Six Simple Home Security Tips Offered by an Expert Locksmith

1. June 2, 2017 Six Simple Home Security Tips Offered by an Expert Locksmith Doors and windows are the gateways into our house. Therefore, these access points must be secured from the threat of a break-in. At the end of the day, your safety should always be your ultimate concern. Even if you own the most luxurious of homes with state of the art technology, what solace will you have if you can't secure it properly? Whether you’re building a new house or fortifying your old one, follow these tips to keep burglars away from your doors and other entries. Page | 1

2. Deadbolts are the Way to Go Though there are many deadbolt brands on the market, a minimum requirement must be met to ensure adequate security: Choose double-cylinder locks instead of single cylinders. Single-cylinder locks use a thumb-turn method that can be easily disabled, especially if you have a window next to the door. Burglars can simply break the window and reach in to open your front door. You must also choose a deadbolt with a heavy duty security plate on the strike side and 3-inch screws that go all the way into the frame. Deadbolts are ranked from Grade 1 to 3—Grade 1 deemed the most difficult to disable. However, this information might not be included in the packaging, so check the company website before you purchase a deadbolt. Living in a New House? Change the Keys! Rekeying is an integral part of moving into a new house, yet one that’s often overlooked or forgotten. Perhaps you are reluctant to do this because you purchased the house from a trustworthy person. However, the previous owner might have given the key to someone you don’t know or trust, such as a house-sitter or handyman. Therefore, best to be safe than sorry; change all the locks. Additionally, when moving into a brand-new house, be aware that home builders often use a master key for their projects. They often hand them off to subcontractors who can then access the house to complete their jobs. Rekey for your own peace of mind. The Trick to Keys that Won’t Turn Keys get stuck without warning too often. For instance, you may exit your house in the morning and the lock works fine, but your keys suddenly don’t budge when you return at night. Instead of incessantly wiggling it and risking a snapped key that stays inside the lock, try using WD-40 or silicone spray. Page | 2

3. Sometimes the lock pins are jammed. There is a 25% to 40% chance that spraying the lock will solve the problem. Store a can of WD-40 or silicone spray in your car so it’s readily available when you need to use it. Finding a trustworthy locksmith can be trying. To ensure your safety is in good hands, choose a reputable company with glowing reviews from reliable sources. About Coastal Contract Hardware: Coastal Contract Hardware is a company that prioritizes excellent service and timely delivery. We cover projects of all scales and offer several services, including security, door lock or frame reinforcement, and garage door repairs. For those living in the Myrtle Beach area, call us to discuss your home security problems today. Sources: Door Lock Buying Guide, ConsumerReports.org 21 Secrets Locksmith Won’t Tell You, RD.com Page | 3