What You Need To Know About Commercial Safes

Commercial property owners know that there are a lot of things that must be accounted for on a day to day basis. It is anything but easy to be in charge of a business property of any kind. Retail shops not only need to be fully stocked each day, but employees need to be accounted for and familiar with loss prevention tactics, such as providing great customer service to customers entering the store, which not only demonstrates care for those who are shopping, but also tells people that they are being watched. Office spaces likely have many people in and out of them each day, and important items need to be kept in places that are easy to access for those who are allowed access.

The Importance of a Locksmith

So where does a locksmith come in? Those who are located in Tyler, TX have been using the services of Locksmith Tyler for years to help keep their commercial property protected. One such way that this company has helped to protect properties is through the installation of safes. Safes are especially important in places that keep money around. You just can’t have loose cash sitting out in the open, where just anyone could grab it. Not only are you more prone to theft by not having a commercial safe, but you are more prone to misplacing items. When you count money each night to deposit into your safe, so that it is ready to be taken to the bank in the morning, you can trust that every last bill will be accounted for if it is cautiously locked away. And safes aren’t only important for properties that keep money on the premises.

Other Reasons to Have a Safe

You likely also have paperwork that is significant to your operations. Whether that paperwork entails details on things to get done for the day, or maybe even has customer payment information, it should be kept in a place that cannot easily be accessed by people who shouldn’t have access. Again, not only does this keep items which are significant out of reach, but it helps to keep things organized. Organization is key to any business getting things done. If you ask a locksmith in Tyler, Texas, they will tell you that a safe serves as a visual deterrent to those who are considering stealing from you. In essence, there is every reason to have a commercial safe installed, and no reason not to.

A lock and security expert who specializes in commercial solutions will be able to set up a safe for you. They are also good to contact if you ever end up locked out of your safe for any reason. Let’s face it – employees working at a clothing shop might mistakenly enter the wrong code if they are opening a store first thing in the morning and just aren’t quite fully awake yet. This could end up causing them to get locked out of said safe, which means that they are unable to grab the money out of it to take to the bank for deposit. Luckily, locksmiths generally offer 24/7 availability, so they can be contacted for assistance at any time, which is beneficial to commercial property owners who work sometimes outside of regular business hours of operation.

In essence, commercial safes can provide the security that you need, which will allow you to focus on other aspects of your daily operations and to-do list. Here are some other things you should know:

1. Commercial safes come in various materials and are available in different sizes. You might own a small shop that only needs a small safe. Or you might be more concerned with having a larger sized, fire proof safe. These are things to discuss with a lock and security provider, as they have all of the knowledge and experience to point you in the right direction. The options can get overwhelming.
2. Commercial safes come with many options. For instance…
   1. One could get a deposit box. If you own a retail shop or restaurant, you might want to consider a deposit box or drop safe. These are generally keypad operated, so an employee will be given a code to get into them.
   2. Office safes are another option. They can be bolted down to the floor so that a thief wouldn’t be able to pick it up and drop it repetitively in an attempt to open it.
   3. In floor safes are an even less conspicuous option. They can actually be concealed on the ground.
   4. High security safes are sometimes a pricier option, but an effective one. They have security features that complete prevent someone from being able to get into them. A person can smash this kind of safe, drill into it, or anything else they can think of, only to find that the high security safe cannot be broken.

Hopefully this information helps you to make the best decision for your commercial property, and hopefully you consider the importance and protection that are offered by a safe. Safes come in all shapes and sizes, so they also are available for various price ranges. If you have questions, reach out to an expert for assistance. You will find their expertise to be incredibly helpful.

Locksmith Tyler is one such company in Tyler, Texas that provides safe installation services for commercial property owners who are looking for more advanced protection. Check out a locksmith in your area and be sure to get in touch with them. They usually offer consultations for free, so that they can answer any questions you have and you can get the information you need. Don’t let the amount of options overwhelm you – narrow down what is important to you and what you hope to gain by having a safe installed, and a professional will be able to take it from there!

Aricle source here: What You Need To Know About Commercial Safes

Types of Residential and Commercial Locks

With so many different types of residential and commercial locks to choose from, finding the right one might be a little overwhelming, even with the help of a locksmith from Locksmith Tyler in Tyler, TX. Sometimes it helps to see what your options are in ‘black and white’. This is why we are presenting the options that are available to you, in writing. We are sure that you are probably already aware of the most commonly used residential and commercial locks: Deadbolt, padlocks, levers and knob locks. There are others that you may not be as familiar with, which we have also highlighted in this article.

Rim/Mortise Locks

These types of locks are typically used for commercial doors and apartments. Rim and mortise locks, although similar, have different hardware. Rim cylinder locks are generally found on the inside of the door. They have a long metal part that extends from the back of the lock, which extends through the door into the lock mechanism on the other side. Mortise locks have mortise hardware that is mounted inside the door. They are held together by a setscrew and use a cam to engage the locking hardware. They are offered in various lengths and cams, based on the type of mortise hardware used.

Deadbolt Locks

There are actually three types of deadbolt locks that are used most often: single locks, double and thumb turn. It is the Single cylinder deadbolt that is most commonly used for residential use. A key cylinder is used outside the door with a thumb turn on the inside, which enables you to open and close it. A double cylinder deadbolt lock has a key cylinder on the inside and outside of the door. The disadvantage of this type of deadbolt lock is that a key is always necessary to open it from the inside if locked. This means that if there is a fire, you would need the appropriate to key get out. If used for residential use, keeping a key on the inside of the door is recommended, so that exiting is possible during an emergency situation. The Thumb turn deadbolt is a combination of both the single and double. The Thumb turn inside the lock functions like a regular single cylinder deadbolt. The difference is that the thumb turn can be locked with a key. You are able to achieve maximum security with the use of a thumb turn deadbolt lock.

Wall Mounted Locks

These are the types of locks used for businesses. The ones used most often are the fireman box style and Knox-Box. They can be used to store building keys. However, they are also used as safes. This type of lock is usually installed during construction. However, it is still possible to install a wall mounted lock after the building has already been constructed. Some wall locks are mounted with alarm sensors, which detect unauthorized entry.

Knob Locks

This is the type of lock that you’ll generally find on the exterior of home doors but shouldn’t be used them as the primary source of your home security. The problem is that the lock cylinder is located within the knob and not inside the door. This makes it easy for a burglar to simply break the knob to access the locking/unlocking mechanism. It is generally more useful to have a knob lock along with a deadbolt lock.

Lever Handle Locks

These types of locks can usually be found on the interior doors of commercial businesses. They offer easy access. They have a large handle that you can simply push down to gain access. This type of lock is great when attempting make a business handicap accessible.

Padlocks

This is not a permanent lock. Padlocks are offered in different sizes and can be moved from one door to the next. There are two different types to choose from, combination and keyed. The combination padlock uses number dials, which enable you to open the lock once the correct code is entered. The keyed padlock comes in non-rekeyable and rekeyable. The non-keyable lock doesn’t enable you to change the lock. They can also be non-key-retaining and key-retaining. A key-retaining lock will not allow you to remove the key with the lock is open.

Jimmy Proof Deadbolts

The Jimmy proof deadbolt lock is usually located on apartment doors and double doors. There is generally a limited amount of modifications that need to be made to the door to install. The lock interlocks with the jamb bracket, which makes it difficult to pull apart or forced open from outside. This type of lock screws right into the inside of the door and does not have a drill pattern. The only thing that has to be done is drill a hole through the door to insert the rim cylinder.

Rim Latch Locks

With this type of lock, you’ll find a rim cylinder on one side with a surface mount latch on the opposite side. This type of lock is used on apartment complex doors. This is not the type of lock that would serve as a primary lock but would be used along with another type of more durable lock, when used externally.

Interchangeable Core Cylinders

These are usually found in larger businesses. They are well-known for their easy of use and re-keying. This can be accomplished without taking the lock completely apart. It only requires that the core be changed. There are two types of keys that will work with an interchangeable core cylinder and this is a standard key lock and a control key. This is what makes this type of lock so useful. You can change the lock without changing its hardware. This enables you to upgrade your lock in no time. It is not possible to install an interchangeable core cylinder in a standard deadbolt lock or locks that will not take an interchangeable core cylinder. Those that do not accept an interchangeable core cylinder will be indicated with the figure eight on the outside.

Aricle source here: Types of Residential and Commercial Locks

YOUR CAR KEY IS STUCK IN THE IGNITION; WHAT DO YOU DO?

A stuck ignition key happens from time to time. Trying to deal with this issue can be frustrating, expensive and very time consuming. Before you start calling all over Tyler, TX for an automotive locksmith there are a few things that you can do first on your own. Here at Locksmith Tyler we always advise our customers to stay calm and not panic. We know that it’s easier said than done but anytime you involve a heavy metallic, moving object like a car you need to keep control of your wits if possible. A key stuck in the ignition makes the vehicle inoperable. This is the part that scares most folks; they feel helpless, stranded and confused. Is your car still running with the key stuck? You most likely will not be able to drive it or even turn it off. Is your car turned off and the key is stuck in the ignition? You can forget going anywhere until this problem is fixed.

YOU NEVER LEARNED THIS IN DRIVER’S ED! 

If you are dealing with a stuck ignition key simply start this simple troubleshooting process.

• Put on your parking brake. No, that won’t get your ignition key out but it will prevent you from rolling away while you work at removing it!

• Next, try turning the key back and forth while applying gentle pressure on it. Your goal is to find a free spot and gently unlock the steering wheel. Don’t force it! You don’t need your problem compounded by also having to deal with a broken off key! Many times wiggling the ignition key like this can unlock your steering wheel and put an end to your problem.

• If you are still locked up, check to make sure that your car is in PARK and not DRIVE or NEUTRAL. Automatic transmissions will not allow you to turn the ignition on when in these positions and often tired or distracted drivers can find themselves in the wrong gear.

• Try cleaning the ignition lock cylinder. If the key won’t go in or will not turn, the switch itself might be clogged or dirty. Spray some electrical contact cleaner to clear out the dirt and then follow with a spritz of silicone to lubricate the lock. Do this with the car window(s) open so that you are not exposed to an accumulation of fumes. Now try the key and see if it goes in and turns.

• Is your car turned off? Try moving the steering wheel back and forth to unlock it. At the same time try and remove the ignition key.

• Check for a dead battery. Does your dashboard light up? Can you turn your headlights or the radio on? If not, your battery may have died and your car’s computer won’t be able to read the chip in the ignition key.

NOW WHAT?

If you’ve tried the above with no success then it’s time to call for an automotive locksmith shop like Locksmith Tyler. We offer responsive 24-hour mobile service to local Tyler, TX residents at affordable rates and with guaranteed results. If you already have locksmith that you work with, give him a call. While you are waiting make sure that the key is kept in the locked position to avoid draining your battery.If you have a spare key you can lock the vehicle if you would rather wait nearby in an air conditioned building or if you need to get a drink or use the restroom.

No matter which locksmith shop you work with be sure to keep our/their number stored in your smart phone for quick and stress free access anytime, day or night. Locksmith problems always seem to happen when we least expect them or at the wrong time. Be one-up on your locksmith issue by having quick access to your favorite local lock technician (or one of ours here at Locksmith Tyler) by using your mobile device contact list.

CAUSES OF THE PROBLEM 

You may have loose cables inside the dashboard or behind the ignition. If so, they’ll need replacement if too badly worn.

You may have a dead battery as previously mentioned. In newer/modern cars, a dead battery means your key will remain in the ignition.

Your wheel lock cylinder is worn. Every time you start your car or insert the ignition key it reduces the life cycle of your vehicle’s wheel lock mechanism.

One common problem with stuck ignition keys is that a wrong key was used in the first place. This is fairly easy to do. Many auto keys look alike and are only slightly different. The wrong key can sometimes “almost” fit going in but it won’t turn and can sometimes become stuck. Many online sources recommend that you lightly hammer the top of the key to loosen it in order to remove it. Here at Locksmith Tyler we discourage this idea as it is so easy to not only break your key off but it can also result in damage to the ignition itself.

Do you have a worn out key? This too is a common problem as keys are often used to open sealed boxes, puncture surfaces and even open cans! Use and wear can slightly alter a key to the point that it is ineffective when inserted into your ignition. The cylinder’s interior pins will not drop correctly allowing the key to work as it should. If your transponder key is damaged like this you will likely need a new one made and programmed. You can spend a tidy fortune by having your car towed to your dealership and serviced there, or you can do the smart thing and call a licensed, bonded and insured automotive locksmith like Locksmith Tyler and have us conveniently and affordably service your keys and ignition system right there while you wait. A good vehicle locksmith will offer 24/7 coverage so make sure that yours does!

Aricle source here: YOUR CAR KEY IS STUCK IN THE IGNITION; WHAT DO YOU DO?

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Discovering you’re in a tough spot with locks and keys is no picnic. It’s always infuriating and never convenient, especially after dark. But don’t waste time worrying and wondering if the help you need will ever come. All you have to do is dial your phone, and Locksmith Tyler will come to the rescue!

CALL NOW! (469) 208-6880

When you need a trusty locksmith, Locksmith Tyler is undeniably your go-to locksmith in Tyler, Texas! We’re open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week!

Emergency, automotive, residential, or commercial ~ any locksmith service you need, when it comes to tracking down the right locksmith in Tyler, Locksmith Tyler is positively first-rate!

If you’re locked out, no matter where you’re stranded in Tyler, Texas, Locksmith Tyler will soon get you out of trouble!

CALL DAY OR NIGHT! (469) 208-6880

Aricle source here: Missed our Streamed Video! You can watch it on Youtube!

The Various Kinds of Locks

Whether you have a home, office or a car in Tyler, Texas, you will find that there are locks galore when you finally go shopping for new ones. With so many variations to choose from, it can be a challenge to know which would work best for your specific property. One might wonder if a specific manufacturer is better than another or if a certain type of lock is more durable than a competitor. Someone going shopping for new locks for the first time in years might be absolutely amazed to find that nowadays, one can get into their property using their fingerprint thanks to unique recognition systems, similar to ones that enable access to the latest smartphone models such as the iPhone 6s. Have a look at some of the most common types of locks on the market. It is always a good idea to call a professional if you are unsure which type of locks you need for your property. Keep in mind that these are only some of the lock types available, to provide a better idea of what is on the market today.

Deadbolts

Deadbolts are popular in homes throughout the country. The reason is because they provide an added protective layer, so that one who is relaxing at home alone will feel safer, knowing that even if one lock is broken, their deadbolt is in place to protect them. There are double cylinder deadbolts as well as single cylinder deadbolts. The single cylinder deadbolts let one open their door from the outside thanks to a turn button. A double cylinder deadbolt can actually be opened from the inside or the outside so long as the individual has a key. As a matter of fact, it is essentially impossible to open a door with a double cylinder deadbolt if one does not have a key. At least, to do so, a great deal of damage would be caused to the property. Deadbolts are certainly good to consider for apartment home owners, condo owners, townhome owners and single family home owners. Local businesses such as Locksmith Tyler are able to provide affordable deadbolt installation.

Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are most common for residential properties. With this lockset, one will find a rectangular box. Other components include a knob, keyholes and faceplates. As long as the outside knob is not locked, one can open this sort of lock from the inside or the outside.

Keyless Locks

Keyless locks are continuing to gain momentum and become more and more popular. One will frequently have to enter a code to get into their property, or they could even set some keyless locks up so that a fingerprint can be used to gain entry. Often times, if an incorrect code is entered into the system too many times, an alarm will sound to alert the property owner or authorities that something is wrong.

 Smart Locks/Digital Locks

Smart locks are ones that can be unlocked without using a key at all. Sometimes, people refer to these as keyless entry locks, but often times one that allow a user to gain entry using their fingerprint is referred to as a smart lock or digital lock. Anyone who owns a commercial property would benefit from this type of lock. Talk to a locksmith in Tyler, TX about Bluetooth enabled locks or smart locks. A professional will be able to answer any questions one might have about this unique, modern day type of lock.

 Padlocks

One can’t forget about good old padlocks. These types of locks do not come permanently attached to a fixture; rather, they can be removed and brought to the location in which they are needed. Some use them for bikes; others use them for storage units and other means. One can take advantage of keyed padlocks or combination padlocks. Simply put, if a person opts for a keyed padlock, they will want to keep its key handy. If one opts for a combination padlock, it is important to pick a code that they can easily remember, but that a stranger would not be able to figure out.

 Wall Mounted Locks

This type of lock is mounted in the wall, as the name implies. Bigger commercial properties tend to use these types of locks, for instance, the fireman’s box style lock. A lock that is mounted in the wall can be used in a similar manner to a safe. If one has a commercial property, they might consider seeing if a wall mounted box can be installed (often times, they are set up while the building is being constructed). These do come with advanced security, so it will be detected if someone is attempting to gain unwanted access to a property.

From lever handle locks to knob locks, and furniture locks to patio locks, there are many other variations to choose from. There are also vast arrays of major manufacturers who create these locks, and it can be difficult to know if the best choice is Yale, Medeco, Kaba, Mul-T-Lock, Chubb Locks, Best Lock Corporation or another brand. Their products can typically be found online but a wise idea would be to get in touch with an expert who will have familiarity with the specific brands and their products.

When in doubt, reach out to a Tyler, Texas locksmith or a lock and security provider in your location to ask any questions that might arise. Security is something that can’t be thrown to the backburner – it can result in serious property loss if one does not take adequate steps to protect their residential, commercial or even automotive property. With the right locks, peace of mind can be attained. Do take a few moments of time to do your research if searching for the best type of lock for your specific property and needs. Remember that it can make all of the difference in the world when it comes to peace of mind, convenience and security.

Source:  The Various Kinds of Locks