Does Every Locksmith Provide the Same Type of Service?

When you think of a locksmith in Chicago, you probably think of someone to help you get into your house or car when you're locked out. While a locksmith can certainly provide emergency lockout services, they provide much more.

Are all locksmiths created equal? No.

Do they all provide the same services? No.

Can any locksmith get you into your car or home when you're locked out? Yes.

You're not wrong to think a locksmith is there to help in an emergency. However, it's a good idea to understand the many other services provides by a professional locksmith.

Basic Services Locksmiths Provide:

Along with helping you get into your car, home, or office when you're locked out, a locksmith will also:

• Duplicate Keys

• Install Locks

• Replace Locks

• Install Lock Accessories, such as a Latch Guard

• Rekey a Lock

Most locksmiths will provide all of these basic services, along with any other service having to do with a key or a lock.

Additional Services Some Locksmiths Provide

Not all locksmiths provide more than basic services. However, when you choose a locksmith, such as The Professional Locksmith, you can use them for much more than just emergency locksmith services.

Along with the basic services, a good locksmith will also provide:

• Safe Installation

• Security Camera Services

• Intercom Installation and Intercom Repair

• Iron Gate Repair & Security

• Building Management Services

• And More!

Some of these more specialized services allow your locksmith to do more for you. Whether you need a locksmith for commercial or residential needs, the right locksmith will do more for you than just help you get into your car, home or office when you're locked out.

Locksmiths that Specialize

While some locksmiths only work on automobiles, homes, or buildings, others cover everything. There's nothing wrong with a locksmith specializing in providing emergency lockout services or rekeying services. However, you gain many benefits by choosing a locksmith with the ability to do more for you than just help in an emergency.

When you choose a locksmith with the ability to provide multiple services, some of which don't even include a lock, you'll be able to get more done from someone you trust.

It's best to choose a locksmith that knows how to do everything you need. Some locksmiths don't deal with specific types of keys, and they cannot make security recommendations for you. Whether you're running a business or just need help with a lock at home, choosing the right locksmith will make a difference.

Not Sure, Just Ask

When it comes to finding the right locksmith for your needs, even if you don't see the service listed on their website, ask if they provide it. Locksmiths, such as The Professional Locksmith, have the ability to provide several services other locksmiths may not provide. If you ask, you might just find exactly what you're after.

When it comes down to it, the answer to the question, does every locksmith provide the same services, is simply, No! Some locksmiths do more than others and it's a good idea to know what a locksmith can provide before hiring them, especially if you think you'll need more than just a simple service.

How to Know What Type of Gun Safe You May Need

There’s nothing more important with gun ownership than having a way to secure your firearm. Whether it’s keeping your family safe from accidents or keeping an intruder from getting access to it, having a secure firearm should be a top priority.

The problem is, you can’t just buy any old gun safe and not think much of it. You have to choose your gun safe carefully and consider many variations in your decision on how to secure your guns. Take a look at some of the factors you need to consider before you’ll know what type of gun safe you’ll need.

Types of safes

The first thing you’ll want to look at is what kind of safe you will need. All safes are going to offer something different which means you will need to know what type of safe functions are important for your gun. Some safes are perfect from simply protecting children in the house from accessing it, such as a metal cabinet with a lock or a small gun safe if you don’t want something that is going to add weight to your wooden floors.

On the other hand, if you need something that is going to be hidden away from an intruder, you’ll want to get something that can be hidden easily, such as a floor safe or wall safe. You can incorporate safes into the home to be as discrete as possible from outsiders of the home.

You also may want a safe that is going to protect the gun from fire damage. In fact, the greatest risk to you is fire, followed by the threat of theft, which means you need to consider a fireproof option and a theft-protection type of safe at the same time. If you brought it into the house, a thief could remove it from the house, which means a safe that is built into the home will serve you better.

What should the safe include?

After you’ve decided which type of safe you’ll need, you’ll want to think about what you’re putting into the safe. In some cases, homeowners want to include more than just their guns into the safe. This means that you would need to find something that is going to be the right size for both your rifles and other guns, to your valuable jewelry or important documents. Get a larger rifle safe if you’re going to keep all of this together and plan on it holding twice the number of guns you currently own.

Options to consider

There are many different types of gun safes that you could choose from but the most important thing is that you pick one that can be attached to the floor, handle a high-temperature fire, and can withstand the beating of an ax that an intruder may try on it. Then look at the locks and decide between a low-maintenance combination lock, the popular electronic lock, or a biometric lock using a fingerprint to open it up.

You’ll want to avoid getting a discounted safe and focus on one that will do the job which could run you anywhere from $1,200-$1,500. Choosing the right lock is vital, but keep in mind that many experts prefer the electronic locks. Choosing one big enough to accommodate future gross and easy access to your other valuables is important.

Make sure the safe can pass fire ratings, offer climate-control seals, and has external hinges for an improved door swing. Great options on the market right now include the Buffalo 38-gun safe, the Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun safe, and the Fort Knox Personal Pistol Box Handgun Safe.

Be sure to consider these factors before choosing the right gun safe for your home and speak to a professional about safe installation.

Essential Home Security System Features You Need

What are some of the essential home security system features you may need for your home? Home security systems have been around for years but today’s technology has allowed homeowners to put smart technology into the home, increasing the level of security and making the home more efficient altogether.

Instead of a few basic options that we used to have, homeowners now have thousands of possibilities that they can find on the market varying from small DIY home security systems to professionally-installed hardwired systems. Here’s a closer look at what features you could choose from and why you need them included in your home’s current security system setup.

Camera technology

For starters, hidden cameras used to just be found at businesses to keep surveillance on potential crime at a company, but now these little cameras are being found in neighborhoods at each house. Video technology is such a large part of today’s world that it just makes sense that homeowners would want an enhanced way to survey their home’s boundaries for potential threats.

While the first security cameras to be featured in these systems offered a simple grainy image in black and white, now you’ll have HD camera feeds that can be accessed from any of your smart devices in any location. These are a great way to record, watch, and be aware of what’s going on around your home while you’re away or from inside the home.

Wireless and hard-wired options

You’ll get to choose from both the wireless and hard-wired security systems when you get one installed in the home, but many current options are actually a mix of both. You’ll have those hardwired parts but you can communicate wirelessly.

It’s wise to choose one that has cellular capability because these systems will still work when the internet is down or the power goes out as long as you have a battery backup. Older systems worked with analog phone lines which are going to be obsolete in a matter of years.

Home automation

Automating the home is what everyone is doing right now because of the convenience of having a better sense of what is going on in and around the home from anywhere. This is one of the biggest innovations in technology right now as homeowners can now use a simple app on their phone or tablet to check on the home and interact with its systems.

You can now check your camera feed, arm your security system, turn the lights on and off, and open or shut your garage door from any location. These are not only great for securing the home, but they also allow you to function in the home from the touch of a button rather than being physically present.

Updating simple tech

Lastly, updates to basic technology are a great option to incorporate into your home. Your simple smoke detector can now be updated with a more modern sensor which allows you to get an actual alert of your home’s air analysis. Your window and door sensors can be integrated into your home security system to see if someone has tampered with either.

You can now update your technology with tamper-sensitive sensors to show you if someone has been altering your control panel and the temperature, or if there is a flood or fire alert to your home. You can now go a step farther when it comes to protecting your home from natural disasters or intruders.

You can even get a system in which the authorities are notified when a fire alarm system trips or have your HVAC system shut down and doors unlock if there is smoke in the home from a fire.

Whether you want to update your home with special sensors and cameras or you want to incorporate a brand new home security system with the hybrid wired and wireless technology that also features home automation, these are some of the essentials you need when it comes to today’s home security systems.

How to Choose a Commercial Safe for Your Office

Choosing the right safe for your office isn't always easy. A commercial safe needs to offer plenty of features to ensure you can keep your valuables protected. In addition, it has to offer you peace of mind when it comes to the security of running your business.

Not all commercial safes are the same. Many commercial safes offer similar features, but some will give you an extra level of security when added to your office. Here are some of the things to consider when choosing a commercial safe for your office.

Full Protection

Choosing the safe that will give you full protection should be first on the list. Consider what you will be keeping in the safe and choose a safe with the best features to protect your items.

You may need a torch resistant or tool resistant safe to ensure your belonging are protected from intruders.

In addition, you may need a specific type of safe for specific reasons. For example, a retail store may need a drop safe or a deposit safe to ensure employees can make drops without opening the safe. Others may prefer an office safe with a high fire rating.

Location

The location of your office safe should be a factor, as well. Will you be keeping it under a desk, in a wall, in the floor, or in another location? This can impact the type of safe you choose.

Some safes are specifically designed to be kept in the floor, while others fit better under a desk or in the wall. It depends on what you need and the space you have for the safe.

Size

Depending on what you may be keeping in the safe, you may need a larger or smaller safe. Size does matter as choosing the right size can be difficult. For most businesses, you want a safe large enough that someone cannot easily pick it up and walk off with it. However, if you get something too large, it could become a nuisance. Contact The Professional Locksmith today and find out what safe is right for your specific needs!

Choosing the right size may depend on where you plan to keep the safe, as well. Consider the location of the safe, along with the things you plan to keep in it before you make a decision on the size.

Security Level

Of course, you want the best protection possible, but you may not need a high security safe if your budget won't allow for one. However, if you need a high security safe, you will likely spend more, but you will have a safe with a high fire rating, drill prevention, and many other great security features.

Choosing the right commercial safe for your office can be difficult. The size, location, security level, and protection you need will make a pretty big difference when looking at the options.

Take your time and compare a few safes before choosing. It may be a good idea to consult an expert to help you with the decision. An expert may also be able to install your new safe properly.

Rekey or Lock Replacement: Which is Right for You?

When you lose your key or it gets stolen, you have to decide if you want to rekey the lock or replace the lock. This is a bit of a big decision as they are similar options, but they could have a difference in the security of your home or building. Let's look at when you should rekey a lock and when you should replace a lock.

Rekey Your Lock if...

When you lose control over who has access to your business or home, you want to rekey your locks. This could be due to a staffing change or a renter moving out and another one moving in. If it's your personal home, it could be due to losing a key to your house.

As a business owner, you don't want an employee with a grudge getting into your business. If they have a key, they could vandalize your business, steal from you, or cause other damage to the business.

Another important time to consider rekeying your locks is when you lose a key. You never know who could have it and the last thing you need is the key ending up in the wrong hands. Whether you're a business owner or a homeowner, a lost key means it's time to rekey your locks.

The last circumstance when it makes sense to rekey your locks is when you have locks allowing you to easily rekey them by inserting a step change key. If you have these types of locks, it's usually much easier and quicker to rekey the locks than to replace them.

Change Your Locks if...

While most of the time rekeying is the better and less expensive option there are times when it's a good idea to change your locks. Whether you're running a business or you own a home, you may want to consider lock replacement in the following circumstances.

If the locks are worn out or outdated, it may be time to change them. Maybe you were considering rekeying due to a lost key, but the locks haven't been replaced in years. It may be better just to replace the locks in this circumstance as you may be able to upgrade for better security features with new locks.

The other circumstance that garners lock replacement instead of rekeying is upgrading your security system. If you plan to upgrade your security system, you don't want to be using old locks that don't provide the very best security features. It's better to upgrade to locks you can easily manage as a business or the most secure on the market if you own a home.

As a business owner, you can choose to replace your locks with a better system allowing you to manage all locks and keys. This can make it easier to deal with a lost or stolen key and help to protect your business.

The decision to rekey or replace isn't an easy one when it comes to your business or home locks. If you're not sure, a professional locksmith can inspect your locks and make a recommendation for your business or your home.

How to Choose the Right Intercom System for Your Security Needs

Whether choosing an intercom system for your commercial building or for your home, there are several things to consider. An intercom system can be used to enhance security and they come in several different types including wired and wireless intercom systems. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right intercom system for your security needs.

Wired or Wireless?

The first decision most homeowners or building owners will make is a wired or wireless intercom system. In some cases, you may not be able to use a wireless system. Wireless intercom systems don't work well for lower levels or basements in some buildings.

In the circumstances where a wireless system won't work, a wired intercom system is a great choice. This type of system will give you the opportunity to upgrade your security.

A wireless intercom system also gives you the ability to upgrade your security. It basically works as a two-way communications system with the ability to do more, if you prefer. A basic system can be upgraded to a DECT system, which will work a bit like a landline telephone. You can also add video to your intercom system.

Why Wireless May not be the Right Choice?

Sometimes wireless systems make sense, but sometimes, they don't. A wireless intercom system may be tampered with as it works a bit like a network of walkie-talkies. In addition, this type of system may be susceptible to eavesdropping and struggle from unreliable power.

A wireless intercom system can also have a limited range. It may be rather short range, which means it may not work for all buildings.

Why a Wired Intercom System May be a Great Choice?

A hardwired intercom system offers an intercom without nearly as many vulnerabilities as a wireless system. It cannot be tampered with in the same way and it won't have power issues, either. It's also a harder type of system to eavesdrop on, which makes it a bit more secure.

Making the Right Choice

While there are security concerns with a wireless system, you also don't have to worry about running wires all over your house or building to install this type of system. In addition, a wireless system makes it possible to move the units around, when necessary. It's also easy to add additional units.

Adding a wired unit when building a new building isn't as difficult as it is with an already existing building. However, it can still be done with the right intercom installation professionals to help you.

Should You Add Video?

A video intercom system can be even more secure as you can see the person paging. If your system will be used for entry into your property or home, it may be a good idea to have a video intercom system. With the right system, you'll be able to see the person trying to get in instead of just hearing their voice.

The security of your home or your building matters. Adding the right intercom system will help to upgrade your overall security. Just make sure you choose the right professionals to install your intercom system.

3 Common Repair Issues Found in Intercom Systems

Having a good intercom system is vital to some types of properties. For others, it's a nice convenience and can make life easier. However, intercom systems can often need repairs due to specific issues. There are some issues that are more common than others. Let's look at three of the most common repair issues found in intercom systems.

Static

It's not uncommon for an intercom system to end up with static from the microphone or the speaker. Static can be caused by many different parts of the audio equipment. Regular wear can cause static due to a bad connection. This could also cause the intercom to simply not create any sound. Usually, static is noticed before the intercom completely stops creating sound.

Any type of damage to your intercom system can cause static within the system. It could be caused due to a loose wire or a bad switch. Another common cause of static is interference. Even on a closed system, an intercom can experience static from interference.

The power connection can also be a source of static. Any problem with the power connection may cause static throughout the system. This could be a sight of a larger issue, too. Sometimes, a power overload or a shorting may cause static and if it's not repaired, it can cause major damage to the system. If you've noticed static within your intercom system, it's time to hire an intercom repair professional.

A Humming Noise

Another common issue with an intercom system is a humming noise heard when trying to use the system. This could be a sign of something worse and needs to be addressed immediately. It could be due to a faulty wire or connection and repair is necessary to keep the issue from getting worse.

While a humming sound may be annoying, some will just live with it and think very little of it. However, it could be a sign of something worse. When left unaddressed the issue may get worse and you may end up with an intercom system that doesn't work anymore.

Power Supply Failures

As stated above, static within your intercom system may be a sign of a larger problem. One of those larger issues is a power supply failure. When the power supply starts to go, it could cause other issues, such as static or even humming within the system.

Of course, if the power supply stops working, the intercom system will also stop working. Most intercom systems will show signs of the power supply going before it actually goes, however. Hearing more background noise may be another sign the power supply is starting to go.

The best way to address any intercom issue is to contact a professional intercom repair company. You want to choose a company with plenty of experience with your type of intercom system. Every system is a bit different and a huge part of fixing the issue is the proper diagnosis. The right repair company will be able to diagnose the problem and get it fixed quickly.

How a Security System Can Help You Save on Home Insurance Costs

Having a home security system installed offers a greater level of protection for your family and your home. Did you know it also helps you save on your home insurance rates every year?

Since a home burglary happens about every 18 seconds in the United States, according to Zacks, and the average property loss is $2,251 per incident, insurance companies offer discounts when you install a home security system to prevent this from happening.

How Much Can You Save?

The amount you will save on your home insurance depends on the type of alarm you have installed. The savings can be as much as 20%, which can really add up over time. The best way to ensure you get the highest discount is to make sure you have a home security system with central monitoring.

Multiple Savings With Multiple Protections

A home security system is just one piece of the puzzle. Just by adding this level of protection to your home, your homeowner’s insurance company will likely extend a discount. If you have the security system hooked up to central monitoring, that discount will likely go up.

In addition, when you add fire protection through monitored smoke alarms, you'll likely gain an even larger discount. This type of home security system will now protect you from fire, which could destroy your home rather quickly. Add in a sprinkler system and you'll get an even larger discount on your home insurance.

Another level of protection you can add, which may help to boost your discount is protection from carbon monoxide. With a CO detector installed and monitored as a part of your home security system, you'll have even more protection, which means your insurance company will likely extend a larger discount.

Finally, you can add in additional protections from busted pipes and other types of flooding for an even larger discount. All of these home protections can be monitored to ensure your home is as safe as possible, which keeps the insurance company very happy.

Less Risk of Cost Hikes Later

When you add a home security system you'll lower the risk of your insurance going up over time, as well. This can be a benefit that keeps paying you back every year as you could keep your insurance rates from going up.

Lower Theft Claim Quota

Another way a security system can help to lower your insurance rates is by lowering the theft claim quota. If you and your neighbors get home security systems, the total theft quota for your area may drop, which helps to save everybody money on their home insurance in the area.

There are many great reasons to have a home security system installed with full fire, carbon monoxide, and other protections. Getting a lower rate for home insurance is just one of the many reasons. However, it can help to pay for the system costs over time as your rates will become lower and you'll be less likely to see your homeowner's insurance rates go up as much over time.

What are the Added Benefits of a Full-Length Latch Guard?

Latch guards are often used as a part of passive security to help deter forcible entry. A full-length latch guard is longer than a traditional latch guard and provides many added security benefits.

Without any type of latch guard, your deadbolt or locking mechanism may be vulnerable to forcible entry. Adding a latch guard makes it harder for a criminal to break or pick the lock through the gap between the door and the frame.

The main function of a latch guard is to protect the latch or deadbolt from physical manipulation. It's an important part of your passive security and overall protection for your home or business. Here are a few benefits of using a full-length latch guard.

Better Overall Protection

When you choose a full-length latch guard it makes it even harder for criminals to break in with force or manipulation of your lock. Often, a latch guard is enough to help deter criminals from even trying.

It will become harder for anybody to use a lock pick, blunt object, pry bar or drill to get into your door when you choose a full-length latch guard. Storefronts often use these guard to keep the large gap in between the door and the jab from being exposed. With a small latch guard, it may still be possible to manipulate the lock. However, with a full-length latch guard, this becomes nearly impossible, making the door far more secure.

Visual Deterrent

For many criminals, if it looks too difficult to break into, they won't even bother. Using a full-length latch guard will help to deter criminal activity visually. This type of latch guard will make it look far more difficult to get into the door, which makes criminals think twice.

Work for Multiple Door Types

Whether you live in a condo building, house or you run a business; a full-length latch guard can be used to help protect your entry door. In addition, they can be used for outswing or inswing doors and there are several types of latch guarded to help protect just about any type of door.

Affordable Protection

One of the great benefits of a full-length latch guard is the low cost. It's a very affordable way to add an extra level of protection to any door. While these are not one-size-fits-all and it's a good idea to have a professional install your full-length latch guard, they do offer an affordable security solution.

Blend into the Look of Your Door

With multiple materials used to make latch guards, you can choose one that will blend into the overall look of your door. In fact, a full-length latch guard can easily compliment the other hardware on your door making it more secure and visually appealing.

There are several benefits you will gain from using a full-length latch guard. Choosing the right one makes a difference. It's best to have a professional look at your door and make a recommendation for the best possible security for your entryway.

How a Wrought Iron Gate Can Secure Your Building’s Perimeter

While wrought iron gates certainly add to the look of your home, they also add a feature for the security, as well. When you add a wrought iron gate to the entryway of your building, you add a level of security making it even more difficult for a burglar to get in.

Not only will these gates help to keep burglars out, but they can also set up a type of security you usually only get when you live in a condo building. Any visitors coming to the property will not be able to access your front door without first going through your gate. The gate can be set up to include a keypad to ensure nobody gets in without the code or an automatic gate opening device.

Intimidating to the Eye

Most burglars are scared away by the look of a property. A security sign deters more criminals than the actual alarm system because it's intimidating. In addition, a wrought iron gate provides one more level a burglar must conquer to get inside.

It's intimidating as the burglar has to try to climb it, trick it or find another way in. When set up correctly, a wrought iron gate will add a high level of security to the perimeter of your building.

The wrought iron is already intimidating as a material. It's not like chain link or another cheaper material that's easily cut or maneuvered to let someone in. Instead, it's solid, intimidating and hard to bypass.

Create a Complete System

The gate is just one part of the perimeter security system. You can match your wrought iron gate with a complete security fence to ensure your entire building perimeter is protected. Add in an automation kit and nobody can easily get in without your permission.

You can even choose a gate that's tall enough to become extra intimidating. Match this taller gate with a taller fence for even more security.

Add an Intercom

If you want to know who's at your gate before they get in, you can add an intercom. This can ensure you have to buzz them in just like in an apartment or condo building. You can find out who has arrived before they get past your gate and make the decision to let them in or leave them outside.

The best part about adding a wrought iron gate to your entryway is the many design options. You can fully customize your perimeter security to ensure it looks amazing, adds to the property and does the job of keeping unwanted guests away from your home.

When you choose a wrought iron gate for your entryway, you're communicating a clear message. It doesn't say everybody is welcome, but instead says, this property is well protected and only those invited will get in. This is a great way to ensure the security of your home and family. Plus, the gate can be customized to fit your specific tastes and style.