6 Tips for Changing the Locks on Your Home in Florida
When moving into a new home in Florida, one of the first things you should take care of is changing the locks. Not only will changing the locks secure your new home, but it will also provide you with the peace of mind that every homeowner seeks. Even if your realtor informs you that the locks were changed after the previous owners moved out, realtors and building contractors may have duplicate keys. For a professional lock change service contact a locksmith for house. A locksmith for house can also advise you whether to replace the locks or rekey your home.
Moving into a new home is an exciting adventure that unfortunately comes with a lot of work. To make your move a little easier, we’re going to explain everything you need to know about the lock changing process!
1. Pricing
Since buying a new house is a huge financial investment, you probably don’t want to spend too much on a lock changing service. But, when it comes to changing locks, don’t cut any corners because your security is on the line. When getting a lock change, there are several things that you will be paying for such as the lock changing method, cost of hardware, the number of locks, and the labor to install the locks.
Lock change services typically start at $50 dollars for labor, although this can vary depending on the locksmith you hire. The price of the lock itself is based on the materials and technology that is used in the lock. Deadbolts can cost as little as $15 while high security locks tend to cost around $300. The general rule of thumb is the higher the price, the higher the security of the lock. But this isn’t necessarily true in the case of smart locks, where you are paying primarily for convenience.
2. Rekeying
Rekeying is an inexpensive alternative to lock replacement that is just as effective security-wise. Rekeying a lock is essentially removing the key pins and switching them out for new ones, deeming your original key no longer effective. After the service is complete, you’ll be provided with a new set of keys, but it’s only possible to rekey locks if they are in working condition. If you’re looking to improve your home’s security, rekeying may not be the best solution since you’ll be using your existing lock and not improving its hardware. However, you can ask a locksmith to add security pins to make the lock more secure against lock picking and drilling though this won’t provide the same level of security as high security locks.
3. Buying Locks
When buying locks for a new home, you may want to consider looking into buying keyed-alike options so you can use the same key for all your locks. If a locksmith for home is changing your locks, they can take the necessary steps to ensure that all locks use the same key.
When buying locks for your front door, you’ll want to look for products that meet all of your requirements. Big-box department store locks aren’t built with security in mind, so make sure to buy locks from a reputable seller. A local locksmith in Orlando will have countless lock options to satisfy your security needs.
Moving to a new house is the perfect time to make an upgrade! Check out these lock solutions:
High Security Locks
Before investing in high security locks, you’ll want to be sure they’re worth it. Your home’s security is just as strong as its weakest link, so if you’re not planning on securing your windows and strengthening your doors, you shouldn’t put too much focus on the locks. High security locks offer many benefits including protection against lock picking and drill resistance, but in order for them to be effective, you’ll need to improve all other elements of your home’s security.
Electronic Locks
Electronic locks are an excellent choice for increased convenience. Many keyless locks, for that matter, only require access to a smartphone. Keyless locks are technically unpickable since they don’t use a keyway. However, electronic locks are not always the most secure option. For example, every time you use a keypad door lock, any onlooker has the opportunity to observe you inputting the code. Another disadvantage of electronic locks is that most of them operate on batteries which can lead to a home lockout if the batteries die.
4. Lock Installation
It doesn’t matter how strong your locks are if they’re not installed correctly. By installing door locks on your own, you risk damaging your door lock or the door itself and having to pay a lot more for repairs. Consider calling a locksmith in central Florida for house for proper lock installation. By hiring a professional you’ll be getting exactly what you pay for.
5. Adding Locks
While changing the locks on your home, you may find it beneficial to install extra locks on your doors. These can even be non-keyed locks that only open from the inside, such as chain locks or rim locks. Moving into a new home also gives you the opportunity to install locks in bedrooms, or bathrooms. If you’re installing new locks in either of these rooms, you’ll want to install privacy locks instead of security locks. Don’t be afraid to ask a locksmith for home what types of locks they recommend installing.
6. Call a Locksmith
Changing locks on your own can be a difficult task that not many people have the time or patience for. A locksmith for house can walk you through what your options are and answer any of your questions. For the quickest and most reliable lock changing service, hire a top locksmith for home like LIMU Express Locksmith!
