Wednesday, April 6, 2016

What You Need to Know About Smart Locks

Locksmith Reno Kwikset Kevo deadbolt
The universe of innovation has taken control on most aspects of our lives including our security. Home automation is turning into the standard and at more reasonable rates for the average home owner. The big question would be, will it improve our lives? Keep in mind that with most situations you will have pros and cons. Generally, most locksmith Reno will tell you is that such change in home security will provide a convenient way of handling the security of our homes in a way we wouldn't imagine be possible several years ago.

However, is there any drawback to all of it? The Smart Lock industry would serve as a good example. Apple and Google both pioneers in the technological revolution have big arrangements for the future to be a part of innovations that will revolutionize the security industry coming up with their own versions of smart lock systems for home and business use. 

There are many claims to the fact that smart locks may put an end to lock picking and bumping. However, is it really a good idea to be depended on your Smartphone for everything in your life which in this case will include the security of your home? Before rushing to join the hype of smart locks, one should stop and think of the potential downsides. 

Locksmith Reno Schlage touchpad deadbolt
A Smart Lock or a Smart Lock device will normally be a device which is automated to lock and unlock your door through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and intended to replace the existing traditional deadbolt. It is usually operated by a Smartphone or any other type of Smart Device which has 
Android or iOS operating system hence the name "Smart Lock". The market is currently flooded with Smart Locks and new models can be seen coming out all the time. However, as great as it seems, what happens when your Smartphone is lost or runs out of battery? How would you gain access if that happens?

It is obvious to see how things can quickly go south when you have Smart Lock. Most professional Reno locksmiths will recommend having a lock that will have the best of both old and new worlds, so you will always have a backup plan. Many of the Smart Locks available in the market actually incorporate override cylinder feature in case you will need to use a key in such emergency type situation.

Thursday, March 31, 2016

Smart Lock Devices

Locksmith Reno August smart lock device
If you were looking to add some technology to the security of your home, but you are on a budget, there are several products that available in the market. The August smart lock device and the Lockitron are devices with advance technological features in which do not require the help of a professional locksmith Reno for the installation.

The August smart lock device was not intended to replace the existing deadbolt on your door. The August is incorporated with a Bluetooth technology yet like a significant number of other products the organization offers a Wi-Fi  adapter, the August Connect is available as well. Although the August Connect adds several seconds to the time that it will take to open your lock, it will enable the lock to be controlled from anywhere you are.

The August will likewise utilize a GPS signal to tell when you are near the door so that the deadbolt will open automatically. Visitors will obviously won't be subject to the auto unlock feature. Such feature will only be available for admins who are registered as such in the system of the lock. It is possible to give visitors such control by giving admins rights, but you will not be able to add restrictions on their control. Additional features are available with the August lock such as the everlock which will allow you to set a specific time for the lock to lock once the door is closed.

Locksmith Reno Lockitron smart lock
The Lockitron is another line of devices that will take your existing deadbolt into the future of security. The latest model will not fit over the existing deadbolt like the older model, but will replace the entire exterior side of it. By itself, the Lockitron uses Bluetooth technology in order to communicate with your Smartphone. Once the lock and system is fully operational, you will have the option to share access through the phone with other people. If the Lockitron Bridge is used, you will have the option to use WiFi as well.

With Wi-Fi empowered you can likewise get constant reports on your lock's use. These notifications are likewise sent when the lock is opened by the utilization of the key or operation of the lever. Your entryway will likewise open as you approach the entryway, like the August lock.

Thursday, March 24, 2016

Master Key System

Locksmith Reno Master Key system
Most businesses don't need their workers to carry with them many different keys to the property. Likewise, these companies might want to limit access depending on the employee level in the company and the types of responsibilities the employee has. Implementation of a Master-Key system will enable the possibility of setting different levels of restrictions accessing different parts in the property. Once the system is fully implemented, there would be several levels of accessibility.

A good example would be an apartment complex property where a tenant will have a key that will access only his or her apartment while the property manager will most likely have a key that can unlock multiple units in that property. The possibilities are endless and depending on the type of lock and number of pins inside it, the number of unique keys in a Master-Key system can be made.

There are extra security measures that can be incorporated in a Master-Key system implementation. Auxiliary precautions would make it very difficult to pick or decode a lock that is part of a Master-Key system. It consists of adding elements that would make decoding a particular cylinder and key in a Master-Key system almost impossible. Most of the time when implementing a Master-Key system, it does not have to be based on a pin tumbler lock. Disk detainer locks can be used in a Master-Key system to assemble a more complex and secure solution. As more security features are added, the lock system itself becomes more complex. A professional locksmith will normally be able to assist you understand the limitation of the system and implement it.  

The bottom line is that a Master-Key system will enable 2 or more keys to operate one lock. As any other locksmith will tell you, one thing to take into consideration when thinking of implementing a Master-Key system is the fact that all locks in the system have to be of the same manufacturer. Despite the fact that these types of system regularly utilize pin tumbler locks, they can utilize distinctive type of locks in order to implement different levels of security.

Reno locksmith Master Key
The greater benefit of a Master-Key system is the fact it will limit the number of keys required to access multiple locks in a property. The complexion of a Master-Key system is up to you and by introducing higher level of keys such as the Grand Master-Key and a Great Grand Master-Key. A locksmith in Reno will be able to configure a lock with as many keys as you will need to have access to a certain lock.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Bluetooth Operated Locks

Reno locksmith Kwikset Kevo deadbolt
There are many types of lock systems in the market nowadays which has many types of unique key-less entry features. However, not all of them will give you the option to be controlled using your own Smartphone. The following is a description of different unique lock systems for your home in which can be controlled by a Smartphone through Bluetooth capabilities.

The Kevo deadbolt by Kwikset seems like just any other type of lock, however it's consist of unique elements, for example it has Bluetooth capabilities where it can be unlocked using your phone and transferable access through Smartphones as well. You can unlock the Kevo just by engaging the Smartphone with it, or by using the intended app.

Kevo recognizes whether you're outside or in your home, keeping you from coincidentally unlocking your entryway from within. Moreover if your telephone is lost or stolen, you can get to your records through signing into the application on an alternate Smartphone. The battery can last up to 12 months on replaceable batteries, and installation can either be done by you or the local locksmith in Reno.

Locksmith Reno Lockitron lock system
The Lockitron is a retro looking lock that will work with any sort of phone even if it’s not a Smartphone. It has Bluetooth capabilities which will allow you to control the locking status of the lock as well as giving you the option to transfer access all through your Smartphone. The neat feature about this lock is the fact it will automatically unlock the door as you approach recognizing your Smartphone as an associated device.

Different than other types of locks or locking devices in its category, the Lockitron will allow authorized access using a text message form which requires monthly subscription. This is especially useful if you don't own a Smartphone but still want futuristic lock system capabilities. The best part is, it does not require the help of a professional locksmith for the installation as it simply fitted on top of your existing lock system.

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Locks and Security

Home security Reno locksmithIt is each property holder's objective to guarantee that their homes are constantly secured. Since their house is their family's shelter, not to mention a big investment, it is of home owners’ interest to make sure that they have the best possible security solution for their property. Not just for keeping all the valuables at home safe, but also to guarantee peace of mind at night while sleeping or even while away on vacation.

So what is home security all about? When it comes to the security of your home, as a professional locksmith company, we can provide you with several things to consider.

• Invest as much as you can on a proper home security system. It doesn't generally need to be the most costly, however, not go for the least expensive lock that would turn and open with the utilization of the most basic tools. Do your search on locks and security systems that provide high level of security and would make it difficult on intruders to break into your home.

Locksmith Reno home security • If you need to have the best home security framework that is available in today's market, then you would probably want to take an opportunity to talk with a local locksmith in Reno. A professional locksmith will be able to give you an insight on the leading security lock systems in the industry which may be a good fit for your home security needs.

The bottom line is that it doesn't take a lot of mind to come up with a plan to make your home more secure. The important thing is to find a dependable Reno locksmith company and know exactly what you are looking for.

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Transponder Keys


Reno locksmith transponder key
As part of our wide range of locksmith services, we offer automotive key services including transponder keys as well. We are perceived as experts inside of the automotive key industry and we stock keys for most current and old make and model vehicles in the market. We normally guarantee faster automotive key make service faster than at a lower price than the dealer.

Faster than the dealer...


Most automotive dealerships don't frequently manage issues identified with a vehicle's key. That is why they don't have selection of keys in stock and will not be promptly accessible around the same time you require them. Waiting for a key to be sourced from a different location and be made can take days.

Most locksmiths in Reno are providing a solution to that situation by stocking a wide range of keys for most make and model vehicles, so when a new key is in need, the customer won't have to wait several days to have it made and instead would be accommodated at the same day. What improves the services of a Reno locksmith even more is the fact that all of the keys you purchase from the company will be less expensive than if you really had the key bought and made at the dealer.

The differences with traditional and transponder keys...


Most vehicles in recent years have a key incorporated which is doing a job of 3 keys.
These keys work mechanically permitting manual opening of the vehicle's door, the ignition key along with a transponder chip that is embedded into the key and required to starting the vehicle and a remote control key to permit controlling the locking mechanism remotely.

Older model vehicles were not so efficient when it came to the keys. Even nowadays, not all vehicles incorporate remote locking technology. You can particularly notice its absence on rental cars.

Locksmith Reno transponder key
A standard key will normally operate the door, trunk and even the ignition cylinder of the vehicle without starting it. This means that that particular vehicle work with a transponder chip system.

Transponder Keys have genuine transponder chips inserted into the plastic cover of the key. They are customized with a specific code that your vehicle will perceive. As you turn the key in the ignition the code is perused and in the event that it is observed to be lost or not the correct one, the vehicle essentially won't start. For that particular reason, anytime a transponder key is made, the locksmith would have to program it in order for it to work.

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Should You Change or Re-key Your Locks?

Locksmith Reno lock rekey
Re-keying a lock or change it has been a repeating question is seems by many people, the answers most will get will rely on a case by case scenario or upon the individual you ask. Whether you are simply moving into another home, have evicted a tenant or just hoping to ensure you and your families security changing the locks at your house is normally the least demanding and least expensive strategy to give your home maximum security.

So when you call a locksmith in Reno company and request some assistance with securing your home they will most likely send a professional with a wide range of locks so you can settle on the most ideal choice to fit your security needs. The charge is normally based on the type of hardware and materials being used on the job. However, in the event that you are searching for a less expensive way, you can head out to the local hardware store and look at the standard selection of locks they have, pick one, and attempt to install it yourself.

Be aware though, not all locks manufactured to be equal additionally to the fact that it is best to have a professional do the job to avoid any mistakes and putting the security of your home at risk. However, some locksmiths will ignore the fact and will not inform that there is a way to refresh the security of your home without having to replace the locks which is re-keying the existing ones.

New lock Reno locksmith
Re-key essentially means that the cylinder inside the lock is manipulated to match a different cut key. Remember, if anyone previously had a key to your home, after the re-key is done, the person will not be able to access your home with that key. Whichever way you decide to go with the security of your home, changing every one of the locks or having a Reno locksmith come and re-key them, you will get the peace of mind that you need in order to feel secure at your home.

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Security Systems

Locksmith Reno home security
In the public eye today, there could be never too much security. With considerable amount of advances in innovation today the security potential outcomes are unlimited, from home security cameras that have night vision implemented to lock systems that can be managed by a Smartphone. If you are stressed over the security and safety of you and your family from a break in then we have some accommodating tips for you with regards to overhauling your home security.

First thing first is implementing a basic security framework; a basic pin cushion that controls a couple of sensors that are spread throughout the house in addition to the alarm system sensors which can be placed on the entryways and windows. This is just about the standard in many homes all through the nation. It appears that each day there is a different company who will be willing to secure your home for a lower price than the competitor. As it stands right now in some areas, even your local TV and Internet service providers can provide home security frameworks installations, however, it would be a good idea to measure the advantages and disadvantages of various frameworks before choosing which one will work best for your home. Our Reno locksmith company will be able to send technicians that will go over some options with you and help you choose the right one to be installed at your home.

Reno locksmith CCTV security system
Nowadays, there are many other improved options from the standard home security framework which one of them is a CCTV monitoring system. You may have encountered those types of systems before in the bank or the mall where there are small black round cameras mounted on the ceilings normally. Most locksmiths in Reno will be able to provide you with a complete implementation of these types of systems, so you would be able to actually see who is attempting to break into your home in addition to the recognition of the action by the alarm. This will enable you giving the Police an accurate description of the burglars.

Thursday, February 11, 2016

Home Locks

Locksmith Reno door locks
It is an ongoing dilemma among our residential customers about the best strategies to keep a household in addition to family members risk-free. With regards to trying keeping thieves at home occasionally the obvious answer is the locks should always be kept locked!
It could appear to be a new information, however over 30%of burglaries that took place in the country were not forced entry related which means the intruders basically were able to get into homes through an open window or unlocked door without breaking a sweat.

It is important in relation to burglars which can be clever at times, above 76% connected with household invasions took actually took place during the day when the home owners were being out and about at work. You see these kinds of intruders will probably “scout" the house prior to initiate the break-in attempt. Therefore they would probably do drive-by through the neighborhood the entire day to evaluate your schedule and determine when you are not at home.

Since seating at home all day to guard it is not a practical option, there are few things you can do in order to keep your home secure even when you are at work or away for different reasons.

Reno locksmith door locks
First try to ensure that the locks you got on the front and back door of your home can stand up to the challenge regarding someone wanting to crack through them in order to break into your home, otherwise, a lock that can't keep strangers out is useless. To make sure you do have a decent deadbolt locking mechanism which cannot be easily hacked, call a Reno locksmith to explore different upgrading options for locks. Another thing you need to remember will be regardless of the level of security your locks provide, when you have windows near the doorway it can be less of a challenge to crack a windows than hacking through a locking mechanism and so you may want to invest in a solid doorway without any glass inserts or a door frame without windows around it.

Additionally, if you're a type of individual who continuously placing a backup key under your front door mat, you should immediately stop the habit as this where most intruders will look first when looking to break into your home.

Thursday, February 4, 2016

Innovative Home Security

Locksmith Reno smartphone lockNew innovative ways of security items have developed in the previous years and have made numerous new inventive approaches to secure your home. On the off chance that you need to overhaul your security, you might need to think of some as cutting edge choices.

Key-less entry and touchscreen locks come in extensive variety of innovation. These types of locks can be installed by a locksmith in Reno and are vary from 'low tech' push-button locks like Alarm Lock's Trilogy and go up from there with advanced touchscreen locks from makers such as Schlage and Yale.

With these locks, managing keys won't be necessary when it comes to accessing your home . You can simply enter a code to obtain entrance. These types of electronic locks are likewise valuable for families with youngsters getting back home from school when the folks aren't home. Rather than giving them a key which highly likely to be lost, they'll simply need to memorize a code in order to get into the home.

Locksmith Reno touchscree lockThese locks are regularly empowered with innovation such as Bluetooth to permit you to utilize an advanced mobile phone application or key fob to open and get into your home. The app allows information stored in an account which may be accessible to several authorized individuals in order to get an access to your home as well.

These alternatives are cutting edge and staying up with the pattern of being convenient for any residential property owner or renter. However comfort might bring security hazard as well. In case you're in the search for cutting edge security choices for your home, please gather more information or consult with a Reno locksmith first before settling on your decision.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

What Lock Should You Get?

Locksmith Reno grade 3 lock
Is it accurate to say that you are searching for different ways to make your residential or commercial more secure? It's a great opportunity to examine the evaluations of your home or office locks. There levels of grades are available categorizing most locks in the market. Grade 3 locks have been tested to have minimal resistance and lower level of quality while Grade 2 and Grade 1 locks are much higher caliber. To meet all requirements for an evaluation, a lock must hook and unlatch without any issues for a predefined number of cycles and it must have the capacity to withstand a certain amount of power to  protect against break-ins by prying the entryway or twisting the lock. Knowing the evaluation and nature of your lock is urgent in keeping your property secure.

Grade 3 locks are the most reduced quality locks permitted to be sold as entryway locks in the country. The solidness of Grade 3 locks is measured by the quantity of cycles and the measure of power these locks are manufactured to endure. Grade 3 locks can work for no less than 210K cycles and ought to withstand 125/230 lbs. of power per inch for handles and levers. These locks ought not be utilized for outside doors–they're more qualified for inside entryways such as storage rooms or bathrooms.

With a Grade 2 lock, you'll have fundamentally more quality than Grade 3 locks. These higher level of locks can be utilized for commercial properties and are the ideal lock for securing residential homes as well. Grade 2 locks capabilities were tested to endure twice as much use as Grade 3 locks, they are fit for working through 400K cycles and enduring 155 lbs. of power per inch for round handles. Since they have a requirement to meet certain necessities keeping in mind the end goal to qualify as Grade 2 locks, they are harder to pick and can even withstand some forced entry methods attempts.

Reno locksmith grade 1 lockWhen extreme security is required, picking a Grade 1 lock is the best decision. These locks must perform without the slightest for 800K cycles. They should likewise withstand 310 lbs. of power per inch for round handles. Since they can go through excessive use and still stay reliable against prying, Grade 1 locks are ideal for entryways utilized often or subject to potential burglar activities. You can prevent break-ins and increase your peace of mind when you pick Grade 1 locks for your commercial or residential property.

Whether you are in need of old locks replacement or new lock installation on entryways to your home or office, giving careful consideration to the evaluation of your locks can have all the effect. The locks in the market are evaluated keeping in mind the end goal to guarantee uniform quality and trustworthiness no matter how you look at it. We suggest the higher resistance Grade 2 and 1 locks for medium and high traffic entryways. Contact NorthWest Locksmith Reno for more info.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Automotive Key Duplication

Reno locksmith car key duplicationDo you have a history of locking your keys in your car? Do you have the local locksmith in Reno on speed dial? Have you thought about having your keys duplicated so that you have a hide-a-key or a spare at home? Well why not? Any licensed, bonded, and insured locksmith in Reno can help you out with that.

No matter what kind of a key your vehicle requires, a professional locksmith can come out and make either a single copy of your key or even multiple copies of your key for you. It is very common where a person had 3 spare keys made, one for the house, one for a hide-a-key spot, and one for the spouse’s key-ring as a backup plan. Having a backup key or even several backup keys is never a bad idea. They can save you time and money, as well as saving you from standing out in the cold or extreme heat for too long.

Sometime, spending a little extra money up front can save you lots of extra money in the long run. Especially when you have kids or teenagers. One idea would be to have an extra key cut and have your teenager keep it in their locker as a spare at school.

Locksmith Reno automotive key duplicationDuplicating keys is a relatively simple process, as long as you have the original of course. The Reno locksmith will have a machine that can read the cuts on the original key and then copy those cuts on to another key. To just copy a key can take about 10-15 minutes. Now, as stated before, no matter what kind of key your vehicle requires, it can be copied. If your vehicle requires a transponder key, the locksmith can program those just as soon as he is done cutting them. Whatever the type of a spare key needed, it can all be taken care of by the same person, the locksmith.

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Why Would You Need an Ignition Service?

Locksmith Reno ignition cyllinderAutomotive Ignitions can be very stubborn at times. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don’t, and sometimes they work so well your car disappears in the middle of the night. There are a couple of different reasons to call a locksmith for an ignition service. Maybe your key has stopped working or someone broke into your car and damaged the ignition in the process. 

If your key has stopped working, the ignition could be worn down enough that it would stops accepting the key. In some cases, the ignition can be repaired, in others; it will most likely be damaged beyond repair and would need to be replaced. 

When repairing an ignition, it can be as simple as a new connective port or as tedious as fully rebuilding the ignition switch. Sometimes, if the ignition has to be rebuilt, a professional would recommend replacing it all together. Seeing if the ignition can be repaired is always worth a look before deciding to just replace it. A locksmith can help you determine the best course of action. 

Automotive ignition Reno locksmithIf your keys have been stolen, the best part about calling a locksmith to help is that they can replace the ignition and keys at the same time. They can also re-key the locks on the doors so that you would still only need one key for everything. If the locksmith has to special order the parts and keys, they can set up an appointment that best fits your schedule, day or night. 

If you are wondering about high security systems, don’t worry! The locksmith can make sure that everything is programmed correctly and running as smooth as it was before anything ever happened. A locksmith in Reno will make sure that the codes are correct for your specific make and model. Some codes would need to be retrieved from a large database or from the actual dealership. In such case, you won’t have to worry since most Reno locksmith companies have access to either. 

Monday, January 4, 2016

Locks and Doorknobs Enhancement

Reno locksmith decorative doorknob
When you're attempting to enhance the appearance of your home, even the littlest touches can go far towards making an impact.  Locks and doorknobs may not be the first things you consider when you're considering updating your home (or outlining another home), however they're surprisingly vital.

A doorknob makes an enduring impression–even on the off chance that you don't remember it at first. In actuality, it's most likely best when you don't see doorknobs and handles. At the point when a lock or a doorknob enhances the outline style of a house, it mixes with other parts that may add accent as well. Be that as it may, when a doorknob emerges, it demonstrates an absence of organization. Envision entering a present day, moderate home and seeing a cut glass doorknobs–or going to an old Victorian home and seeing utilitarian handles. The confusion would positively be noteworthy; however the impression it makes wouldn't necessarily be an attractive one.

Locksmith Reno decorative handle-setOn the off chance that you do have an outline style that is strong, then you're certain to discover a few doorknobs that will oblige that style flawlessly. On the off chance that your style is more diverse, then you have much more choices–you could even pick distinctive handles or doorknobs for distinctive entryways, instead of going for a generic look!

Changing your doorknobs is generally modest; however it's an extraordinary approach to ensure that everything in your home looks awesome together. Whether you're outlining a house without any preparation, renovating a house, or essentially needing a change of pace, improving doorknobs and handles can give you what you desire. Here at NorthWest Locksmith Reno, we'll gladly offer you some assistance with finding the doorknobs that are ideal for your home–and we'll provide the installation as well! We utilize doorknobs and handles that are secure and strong, so you can have both great looks and astounding security as well.