Author: louie

How to choose a door lock

How to choose a door lock

Ask a locksmith in Melbourne: How to choose a door lock

Your door security weighs much on the type of lock you choose. Having a good lock is very important. In Melbourne, we hear about robberies and home invasions caused by an intruder being able to gain entry through a poorly secured door.
So, how do you know which lock is best? How can you tell it is the correct lock to get? With heaps of options in the market, how do you choose the right lock that answers your needs?
Deadbolts are often endorsed for all outside facing doors. Deadbolts are frequently backed up by a simpler lock. Knowing which locks are right for you will ensure that your home or business is as secure as it needs to be.
Your next questions will be – can you get one key for all locks? Do you sacrifice style for security? Whether you’re replacing a single lock, upgrading your locks or remodeling your home or business, knowing which locks are right for you will ensure home or store security.
Below are three most common types of door locks.

The 3 Most Common Types of Door Locks

locksunlimited_ KeyinleverlocksKey-in knob and Key-in lever locks.
Commonly known as door knobs and door levers. Particularly those designed for external use, often feature a keyed lock and barrel mechanism. These locks are usually found on exterior doors. Fairly light in security, relatively easy to get around and it can be easily broken with a hammer, wrench or rock and shouldn’t be the main security lock on a front door.
locksunlimited_deadlocksanddeadboltsDeadbolts, deadlocks or deadlatches. 
Deadbolts – also known as deadlocks or deadlatches. These types of locks are heavy-duty and the most common front door lock – for a good reason. Deadbolts can’t be rotated without a key. These locks are most usually used on exterior doors for added security. Deadbolts generally reinforce existing locks such as key-in-knob or key-in-lever varieties. Deadbolts can be quickly installed should your needs be immediate. They are likely found on garage doors or sheds with expensive things inside.
locksunlimited_KeylessentrylocksKeyless entry locks. 
As technology advances, keyless locks are becoming a fad. Electronically controlled locks are basically deadbolts that use a numbered keypad instead of a key. They require a code to slide the deadbolt open. As keyless locks are more advanced, they are more expensive than other locks. Today, keyless entry locks are being installed in safety-conscious homes across Australia as main entranceway lock.
So, there you have it. The three most common kinds of door locks. We hope this article is helpful. But if you still are not sure which one to choose: a deadbolt or a keyless entry lock, simply call LocksUnlimited. Our locksmiths in Melbourne are master locksmiths. We can give you expert locksmith advice. LocksUnlimited locksmiths in Melbourne will make sure the lock is installed properly, works well and doesn’t compromise your door security. Speak with us today.
Image credits to built.com.au

Handy checklist on how to choose a good locksmith in Melbourne

Handy checklist on how to choose a good locksmith in Melbourne

Keeping our homes and family secure is always a top priority. And choosing a locksmith goes hand in hand with home security.  So when you decide to get a locksmith you must exercise some careful consideration.

For some who finds themselves in need of a locksmith in emergency situations or inconvenient times, the process of looking for the right locksmith can even become stressful. Yet, no matter when or why you need a locksmith, it’s important to choose a fully qualified, professional and trustworthy locksmith company.

locksunlimited, your local locksmith in melbourne4C’s to selecting a good locksmith in Melbourne

Here are the 4 C’s to consider when selecting a locksmith in Melbourne:

  • Certification. Choose a certified locksmith in Melbourne.  Being a locksmith is a highly specialized job. It requires high-level education and skills. Elect a qualified locksmith who has the experience, know-how, and credibility. Selecting a fully qualified Master Locksmith guarantees that the locksmith you are entrusting your security to has been thoroughly trained. Look for the MLAA logo and cross-check the company on the MLAA website.

The Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA) is composed of the master locksmiths in Australia and New Zealand. The MLAA provides network access on qualified, professional locksmiths and gives support through additional information about how to secure the important things.

  • Convenience. Pick a local locksmith that attends to your need in minutes, not hours. It is essential that the locksmith you call has a physical address located in your area. Check them on the map or in published listings. Be careful because there are heaps of locksmith services advertised online claiming ‘local’ when they aren’t.
  • Cost. Hire a locksmith that tells you how much they charge for their services. Do not opt for the cheapest options because as most people know – cheap becomes most expensive in the long term. Do not hire a locksmith who charges the earth for locks. Be wary of jumping at the first proposal. It is best to contact several locksmith companies and talk to your friends, family, and colleagues. Shop around and get different quotes.
  • Customer-first. Choose a locksmith that has an excellent track record of happy customers. The best locksmiths are very reputable and provide excellent customer service at all times. Take the time to read a few reviews online to check the reputation of any locksmith service you’re interested in using.

LocksUnlimited is a master locksmith and is an MLAA certified locksmith. We are your local locksmiths on the move 24/7 trusted around Melbourne for more than 25 years.  To get an idea of our service charge, rates and fees, click here.

How Much Does a Melbourne Locksmith Cost

How Much Does a Melbourne Locksmith Cost?

A Simple Price Guide for Hiring a Locksmith in Melbourne

Getting locked out of your own house or car or losing or misplacing your keys can happen anytime. So, it is expedient to have on-hand the phone number of a dependable Melbourne locksmith. Having a locksmith on your phone book can resolve your security predicament. A qualified locksmith like LocksUnlimited can help you fast!

What most people will ask is ‘how much does a locksmith charge?’

Whilst price is not always equal to quality, it can be a deal breaker for most customers. Knowing the price helps people to budget and decide if it a service they want to get. Below is the cost of our services. We hope it will give you an idea about locksmith service costs in Melbourne.

Prices, Charges, and Fees

Our basic locksmith service fees are listed below.

LocksUnlimited offers a complete range of locksmith services and locksmith products in Melbourne and around Melbourne surrounding suburbs.

If you have any questions regarding a specific service that is not found on this list or if your case is somewhat special, please feel free to give LocksUnlimited a call. We are happy to provide a free quote or advice on the best solution to suit your needs and come to you, anytime – all the time.

All work performed by LocksUnlimited is covered by warranty. The products we use are covered by the manufacturer’s terms (most have 12 months warranty) and all labour is covered by a 3-month warranty.

Business Hours Locksmith Service Fees

Melbourne and suburbs Service Call Price: From $65.00 Plus GST

PLUS+
  • Re-key Lock Price: From $15.00 Plus GST (includes the first two keys – $20 value)
  • Fit Key to Lock Price: $25 (includes the first two keys – $20 value)
  • Repairs to Locks Price**: Minimum $66 labour plus parts (depends on time required to do the repair)
Business Hours Lockout Fees (All below prices include GST)

 

  • Standard Automotive Lockout Price: From $99 (including service call)
  • Domestic & Commercial Lockout Price: From $99 (including service call)

For after hours emergency locksmith inquiries, including price, please call 1300 303 720 and speak directly to our 24/7 qualified locksmiths. We will assist you with your inquiry.

Experience top locksmith service in Melbourne, fast.  We work quickly and we don’t mess about.

*The above locksmith costs are based on standard non-restricted locks, keys, and basic vehicles. Non-standard applications may vary in price so it is always recommended to discuss pricing with our locksmith before starting or when booking the job. We are more than happy to provide a quote before commencing work. Business hours 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Mon – Fri. Sat 8:30am to 12:30pm.

**Prices provided for repairs are based on an average cost. The price may vary depending on the complexity of the repair. It’s always best to ask for an estimate when our locksmith arrives on site.

To Rekey or to Replace key, that is the question?

To Rekey or to Replace key, that is the question?

Most LocksUnlimited customers want us to change their locks thinking it is their only option. But did you know that there is the rekey possibility? Do you know the difference between rekeying and replacing locks?

To rekey or replace?

At LocksUnlimited, being good locksmiths, we take it as our responsibility to primarily assess whether a customer just needs to rekey locks or need to replace the locks completely. Many of our customers aren’t even aware that there is an option or which one is best for them. In most cases, as many as 16 keys would operate a single home’s lock. Many locks can be rekeyed and kept in service some can even be made to function better.

So, what does rekeying a lock mean?

Rekeying is simply adjusting the parts of the lock so that it functions with a different key, without of course compromising the security of your home. This sounds simple, but if you are not a professional locksmith or a well-trained locksmith, this can be difficult to accomplish. You can rekey a lock yourself. Today many lock manufacturers make rekeying kits found at any local home improvement stores. But if you are DIY challenged, you may want to leave the job to a professional locksmith. It is best to give your local locksmith a call.

When is it best to rekey locks?

  • For instances when you are not sure how many keys are out there that may open your lock

Benefits of rekeying locks

  • Cheaper than replacing locks
  • Can be quicker than replacing locks
  • No upkeeps and works to your door

When is it best to replace locks?

  • When locks are not properly working or malfunctioning
  • Locks can grow are old and tired and worn and beyond rekeying
  • For locks that are vintage or antique locksets (can pose special problems as parts maybe hard to find)
  • When you want to do some security upgrade (staying up to date with the latest locking hardware in the market)
  • For aesthetic reasons (finding a door lock that matches the finish of your interior design)

LocksUnlimited recommends having locks alternated at least every few years just to maintain optimal functioning. But whether you rekey a lock or replacing a lock it is up to you. Your local locksmiths here at LocksUnlimited are happy to help you with either choice. We offer high quality door locks and specialist installation services to help protect you and your family.

ABC News Undercover House: The LockOut

Locksmith Scams Are Real Trust only a Professional Locksmith

This video was produced by ABC News years back yet still very interesting. Watch this investigative video and learn the lessons on how to avoid being scammed by con artist posing as master locksmiths.

We at LocksUnlimited never scam customers out for money. We do our best to help our clients save money.

The price we quote is the price you pay. Very few times we ever have to drill open a door to get in a locked house unless the lock is broken prior to us coming over to  help you unlock your door. We are trusted locksmith in Melbourne with 25 years experience.

Call us today at 1300 303 720

Top 5 Things Your Locksmith Won’t Tell You

Every trade has its secrets, and locksmiths are no exceptions.

There are a few trade secrets that we would like to share to educate our customers. This is to ensure our clients don’t get scammed by a scam artist posing as a professional locksmith.

We’ve condensed a Reader’s Digest article to what we reckon are basic yet essential things most locksmith won’t tell you:

  1. Cheap locks are easy to defeat.  Most locks from home improvement stores are mass-produced. Though they have the stamp promise of mostly reputable manufacturers some are made to low standards. You will benefit from at least a Grade 2 lock to ensure that your door isn’t easily picked. Ask us about the brands that we use.
  2. When buying or renting a house, always have locks re-keyed. Simple logic, doesn’t take a rocket scientist. It is easy to dismiss a break in to be unlikely but be aware of the probability. Never ignore the chance of the keys out there that were used in the past to open your home.
  3. Watch for that window on or near the door. This window location is synonymous to ‘Danger’. Even if you install a thumb-turn dead bolt lock, it won’t do you much good. It is easy to knock out the glass, stick a hand in, and turn. You can do two things – either get rid of the window or secure a double cylinder lock. This lock needs a key on the inside, or a key-coded pad that allows you to have an access code instead of keys.
  4. Only me can duplicate this car keys is just not possible. This phrase is equivalent to more charges. Chances are you will have to find a way to the dealer, where as a locksmith can come to you. In most cases, a locksmith who specializes in automotive work can make you a key— and usually cheaper.
  5. The best lock is a dead bolt lock that’s properly installed. This means the lock must have at least a one-inch latch. On the strike side, there should be a security plate with screws at least three inches long that go all the way into the door’s wood frame.

Take these tips into consideration the next time you need a locksmith. Or simply contact us.

Source: http://www.rd.com, http://www.readersdigest.ca,