Automotive Locksmith

24/7 emergency mobile automotive locksmith service

CALL: (414) 299-3002

Residential Locksmith

24/7 emergency mobile residential locksmith service

CALL: (414) 299-3002

Commercial Locksmith

24/7 emergency mobile commercial locksmith service

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Various Kinds of Locks

Locks are a part of our everyday lives. From home to work and on to recreation, locks protect our valuables and our loved ones. Mankind has been using locks and locking devices for thousands of years and there’s a good reason for that; they work! If you had to picture a lock in your mind, the image could vary between a hundred different versions that range from padlocks and keypads to door knobs and deadbolts.

It pays to know about various kinds of locks. In fact, the more you know, the better a decision you’ll make when it comes to purchasing and installing the right lock for your particular needs. At West Allis Locksmith we have dedicated our careers to the pursuit of better lock and key service for our customers. For our readers not in the West Allis, WI metro area, we encourage you to seek out a full service, licensed, bonded and insured locksmith shop in your area.

Once you do, you’ll have ready access to quality locks, keys and hardware whenever you need them, along with professional installation, and exceptional advice on the latest methods of lock security and protection.

Insist on the best!

When you shop for locks, always insist on high quality. Surprisingly, this quality doesn’t have to be pricey. Use the right lock and key pros and you’ll be able to buy and install quality hardware at the best rates. Always use trusted national brands like Master, ASSA, Kwikset, Schlage, Medeco, Baldwin, Llco, InstaKey, Yale, BiLock, Abloy, Falcon, Dexter, Sentex, Primus, Mul-T-Lock, Ace, American and others of similar quality and you won’t go wrong. Look for affordability, durability and quality; not cheapness or so-called bargains. Once you’ve found the right locks and hardware for your needs, insist on quality installation and service and you’ll enjoy enhanced security as well as ongoing peace of mind.

High security locks

These specialty locks are little known but highly effective. Since they are made of solid metal materials and sturdier construction, they are virtually impossible to pick open or even to smash open! You can enjoy high security locksets at home or at your business. They cost a little more but are not expensive and you have your choice of several manufacturers and models to choose from.

Deadbolt locks

A sturdy deadbolt lock that is installed correctly is invaluable to you. One thing to keep in mind is that the finest locks are of little use if they are not used. Get in the habit of securing your locks when at home and especially at night. This includes using your deadbolt lock. These come in one and two cylinder models with the single bolt option being the most popular. On one side of the lock is a key slot and on the other is a knob for turning.

They are of simple design but represent a strong second line of defense when a burglar or intruder is on the other side of the door trying to get inside. Most crooks give up and move on if presented with an obstacle like a deadbolt lock. In the time it takes to pick or bypass your deadbolt lock you just might arm yourself or call the police and that is a risk that most are not willing to take!

Keyless entry

Keyless entry is often used in higher end cars and most people are familiar with these locks in that aspect. Doing away with keys allows extra freedom from having to carry keys or risk losing them. Keyless entry is now increasingly used in residential and commercial uses with great success. Instead of the traditional key, a number sequence is used or a swipe card or badge with a bar code embedded in it.

Cam locks

Cam locks are found in homes, offices and commercial facilities, the world over. These are those rounded locks you see on file cabinets, coin operated washers and dryers, office desks, cabinets and mail boxes. They are easy to spot because of their tail or “cam” that swivels as it locks. Even though these locks are extensively used, they provide minimal security as cam locks are easy to pick or smash open.

Mortise locks

Mortise means recessed and that’s what these locks are – installed in the door and not on it. By installing the locks this way, they become stronger and more able to secure your property. You’ve seen and used mortise locks many times – these are the locks that involve you inserting the key and then pushing down on the lever or handle. When unlocking from the inside, just turn the handle.

Fingerprint locks (biometrics)

As science fiction sounding as they are, these highly accurate locks have been in use for some time now. In fact, Apple has been using thumbprint locks to secure their iPhone products and biometric locks are appearing on home and business doors, vaults and safes in increasing numbers. Biometrics has been used mainly in government facilities in the past but now this state of the art technology is fast coming into the mainstream.

Padlocks

You might wonder why we mention padlocks. What could be special about them? Actually, there is a lot to like about padlocks! They are easy to use, highly affordable and completely transportable. Padlocks are not attached to anything permanently – they go where you need them! You can operate padlocks either with a key or by using a numbered dial. You can use padlocks on school lockers, luggage, tool boxes, security gates, sheds, storage facilities, cabinets and even diaries!

Knob Locks

Knobs are almost universally used in residential and commercial settings. You can find knob locks on outside and inside doors as they are easy to use and simple to install. Knob locks are not high security as they only offer low to medium protection due to their construction; they have the lock cylinder inside of them as opposed to being inside the door itself. Thus, they are easy to smash with a hammer and bypass.