You may not know it, but you could be at risk for a break-in or theft because of your current locks.
Nearly 1 in 4 homes will be broken into this year, and most of these burglaries happen because the home has inadequate security. Your locks are your first line of defense against intruders, and if they’re not up to par then you’re putting yourself and your family at risk.
It’s time to change your locks. 8 Signs You Need to Change Your Locks is a comprehensive guide that will help you determine whether or not you need to replace your locks, and if so, which type of lock is best for you.
San Antonio Car Key Pros can help you with all of your lock-changing needs. We offer fast, affordable, and professional service for residents and businesses in the San Antonio area. Call us today at (210) 960-8984 to schedule an appointment.
8 Signs You Need to Change Your Locks
1. You’ve recently moved into a new home
If you’ve just moved into a new home, you don’t know who has a key to your house. The previous owners could have given copies of the keys to friends, family, or even strangers.
It’s always best to err on the side of caution and change the locks as soon as you move in. This will give you peace of mind knowing that only you and your family have access to your home.
2. You’ve lost your keys
If you’ve lost your keys, there’s no telling who may find them and use them to enter your home. It’s important to act quickly and change your locks before someone has a chance to break in.
3. You’ve had a break-in attempt
Even if a burglar wasn’t successful in breaking into your home, the fact that they tried is reason enough to change your locks. They may have damaged your current locks, or they may have made copies of your keys without you knowing. Either way, it’s time for new locks.
4. Your keys are old and worn
Over time, keys can become worn down and even start to bend. This makes them easier to break and also makes it easier for someone to pick the lock. If your keys are starting to show signs of wear, it’s time to get new ones.
5. You don’t know how many copies of your keys exist
If you can’t keep track of how many copies of your keys have been made, then it’s time to change your locks.
You may have given a copy to a friend or family member who has since lost it, or someone may have made a copy without your knowledge. Either way, it’s best to err on the side of caution and get new locks.
6. You’re concerned about home security
If you’re worried about the security of your home, then it’s time to change your locks. There are many different types of locks available that offer different levels of security, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
7. You don’t feel safe in your home
If you don’t feel safe in your own home, then it’s time to change your locks. This is usually the case if you’ve recently experienced a break-in attempt or if you’ve moved into a new home. Either way, changing your locks will help you feel more secure in your own home.
8. You want to update your home security system
If you’re planning on updating your home security system, then you’ll need to change your locks. This is because most security systems are designed to work with specific types of locks. Updating your locks will ensure that your security system is working properly and that your home is as secure as possible.
Advantages of Changing Your Locks
If you’re like most people, the thought of changing your locks is probably not something that crosses your mind on a regular basis. After all, once you have locks installed, what’s the point of changing them?
Well, as it turns out, there are actually quite a few good reasons to change your locks on a regular basis – even if they don’t appear to be damaged or broken in any way.
Here are some of the benefits of changing your locks:
1. Improved security
This is perhaps the most obvious reason to change your locks, but it’s also one of the most important. Over time, locks can become worn and less effective at deterring intruders. By changing your locks on a regular basis, you can help ensure that your home or business is as secure as possible.
2. Peace of mind
When you know your locks are fresh and new, it’s much easier to relax and enjoy your life. There’s no need to worry about whether or not someone might be able to break in – you can rest assured knowing that your property is well-protected.
3. Deter would-be thieves
If a thief knows that a particular property has old, outdated locks, they may be more likely to target that property in an attempt to break in. By changing your locks, you can make your property less attractive to criminals.
4. Avoid getting locked out
Old or damaged locks are more likely to malfunction, which can leave you stranded outside your home or office. By changing your locks, you can help ensure that this doesn’t happen to you.
5. Save money
Believe it or not, old, damaged locks are actually quite costly to replace. By proactively changing your locks on a regular basis, you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run.
6. Enhance curb appeal
One of the simplest ways to enhance curb appeal is by changing your locks. If you have an older home, updating your locks will give it a more modern look.
7. Make a good impression
Whether you’re trying to impress potential clients or customers, changing your locks is a great way to do it. Showing that you care about security will inspire confidence in those who do business with you.
8. Improve energy efficiency
Old, outdated locks are often quite difficult to open and close, which can waste a lot of energy. By changing your locks, you can help make your property more energy-efficient.
9. Prevent wear and tear
Over time, continual use can take its toll on even the best quality locks. By changing your locks on a regular basis, you can help prevent wear and tear – and extend the life of your locks overall.
10. Avoid costly repairs
In addition to being expensive to replace, old locks are also expensive to repair. By changing your locks before they start to break down, you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run.
11. Get rid of old keys
Every time you change your locks, you have the opportunity to get rid of old keys that you no longer need. This helps prevent lost or stolen keys from falling into the wrong hands.
12. Simplify your life
If you have a lot of keys for different locks, it can be quite difficult to keep track of them all. By changing your locks, you can simplify your life by reducing the number of keys you need to keep track of.
13. Avoid tenant problems
If you’re a landlord, changing your locks is a great way to avoid tenant problems. This way, you can be sure that only authorized individuals have access to your property.
14. Enhance the resale value
If you’re planning on selling your property in the future, changing your locks is a great way to enhance its resale value. potential buyers will appreciate the fact that you’ve taken the time and effort to change the locks, and this could lead to a higher sales price.
15. Stay up-to-date
Technology is always changing, and lock technology is no exception. By changing your locks on a regular basis, you can help ensure that your property is always using the most up-to-date locking mechanisms available.
Did You Know?
According to the National Crime Prevention Council, a burglary occurs in the United States every 14.6 seconds. And while your home may have an alarm system and other security measures in place, one of the most important things you can do to protect your property is to regularly change your locks.
FAQs About 8 Signs You Need to Change Your Locks
How often should I change my locks?
There is no definitive answer to this question – it depends on your personal circumstances.
However, it is generally recommended that you change your locks every 3-5 years, or sooner if you have experienced a break-in or attempted break-in, or if you have any concerns about the security of your property.
What type of locks should I use?
There are many different types of locks on the market, and the type of lock you choose will depend on your budget and the level of security you require. Some of the most popular types of locks include deadbolts, knob locks, lever handle locks, and keyless entry locks.
Deadbolts are one of the most secure types of locks, as they are very difficult to pick or force open.
Knob locks and lever handle locks are less secure than deadbolts, but they are often more convenient to use, as they can be opened with just a twist of the knob or lever.
Keyless entry locks offer a high level of security, as they can only be opened with a code or fingerprint (if you have one of the more advanced models).
Can I change my own locks?
Yes, you can change your own locks, but it is generally recommended that you hire a professional locksmith to do this for you. Hiring a professional locksmith will ensure that the job is done correctly and that your new locks are properly installed and functioning correctly.
How much does it cost to change my locks?
The cost of changing your locks will vary depending on the type of locks you choose and the number of locks you need to be changed. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 for the service, depending on the factors mentioned above.
If you hire a professional locksmith, they may also charge an additional fee for their labor. However, this is typically much cheaper than buying new locks and installing them yourself.
How long does it take to change my locks?
The time it takes to change your locks will vary depending on the type of locks you have and the number of locks that need to be changed. However, changing just one lock can typically be done in under an hour, while changing multiple locks may take a few hours.
If you hire a professional locksmith, they will usually be able to do the job more quickly than if you try to do it yourself.
What are some things I should keep in mind when changing my locks?
When changing your locks, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
1) Make sure you choose the right type of locks for your needs.
2) Make sure the locks you choose are properly installed and functioning correctly.
3) If you hire a professional locksmith, make sure they are licensed and insured.
4) Keep your old keys in a safe place in case you need them again in the future.
5) Make sure you know how to use your new locks before you leave your old ones behind.
Where can I find a professional locksmith to change my locks?
If you need to hire a professional locksmith to change your locks, you can search for one online or on the yellow pages. You can also ask friends or family members if they know of any reputable locksmiths in your area.
When searching for a locksmith, make sure to read reviews and check for licenses and insurance. Once you find a few locksmiths you are interested in, give them a call to get more information and to get an estimate for the job.
How do you maintain a lock?
It is important to keep your locks clean and well-maintained to ensure they are working properly. To clean your locks, you can use a mild soap and water solution. You should also lubricate your locks regularly with light oil or silicone lubricant.
If you notice any damage to your locks, such as rusting or cracking, you should replace them as soon as possible.
It is also a good idea to have a professional locksmith perform an inspection of your locks every few years to make sure they are in good condition.
Are you concerned about the security of your home or office?
You should be. Statistics show that more than 2 million burglaries occur in the United States every year. Many of these could have been prevented if the victims had simply changed their locks when they moved into a new home or office.
At San Antonio Car Key Pros, we want to help you protect your family and your property. That’s why we offer a free consultation to help you determine whether you need to change your locks. We also offer a wide range of high-quality locks at affordable prices.