Access control systems let you decide who can access specific areas of your business and when. Having this level of control in today’s world is necessary to secure your property, protect your assets, and make sure sensitive data does not fall into the wrong hands.

Let’s break down everything you need to know if you’re a small business owner looking for a secure access control door lock installation. 

What is Access Control and Why is it Critical for Businesses?

Access control involves restricting and allowing access to specific components of a business. This could include the front door of a storefront where customers and employees enter, the back door and loading dock area where goods are received and stored, or doors leading to highly sensitive areas such as server rooms, financial record rooms, and individual offices. 

No matter the size or scope of your business, protecting your assets from theft and unauthorized access is crucial for any business owner. In fact, in specific industries, it is mandated by law due to the potentially sensitive nature of the information or assets you handle.

Here are some reasons that an access control door lock installation may be best for your small business.

• Secure assets, inventory, data rooms, and other highly sensitive information: Many businesses store secure assets, such as financial records, personal data, and information related to government contracts. These must be protected from unauthorized access and theft. In addition to sensitive information, access control doors help to keep your facility secure, preventing the theft of inventory and other assets stored on the property.
• Employee access management: Different employees will require varying levels of access to different areas of your business, depending on their roles and authorization levels. From cleaners to IT personnel, access control systems enable you to select who can go where and for what reasons.
• Round-the-clock monitoring and remote control: Monitor who is accessing a property from anywhere and can disable and unlock doors, grant access to someone, or lock down a facility with a single touch.
• Compliance and liability protection: There are many laws to protect sensitive data, such as consumer information, government contracts, and medical data, that require compliance. Additionally, a company could be held liable if something were to happen and their security were found not to follow regulations.

Access control has many benefits and is considered the norm in today’s business world.

Types of Access Control Door Lock Systems

Depending on the type of business you operate, there are numerous types of access control door lock systems to choose from. By working with a commercial locksmith, they can make recommendations based on your needs and budget. 

Here are some common types of access control door lock systems that businesses use.

• Key-pad entry: Simply enter a numeric code to gain access.
• Pros: 
  • Simple and cost-effective
  • No need for physical keys or devices
  • Easy to change PINs when needed
  • Users can have individual PINs
• Cons:
  • Codes can be shared or guessed
  • Limited audit trail compared to keycards
  • Requires frequent code changes and informing all affected personnel. 
• Keycard or fob readers: Simply tap your keycard or fob to unlock the door.
• Pros:
  • Easy to grant and revoke access
  • Creates a trackable and unique entry log for each user
  • Ideal for large staffs with varying levels of clearance
• Cons:
  • Cards can become lost or stolen
  • Higher setup costs
  • Requires additional software/hardware to operate
• Biometric systems: Scan fingerprints, facial features, or retinas for entry.
• Pros: 
  • High level of security and personalized authentication
  • No keycards or codes to manage
  • Provides the most reliable audit trail
• Cons:
  • Higher upfront costs
  • Privacy concerns for some users
• Mobile app-based access: Use a smartphone and cloud-based systems for remote unlocking and credential management.  
• Pros:
  • Control access from anywhere
  • Easy to manage credentials and make updates
  • Seamless integration with other systems
• Cons: 
  • Dependent on phone battery and internet access
  • Can pose additional cybersecurity risks
  • Requires the users to have a smartphone
• Multi-factor access: combines two or more methods for an added layer of security.
• Pros:
  • Ideal for high-security environments
  • Reduces the risk of unauthorized access
  • Customizable for sensitive areas

• Cons:
  • More expensive and complex to install
  • Slows down entry
  • Higher maintenance and additional training requirements

All of these options provide secure and efficient methods to complete an access control door lock installation at your place of business. To determine the best choice for your business, it is advisable to collaborate directly with a commercial locksmith who can perform a comprehensive assessment.

Access Control Door Lock Installation: Step-by-Step Overview

Installing access control doors is a straightforward process. Whether you are putting in one or 100, the process is generally the same- it’s just more complex with a larger undertaking. Here is a basic overview of the process. 

1. Pre-installation assessment
2. Selecting proper hardware and software
3. Wiring and connectivity
4. Mounting and system set-up
5. Integration with other systems
6. Testing and configuration

Benefits of Installing Access Control in Commercial Properties

Most business owners could never return to metal locks and keys once they start experiencing the numerous benefits of installing access control at their business locations. Whether it’s a retail store, warehouse, or commercial office complex, here are some benefits businesses can enjoy after upgrading from metal locks and keys.

• Increased security: Ensure your assets are secure and permit only authorized personnel in restricted areas.
• More control: Gain greater control over who enters and exits, which employees have access to secure areas, and monitor traffic.
• Convenience and efficiency: Access control doors enable quick and easy granting and revoking of access.
• Audit trails: Monitor employees as they enter and exit a facility, and coordinate this with your payroll system. When necessary, see who accessed which areas and when, while ensuring compliance in regulated industries. 
• Professional image: Maintaining a modern and up-to-date security and access control system fosters a positive impression among employees, customers, and business partners.

Access Control Door Maintenance & Support Tips

Here are some quick tips for keeping your access control system door and system functioning correctly.

1. Regularly update access credentials
2. Have a testing schedule
3. Schedule security audits
4. Keep firmware and software updated

How Can Alamo Lock and Key Help?

An access control door lock installation is one of the wisest and soundest business decisions you can make. Protecting your assets, streamlining employee access, and enhancing security oversight are all essential for helping a business grow from a small operation to a legitimate company. Consult Alamo Key & Lock to schedule a consultation and take the first step to better securing your business.

The post Access Control Door Lock Installation for Small Businesses | Secure & Smart Entry appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

Let’s explore the advantages of key card lock installations for commercial properties.

1. Enhanced Access Control and Audit Trails

Commercial properties often experience a constant flow of people, each requiring different levels of access. Some entry-level employees may only need access to the front of the store or a central office space. In contrast, others in management or IT may require special access to certain areas of the property that others should not enter. 

A digital key card lock system provides each key card with a unique identification code that permits access to specific areas while maintaining a log of when and where the card has been used for access to the property or any of its secure areas. 

Additionally, a digital key card can be immediately deactivated if it is lost or stolen, or if the owner no longer requires access to the property.

• Easy management of employee access levels: Some employees may need access only to central offices or communal areas, while others must have access to IT, building infrastructure, secure areas, and more. 
• Access log audits: In the event of a security breach or for any other reason, easily access the logs to see which digital cards were used to access specific areas, along with the exact time and date. 
• Efficient activation or deactivation: New employee starting? It’s very easy to issue them a new keyword and provide the access they need right away. If an employee is no longer with the company or if a keycard is lost or stolen, deactivate it in seconds. 

Streamlining access and security is essential for businesses that want to grow. Relying on locks and keys not only slows down operations but also compromises security. 

2. Improved Security Over Lock and Key

Many businesses opt for key card lock installation once they grow to a size where controlling access with traditional keys is no longer practical. Digital keycards simplify access and boost security.

Here are some of the ways key cards are more secure than traditional locks.

• Prevents unauthorized duplication: Metal keys can be easily copied with no record of the duplication. This means that a lost or stolen key can be duplicated and may fall into the wrong hands, necessitating the replacement of all locks on the property. In contrast, digital key cards are encrypted and cannot be readily duplicated. Even if one were to be replicated, it still leaves a digital footprint that indicates which card was used to access specific areas on certain dates and times. A metal key, however, does not provide such tracking.
• Two-factor authentication options: To enhance security, some systems may require a PIN or biometric scan in addition to the key card for accessing your most secure areas. 
• Deactivation: Once a keycard is reported lost or stolen, it can be deactivated from the system in just a few seconds. Again, you don’t need to change the locks or have new keys made. 

Ultimately, in the digital era, while technology may have its security flaws, it remains the most secure option when choosing between a metal lock with keys and a digital key card lock installation.

3. Convenient and Efficient for Staff and Management

Keycards provide an efficient method for granting access to commercial properties and their various areas. You never need to carry multiple keys; with a click of a mouse, you can easily grant and revoke access, and manage the system from anywhere. 

Here are the reasons why keycards are convenient and efficient.

• Quick access to all areas of a property without the need to carry multiple keys.
• Easily grant or revoke access for new hires or departing employees.
• Manage and audit the system remotely.
• Highly flexible in granting access at various levels to different employees, including contractors, vendors, cleaning crews, IT, management, and others.

Metal locks and keys are cumbersome and inefficient, and they don’t align well with a growing business in today’s world. Digital systems equipped with keycards and digital locks are far more convenient and essential for any company aiming to expand. 

4. Scalable for Growing Businesses

When a business is growing, new employees, locations, doors, and facilities are constantly required. All of these elements need a system to manage the associated complexities. A keycard lock and key, combined with a security program overseen by management and IT, is the most effective way to establish a system that can be easily scaled as the business expands. 

• Easily add new users: As you hire more employees, program new cards with unique access levels effortlessly.
• Expand to additional doors and locations: Adding new entry points or facilities is straightforward. Most systems permit remote configuration and integration with your existing infrastructure.
• Customizable access control: Ensure personnel easily access only the areas they should.
• Cost-effective over time: As a business grows, maintaining one centralized system for facility access becomes significantly more cost-effective. 
• Centralized management: Oversee and control access and security across multiple locations from one dashboard.

Growing businesses don’t have time to be bogged down by something as simple as granting access to a specific building or ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter restricted areas. A keycard lock system streamlines access and security, allowing growing businesses to focus on expansion.

5. Better Integration with Other Security Systems

Key card systems can be far more comprehensive than just managing door access. They can also be integrated with other security tools, such as cameras and alarms. Here are several ways keycard lock systems can be combined with other systems.

1. Connect with alarm systems to trigger automatically if unauthorized access is attempted or a door is forced open.
2. Sync with surveillance cameras to record and provide footage when secure areas are accessed. 
3. Integrate with time-tracking and payroll systems to monitor employee clock-ins, attendance, and time spent on-site.
4. Promptly secure or release doors during emergencies, such as evacuations or lockdown situations.
5. Support layered security strategies that combine physical and digital defenses to create a security system that is harder to bypass.

How Can Alamo Key & Lock Help?

Upgrading your business with key card lock installation is a strategic investment that enhances security, boosts efficiency, and fosters growth. Regardless of the type of business you operate, the number of locations you have, or the kind of layered security you need, Alamo Key & Lock has a solution for you. 

The post Top 5 Benefits of Key Card Lock Installation for Commercial Properties appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

When the door on your commercial building opens and shuts, it likely does so slowly so as not to injure anyone coming in and out of your building. Also, a commercial door closer ensures that the door will shut securely and not blow open. If one or more of your commercial door closers starts to fail, it may be time to call a professional repair person to help with the job. A commercial locksmith knows how to diagnose an issue with commercial door closers and repair them in a correct manner. If the door to your convenience store or retail shop isn’t working correctly, contact a commercial locksmith as soon as possible to get the issue fixed fast. You may even have access to an emergency locksmith for urgent jobs where time is of the essence for your commercial door closer repair.

Reasons to Call for Commercial Door Closer Repair

There are a few different reasons why your commercial door closer may not be working correctly. Some issues may call for emergency locksmith assistance where the problem must be resolved immediately while other door closer problems can be fixed in the near future. Here are some of the top reasons why the door to your building may be in need of repair:

Difficult to Close

You want the door on your building to be easy to open and close, for the benefit of your customers and employees. If the commercial door closer starts becoming difficult to close, it’s time to call a professional locksmith to fix the problem. A commercial locksmith will repair the door closer so it offers seamless operation once again. If you notice this type of closure difficulty and it’s hard to lock the door, you should call your local locksmith so you can secure the property properly.

Loud Noises When Opening and Closing

Loud squeaks and noises may emit from the door closer. When this occurs, you want to get the problem fixed right away. This type of noise is distracting and can annoy your customers. Plus, if you have to listen to these sounds all day long, it’s bound to get tiresome for you and your employees, too. Also, this type of noise likely won’t go away and may even mean that the door closer is nearing its breaking point. An emergency locksmith will come out to your business quickly, fix the loud door closer mechanism, and get your commercial door back in proper operation fast.

Lack of Smooth Opening and Closing

You may also notice that the main door to your shop closes in an uneven manner. You want this main entryway to be easy to open and shut for the benefit of your patrons. Should this type of issue occur, it’s time to contact a local locksmith for commercial door closer repair. It could be an issue with the hydraulic system or springs in the door that causes this type of uneven operation. The locksmith will know exactly how to fix the problem and provide your business with a properly operating door.

Door is Stuck

There may come a time when the door is stuck and unable to be opened or shut. This can cause issues by blocking the pathway and even preventing the door to be shut and locked at the end of business hours. In this case, an emergency locksmith should be called as this professional repair person can come out to your business right away and fix the door.

Evident Wear and Tear

If you notice wear and tear on the commercial door closer, it may be time to replace the mechanism with a new one. Even if the door closer still works, it may only be a matter of time until the commercial door closer breaks. And, if you wait to replace the mechanism, you may not be able to get a replacement part that same day. By planning ahead, you won’t have any surprises in the way of a broken door closer.

Leaking Fluid

The door closer mechanism may use hydraulic fluid and oil. If you see any leakage coming from the door closer, you’ll want to get this issue fixed right away. Not only will the leak cause the door to not operate correctly, but it can also make quite a mess. A professional locksmith can repair the door closer so that it no longer leaks fluid.

Contact Alamo Key & Lock for Commercial Locksmith Services

If you have a broken door closer and need commercial door closer repair in the Houston, Texas, area, Alamo Key & Lock can help. The professional locksmiths at Alamo Key & Lock offer 24/7 service, so you can get a locksmith to your property no matter what time of day it is. And since the need for commercial door closer repair doesn’t always happen during business hours, it’s important to have access to a professional locksmith all hours of the day.

The Alamo Key & Lock professional locksmith will come out to your property, diagnose the issue, and get your door closer working again so you have peace of mind knowing your commercial building door is secure and operates properly.

Contact Alamo Key & Lock today for all of your locksmith service needs, including commercial door closer repair!

The post Reasons to Obtain Commercial Door Closer Repair appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

Having a trusted emergency commercial locksmith on your speed dial is essential as a business owner in Houston. You never know when you may lose your keys, lock yourself out, or have to change your locks after an attempted break-in. 

When issues like this arise, you need someone you trust who can respond immediately, no matter the time of day or night. Trust, expediency, availability, and transparency are exactly what business owners require from a commercial locksmith.

Let’s examine the standard commercial lock and security emergencies and how an emergency locksmith can help. We will also review the qualities to look for in a locksmith and provide a few tips for preventing lock emergencies. 

Common Commercial Lock and Security Emergencies

In the chaotic hustle and bustle of being a business owner, your mind can be in a million places simultaneously. Minor mistakes can happen. Maybe you lose your keys or get locked out, or you are in such a hurry that you accidentally break your key off in the lock. 

When things like this happen, don’t blame yourself or get angry; simply call your go-to trusted emergency commercial locksmith for an immediate solution. Here are some standard lock and security emergencies business owners in Houston experience daily. 

• Business lockouts: Employees losing keys, leaving a building without your key with automatic locks, and malfunctioning electronic access systems are three of the most common reasons business owners get locked out.
• Broken locks: A key can break off inside a lock, worn-out locks, or busted locks from an attempted break-in.
• Lost or stolen keys: Lost or stolen key issues must be resolved immediately for security reasons.
• Break-in damage repair: After a break-in or an attempted break-in, all the locks must be replaced, and your entire security apparatus should be analyzed for potential improvements.

How an Emergency Commercial Locksmith Can Help

Your go-to commercial locksmith has many solutions to help you in a lock and key emergency. Here are some ways they can help.

• Rapid response: Immediate and rapid response will allow you to get inside your business and address any issues so you can continue operations. 
• 27/7 availability: Lockout emergencies and other issues can occur anytime, so having a locksmith available 24 hours a day is not only convenient but necessary.
• Lock rekeying and placement: After reports of lost or stolen keys, it is highly recommended that locks be replaced and new keys made.
• Master key system installs: Installing a master key system is convenient for business owners with multiple managers and several employees.
• High-security lock and key systems: Sometimes, additional security measures, including advanced lock and key systems, are needed for high-value items and sensitive materials. 
• Break-in repairs and security upgrades: A recent burglary or break-in attempt clearly indicates that your security is vulnerable and security upgrades are needed. 

How to Choose the Right Emergency Commercial Locksmith in Houston

• Experienced and certified: Certified locksmiths in Texas need to be licensed through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau. To become licensed, the professional must pass a background check, take a locksmith course or attend an approved locksmith trade school, complete 600 hours of training, and pass an exam. Make sure any locksmith company you decide to work with only hires fully vetted and certified locksmiths.
• Response time: It is critical to have round-the-clock availability and a guaranteed fast response time in the event of lock and key emergencies. 
• Technological knowledge: Depending on your security system’s complexity, locksmiths need access to all the tools and equipment required for advanced and digital systems. They should also possess the knowledge and experience of working with these systems while constantly keeping up with new technologies as they come out. 
• Reputation and reviews: Read a locksmith company’s online reviews. Remember, most companies have good and bad reviews; however, look for red flags and companies with far more negative reviews than good. 
• Transparency: Trust is number one. You should work with a locksmith company that avoids hidden fees and is upfront about pricing.

Tips for Preventing Lock Emergencies

Although some lock and key emergencies are inevitable, there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood of one occurring. Try to implement one or more of these steps at your place of business.

1. Having a spare key policy: Identify trustworthy and responsive employees who could be responsible for a set of spare keys and be called upon in case of a lockout or missing keys emergency.
2. Implement a key management system. You should have an organized record of who has access to which keys and when they are used. Key-tracking or a sign-out system ensures accountability and reduces the risk of lost or stolen keys.
3. Keyless entry system upgrade: Consider upgrading your security system to include keyless entry systems where employees can enter the building using an alternative method such as a PIN code, keycard, biometrics, or a mobile app. 
4. Install high-security locks and reinforced doors: To prevent break-ins, consider investing in pick-resistant and reinforced bolt locks and reinforced doors. Stronger security deters potential intruders and protects your business. 
5. Regular lock maintenance: Routine inspections can ensure that your locks are fully functional and not prone to failure.
6. Partner with a trusted locksmith: A trusted commercial locksmith can provide ongoing security solutions, routine inspections, and maintenance while ensuring you are promptly taken care of in an emergency. 

When protecting your business, investing a little extra to increase security and include advanced systems can go a long way to securing your livelihood.

Why Choose Alamo Key & Lock?

You need a fast, reliable solution when a lock emergency threatens your business operations. As Houston’s trusted emergency commercial locksmith, Alamo Key & Lock is available 24/7 to help with lockouts, lost keys, break-in repairs, and high-security upgrades. 

Our experienced and certified locksmiths provide rapid response times, expert service, and transparent pricing to keep your business secure. Don’t wait until an emergency happens—save our number today and trust Alamo Key & Lock to protect your business when needed.

The post Emergency Commercial Locksmith Services in Houston | 24/7 Response appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

The post Why Is Everyone Talking About The Kevo By Kwikset appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

WHAT CAN GO WRONG WITH A COMMERCIAL SAFE?

In general, commercial safe owners need their safes opened by a professional locksmith for two main reasons. One, they’ve forgotten or lost the key code combination. Perhaps the code was never written down. Or maybe the code was written down, the paper it was written on disappeared. None of these scenarios is a good one. For this reason, we always recommend commercial and residential safe owners keep their keycode combinations in a safe place, along with their other passcodes. This way they won’t lose them.

The second main reason you might need a locksmith to open a safe is that the keycode no longer works. How could the code stop working? First, the battery of the digital lock will fail. (If you hear beeping on your digital combo lock, change the battery right away! That sound indicates the battery is low!) Second, the code might still work but the lock doesn’t open; the lock has likely broken over a long period of constant use.

Very cheap security safes can be broken into in under five minutes with tools found in your home garage. As a business owner, it’s wiser to invest in a high security safe. But if you’ve bought a cheap safe, you’re taking a risk with the items you want to protect. Cheaper safes use thinner paneling that can be pulled back with force. For example, you can pry open the door of a safe using a chisel, a hammer, and a crowbar. The thief will first insert the chisel in between the safe’s door and frame, then hammer in the tip to split the opening between the frame and the door. Next, he can insert the head of the crowbar into the opening made by the chisel. Once enough force is applied, the bolts locking the door to the frame will split off, or the door itself will break, or the hardware on the frame will split off. There are many fail-points on cheap safes.

A good locksmith will always troubleshoot the safe by trying to open it without causing any damage. In this case, our locksmith was able to open the commercial case by picking the lock, leaving the mechanism unharmed. In some cases, the safe has to be drilled, which will ruin the lock. Make sure you check with your locksmith whether this is absolutely necessary before he or she begins. Otherwise, once the drill penetrates the locking mechanism, there’s no going back!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT COMMERCIAL SAFE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

There are a few key points to consider when choosing the right safe for your business. These fall into the following categories: fire protection, burglary protection, size, and location.

First, decide if you want a safe that will protect against fire damage, robbery, or both. Fire damage ratings are based on how long the safe will keep the inside temperature below 350 degrees during a fire. Most fire inspectors recommend at least 1 hour. So if your business is at higher risk of fire exposure, choose a safe with a high fire rating.

Burglary protection for safes is measured by Underwriter Laboratories, an independent consumer protection agency that rates safes and many other products. Their rating system is based on how long it takes to breaks into a safe. The higher the rating, the longer it takes to break in. These ratings are also tied to the value of the items kept in the safe. So it’s highly recommended that you consult with an Alamo Key & Lock professional to decide what rating of security safe you should buy for your business.

The last consideration is the size of the safe you need and where you’re going to put the safe in your business. The internal compartment size of the size is measured in height, width, and depth, so make sure that everything you need to fit inside the safe will do so — a good rule of thumb is to purchase a safe 3 times the size you think you’ll need. However, if you have only a small amount of space in your business’s property to house the safe, you’ll have to limit the purchase accordingly.

IN CONCLUSION

Alamo Key & Lock services all kinds of security safes. When you’re buying a new safe or need to get inside a locked one, our technicians can provide professional advice. Call 713-688-3887 today for your free security consultation

Contact Alamo Key & Lock Locksmiths

The post What Could Cause An Emergency For Houston AT&T Store? appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

There comes a moment when you accidentally leave your keys in your apartment, office, or you have lost them altogether! What are you going to do now?

It would be wiser to prepare and plan before being locked out, for example, you could arrange spare sets of keys cut and give them to trusted family and friends just in case you are faced with a dilemma of losing (or misplacing keys). Furthermore: note Alamo Key & Lock Emergency Locksmiths in Houston TX 713-688-3887 contact details, as knowing who to call in advance will prevent additional stress and lessen the pressure while sorting out keys and locks problems.

The Reasons To Call A Locksmith In Houston

There are plenty of reasons why you may need locksmith services in Houston, and here is a shortlist of the top 5 reasons why you should have a local locksmith phone number 713-688-3887 handy.

Keep in mind that you would need a local lock expert advice in case you find yourself in the middle of a situation with locks and keys not functioning properly, whether it is for your residential home, office, or vehicle.

1. Losing Your Keys

This is one of the most common situations regarding locksmith services. After you overturn everything in your home, and still can’t find the keys, that won’t mean they could be playing hide and seek (unless of course, you have young children) obviously, keys are now lost.

Actually, you have no choice in such a situation, as delaying calling a locksmith may eventually cause bigger problems. Having any of your possessions unlocked may be a green light for burglars and thieves. Call a professional locksmith expert in Houston, as they would know how to solve the problem as soon as possible.

2. Being Locked Out

The second common occurrence is accidentally locking yourself out of your home or your office. The thing is – this can happen anytime, which means, even late at night.

None of us want to find ourselves locked out in the middle of the night. Of course, as we are talking about your property, depending on how tired you are and eager to get inside you could break in yourself, but this would only damage delicate locking systems and cost you more $$$ money.

This is exactly why you should record 713-688-3887 phone number as your trustworthy local Houston locksmith Alamo Key & Lock saved in your mobile.

3. Having Locks In Your Home Changed

There could be many different scenarios for having locks changed, e.g. if you had a roommate until recently, or if you bought a new house in Houston Texas, you would want to prevent anyone else enter your home. Old roommates, previous tenants, or previous owners may have kept some spare keys, this makes it easy for someone else to come in when you are away.

Regardless of why, a quick call to a locksmith company will prevent any unpleasant surprises, and bring complete peace of mind to you.

4. Breaking Your Keys

Unfortunately, older keys tend to break or bend easily. This can happen both with your house keys or your car keys. Just imagine trying to start the engine of your vehicle or trying to open the door of your home, and the key breaks. Surely, this won’t happen to you, until it does. Once the key bends or breaks, it would be almost impossible to start your car or enter your home. Keep in mind that extracting the keys yourself would possibly cause more damage to locks.

In case you don’t have a set of spare keys in your pocket all the time, chances are that you would need a professional emergency locksmith service to get you back inside. Take a deep breath – then, make a phone call to an emergency locksmith.

5. Damaged Locks

Locks tend to wear out with time, which is simply not anyone’s fault, but still, it is just an annoyance when you realize you got damaged locks. As you want to protect yourself from burglars, vandals, and thieves, call a locksmith the moment you notice any lock you are using is not locking correctly, or it takes a few attempts to lock the door.

Which Houston Locksmiths To Call?

In most lock and key problems, you won’t be able to fix issues yourself. Make sure to contact a reliable professional licensed locksmith in Houston.

Keep in mind that not all locksmith companies in Houston are the same nor offer the same service or rates. Honestly, we rather not hear from you facing problems with locks and keys, but unfortunately, when you are faced with an issue that requires affordable and professional service, Alamo Lock & Key is here available in Houston TX 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

The post Top 5 Reasons To Call A Locksmith In Houston appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

Information about the crime rate and neighborhood safety are on the list of priorities when making a decision about purchasing a new residence. Yes, we know these things sound pesky at first, but would you sleep tight in your new bed the first night you move in if you are unsure if someone else may also have the keys to your kingdom?

You want to make sure that you are the exclusive owner of the keys, this will maintain your safety on a higher level. And, that is exactly why changing locks in your new property is a good idea.

Top 5 Reasons To Change Locks In Your New Property

There are a few good reasons why you should think about calling a professional locksmith before making any other changes in your new residence. Changing locks will prevent possible intruders or thieves from entering your new home, apartment, or any other type of property (be it residential or commercial).

Top 5 Reasons To Call A Locksmith First Are

1. You can choose the type of lock according to your wants and requirements,
2. It will improve your security and safety of the property,
3. Newer locks are of a higher quality than the older ones,
4. Previous tenants or owners would have no access to it,
5. You will be at peace about residing in your new property.

It is somehow logical that you would think for a second if previous owners or other people might still have copies of the keys. You certainly don’t want to see the old owner trying to unlock your door while s/he thinks you are away (or worse yet, while you are still home (it happens)).

On the other hand, sometimes owners forget about key copies they gave to a family member, handyman, painter, or a plumber who was taking care of an issue within the house or business.

Let’s be clear – accidents can happen anytime, but you want to make sure to take precautions. You want to live in peace knowing you have done everything you could to protect yourself your family and your property.

As we mentioned above, newer locks are safer than old ones. American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets locks standards so that the locks provide utmost safety. It would be great to check those standards and examine the locks, as this would give you a clue about the need for rekeying or replacing the lock completely. Alamo Key & Lock Locksmiths can provide professional advice, simply call 713-688-3887 anytime.

Rekeying costs less, but if you found out the old locks don’t meet ANSI standards, it would be better to set it as a priority on your to-do list.

Additional Lock And Safety Tips

Even though front doors are the most important, don’t forget about back doors, side doors, garage doors, and the basements. You want to secure the main garage door, as well as the door connecting the garage to the house.

Even if you are renting, you can change the locks by making an agreement with your landlord or the property manager. This is something tenants usually take as a normal part of the renting process, which is great news as it provides the same level of security and peace of mind.

Call A Professional & Licensed Locksmiths In Houston TX

If you have just moved into your new residence and you want to change the locks after reading our blog post, make sure to contact us or call 713-688-3887. We can provide you with the safest options available on the market in 2019, choices, and provide advice about the number of locks, brands, and keys. We can do this at the most competitive locksmith rates in Houston.

The post Why Changing Locks In Your New Property Is Always A Good Idea? appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

The first step is to become more conscious about security and problems we all face in Houston, and then, act in the direction of protecting yourself, your family, and your home from intruders and criminals.

We understand that home decoration may be much more fun than installing new security measurements around your home. However, as burglars strike homes in Texas almost by the hour, you want to make security your top priority now, right now, so that you can enjoy your home knowing it’s better protected.

As you will agree, it is essential to undertake some simple, yet vital measures to prevent criminals from interrupting your peace of mind. Throughout many years serving our local community with our professional locksmith solutions, we’ve seen our share of the damage these criminals cause Houston residents and business owners. That is why we’ve gathered our top 3 home security tips that are practical and easy to use.

Top Tips For Better Security

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Burglars usually observe their targets before they get into action. You don’t want to make it obvious when you are away, as that is what they are usually waiting for.

You want to make them believe you are not away. The first technique you can apply is to leave some lights on in your home, even when you are at work or out of your home.

If you are going on a vacation, cancel newspaper delivers, as a piled-up newspaper is the most reliable sign the owners are away.

You can ask a trusted friend to check (on regular basis) if everything is fine and collect anything that may arrive in the post-office box while you are not there.

As we are living in a world of advanced technologies, the Internet, and social media, we highly recommend you restrain yourself from posting content related to your absence to your social media accounts.

Burglars always take a look under the doormat or plant pot, as people usually hide their keys or spare keys in such places. Do we need to say, don’t use these usual places to hide your keys? Apply these easy-to-use techniques, and you will at least avoid the usual suspects.

Update Your Locks

Do you know how long ago the locks on your door have been installed? Old-type locks are easy to get through, as thieves and burglars became familiar with them, and it takes seconds to gain entrance like this.

You want to make sure all of the locks in your home are modern and professionally fitted. There won’t be a way burglars would defeat it with their usual methods.

Of course, you will need the help of a professional locksmith like Alamo Key & Lock. A good and reliable locksmith will recommend to you certain locks that will provide you maximum security. Also, we can install new locks that meet the Master Locksmith Association requirements. Learn more about American National Standards Institute (ANSI) which sets locking standards.

Doors And Windows

Criminals mostly use doors to gain entry into your house. After all, windows are a bit awkward to get in and out from, even though some burglars use such channels.

Door in your home should be very well secured. We mentioned the importance of locks in the previous section, and there is no doubt you need to upgrade the locks, especially if they are out of date.

On the other hand, a solid door with the strike plate would make it hard for a burglar to kick in.

There is a category of thieves who tend to break in through windows if you give them a chance. Limit yourself to opening windows in your home to six inches or less.

Furthermore, it would be great to screw in the windows to the frames tightly, as this way they wouldn’t slide out of the frame easily. A jamming device can be another great solution to consider.

Seek Expert Locksmith Advice

If you are not sure about where your home security level is, it would be best to ask for our expert advice. Don’t try to improvise things about this delicate subject, as burglars usually wait for such opportunities and minor mistakes.

It is always good to know your local locksmith is always just a phone 713-688-3887 call away, and Alamo Key & Lock is here – at your service 24/7, to help you improve the overall security of your home and as a result you and your family.

The post Top 3 Home Security Tips By A Master Locksmith appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.

As we’ve outlined in our previous blog post, there are many different types of locksmiths serving Houston Texas residents. For example: A locksmith who specializes in safes and vaults can easily get you back into your safe should you happen to lose your keys. Although many locksmiths in TX claim to offer Emergency services, does not mean, they will be available when you call them. These are some of the reasons why not all locksmiths in Houston can offer you the same professional service.

Today, a skilled locksmith has to keep track of the changes and upgrade their skills to cater to the latest technologies, especially when it comes to automotive industry locks and keys, as well as with adding security to your property in TX.

There is a huge difference between a handyman service and the service of a professional and licensed locksmith. After all, it wouldn’t be wise to consider things such as home or business security as just another mundane thing to do.

We wanted to highlight the core of locksmith services, as you should have an insight into the basic, yet complex scope of locksmith services when hiring us.

Locks

Of course, a locksmith will handle anything related to locks whether you want to install new, more secure locks, or to replace the old ones if you are moving into a new property. Furthermore, a locksmith not only can replace the old locks, but they can also ensure even old locks are accessible to you only. This is called rekeying.

Home security strategies develop with time. Instead of having security locks on your door only, a locksmith can install state-of-the-art security systems as well as window locks as well.

Keys

Any locksmith knows how to cut an extra set of keys, in fact, nowadays most shopping malls like the uptown park in Houston may even offer key duplication services, however, what if you were to ask about: euro cylinder, mortise, or a night latch lock to an unqualified locksmith? Perhaps silence will be the response.

Did you also know that most keys are coded with unique identifiers? This is a great thing to know (or to write down), as a licensed locksmith can cut a new set of keys using these codes even if you lost your key (keep in mind that the State of Texas has laws governing key duplication according to the codes found on keys).

An automotive locksmith can also copy the data from a transponder onto another key so you can access your vehicle this way as well. Transponder cloning belongs to a newer type of locksmith service, as they contain a small computer chip within the key-lock.

When you want to be the only individual who gives authority for copying of the keys in your premises, then you should definitely consider a restricted master key system. Installing this system increases the level of security, as you would be the only one to open up multiple doors in your home or office.

The restricted master key system is mostly used for:

• Investment properties,
• Businesses,
• Offices,
• Large commercial buildings.

Doors

Locksmiths are very familiar with many different types of doors and locking systems, they can advise you on choosing one that suits your security needs the most. In case you are unfortunate enough to have experienced a burglar breaking in (or trying and causing damage), professional locksmiths in Houston TX can advise, or least point you in the right direction.

Trends and technology changes, for example, UPVC doors are now sought after, as these provide more security and are soundproof. In case you want to install one of these, you will certainly need a qualified locksmith to make sure the doors work correctly and are secure.

The same story goes for security doors, which add the level of protection you require, as a locksmith is the only one who knows how to install, replace, or repair them according to strict standards.

Another way to secure your TX property even further is to fit the door with door closers. These closers are either external or hidden within the door frame, depending on your needs.

Speak With A Professional Locksmith In Houston

As you can see a seemingly simple locksmith solution actually includes multiple skill levels. When you want to improve security in your home or the security of your commercial premise, it is much smarter to speak with experienced professionals – Alamo Key & Lock. Simply call 713-688-3887 and you can tell us exactly how secure you want your place to be. Then, we’ll recommend the best options and we’ll handle everything in the most professional and secure way possible, as well as provide you with great solutions that best suit your needs. Talk to us about all your locksmithing service requirements.

Press Here to Contact Alamo Key & Lock

The post Not All Locksmiths In Houston Can Offer You The Same Service appeared first on Alamo Key & Lock.