locked out of your car in some desolate place.
These could be very traumatic experiences and coping with it the best way possible and knowing where you can seek help when in a situation like this is very important.
With many companies in the locksmith services, selecting the company that you think will be prompt in service and reliable in their workmanship, is not a very difficult task.
West Hollywood Locksmith with our excellent record in the locksmith services business, over many years and backed by an unprecedented service record is the one you should trust with and of your security concerns.

We Take care of all of your Locksmith Needs

Locksmith West Hollywood is specialized in all security related work that we carry out and with leadership in the security market place, having serviced government, commercial and private entities, for many years our locksmith services have gained the confidence to remain on top.
The many reviews that we have received and which we cherish, speaks volumes for the very efficient locksmith services that we have provided our customers over the years.
With our 24 Hour Locksmith emergency call service you are at ease that even in the late hours of the day, or early hours of the morning if you have a locking problem Mobile Locksmith West Hollywood are just a phone call away to serve you fast and efficiently.
With adequate service points spread over the city, we are able to be with you as fast possible, to get you out of any locking mess that you have inadvertently got into.
Our technologically advanced locksmith services are only carried out by experienced locksmith professionals who are trained and capable of executing the responsibilities.

Always There For You

Our fleet of well equipped 24 hour service vehicles responds promptly for any on the spot locking problems and we would find the solution, and ensure that you are satisfied with our workmanship that would be nothing but par excellence.
Locksmiths West Hollywood continually strive to keep ourselves abreast with all the new developments in the locking industry which keeps us in good stead when it comes to providing the best service we can to our customers.
Locksmiths Guild of West Hollywood have some very strict codes set for all their member companies, these codes are adhered to the letter by all members, which in turn safeguards both the customers and service personnel alike.
Locksmith West Hollywood are members of the Locksmiths Guild in West Hollywood and all our technicians hold the Certificate of Practicing Locksmiths, issued by the Guild and are trained professionally to serve you.

We being armed with this important certification, you can be rest assured that you are in good hands and that you are dealing with the best professionals in the locking business, and we want our customers to know that we care about them and have their best interests in our mind.