Tuesday, 22 October 2019
Working door locks are vital to the safety of your property - but when might you need to change yours?
Read on for a handy guide from LockShop Direct, explaining when you might want to change your locks.
If you notice damage
Most of the time, your locks are sturdy enough to stand the test of time. However, it is recommended that the lifespan of the average lock is around 7 years.
This doesn’t mean that you need to keep track of the anniversary of its first fitting, but it does mean that if you have a lock that is beyond this age, you may start noticing wear and tear.
Cosmetic damage may have no effect on your door’s security, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Of course, if you notice any mechanical problems with your locks, it may be worth getting them changed very soon.
If you’ve just moved in or a resident has moved out
If you've just moved into a property, it may be impossible to know when the locks were last fitted. You also won’t know for sure whether the previous resident - or any of their friends - might still have copies of the keys. That’s why it’s a good idea to change the locks at this point.
This is also the case with old housemates - if you’re unsure whether or not they’ve handed over all copies of their keys, it may be best to change the locks - just to be on the safe side.
If you’ve lost your keys
If you’ve simply dropped your keys on your way around town, it may be hard for anyone who picks them up to track down your property - unless they’re labelled. It certainly isn’t worth taking the risk, though.
Furthermore, if you’ve dropped your keys near your home, or you’re afraid they may have been stolen, changing your locks should be a matter of urgency.
Following a divorce or break up
If your ex-partner still has keys to the property, it’s a good idea to change the locks, if only to ensure that you have control over when they can and can’t enter. Many relationships end amicably, and - depending on your own personal circumstances - it’s your choice as to whether changing the locks is a priority. However, we recommend taking this step just in case things go sour.
Following a break in
This is one of the most important times to get your locks changed. Even if the individuals in question have failed to break through a door, they may have left the locking mechanism weakened or compromised.
Anti-snap cylinders will still work once “broken”, but getting them replaced will restore them to their full function.
If nothing else, installing sturdy new locks after a break in will offer you peace of mind and in increased feeling of safety.
For more information about LockShop Direct’s products and services, simply contact us today.
Author: Richard Nash
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