Steel security doors provide excellent protection for our homes and businesses against intruders. They are incredibly strong and durable, able to withstand harsh weather conditions, and provide an exceptionally long service life. However, like all other doors, steel security doors require maintenance to keep them in excellent condition. In this blog post, we outline some tips and tricks to help you maintain your steel security doors to ensure they remain functional for years to come.
Regular Cleaning
One of the simplest ways to maintain a steel security door is by keeping it clean. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and a mild detergent, followed by a rinse with clean water, should be done on a weekly basis. This simple practice can remove dust and dirt that could block the locking mechanisms or interfere with the door’s operation. In addition, cleaning the door’s hinges, locks, and other hardware with dry silicone lubricant will keep these components working smoothly.
Check Batteries and Electrical Components
If your steel security door features an electronic locking system, check the batteries periodically to ensure that they have sufficient charge. A low battery can cause the door lock to fail, making it impossible to open or close the door. Check the wiring for signs of wear or damage, and replace any defective components promptly.
Keep the Door Dry
Steel security doors can withstand harsh weather conditions, but they are still susceptible to rust, especially if exposed to moisture for an extended period. To prevent rust from forming, it’s essential to keep the door dry. Avoid spraying water directly onto the door, and instead, use a soft cloth to wipe out any moisture. It is also crucial to ensure that the door’s weatherstripping is intact and sealing correctly.
Inspect the Door Regularly
Regular inspections of the steel security door will allow you to identify any issues before they become serious. Check the door’s hardware, hinges, and locking mechanisms to ensure they function correctly. Test the door’s opening and closing repeatedly to make sure it is not jamming. Finally, inspect the door’s frame for cracks, fissures, or damage.
Remove Rust
If rust is already present on the steel security door, remove it immediately to prevent it from spreading. Using a wire brush, gently scrub off the rust while wearing a pair of gloves. Be sure to get into the nooks and crannies of the door’s surface. After scrubbing off the rust, use a rust inhibitor treatment to prevent new rust from forming. Remember to repaint the treated area to restore the door’s original appearance and protect it from further rust.
Repair or Replace Damaged Parts
If any of the components of your steel security door are not working correctly, they should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Replacing your steel security door’s hinges, locks, or seals is relatively simple and can be done by someone with basic repair skills. However, if it’s beyond what you are capable of, hire an experienced professional to fix it. A professional technician knows about the right tools and techniques to replace or repair damaged parts, and they can do it quickly and safely.
Consider Upgrades
Over time, your steel security door may need some improvements or upgrades to maximize its performance. For instance, installing a peephole will enhance your security by allowing you to see who is at the door without opening it. If you’re concerned about the door’s appearance, you can have it painted to match the color of your home. Upgrading to a better lock or lock system can significantly increase your home’s security levels, giving you peace of mind. It is always best to work with a professional security expert. They can evaluate your needs and help you pick the right upgrade to enhance your door’s functionality.
Final Thoughts
Proper maintenance and care of your steel security door is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality. With regular cleaning and inspections, you can catch any issues early, so they don’t become major problems. Keep the door dry, check for rust, and ensure the electronic components are working correctly. Finally, repair or replace any damaged parts or consider upgrading your security system. By following these tips, you can maximize your steel security door’s lifespan and keep your home or business secure.
Choosing the right lock is an important part of keeping your home and family safe. There are a few things to consider, including what security level you need and which type of finish would best match your home’s decor. Manufacturers offer a variety of door locks to meet these security needs as well as different finishes that can enhance the look of your entry. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect lock for your needs:
Keyed Entry Function
The keyed entry function is one of the most common types of door locks for exterior doors. These locks are locked or unlocked with a key on the outside and a turn button on the inside. The type of lock you choose depends on the security needs of your home and the budget that you have to work with. For most homeowners, keyed entry knobs are the best option for locking and unlocking their doors. If you’re looking for a more stylish way to secure your home, consider a handleset. These locks often come with a deadbolt and pull handle in one decorative panel. Before you buy a lock, make sure it meets ANSI and BHMA standards to ensure it has the highest level of security. These organizations provide security grades that are based on durability and how hard it can be to disable.
Deadbolts
A deadbolt is a locking system that secures your door with a bolt. There are a variety of styles, but most have three main parts: the latch, cylinder and thumb turn or keyhole. It’s important to choose a lock that has the right design and function for your door. For example, if you have a wooden door in a wood frame, you don’t want to fasten a bolt to the frame with a flimsy hinge. In fact, you may even need to reinforce the frame to make it stronger. You can also choose a deadbolt with a sturdier pin that will keep the door locked even when a thief is trying to kick it in.
Combination Locks
Combination locks are a convenient way to open doors without the need for keys. They are often used in hotels, hospitals, and offices where many people have access to the same room or area. These locks can be made with several different features, from simple three-digit combinations to more complex rotary dials. It is important to choose the right one for your situation. In addition to a set of numbers, combination locks may have other security features such as relock triggers or alarms. They also can be programmed to change the combination periodically to minimize the risk of unauthorized access.
Smart Locks
Smart locks (also known as smart deadbolts) are a great way to simplify your daily routine and strengthen your home’s security. They work with a smartphone app, giving you remote control over your door. They can also be connected to other smart home devices and automations. These features make it easier to turn lights off, lock your doors, and set the thermostat when you say “good night.” Choosing a smart lock should be based on your personal preferences and how often you need these features. It should be easy to install and use, and it should be secure enough for you to feel comfortable with it. For example, if you have frequent guests or a house sitter, it’s helpful to be able to create temporary digital visitor keys that expire after a specific time. It’s also useful to have the option to limit access by a certain time of day or by a specific person or group.
Let The Professionals Help
Here at Artie’s Lock and Key, we offer a wide selection of locks and door hardware for homeowners. We’re happy to walk you through the options available and assist you with making a decision that works for your needs. Our goal is to make sure that you have a safe and secure home, and we strive to do our part in keeping it that way. Contact us today!
Deadbolt locks are an essential part of securing your home or business. The wrong lock can leave your home open to theft, so it’s important to choose one that protects you and your family. You can choose from a variety of styles and finishes. But before you pick out a new deadbolt, it’s vital to understand what makes one good for your home or business and which ones don’t.
Deadbolt Locks
A deadbolt lock is an important security feature to keep your home or business safe. These locks require a key to open and prevent intruders from entering your property. Choosing a deadbolt is a process that should be taken seriously and involves several factors. The lock must fit the door properly, be durable and secure enough to withstand any forced entry attempt. Burglars can break into a house using a variety of methods, including kicking the door, picking the lock with a device or prying it open with a crowbar. A high-quality deadbolt can resist these attacks and may even thwart them until the burglar gets tired or scared of making too much noise. There are many different types of deadbolts on the market. They range from flimsy to heavy-duty and high-security locks that can withstand drilling attacks.
The Grade Of The Lock
When it comes to exterior door hardware, the grade of the lock is a crucial consideration. You need to choose a deadbolt lock that is strong and durable enough to protect your home or business. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) have created an ANSI grade system to help consumers identify which products meet their needs. These standards include a number of controlled laboratory tests. Strength, Cycle and Finish Tests determine the strength of the lock against forceful entry methods. During these tests, the lock must hold up against a specific weight for a certain period of time. The most secure locks get a Grade 1 rating. These are typically used in commercial buildings or where the toughest security is needed. They are also excellent heavy-duty options for residential applications. They are also more difficult to bypass than locks of a lower grade.
The Design Of The Faceplate
The design of the faceplate is a critical component to your deadbolt installation. While a rectangular design is easier to install, rounded corner faceplate latches are popular because they look better in a wooden door. The type of deadbolt you choose depends on the security needs of your home and your personal preferences. There are several different types of locks that can help you improve your home’s safety, including single- and double-cylinder designs, as well as vertical deadbolts. In addition, you’ll want to choose a strike plate for your new lock. These plates will attach to the door jamb and protect the area around the latch and bolt of your deadbolt, as well as the edges of your door.
The Size Of The Lock
A deadbolt lock is a common door feature that helps protect your property. They come in different sizes, depending on your door’s dimensions. It’s important to choose the right one for your home. The standard size of a deadbolt is 2 1/8 inches in diameter for the cross bore, and a 1 inch diameter for the latch bore. It also requires a minimum of 5 1/2 to 6 inches of space between the deadbolt and any other door locks below it. You can purchase a deadbolt lock kit to help you determine the size of your lock. They usually include a template and instructions to help you with your measurements.
Ask A Professional
Whether you’re in the market for a lock to protect your home or business, you can rely on our expert team here at Artie’s Lock and Key. Our staff has years of experience installing and repairing deadbolts for our clients and we’re confident that we can find the perfect match for you. Our technicians have the expertise and equipment necessary to secure your home or business with deadbolts that are tailored to fit your specific needs. Contact us today!
Holidays are synonymous with visiting family and having fun, often in places away from home which require accommodation. Whether you are the renter or the visitor of the holiday lodgings, having the property kitted out with a smart lock will ensure fewer problems with entry keys.
Is a smart lock a good idea?
Smart locks allow for convenient access to your home. Whether you want to access your own home or are renting a holiday home, smart locks remove the necessity for a physical key to open the door.
The smart lock opens the door with a signal transmitted over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth without needing a key.
Various models of smart locks are available, depending on your preference of which technology you trust the most. You can get locks that open by using your phone or a code you need to punch into a keypad. If you don’t want to ditch the key completely, there are smart locks that act as key safes mounted next to your front door that allow you to access a physical key when you punch in the correct secret code. A definite safety upgrade of “the key is hidden under the third plant under the window, counting from the left” type of scenario.
What are the benefits of smart locks?
As you allow technology to automate various functions in your home, installing smart locks is the next step to a safer, more convenient home.
There are different smart locks available on the market, and you can choose according to what you need the lock to do. For instance, you may want to keep tabs on who enters and leaves your home while you are not there.
A smart lock can record every time the door is opened or closed. Each person allowed to enter is given a specific code, and as the codes are recorded throughout the day, you will be able to see who has entered your home and how long they stay. This feature is especially helpful when you have a cleaning or dog walking service you pay for by the hour. Not only does it prevent those service companies from overcharging you, but it also provides peace of mind that your home has been cleaned and your dog has had his walk.
A smart lock allows you to open and close your home remotely. If you have visitors renting out your holiday property, it saves them the inconvenience of picking up and looking after a physical key. A simple code you send to their phone can open the door and allow them access to come and go throughout their stay.
Smart key technology has made our homes more secure and easier to enter. The various smart locks available are relatively easy to install, but to be sure that the installation is done professionally, it is a good idea to consult your locksmith.
Artie’s Lock and Key locksmith services are always ready to help if you need a new smart lock installation or need to sort out some issues with your existing smart lock. Call us at (703) 273-2177, or visit Artie’s Lock and Key, 11204 Lee Hwy Fairfax, VA 22030.
Guide to Maintaining Steel Security Doors
How To Choose Door Locks
How To Choose A Deadbolt Lock