In the United States, there are well over 1 million burglaries each year. You cannot afford to ignore the importance of home and business security.

One way of better protecting your home or business is to use a keypad lock. But what is a keypad lock, and how does it work? And how can a keypad lock better protect you from theft?

Our locksmith experts are here to answer all these questions and more!

What is a Keypad Lock?

A keypad lock is an electronic door lock that you can open with a combination code entered via the keypad. Keypad locks can be individual units that contain all necessary parts to function.

They can also be a part of a larger security system. In that case, they will draw their power from elsewhere in the building. They will also be able to communicate with the larger system.

The keypad used for a keypad lock can vary. Some have a few buttons, while others have a keypad that looks like what you’d find on a telephone. Some have an enter button, and others will open after the code is correctly entered.

Because the code is essential to entry, it’s a good practice to regularly change your code. You don’t want a disgruntled former employee to gain access to your business. You don’t want a disgruntled ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend to have access to your home.

Keypad locks need electricity to function. Individual locks usually have batteries that need to be regularly changed. Larger security systems will draw power from your building’s security system and will need a backup power source.

Note that the lock does not become disabled when the power goes out. Instead, without power, you have no way of opening the keypad lock.

How Does a Keypad Lock Work?

Keypad locks function like most door locks. A bolt or a latch prevents the door from being opened. Once unlocked, that block is removed.

What differs is how this block gets removed. Keypad locks use an actuator, which connects the block to a motor located inside the door frame. This motor will only open the block when it gets activated by an electrical impulse.

Once you enter the correct code on a keypad lock, an electrical impulse triggers the block’s removal. That is why electricity is required for it to function: no electricity means no way to trigger the impulse and remove the block.

What are the Benefits of a Keypad Lock?

There are several surprising benefits to using a keypad lock for your home or business. For example, most keypad locks are pick-proof and bump-proof: two common lockpicking methods. 

Roughly 9% of small businesses are subject to burglary or theft each year. Consider a keypad lock to protect your business from theft.

Additionally, there’s the convenience factor: you no longer have to worry about remembering where you left your keys. Simply use a PIN that you’ll remember and you can get immediate access to your home or business. This is especially beneficial if you have kids that need to access your home after school and before you get out of work.

Finally, keypad locks are more durable. Normal locks are subjected to frequent repetitive movements that can wear down the lock over time. This will never be an issue with a keypad lock.

Ready to Get a Keypad Lock?

Are you ready to install a keypad lock at your home or business? Kenny’s Lock can help! Contact us today to get a quote and get started on protecting your home or business.

 

 

We all depend on locks to protect us, yet property crimes total $14.3 billion. A professional locksmith can help you check the security of your home.

Many people gain a false sense of security from locks. However, they may not be doing the job you think they are doing.

Do you know these 5 facts about locks that every locksmith wants you to know?

1. Your Deadbolt Is Not Doing Its Job

It is common to discover that a deadbolt is not installed correctly. The contractor may have changed the height of the deadbolt.

If the door is hollow, that means there is no solid block of wood to provide strength to the lock. Another common mistake is not measuring from the bevel.

Measuring wrong can cause the lock to be up to a 1/4 inch off. This will cause your lock to malfunction. Even the best locks are useless if installed incorrectly.

2. New House? Get New Locks

Getting new locks is a small price to pay for security. You don’t know who the old owners gave keys to.

There is a master key out there floating around that can give someone access to your home. Replace the locks and start anew with handing out keys to your home.

3. “Do Not Duplicate” Keys Get Duplicated

That short little note is just a suggestion. It does nothing to actually provide increased security.

The note is used by landlords to discourage people from duplicating keys. This works for the majority of people, but not everyone.

It is not illegal to copy one of these keys. It is illegal to duplicate a “restricted” key though. These are keys that only the manufacturer can duplicate with special equipment.

4. Cheap Big-Box Locks Are Useless

The manufacturers of these locks are quality, but the locks are cheap. Look for a lock that is at least Grade 2 for some level of security.

5. Don’t Call More Than One

While we understand that you are in a state of panic. Please don’t call more than one locksmith out.

This is a waste of time for the ones that show up second or third and you may end up having to pay for their trip out. You may not have to call anyone, try this easy trick to get in your car.

Bonus: Always Try the Door

The most common mistake people make is to call a locksmith before ever trying the door. Then the locksmith shows up. Congratulations, you just paid someone $50 to turn the handle.

Professional Locksmith

Locksmiths are here to help you get in when you’ve managed to lock yourself out. The problem is, people forget just how delicate their security is.

A professional locksmith can tell you if your deadbolts are installed correctly. They can also help you install a new home locking system for your new home purchase.

No matter what you do, don’t call multiple locksmith services. This is inconsiderate of their time and business.

Let us help you secure your home with a locking system today.

 

 

According to the FBI, annual business thefts add up to more than $3.1 billion in personal and property loss.

The primary ways in which burglars gain access to businesses is through a door or window. While some of these burglaries happen because of neglect, others happen because the burglar will force their way in.

With the above in mind, it’s important that you choose the best locks for your doors and windows.

Read this article to find out more about the top 5 types of business door locks available today.

1. Smart Locks

As you may know, our homes are getting smarter every day. From security cameras to other connected technologies in and around our home, the opportunities are endless.

But, if you’re looking for new tech to keep your business safe, have you thought of smart locks?

These locks come with digital number pads or touch sensitivity features.

Also, you should consider a lock that is compatible with other smart products in your home. For example:

• Amazon Echo
• Google Assistant
• Apple HomeKit
• Samsung SmartThings

Do your research and make sure you choose a model that fits in with all the other tech in your business.

2. Restricted Key Systems

Restricted key systems are another business door lock option you may want to consider. These specialized keys restrict access to your business as no one can replicate them.

With workplace crimes costing businesses more than $50 billion each year, it’s worth investing in a good security system. And, the locks you use are no exception.

With these systems, each lock and key is unique. If you end a contract and the employee returns the keys to your building, you can be sure they don’t have a copy.

3. Telephone Entry Systems

Telephone systems are great for individual businesses within a commercial building. This means that you can share your building with others and have full control over who enters and leaves.

Plus, it’s a great alternative for off-site managers and emergency access.

4. Master Keys

A master key allows the person using it to open various doors with one key. They simplify organizations and offer more security.

They also help you determine who has access to which rooms in your business.

You can have various types of master keys depending on your space. For example, if you have two offices, you can create master keys that open specific rooms. You can also offer keys that open every room in your building.

5. Intercom Systems

Many don’t see apartment intercom systems as commercial lock alternatives. But, these types of locks are great if you have an individual office space within a building.

It’s a great alternative to giving everyone a master key. Plus, they now come in solid, tamper proof stainless steel or brass.

Get in Touch to Find out More About Business Door Locks

The 5 business door locks above are great alternatives to traditional models.

That said, the one you choose will depend on the size and type of your business. It will also depend on the level of security your business needs and how much access you want to give your teams.

If you want to find out more about the various types of business locks available, contact us today.

We serve Dorchester and its surrounding areas. We also offer a 24-hour service in case of emergencies.