Helpful Advice to Prevent a House Lockout

Have you ever had a long, tiring day at work and headed home only to find you left your keys inside the house? It happens to everyone. Now, you would probably agree that a house lockout is never fun. So here are a few tips on keeping your house key safe so you will not end up locked out of your home.

How Do You Avoid a House Lockout

You can follow these simple tips to prevent getting locked out of your house.

Never leave without your keys

Do you always take your keys with you when you leave the house? Most people always carry their keys, but some forget to take them when they leave the house. That could be dangerous. So if you are one of those who keep forgetting their keys, give yourself at least three weeks of actively reminding yourself to check for your keys whenever you walk out the door. Sure, getting used to this new routine might take some time. Yet, making this a habit will mean always carrying your keys with you!

Always have a spare key

Ensuring you have an extra lock key should be at the top of your to-do list. If you misplace the original, an extra key gives you access to your apartment or house. So it is a good idea to visit a residential locksmith and get a spare key made from your original. With a duplicate key, you will not have to worry about being locked out.

Having an extra key helps prevent house lockout

Keep an extra key somewhere safe

Having a spare key somewhere safe is one of the best things you can do to prevent getting locked out of your house. Yet, you never know when you might lose your keys. At Universal Best Locksmith, we have plenty of clients that lose their keys when they are away from home. When this happens, you must contact an emergency locksmith service quickly. A reliable locksmith will come to your location and help you open the lock.

Try using a key lock box

Many people hide a key outside their homes to prevent locking themselves out. While this may seem easy and effective, burglaries rarely involve forced entry. Yet here begs the question: How do burglars usually break in? By finding that hidden key! As this is what they do for a living, they know and can easily find where you hide your keys. So, rather than stashing away a key, why not hide it in a lockbox? Opting for a lock box is more secure than simply hiding a key outside your property.

Leave behind traditional locks and opt for a smart lock

A smart lock could be the ideal solution if you are worried about security. Smart locks come in many forms, from keypad combinations to fingerprint and eye-scanning locks. So research which type best meets your needs and ensure it is good quality and dependable. Investing in a smart lock may seem pricey up front, but it could save you money on emergency lockout fees. So get a smart lock today, and never worry about intruders entering your house again!

A homeowner using an electronic key to open a smart lock

Avoid a House Lockout With Careful Maintenance

Locks are one of the most important measures guaranteeing a home’s safety. Therefore, homeowners should inspect their locks regularly to ensure higher security levels. For this to happen, you must know how to spot an issue with your locks. Of course, you can always call an expert locksmith to provide your needed service.

The best way to avoid being locked out is to take good care of your locks. That involves lubricating parts to keep them running well or replacing entire locks that are no longer working as intended. Get professional lock replacement service. Locksmiths guarantee their work, something that hardware stores may not offer.

Locksmith Near Me

Got locked out of your house? Universal Best Locksmith is a top-notch locksmith company serving Studio City and the nearby areas. Our certified locksmiths are available 24/7. Our locksmith services range from house to auto lockouts, rekeying, new lock installation, and much more. We are ready to help you with your locksmith needs—whether you have issues with your door locks or need to add some safety and security to your home, do not hesitate to contact us. Call us today to request a quote.

February 6, 2023

A Guide to the Different Types of Door Knobs for Homes

Have you heard of the saying, “The door handle is the handshake of the building?” Door handles and door knobs are vital in our interaction with buildings and homes. They provide us with a way to enter and exit rooms and can be used to open and close doors.

Whether you are updating your home or building a new one from scratch, the door hardware you choose can greatly impact your home’s overall look. There are many types of knobs to choose from, and each has specific benefits. Hence, it is important to know what you are shopping for exactly.

A Guide to the Different Types of Door Knobs for Homes

Dummy Door Knobs

Dummy door knobs are designed to provide a consistent look throughout the home but serve no functional purpose. They come in single and double options.

A single dummy door knob, handle, or lever is designed for installation on just the visible side of the door. Meanwhile, double dummy door knobs come in a pair of matching knobs or handles designed to be fitted and used to decorate a single doorway.

How you install your double door knob may depend on the door type. For instance, you may install it on both sides of a single door as a single unit or separate the unit and install them on opposing double doors.

Passage Door Knobs

Passage door knobs and handles are designed for areas inside the home that do not require privacy, such as hallways, closets, kitchens, and pantries. They have a simple latch you can turn as you rotate the knob or handle. The only difference is that passage door knobs lack a lock. On the other hand, dummy door knobs are stationary and do not even turn.

Passage door knobs and handles come in various styles, including decorative glass knobs and handles and ornately cast metal pieces.

Interior Mortise Door Knobs

Mortise locks are typically found on older doors and offer a more traditional look. These door knobs are often paired with skeleton keys and linked to a deadbolt for added privacy.

Keep in mind that while mortise locks are very secure, they can be difficult to install. That is because mortise door knobs typically feature a large rectangular lock built into the knob itself instead of being separate from it. Thus, giving the knob a more solid appearance. If you are interested in installing a mortise lock, call the nearest residential locksmith in your area for expert door lock installation.

Keyed Entrance Door Knobs

A keyed entrance door knob or handle can offer protection and privacy. It comes with a key to lock and unlock the door. These are typically installed on exterior doors but can also be used on interior doors for privacy. Just be careful not to lose the key, or you will have to call for residential locksmith services to replace or rekey your door lock.

A keyed entrance door knob or handle interior section varies by each hardware manufacturer. Typically, a push-button lock that releases when the knob is turned will be inside a keyed cylinder on the outside. However, some hardware manufacturers also have a turn button on the knob, which requires you to unlock it manually.

Locksmith Services From Universal Best Locksmith

So which type of door knob is right for you? Universal Best Locksmith provides you with all the hardware solutions you need for your home or office. You can choose from our wide variety of door locks, from the conventional style to modern ones. Plus, we offer premium and genuine smart locks from the most trusted brands in the smart door lock industry at reasonable prices.

That is not all, though! Many Los Angeles residents rely on our local locksmith services, including the most expected lock service, such as a lock rekey, and the most complicated door lock repair services you can imagine. As a result, we are regarded as the top security provider offering locksmith services for homes and businesses. Our pleased clients, who inspire us with hundreds of positive ratings, can attest to this further. For emergency locksmith services, call (323) 844-0381 or fill out our online request form for inquiries.

January 16, 2023

Types of Lubricants for Door Locks and Hinge

While your door locks are important to keep intruders out, these mechanisms also experience wear and tear from regular use. Proper lubrication helps keep door locks and hinges in great working order. However, lubricating door locks and hinges is not just a matter of appearance. The lubricants used on these components should be specifically formulated for this purpose. Otherwise, using the wrong lubricant can cause the locking mechanisms to fail or cause rusting on the hinges.

How do you know which lubricant to use on your door hinges or door locks? At Universal Best Locksmiths, we understand how frustrating and stressful it can be to get locked out of your home because of a poorly lubricated front door. In this post, we explain the different types of lubricants for door locks and hinges, including the pros and cons of each.

Different Types of Lubricants for Door Locks and Hinges

Household Door Locks Lubricant

Looking around the house, you can find and use many products for your DIY lubrication. These products include cooking oil, olive oil, hairspray, petroleum jelly, paraffin candles, and many others. Using these common items can save money and still get the job done correctly. For example, cooking and olive oil are great choices for stopping squeaky door noises due to bad hinges. Many people use oil for this purpose, as it can be a quick and easy fix, aside from being inexpensive.

Petroleum jelly as lubricant for door locks

However, one drawback of using oils is that they can oxidize quickly compared to other types of lubricants. Additionally, oils tend to attract dirt and grime, which can then accumulate on the pivot areas of door hinges. For these reasons, using a different type of lock lubricant on your door hinges and latches is best.

White Lithium Grease

Lithium grease is a lubricant thicker than regular grease and repels water. That can help prevent rust and corrosion on metal parts. Lithium grease is also designed to cling to surfaces and withstand harsh conditions like rain and snow. Some common places you might use lithium grease include door hinges, engine hoods, and rear trunk lids.

WD-40 for Door Locks

WD-40 is a lubricant that you can use on both household and automotive parts. It is a corrosion inhibitor that protects your locks and hardware against moisture and other corrosive substances to stop rust. Also, it frees sticky mechanisms, breaks down rust-to-metal bonds, and aids in the release of corroded, frozen, or stuck metal components. In addition, silicone spray lubricates areas with non-metal parts and is gentler than other lubricants.

Graphite Lubricant

Dry graphite lubricant is ideal for applications where a lubricant free of petroleum products or avoiding oil build-up is necessary. At room temperature, this lubricant dries quickly. Additionally, this lubricant resists dirt, dust, and oil accumulation, making it an excellent choice for locks.

How Often Should You Lubricate Your Door Locks and Hinges?

It is important to lubricate your door locks and hinges regularly to keep them in good working condition. However, there is no set schedule for this. It merely depends on the type of lock and where it is located. For example, interior door locks may only need to be lubricated once a year, whereas locks exposed to outdoor elements may need to be lubricated more often.

Door Lock Repair Near Me

Need a locksmith you can trust? Look no further than Universal Best Locksmiths. We provide locksmith services in Studio City and nearby areas. In addition, our mobile team provides emergency locksmith services, regardless of the time of day or night. We also offer lock repair for commercial spaces and security requirements for homes and cars. So grab your phone and call 323-844-0381 for the best locksmith services around.

December 12, 2022

Keep Your Property Safe With a Multipoint Locking System

Are you thinking of ways to improve the security of your front door? Why not invest in a high-quality multipoint locking system for your front door lock? You will feel more at ease knowing that it is doing its part to keep your family and property safe.

There are many types of locks on the market and deciding which is right for you can take time. Of course, the traditional door knob lock and deadbolt lock combo is a good option. Although, a multipoint door lock can reinforce your entryway and make your home even more secure.

Keep Your Property Safe With a Multipoint Locking System

This feature by our lock experts at Universal Best Locksmith is all about the multipoint locking system. By the end, you will know what a multipoint lock is and be able to choose if it is the best locking mechanism for your doors.

How Do Multipoint Locking Systems Work?

You can increase the security of your front and back doors with multipoint locking systems. A multipoint lock contains several locking points along the edge of the door and extends most of the way up to the full height of the door.

A multipoint locking system installed in a rental property

These additional locks create a tighter seal along the door, top-to-bottom, making it more difficult for intruders to force enter your home. In addition, this compression makes the door more weathertight, which can help to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Door locks come in various styles, but multipoint lock door hardware is one of the most secure. This type of lock works the same on the inside and outside of the door. Turning the key secures or opens the door, no matter which side you are on. With a multipoint locking system, you get additional security with the same effort – or less, depending on what type of lock you are upgrading from.

One of the best things about this lock is that you do not have to worry about locking up when you leave. Instead, you can set the lock so it secures your door after it shuts. In this way, while you are rushing to leave, you will not have to worry about anything else.

Although you can add a multipoint locking system to an existing door, it is not always the best idea. Not all doors can accommodate a multipoint lock. If you want to add one to an existing door, it is best to speak with Universal Best Locksmith first.

Can a Multipoint Locking System Be Installed on Any Doors?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. While the best approach to secure your doors is multipoint locks, it is crucial to understand what kind of door they can be installed on. Hinged and sliding doors require different systems. Ask your door lock installation provider what doors are available with factory-installed multipoint locks. As modifications frequently void door warranties, factory installs will save time and should safeguard your door’s warranty.

A multipoint locking system on a commercial door

Smart Key Lock on a Multipoint Locking System

As technology progresses, even our household products are getting smarter. Multipoint door locks are one example of this. Yale Conexis® L1 Smart Door Lock multipoint locking systems come with Smart Door Lock technology, providing an extra layer of protection for your front door. In addition, if you lose your key or need to replace a lock, you can use the SmartKey learn tool to adapt your lock to a new key.

Conclusion

There is no denying that a multipoint locking system can be a great way to up the security in your home. Not only does it provide an extra layer of protection, but it can also help to deter thieves and burglars.

Locksmith Near Me

At Universal Best Locksmith, we commit ourselves to provide you with state-of-the-art security solutions. Our latest multipoint locking system is perfect for ensuring your safety and peace of mind. Our skilled locksmith will professionally install the system for you, so you can be sure it will work properly. In addition to door lock repair services, we also offer residential locksmith and car locksmith services. Call us now for free estimates.

November 28, 2022

Lock Rekey: Why You Should Do It and How to Do It?

Lock rekey is a cost-effective alternative to changing your lock system. With so many people moving around today, it is not uncommon for you to find yourself wanting to change the locks at your home or business. And while changing the locks may seem simple, rekey is way more complicated than you might think. So here, we will explain why you should rekey your locks and how to do it.

What is Lock Rekey?

Replacing a door lock is a straightforward process. A locksmith swaps out your old lock for a new one. Rekeying, on the other hand, is different. With rekeying, the locksmith replaces your old key with a new one that will work with the existing lock. The lock is first disassembled, then some internal parts, like the key pins and tumblers, are replaced to prevent using the old key with the current lock.

Why Should I Have a Lock Rekey?

Let us look at the top four reasons you might need rekeying service.

Moving to a New Home

Getting your locks rekeyed as soon as you settle into a new house or apartment would be smart. This way, the previous occupants will have no way to access your home. Sometimes, your real estate agents or landlords may also have spare keys to your property. To be safe, you should consider rekeying or changing the locks when you move in.

Your Keys Are Lost

Losing your keys can be a problematic experience. You constantly worry about a stranger finding your keys and breaking into your home. Lock rekeying as soon as possible is a good idea when losing your key. Doing so will keep your home secure. It is also less expensive than replacing your lock with a high-grade deadbolt lock.

Your Keys Are Stolen

Theft is another good reason to rekey your locks. If you have strong reasons to believe your keys were stolen, it is best to rekey your locks as soon as possible.

Convenience

Convenience is one good reason to rekey the locks on your doors. For one, rekeying can reduce the number of keys you need to keep track of. In addition, having a single key that opens all your locks is much more convenient than carrying multiple keys.

How to Do Lock Rekey

Rekeying a lock replaces the inner components, known as tumblers or key pins. It is done by disassembling the lock and replacing the old parts with new ones.

Inside a pin and tumbler lock is a steel cutaway that houses a cylindrical plug, springs, and pins. The pins enable a particular key shape to rotate the lock. Only the key that corresponds to the depth of the lock’s special grooves will open it.

A locksmith performing lock rekey service

Therefore, to rekey your lock, you or a locksmith must first disassemble the lock. Then you take out the current pins and put in new ones designed to work with the new key. As a result, the lock’s newly inserted pins and springs will only work with the new key. The old key will no longer work.

Rekeying your locks is a straightforward process that can be completed relatively quickly, provided you have the right knowledge and tools. However, hiring a professional locksmith is often the best option when you have multiple brands of locks or need clarification on what kind of locks you have.

Locksmith Near Me

Our skilled local locksmiths at Universal Best Locksmith are licensed professionals renowned for offering reliable, timely, and professional locksmith services. Let us save you the time and inconvenience of rekeying or replacing your lock if you live in Studio City or the surrounding area.

Aside from rekeying, Universal Best Locksmith can handle your other locksmithing concerns. Our residential locksmith and car locksmith services are always available for emergencies. Call us at (323) 844-0381 for free estimates!

October 8, 2022

Why Deadbolt Lock Is Best for Your Front Door

Having a deadbolt lock on your home’s external doors can help to deter burglars and reduce the chance of a break-in. Research found that more than 60% of house burglaries in the US involve forced entry, such as kicking or prying open a door. It often happens because the typical pin tumbler lock found on most doorknobs is much weaker than a deadbolt lock, which offers better protection against forced entry.

What is a Deadbolt Lock?

A deadbolt is a type of lock with a latch that is square in shape and is opened with a physical key. Standard locks are not as effective as deadbolts. A burglar can more easily enter your home through a standard lock because it is not as strong as a deadbolt with a steel bar. Deadbolts are often used for security because they provide greater protection than door knobs and lever locks.

Different Types of Deadbolt Locks

Single-Cylinder Deadbolt

A single-cylinder is a great choice if you want an effective, easy-to-use deadbolt lock. This type of lock features an exterior keyhole and an interior thumbturn lock, so you can easily lock and unlock your door as needed.

Deadbolt Lock with Two Cylinders

There are only two keys needed to unlock the double-cylinder deadbolt. For extra security, you can only lock and unlock the door from the inside using a key.

Keyless Deadbolt Locks

Locks that do not require keys are becoming increasingly popular, with keypad locks and smart locks being the two most common types. Keypad locks require a numerical code or passcode to lock and unlock, while smart locks use Wi-Fi networks to do so wirelessly.

Deadbolt Lock Classification

The ANSI (American National Standards Institute) deadbolt grade system is a way of classifying locks according to their security and durability. Grade one is the highest and indicates a very secure lock, while grade three is the lowest. This system considers factors such as the lock’s strength, the quality of the materials used, and the length of the latch.

Grade 3

These deadbolts have passed tests to resist 800,000 openings and closings. They are resistant to two strikes of 75 pounds of force and have a latch bolt that is 5/8 of an inch in diameter. Of the three classifications, they receive the lowest grade for security.

Grade 2

This group of deadbolts is quite similar to grade 3 deadbolts. They share the same latch bolt size, test openings, and test closings. The difference is that these deadbolts can withstand five blows, each exerting 75 pounds of force.

Grade 1

These heavy-duty deadbolts are the ideal option to secure warehouse doors. They undergo rigorous testing before approval, including a million openings and closings. The latch bolt is a full inch long, and these deadbolts can withstand up to ten blows from a 75-pound force without budging.
Installing a deadbolt lock is essential for boosting security and giving yourself peace of mind. However, to ensure that the lock works properly and effectively secures your home, it is important to have it installed by a skilled residential locksmith. They can also provide additional security measures, such as the size of screws and strike plates.

Installing a deadbolt lock is essential for boosting security

Locksmith Services Near Me

When it comes to home security, there is no room for complacency. Burglars are becoming increasingly brazen, and we must do everything we can to protect our possessions. The front door is usually the first line of defense against intruders, so it is important to ensure it is as secure as possible.

At Universal Best Locksmith, we understand the importance of home security, so we offer a wide range of professional locksmith services at competitive prices. Whether you need a commercial locksmith, automotive locksmith, or emergency locksmith services, we are here to help 24/7. Call us today for free estimates.

October 4, 2022

How to Choose the Perfect Door Lock for Your Home

Choosing the right locks for your home is no one-size-fits-all solution. You must carefully consider the type of door you are securing and its specific security rating. With so many types of locks on the market, selecting the best option for your home can seem daunting. The experts at Universal Best Locksmith provided a dependable guide for purchasing a high-quality door lock for your home to assist you.

Consider the Kind of Lock You Require

When choosing the right door lock for your home, one of the most important considerations is the kind of lock you need. Most exterior doors, including the front and garage doors, require locks you can open with a key from the outside. This type of lock has a thumb-turnable cylinder on the interior side of the door.

Unfortunately, it means that the only way to open the door when locked is with a key from the outside. Another type of lock you may want to consider is a passage lock. A passage lock is a good choice for interior doors, such as those leading to your bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets.

Choose the Appropriate Lock for Each Door

When choosing a door lock for your home, it is important to consider the different types available. Traditional door locks are the most common, but non-connected deadbolts and smart locks are becoming more popular, too.

This type of lock has a thumb-turnable cylinder

A single-cylinder door lock is referred to as a conventional or non-connected deadbolt. It has no fancy features, but it will keep your home’s doors locked. You do not need to contact a residential locksmith to rekey a normal or traditional deadbolt lock.

Look for the Door Lock Certification

Locks are given an ANSI grade to show their security, with Grade 3 being the least secure and Grade 1 being the most. Grade 3 tubular locks and Grade 2 handlesets are usually of builder grade. Only deadbolts with extra security features, such as anti-pick pins, extra-long bolts made of tough metals, and strengthened strike plates fastened to the house frame with long screws, can be given a Grade 1 rating.

For the best security, choose a lock rated as high as possible. You may need to ask the manufacturer for this information, as it is not always listed on the product. Also, be cautious of locks that advertise Grade 1 features. Just because it has one or two high-security features does not mean it meets the ANSI grade.

Determine if a Smart Lock Is Necessary

A smart door lock is a great option if you are looking for an easy way to open your doors. Smart locks are more expensive than traditional door locks, but they offer the perfect balance between security and convenience.

There is no doubt that mobile apps have greatly enhanced our lives in many ways. One such way is through the use of smart locks. If you value convenience, investing in a smart lock is wise because it enables you to do more with less effort.

Summary

There are many different door locks on the market, and it cannot be easy to choose the right one. However, security should always be your top priority. Look for a combination lockset that includes a handle lock and a deadbolt. You want a Grade 2 or 3 ANSI- or BHMA-certified device, and you need to decide whether you want a conventional keyed system or a more sophisticated electronic smart system. Finally, choose the finish that best matches the style of your home.

Locksmith Services Near Me

Do you live in Valley Village, CA, and are having trouble deciding the best lock for your home? Turn to Universal Best Locksmith for recommendations! With our years of experience in locksmith services, you can be sure that you can get the best advice and the most secure door lock for your home. You can rely on Universal Best Locksmith for all your locksmith needs. No matter what time of day or night, our locksmith services are always available to help you out. Whether you need an automotive locksmith, commercial locksmith, or on-call locksmith services, we are here for you 24/7. Call us today for free estimates.

June 11, 2018

5 Tips To Find The Best Locksmith Services

In today’s world, locksmith services are more important than ever before. With the amount of crime, you must have a reliable locksmith that you can trust. A trustworthy locksmith is essential if you are locked out of your home or office or need someone to fix a jammed door or lock. Imagine spending the nighttime imprisoned inside the bathroom. Finding a trustworthy locksmith who might help you in escaping such a scenario would be very challenging. Here are some things to consider when finding the best locksmith Los Angeles.

Tips To Find The Best Locksmith Services

1. Google the Locksmith Company’s Online Reviews.

Before choosing a locksmith to repair your door lock, you will need to research. You can start by searching online or consulting your local directory for locksmith services in your area. Once you have compiled a list of potential candidates, read reviews and compare prices to find the best service for your needs and budget.

2. The reputation of the Locksmith Company is Essential.

Checking their reputation via Google is a good place to start a few things to consider when you require a locksmith. More over, you can also browse consumer reviews and business ratings to learn more about their services. However, getting a referral from a trusted source is always preferable.

3. Availability of Locksmith Services

Availability and ease of access are paramount. You do not want to be helpless and stranded in an lock out emergency. Make sure to research your options and find a locksmith who can be there for you 24 hours a day. Another important factor is the quality of service. Furthermore, when you entrust someone with the security of your home or business, you want to be sure they are up to the task.

4. Request for Free Estimates on Locksmith Services

The next step you need to take is to get an estimate for the repairs or services needed. To provide a more precise estimate, describe the issue thoroughly. Another crucial step is to request a written estimate. By making the repair cost estimate clear, you can avoid unexpected charges.

5. Payment Options

Choosing a locksmith who can offer you multiple payment options is important. Credit card usage is preferable to cash payments, which can help avoid fraud. Additionally, when payments are made using a credit card, the service provider is responsible for any repair failure. As an aware customer, you should only pay the service charges once completely satisfied. In the future, if you ever need any locksmith assistance, you know what you need to do to get the best out of the service.

Locksmith Services Near Me

Locksmithing is an essential service that helps to keep our homes and businesses safe. Here at Universal Best Locksmith, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality locksmith services to all our clients. Our locksmiths are highly trained professionals, licensed and experienced in the latest techniques and equipment. We are available 24 hours a day for emergency locksmith needs, so you can always count on us when you need us most. Call us today for free estimates.