Backset

The distance from the edge of the door to the center of the doorknob or deadbolt. Standard backsets are 2-3/8” or 2-3/4” . Older doors might be set to 5”. This determines the length of your latch.

Cam lock

A small circular lock found in toolboxes and cabinets. Inexpensive and customizable.

Cylinder

The center-rotating portion of the lock.

Entrance set

A locking doorknob or lever. The outside of the set has key access to lock or unlock, the inside has a push button or thumb turn to lock or unlock. Can be left unlocked.

Keyway

The cutout in the lock where the key enters. Determines the type of key needed to operate the lock.

Latch

The part of the knob or deadbolt that extends into the doorframe and retracts into the door. It’s the part of the lock that keeps the door closed and locked.

Master Key

A key that will operate all locks set up to allow it. Each lock will have it’s own unique key that works in addition to the master key that will open multiple locks.

Master pins

Shorter pins that work in addition with regular pins. These pins allow for different keys to operate the same lock.

Mortise lock

The circular lock used in most commercial buildings. You’ll see it on front doors to apartment buildings, storefronts, and security gates.

Passage set

A doorknob or lever that does not lock. Allows free passage through the door with no key required on either side.

Pins

The internal parts of a lock that allow it to lock tight or free spin. Spring-loaded pins of different heights are put into a lock to match the depths of the cuts in a key.

Privacy set­

A locking doorknob or lever. The inside of the set has a push button or thumb turn to lock the door. The outside does not require a key, but will unlock with a simple everyday item. Something like a flathead screwdriver or a poker will open it. Also known as a bathroom lock.

Rekey

The act of “changing a lock”. Internal pins will be removed and replaced with different pins of varying heights. The old key will no longer operate the lock and new keys will be provided.

Schlage

One of the more common manufacturers of locks with one of the more common keyways. Pronounced shlag. This lock cannot be keyed the same as Weiser or Kwikset. Can only be matched to other Schlage locks.

Storeroom set

A locking doorknob or lever. Has no button or thumb turn on the inside. Allows free passage to exit from the inside. Requires a key to unlock from the outside. This set cannot be left unlocked. It locks as soon as the door closes and requires a key every time to open from the outside.

Strike

The hole in the doorframe where your doorknob or deadbolt latch inserts. The strike plate is the metal plate on the doorframe that strengthens frame in this spot. Adjustments to your strike can make it easier to close and lock your door.

Thumb turn

The inside part of the lock that you turn manually to lock and unlock the door. The inside of your deadbolt or mortise lock is a thumb turn.

Tubular

A round key and lock. Seen commonly on bike locks, pop machines and vending machines. Sometimes seen on safes.

Wafers

Flat spring loaded pieces in some locks. They serve the same purpose as pins, but are used as a lightweight or space saving alternative. Used commonly in cam locks, automotive locks, and other locks. They move up and down to match it’s coinciding key

Weiser and Kwikset

Pronounced wiser and quickset. The other more common manufacturers of locks. Kwikset and Weiser are now the same company and use the same keys, but old Weiser keys do not fit into Kwikset and new Weiser locks. Kwikset keys are thinner, and will fit in all new and old models of Weiser locks. Old Weiser keys are wider and will only fit in Weiser locks. Your locksmith can cut your current old Weiser keys onto new Kwikset keys in order to have one key to operate all locks.

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While the technology for smart phone connected locks isn’t quite there yet, combination locks are still a great alternative. Smart phone connected locks are out there, but when they don’t operate smoothly, they can be more of a hassle than a convenience.

Up until recently it was very difficult to compete with the prices of big box stores. But Lock King has a new supplier and we now have lower prices and better options than hardware stores. The locks are higher quality and more reliable. Lock King has a lot of options and varieties, with full knowledge about the locks themselves and advice.

Call Lock King anytime for advice and a quote.

The post Keyless Locks appeared first on Lock King.

Oily Lubricants

The most common problem is lubrication. Make sure not to use any oil or anything that will leave fluid in the lock. Oily lubricants, or WD40 can temporarily help your lock operate more smoothly but it will eventually cause more problems. These lubricants tend to attract dirt and grime and will make your lock worse over time. Use a dry lubricant like powdered graphite. Or a silicone based lubricant that dries quickly.

Worn Out Keys / Copied Keys

Your key might also be the problem. When your key wears out it will stop working in your lock. Multiple copies of a key will cause it to be less and less accurate. If your stuck and you think the problem might be your key, try lifting up or pressing down on the key lightly while turning. Then get your locks or keys serviced by Lock King.

Misaligned Door Frame

Misaligned door frame is another common issue. The latch for your deadbolt or your knob might be missing the center of the hole in the frame. It might be catching on the edge of the strike plate causing problems while retracting the latch. Press in on the door or pull back while opening to get in if you’re stuck. Then call Lock King to come realign and get everything in smooth working order.

Worn Out Locks

Lastly, your lock may just be worn out. Call Lock King to come assess the problem. We can replace your parts at a fair price or repair your current lock. Lock King can get your lock working with used or new parts, and get everything operating smoothly at a price to meet your budget.

Call Lock King to service your locks or for advice. You use your locks many times a day, when they operate flawlessly it will make your day easier.

The post Why is my lock sticking? appeared first on Lock King.

Alarm technicians and locksmiths share a lot of similar responsibilities, seeing a story like this makes me quite angry, but you can find some assurance in knowing that BC licensing procedures for locksmiths are more secure.

Locksmiths require a clean criminal record, a long survey, fingerprints on file, and a 2 year apprenticeship. BC locksmiths must carry their locksmith license, which is a government issued photo ID. You can ask to see it before any work is done, and I strongly urge you to refuse entry to anyone claiming to be a locksmith but doesn’t have a license.

Beyond being deemed trustworthy by the BC government, Lock King is trustworthy on a whole other level. At Lock King we provide reliable service at a fair price. We will never attempt to upsell unless we truly believe you need it. We don’t snoop in your house while we work, and we don’t divulge information about any services we’ve provided. Lock changes, safe sales, and security upgrades are all kept secret. If you want to be even more discreet, inform Lock King and we will park around the block and try our best to keep hidden from your neighbours.

For the best prices, peace of mind, and trustworthy service. Call Lock King  anytime.

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In most Canadian provinces (including BC and Alberta), locksmiths require a government issued locksmith license. To obtain a locksmith license you must apprentice for two years, get a criminal record check, and have your fingerprints on file. This ensures anyone with lock picks and the ability to bypass locks is trustworthy.

You can still buy lock picks online, and it is legal to possess them if you don’t have a locksmith license. But you are not allowed to have them on your person outside of your home. If you are caught with lock picks and no license it can be considered intent to use them maliciously. The easiest way to wrap your head around the law is to think of them as a concealed weapon. You can buy something like brass knuckles and have them in your home (for whatever reason you would do that). But if you’re stopped and searched and you have brass knuckles in your pocket, you can get in big trouble. Your item will be confiscated, and you can be linked to a crime involving that item. It’s best just to avoid the hassle and keep your picks at home.

If you’re interested in learning lock picking there are a lot of YouTube videos and online forums available for information. You can also purchase practice locks made of clear acrylic so you can see the pins move as you pick them. Or contact your local locksmith for some leftover junk locks he might be throwing away and practice on those. Some rules to practicing lock picking are: only pick a lock that you own, and only pick a lock that isn’t in use. If you’re inexperienced while picking locks you can damage the lock beyond repair.

Lock King for more information on lock picking and for practice locks if interested.

The post Can I buy lock picks in Canada? appeared first on Lock King.

New deadbolts range from $15-$60 depending on the style and brand. If you have a single lock on your apartment or house, it may be more economical to replace it yourself. If you’re handy with basic tools it can definitely be done. But be aware, you get what you pay for when it comes to locks. You don’t want to cheap out when it comes to security, and you don’t want to be stuck outside in the cold when your deadbolt stops working.

If you have multiple locks on your home then Lock King  is the cheaper and safer route. Rekeying your locks ensures that the finish of your lock and door look the same, and that everything is working smoothly and installed properly.

Whenever I reinstall locks after rekeying them I make sure they operate smoothly from both sides, I make sure the frame and strike is lining up properly, I lubricate the pins and bolt, and I ensure all keys work in all locks. I’ll also have a look at your door knob and make sure it’s tight and aligned. This is all included in my basic service.

As well, I recommend replacement only when necessary. Lock manufacturers have been using cheaper materials to build their deadbolts. I prefer most of the older deadbolts to the new ones. They are easier to repair and can be made to last a lifetime if treated properly. Rekeying will preserve that lock, and you’ll be left with a higher quality lock than if you replaced it. If replacement is necessary, Lock King can recommend a suitable and high quality part that won’t break the bank.

A good locksmith has a wealth of knowledge about security and door hardware. While Lock King is rekeying your locks feel free to point out additional concerns no matter how trivial or extreme they may seem.

The post Rekey or Replace? appeared first on Lock King.

If you purchased a home with several locks, Lock King can come to you and rekey all the locks to a new key and match all the locks to the same key. This saves you from having to go buy new locks, make sure they match the finish and shape of the rest of the door, and make sure the size of the bolt fits. A rekey is simple and easy, and relatively cheap.

If you are renting a new place, apartment or house, you should have your locks rekeyed as well. Your landlord is required to rekey the locks at your request if they haven’t already done so since the previous renter moved out. They aren’t allowed to charge you for this service. If you feel like you need them changed it should be done.

Rekeying can also improve the function of your lock. If your keys are sticky, or the lock is hard to open, a rekey will rectify this problem. If the bolt is hard to throw or retract, mention this to your locksmith and he can get everything operating smoothly. Adjusting the door strike or the lock should be included in your rekey service, or at least it is when you call Lock King.

All this aside, when you’re in a new place, it won’t truly feel like yours until you know where all your keys are. Get the keys changed and you’ll feel much better, it will feel like home.

The post Why get your locks rekeyed? appeared first on Lock King.

Your most vulnerable lock is on the exterior compartments. Most people don’t realize that 90% of RV’s sold in North America use the same key for accessory compartments. It’s a standard key and a common cut. As a locksmith in retail I learned to memorize the cuts of the RV key to easily replace worn compartment keys for customers.

The main door of your RV is also prone to attack, and it may seem more secure than your compartments, but flimsy construction can make this just as easy to bypass. While the keys vary more than the side compartments, it’s very easy for even an inexperienced lock picker to open.

With a small amount of retro-fitting your RV can greatly increase in security and provide you with peace of mind while out hiking or leaving your RV unattended for periods of time. your local locksmith to discuss options, but even these small additions I suggest in this article will go a long way.

A common addition I see on many RV’s is the installation of a standard home deadbolt. If your RV door and door frame permits, a deadbolt will add just as much security as your home locks. While your door is still quite weak due to lightweight construction, the visual of a beefy deadbolt on the side will deter criminals.

As for the side compartments, you can bring your locks into a locksmith to have your current locks rekeyed. This will prevent the universal RV key from opening the lock. But the lock is still easily picked or pried open. The hole the lock sits in can be stripped or the lock itself can be broken.

What I like to recommend is the installation of a hasp and padlock. It won’t be as pretty as the standard RV locks, but having the image of security is a great deterrent. The person looking to break in will seek out another RV instead of yours if you’ve taken steps to secure it further.  Make sure to keep the original locks on the doors as you will want to keep the padlocks off the door during travel, so they don’t bounce around in transit and scratch up your paint.

A large bundle of keys is a common annoyance with RV owners. But have no fear, this added security may actually lighten the keychain. Make sure your locksmith orders all your padlocks keyed alike. And to take it a step further, for an added cost, you can even get your padlocks keyed up to a common house key. You can match the padlocks to the deadbolt on the main door, or take it a step further and make your RV on the same key as your home.

These are small, inexpensive security tips to help save a headache down the road. your local locksmith to find your best solution.

The post Securing your RV appeared first on Lock King.

I’ve come across people that need to get to work, or catch a flight, and it’s at that point their ignition jams. As well, if you don’t have a keyless entry fob, your door lock may jam up. I’ve received calls from customers that were camping far from civilization and their ignition locks them out.

For these reasons there are some things to remember to hopefully keep yourself out of trouble with your Honda locks.

• Keep your keychain light. Do not hang excessive key chains and unnecessary keys from your ignition. It will wear out your locks quicker.
• Keep some lock lubricant handy (not WD40, use a lubricant specific for locks). A healthy dose of lock spray, run your key in and out of the lock, and a light tap on the back of the key, may temporarily turn your lock over. If you get it started, don’t turn it off until you’re where you want to be. This problem will return if you don’t get it fixed.
• If you feel your locks getting sticky or catching, take it to a locksmith immediately.
• Honda spare keys can be expensive but try to keep an unused spare key on you. An unworn, new key may turn your lock over. But this is another temporary fix, so get it to a locksmith immediately.
• If you can’t get your Honda started and must call a locksmith, it will cost you a bit of money regardless but you can cut cost by helping the locksmith do the work. Whether it be your door lock or your ignition, remove as much of the interior panels as you can to reveal the lock. I may cover in another article how to remove the door lock or ignition yourself. But if you can find out how to remove the ignition or the door lock, a locksmith can quickly show up and repair your locks for you.

The Honda lock problem is very common, I receive calls about it frequently, so be vigilant and repair this problem as soon as it starts to give you trouble. It may cost you a bit of money, but it will save you a lot of hassle down the road.

The post Problems with Honda Locks appeared first on Lock King.

Weiser Smart Lock / Kwikset Smart Lock

This may be most often recommended by employees at major department stores but it’s worth considering other options. Weiser Lock, and Kwikset are both the same company, and their new Smart Lock can be easily identified by the small slit next to the keyway. It’s one of the biggest brand-name locks so you’ll hear a lot about it. But here’s some things you won’t hear unless you talk to a locksmith.

Pros:

Easily rekeyed – this lock comes with a built-in function that allows you to rekey this lock yourself without removing it from the door.
Inexpensive – one of the least expensive locks you can buy.
Not easily picked – this lock is difficult for most people to pick open.

Cons:

Inconsistent – This lock has been known to stop working. The over complexity of it’s self-rekeying feature causes some problems and can cause your lock to “forget” your key.
Easily broken – It’s difficult to pick this lock but it’s very easy to break this lock. A flat screwdriver, or even a similar key can easily force this lock open.
Has to be replaced – If your lock does forget your key or you lose your keys, you’ll come across more problems than usual. When a locksmith does show up to let you into your place, he will most likely have to break your lock and it will have to be replaced.

Electronic Deadbolt / Keyless

Electronic deadbolts have a lot of appeal. New technology and the promise of one less key on the keychain. They are offered from many different manufacturers and can come in many different styles.

Pros:

Keyless – No need to dig your keys out of your pocket when entering your home.  A quick number combination or fingerprint placement and you’re in. There are even Bluetooth phone apps that will unlock your door as you approach.

Easily changed – Save money on changing your locks and quickly change your own combination. No more keys to cut for renters, also you can pass your combination onto visitors so they can let themselves in and out without you having to be there.

Cons:

Batteries – Despite claiming to be keyless, you should always keep a spare key for the lock on your keychain. Batteries can run out on you, and you’ll find yourself locked out.

Inconsistent – Fingerprint scanners are a new technology and haven’t been mastered yet. As well, with any electronic mechanism there is a chance of failure. It won’t be as reliable as a standard mechanical lock.

Door marking – Some keyless deadbolts require extra holes to be drilled in your door. Others have a large surface and may cause the door to fade or wear out unevenly. When finally replacing the unit you may have a hard time covering up the previous one.

High security / Key restricted

Top of the line when it comes to your deadbolt.  If you’re passionate about locks or security this is your answer. With fascinating keys and locking mechanisms these locks serve function and class.

Pros:

Security – High security locks claim to be unpickable. Or at the least you’d have to be an expert with a lot of time to get through it.  Drilling the lock is not an option a lot of the time, with parts in place to prevent drilling. Even the non high security key restricted locks are difficult to pick.

Key restriction – Knowing that no one has a copy of your key without your knowledge is a privilege not many have.  Proof of ownership is required to copy a key and your locksmith should have records of every cut that has been cut.

Cons:

Expensive – The lock itself can be  $100-200 each. As well, you should get a locksmith to professionally install the lock. Keys are much more expensive too. It can be almost $20 per key.

Over secure – It’s hard to claim this as a con, but if you lose your key or break a key and have to call a locksmith to open your place, he’s going to have to destroy your lock. Which was already expensive. So keep a good eye on your key.

Standard Deadbolt

Your basic pin tumbler deadbolt lock. Most likely what you have on your door right now.

Pros:

Inexpensive – The cheapest of the deadbolts. Standard keys, cheap to duplicate and cheap to maintain and replace as well.

Customizable – They come in many different finishes and shapes. As well, there are keyless Bluetooth smartphone attachments that you can attach to the inside of the deadbolt while maintaining the simplicity and inconspicuous nature of a basic deadbolt on the outside.

Reliable – There’s a reason these are the most popular deadbolt. As long as you don’t install the cheapest of the cheap locks this lock will last you a long time. These locks are very easy to maintain. They’re simple and cheap for a locksmith to open, fix, or replace as well.

Cons:

Pickable – This lock is easily picked, and what most locksmiths, enthusiasts, and criminals would practice on.

Key control – You could have several keys out there for this lock without knowing. Stamping “Do Not Copy” on your keys doesn’t help in most cases. You may have to rekey this lock often to ensure security.

This wouldn’t be a very good comparison article if I didn’t state my favourite choice. I would personally recommend getting a mid to high quality standard deadbolt. LSDA brand is a brand you can purchase from locksmiths, as well Emtek is a good brand of deadbolt you can buy from hardware stores. Spend at least $30 on a deadbolt, and consult your locksmith on quality.

If you want to upgrade to keyless, try something that bolts to the inside of a standard deadbolt. Then the outside of your lock remains unchanged, and the inside of the lock has the motor and receiver on it. You activate this via Bluetooth or from an app. Brands like August Lock or Sesame Lock (from Candy House) are a good choice. I have heard positive and negative reviews about these locks, and it is a relatively new technology so all the bugs may not be worked out with them. But the beauty of these locks, is that the exterior remains the same so you can still use your key as a backup.

The post What kind of deadbolt should I buy? appeared first on Lock King.