Lock Repair: Solving Common Issues and Enhancing Safety

Locks are the guardians of our homes and property. We think of them as the unsung heroes of our home—they keep us safe every day, maintaining our peace of mind. Yet, it is easy to forget about them until something goes wrong. That is where lock repair becomes crucial. In this feature, we are breaking down the mysteries of lock repair and maintenance into simple, everyday language. Whether you are dealing with a stubborn lock, thinking about upgrading your home security, or just curious about how locks work, we have got you covered.

Imagine being able to fix a jammed lock all by yourself or knowing when it is time to call in a pro. That is the kind of practical, down-to-earth advice we are excited to share with you. From easy DIY tips to insights into when to seek help from an emergency locksmith, we promise to keep things clear and forthright. So, settle in for a read that will not only empower you with knowledge about lock safety but also make sure you are well-equipped to keep your home secure.

Common Lock Issues and How to Solve Them

Have you ever turned your key and found the lock stuck, or worse, ended up with a piece of the key in your hand? Lock issues can be frustrating, but do not worry. We are here to help you understand and solve some of the most common lock problems in a simple and easy way.

Stuck Lock: Causes and Solutions

Have you ever wondered why your lock gets stuck? It could be due to dirt buildup or just general wear and tear. But here is the good news: often, you can fix it yourself. How, you probably would ask? Well, have you ever heard of graphite powder or silicone spray? These little wonders can free up a stuck lock mechanism like magic. All you need to do is apply it to your lock. It is almost like a little spa massage for your lock.

Key Broke in the Lock: What to Do?

It is a moment we all dread—the key breaks off in the lock. When that happens, you get panicked right away. But slow down. Did you know you can often remove a broken key yourself? All you need is some tweezers or a broken key extractor tool. With a little patience and a steady hand, you can fish out that broken piece and be on your way.

Loose Doorknob: Fixing the Issue

Is your doorknob feeling a bit wobbly? Sometimes it is as simple as tightening a few screws. Grab a screwdriver and give those loose screws a quick twist. If parts are worn out, you might need a replacement, but often, a little tightening is all it takes to make your doorknob as good as new.

Misaligned Strike Plate: Adjusting for Proper Alignment

Ever notice how sometimes your door does not latch properly? It could be a misaligned strike plate. That is where a bit of DIY comes in handy. Moving the strike plate a bit can make a world of difference, aligning it just right with the latch bolt’s path. It is a minor fix that can save you a lot of headaches.

Jammed Deadbolt: Lock Repair Tips

And finally, the pesky jammed deadbolt. Do not let it get you down. Often, all it needs is a good cleaning to remove any debris or a bit of lubrication with silicone spray. By doing so, you can get your deadbolt sliding smoothly again, ensuring your home is secure and your lock is functioning properly.

Remember, while you can fix many lock issues with a little DIY, there is no shame in calling a professional locksmith for lock repair when things get tricky. After all, your safety and security are what matter most.

The Importance of Timely Lock Repair to Enhance Safety

Picture this: You are in Studio City, heading back home from a stroll along Ventura Boulevard. You reach your front door, ready to relax, but your key struggles to turn in the lock. It is more than just a little hassle—it is a wake-up call. In our neighborhood, where everyone feels like a friendly neighbor, keeping our locks in good shape is key to keeping our homes safe.

Think of lock repair and maintenance like caring for a treasured plant. Just as you water your plants to keep them thriving, taking care of your locks can prevent bigger issues down the road. It is a simple task, but it goes a long way in making sure your home stays secure.

Now, imagine you are stepping out for a coffee at your favorite local café. You lock your door smoothly, without a second thought. That is the peace of mind you get from regular lock check-ups. It is about being one step ahead, so you do not have to worry later.

In places like Studio City, where everyone looks out for each other, taking care of our locks is part of looking after our community. So, let us make sure our locks are as reliable as our friendly neighborhood spirit. It is a small effort for a big return: our safety and peace of mind.

Locksmith Near Me

Do you have a lock that is acting up? Do not let a sticky lock or a jammed deadbolt lock disrupt your day. At Universal Best Locksmith, we are your go-to lock experts, ready to turn those lock troubles into a thing of the past. Whether it is your cozy home on a leafy street or your bustling business near the heart of the city, our locksmith services are just a call away.

Why wait for a petty issue to become a big headache? Regular lock repair and maintenance can save you time and stress, and who better to trust than the expert hands at Universal Best Locksmith? We understand the unique security needs of homes in Studio City and the surrounding areas, and our dedication to ensuring your locks are our top priority. So, if you are looking for reliable and efficient local locksmith services, look no further. Request a quote from us directly from Yelp!

March 20, 2023

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.

January 2, 2023

The Different Types of Car Keys: What You Need to Know

Your car keys are more than just something that opens your doors and starts your car. It is also an important part of keeping it safe and secure. Car keys are a very common everyday item that we tend to take for granted, but the truth is that there are many different types of car keys, and sometimes it can be difficult to tell which key goes with what car. In this blog post, we take a look at the different types of car keys and how you can distinguish between them.

Things to Know About the Different Types of Car Keys

Flip Car Keys

Flip-style car keys are becoming increasingly popular with automakers due to their small size and convenience. Sometimes called switchblade keys, these keys feature a folding key blade that tucks away into the key fob when not in use. It makes them ideal for people who want a key that will not take up much space in their pockets or purse. Today, many car locksmith services can convert your standard car key into a flipping key.

Laser Cut Car Transponder Keys

With the rise in auto thefts, luxury car makers have recently begun using laser-cut keys. These keys are thicker than conventional designs and feature a laser groove on both sides. As a result, it makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate the key to start the vehicle. In addition, many laser-cut keys also have a transponder chip that helps increase security.

Master Auto Key

As the name suggests, master car keys can open the doors and turn on the ignition of several different vehicles. Some regulations exist to control the use of these keys because of the functions they serve. Anyone possessing one of these keys without proper authorization may face serious consequences. Master car keys are typically only used by locksmiths and other automotive experts. However, their extreme versatility makes them highly sought after by criminals. There are many ways for crooks to get or make illegal copies of these keys, so it is important to be aware of their risks.

Remote Car Key

Car keys that can be remotely operated offer more features than those that only use a transponder chip. You can unlock your car and silence any alarms with a button on the key, which makes a remote car key more practical. You can also lock or unlock your car at a distance without physically touching the key. To start the car, you must still insert the standard key in the ignition.

Smart Car Key

As cars become more and more advanced, the keys used to operate them are also changing. Smart keys, also known as keyless car keys, are becoming increasingly common. A car recognizes a smart key when the owner is nearby, allowing the owner to start the car with a button. There is no need to insert and turn the key in the ignition while driving. While smart keys offer many benefits, they can be expensive to replace. Additionally, losing a smart key can pose a security risk and may require replacing the entire locking system in your car.

Final Thoughts

A car lock key is an essential part of car ownership but can also be a source of frustration. Keys can break, be damaged, lost, or stolen, leaving you stranded and needing emergency locksmith services. While car keys have many advantages, their potential to cause problems means it is important to be prepared when things go wrong.

Car Locksmith Near Me

At Universal Best Locksmith, our certified locksmiths undergo regular training to stay up-to-date with the latest automotive security methods. This way, we can ensure that we provide the best service to our clients. So, whether you need car key replacement, key fob programming, or any other type of locksmith service, we are always here to help. So give us a call 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.