The Anatomy Of A Door Lock

A door lock is an important invention. It first appeared thousands of years ago, and changed throughout history. Through the years we see sets of new functions, new improvements followed by new functions and new improvements, etc. and throughout these cycles there is never a new alternative that actually arises. Traditional locks were just that, traditional. They didn't change drastically - not until today. Today's locks are fundamentally different. Why? You ask. Well, let's start with the basic reason. Physical keys. The most modern locks do not use physical keys anymore. They are essentially keyless. The most simple keyless lock opens by pressing buttons with numbers or you can have a lock where you just insert a card and whalla it's open. No key needed at least not the ones we grew up with. Sure Lock & Key still sells and services the most basic locks and keys as well as the most high tech, leading edge, facial recognition locks. We’ve been in the industry for over 35 years and we will attempt to answer correctly any questions that are posed to us, regarding all Locksmithing and Security matters.

THE LATCH

This door lock part is, also known as a "bolt", is a piece of metal attached inside the door frame through the strike plate. The idea goes back many centuries. The latch can be of two different types. In a spring latch mechanism, the bolt is held in place, and the spring is compressed to unlock the bolt. Once it is released, it returns to a locked position. A deadbolt latch mechanism works a bit differently since it doesn't have a spring. It can be locked or unlocked only with a key or a doorknob. The easiest way to understand what type of latch you're looking at is dependent on whether there is a door knob or handle. A deadbolt won't have either, while a spring latch needs one to operate.

From a professional point of view, deadbolts are more secure since they can be unlocked only by rotating the cylinder with a correct key.

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The Cylinder

This part may be referred to as a "body", and that's where we insert the key. Inside the cylinder mechanism is a set of spring-loaded pins, and only the right key can turn them. The key bittings and cuts move the mechanism to the correct position, and the lock opens. So, a key without appropriate bittings will not work.

Your home security depends highly on the cylinder's functionality. And since this part of the lock is exposed, it can be easily damaged by an unsuccessful attempt to pick the lock. Also, you should pay attention to how the key turns and how the mechanism works. Can you hear some strange squeaking noises? Can you feel the counteraction while rotating the key? If you've spotted something weird about your door lock, don't hesitate to call a residential locksmith. It might be nothing, but it may also be the presence of some serious issue. In this scenario it is better to be cautious and make sure that everything works as it should!

The Strike Plate

A strike plate is a flat piece of metal attached to the door jamb. Framing the lock's content, a strike plate also protects it. Its main function is to make the whole mechanism more durable and resist wear and tear. The plate has a hole or holes for a latch. It may seem that the strike plate isn't the most important part of the lock, that it can work without it anyway. However, the lock won't adjust as it should without the strike plate.

Conclusion

At first sight, a lock doesn't seem like something very sophisticated because locks have been an essential part of people's lives since almost the beginning of time. The one common denominator throughout the history of locks is that if you want them to work you must use them correctly. As our client, Sure Lock and Key will always be by your side helping you in matters that may seem mundane, such as how to use your lock correctly to the complex, such as predicting a problem with your locks or keys even before they happen.

When we hear the word “lock,” we immediately associate it with doors. The truth is many other things including all door types are secured with the help of locks. People may put them on everything they consider valuable. Toolboxes are no exception. Usually, they contain expensive tools, so it might be a good idea to secure them with a lock. If you do so, it means you’ll have to add another key to the bundle. The more keys you have, the higher the possibility of losing or misplacing one of them. How to open a locked toolbox without a key if that situation occurs? Sure Lock & Key is ready to help you open your locked out toolbox by yourself and if it proves a bit too difficult we will be happy to resolve the problem for you. After all, it's what we do. We offer a full spectrum of locksmith services. However, let's first try to do it without the help of a locksmith.

How to childproof the front door

Children are curious about everything that surrounds them. Time runs fast, and sometimes parents may not immediately realize if their baby crawls through the house and even opens doors. It's a pleasure to see your baby growing, but there is one thing. Children don’t always understand what is dangerous and what is not. Parents usually show great concern regarding their children’s safety. You may not be able to protect them from every possible danger, but you can at least, almost 100%, secure your house. There are so many cases of children opening the front door and running outside all by themselves. You never know what can happen to a defenseless child on the street. These facts should make us all wonder as to what is the best way to childproof the front door. Sure Lock & Key has put together the most important details in order for you to know how to reach that goal. We’re happy to give you DIY knowledge, if you are so inclined. We are also happy to provide you with a wide range of locksmith services in order to make your home safer for you and your children.

What is the best home security system

In-home wireless security systems consist of several parts that work like one big mechanism. Earlier, people closed their homes and hoped for the better. Now, you close your home and you can know what is going on. The main advantage of using this system is protecting the house or the apartment from intruders. The additional advantage is your peace of mind. Centralized management allows owners to control everything on their own, switching between cameras, turning on an alarm, lights, etc. All you need is to choose the system then place all cameras in the right spots so that you have vision of every corner at any time of your choosing. However the hardest part may be knowing which system to purchase. Choice is wonderful but it’s also, at times, confusing.There are so many products on the market that, without previous knowledge, choosing could be a complete nightmare. Why not use our experience? Sure Lock & Key has been providing locksmith and security services for over 35 years. We’re more than happy to help you make an educated decision. This is what we do , every day. Anyhow time to introduce some variables regarding the information you will need to make the most educated decision possible. Let’s start!

The Anatomy Of A Door Lock

THE LATCH

The Cylinder

The Strike Plate

Conclusion

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