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?