Keeping a copy of all your important paperwork safe in one place is a great way to ensure that you have access to things like proofs of purchases, insurance policies, and even wills. But keeping paperwork in a desk drawer or under the bed is not the safest plan – what if a fire breaks out or someone infiltrates your home and steals all the important stuff? Consider hiring a locksmith to install a fireproof floor safe in a closet of your home or in the basement where all of your important paperwork and investments can be kept. You’ll have instant access to it all when you need it, and it will be safe from theft and destruction when you don’t. You might be surprised at how many ways a locksmith can help keep your property at home safe. Explore the pages here for more information!
If you or your family members are prone to losing keys, or if you want to allow certain people access to your home without making dozens of extra keys, then a keyless door lock may be right for you. Keyless locks offer several good features, but they have downsides as well. Here are some pros and cons of using keyless locks for your home.
Pro: No more keys
A keyless combination lock means no more fumbling or fussing for keys. If your kids are prone to losing keys, then there's no worry about the wrong person finding the keys. The same can be true about neighbors or contractors not returning your keys when they no longer need them. Traditional keys are also prone to getting stuck or broken, and standard locks are easy to pick.
Con: Codes can be forgotten
If you or your kids forget the code, then a keyless combination lock may prove frustrating. Writing the codes down will mean searching through pockets and purses when you need to find them. Also, writing it down is a security risk because it means it can get lost or fall in the wrong hands. One offset to this problem is that if your kids have a cell phone, they can call you for a code. The same goes for letting other people in while you are not home.
Pro: Easy to reprogram
Most keyless locks are easily re-programmable, so if you gave the code to someone to do work on your home, you can easily change that code after they're done. The same goes with a family member who might have forgotten the code. When someone moves out or you notice suspicious activity around your home, it will be easy and quick to change codes.
Con: Some are not thief-proof
Some keyless locks, such as remote wireless locks, can be hacked. Keyless locks also don't prevent "shoulder surfing" which is someone watching you press the code without you knowing. Many of these types of locks are not deadbolts, so the chances of someone breaking the door open increase.
In addition to the pros and cons listed above, another thing to consider is that many models run solely on electricity, making entry difficult during a power outage. If you plan to use these types of locks, consider using it on only one entry door if possible. Make sure that the lock you buy is as strong as a dead-bolt lock. It is recommended that you change combinations frequently. If you think a keyless lock might be right for you, talk to a locksmith like LI Locksmiths Inc about different models and installation services.
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