Whether you misplaced the key to your home or you locked your car keys in your vehicle, there may come a time when you need to call on the help of a mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA. While there are many reputable locksmiths out there, there are an unfortunate number of people who use locksmithing as a front for a scam. These people will often ask for hundreds of dollars in exchange for picking your lock or replacing your lock entirely. Scammers make money by over-charging and being deceptive about their practices. It’s important that you are aware of these scams so that you can find a reputable locksmith in your area.
What a scam looks like
So, how does a locksmith scam usually play out? First, you’ll find the phone number for a mobile locksmith online. When you call, you will usually be greeted with a generic phrase like “locksmithing services” rather than an actual business name. Next, they will dispatch a locksmith to you, who will arrive in an unmarked van or vehicle. They will try to pick your lock but insist, falsely, that it’s impossible, and claim that you have to replace the lock entirely. They will charge you upwards of $1,000 for the installation of your new lock and require that you pay in cash. In many cases, you will have to replace the lock again because of the poor quality of the installation work.
Here are some major red flags to watch out for:
- 800 numbers: In most cases, you can rule out locksmiths with 800 numbers right off the bat. Most of these locksmiths are not legitimate and could be trying to scam you.
- Unmarked vans: Businesses that are proud of their reputation and want to generate buzz in the community will drive vehicles that clearly display their logo and contact information. Unmarked vehicles and vans are a clear red flag and indicate that the locksmith has something to hide or is trying to fly under the radar.
- Vague estimates: A trusted locksmith will give you a quote for services up front. If a locksmith seems to be avoiding quoting an exact price, or even giving you a ballpark estimate, move on to a different mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA.
- Insistence on replacement: If your locksmith tells you that they can’t pick your lock and they have to replace it, they are likely being dishonest with you. A good locksmith usually has the skills and equipment necessary to crack even the most challenging locks. In many cases, a locksmith who claims that a lock can’t be picked is simply trying to get you to pay for a costly lock replacement and installation.
At Artie’s Lock and Key, we want to make sure that our customers don’t fall prey to a locksmithing scam. That’s why we are dedicated to offering reputable service that our clients can rely on, regardless of what they need. We’ve been developing a reputation within the community for over 40 years, and we continue to be committed to delivering consistent service at fair rates that won’t break the bank.
Thieves’ favorite thing to see when they are looking to get into a house is sliding doors. An experienced burglar can break into a home in around a minute. Sliding doors can be a weakness in home security, usually because they are often left unsecured and aren’t easily reinforced to begin with. Here are some of the reasons sliding glass doors are so weak:
- Simple latches: Some people don’t bother to lock or securely close their sliding doors. This makes them very attractive to burglars. And even if you do remember to lock them, most sliding doors have simple latches. Some burglars can easily get in, just by jiggling and jostling the lock. One way to fix this issue is to install a heavy-duty lock. Businesses like Artie’s Lock and Key can install a sliding door lock in Fairfax, VA. This will stop a burglar from simply opening the door by jiggling it.
- Not in view: Most sliding glass doors are concealed from prying eyes. This can be a problem if a burglar hopes to use it to get in. Their location means less of a chance for you or someone else to spot the suspicious person and call the police. Having an alarm on the door can quickly alert you if someone is trying to get in. It won’t replace a sliding door lock in Fairfax, VA, but it can scare away the burglar or give you enough time to call the cops.
- Window into the home: While the sliding glass door can be a nice window to the outside, it’s also a window to the inside of your home. Any burglars can see what’s in your home, giving them an idea of what to quickly grab and get out with. Blinds, drapes or shades can block burglars’ view, stopping them from easily surveying your home for valuables. You can also use a privacy film that will obscure specific details. It will still let in light without requiring you to fiddle with blinds, while preventing anyone from the outside getting a good look inside your home.
- Easily broken: Design-wise, sliding doors can be wonderful. They add a nice view and can brighten a room up. They also come with some weaknesses. They’re not nearly as sturdy or secure as a normal door. Anyone who really wants to get in can break the glass panels or push the door off the tracks. It can be something easy to pull off, especially compared to a wooden or steel door. Placing a wooden dowel in the track of a sliding door can provide a much-needed sense of security.
Protecting your home is an important part of being a homeowner. If you have a sliding glass door, that may mean calling Artie’s Lock and Key to install a sliding door lock. Our professional locksmiths in Fairfax, VA are up for any job and are more than happy to help you secure your home. We are fully equipped to make you feel safe inside your house. Give us a call to schedule an appointment for repair or installation.
Sometimes you make a mistake or forget about something, and if that’s your car keys late at night, that can be a problem. While you wait for auto locksmiths in Fairfax, VA to help you out, you’ll want to keep safe during that time. Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can protect yourself and stay out of harm’s way:
- Find a phone: First things first—you’ll want to find a phone to make some calls. For most people, that means using their cellphone. However, if you’ve locked your phone in your car as well, you’ll want to find one as soon as possible. That may mean going back to your place of work or whichever establishment you just left and asking to use the phone. At this point, you’ll want to call a mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA, like Artie’s Lock and Key, to come unlock your car. You may also want to call a friend or family member to come pick you up, or just to come by to make sure you’re safe and wait with you.
- When to call 911: Calling 911 should be a last resort, and simply locking your keys in your car doesn’t warrant that call. However, one time to call 911 in a lockout situation is if you lock young children in the car with your keys. In this case, the child’s safety could be at stake, especially on a hot summer day.
- Don’t break anything: One thing not to do is panic. You don’t want to lose your cool in this situation. In most cases, you don’t want to break a window to get into your car. That leads to another set of problems, including having to get the window fixed. There’s also the fact that there will be a broken window on your car, which is an open invitation for vandals to get into your car and for vermin to make your car their home. In most cases you’ll just want to wait in a safe place for a mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA to arrive.
- Be aware: Find a safe place to wait for an auto locksmith in Fairfax, VA. It doesn’t have to be in view of your car. You can ask the locksmith to give you a call when they’re about to arrive. This will allow you to wait somewhere you feel safe that may not be near the car. You also don’t want to accept rides from strangers. While most people have good intentions, some people may not. Getting a ride home doesn’t help if you’re supposed to be waiting for a locksmith.
Locking yourself out of your car doesn’t have to be a catastrophe. If you stay calm and cool, everything will be alright. Artie’s Lock and Key is a reliable and fast mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA. We’ve been in business for more than 40 years, providing helpful service throughout the region. Our professional locksmiths can handle any job and are more than happy to help out if you lock yourself out of your car. Get in touch as soon as you need us!
Does your list of responsibilities include properly maintaining commercial doors? If you own or manage a commercial property, these access points are likely integral to your operations. Ensuring they are well maintained is an important task. To successfully complete it, hire an expert in commercial door repair in Fairfax, VA.
These professionals offer specific skill sets that make them uniquely qualified to repair your commercial doors. Other technicians simply don’t provide the advantages offered by commercial door experts. These pros provide:
- The right vehicles: Experts in commercial door repairs offer trucks that are outfitted for the job. The technicians are able to bring the right equipment with them to your location. Items such as vises, welders and parts are conveniently brought on-site to get the job done right, and in a timely manner.
- The right experience: Commercial doors are not like other doors. Experience with other types of projects won’t necessarily transfer to these jobs. Commercial door experts have the experience in the types of projects you need to complete for your doors. They know the safest, quickest and most cost-effective ways to repair or replace these types of doors. You’ll save time and money due to their experience.
- The right crew: Due to their knowledge, experience and equipment, most commercial door projects can be handled by one commercial door technician. This will save you further in labor costs and travel expenses for the job.
- The right plan: Commercial door services can provide solid maintenance plans to keep your doors in top shape. Check with your local provider of commercial door repair in Fairfax, VA to learn about what plans are available for your company. They can partner with you to properly maintain your doors to avoid future repairs and keep operations smooth.
- The right parts: Logically, your doors will function best when they include the best parts. A commercial door expert has access to high-quality parts recommended by the manufacturer. They will ensure that only reliable parts are used for your repairs and maintenance.
- The right protection: Before you hire any type of technician to perform work for your company, it is essential to verify that they have the proper coverage. A professional commercial door repair service is fully licensed, bonded and insured. This protects you from liability in the case of any incidents during the project. It also ensures the technicians are qualified for the job.
- The right projects: When should you call for commercial door repair in Fairfax, VA? It is best to leave it to the experts if you need repairs or maintenance for roll-up doors, overhead doors, hollow metal and wood doors, glass and aluminum doors, gates, grilles, high-speed doors, air curtains and other specialty doors.
If you are in need of professional commercial door repair in Fairfax, VA, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Artie’s Lock and Key. With over four decades of experience, we are your go-to source for commercial doors. Our family-owned company offers full service for your door needs. Contact us today for smoother, safer, more secure commercial door operation tomorrow!
Electronic devices aren’t the only things that are getting smarter. Homes can now be smart, too. How? With home hubs and remote access keys in Fairfax, VA, you can upgrade your living space to include the latest in smart technology and convenience. These devices offer multiple benefits to homeowners. Here are a few of the top advantages:
- Integration: Your home hub can be used to control all your devices that are in place to automate your home. From remote access keys in Fairfax, VA to electronic window blinds, you can quickly and conveniently control everything with one communication device.
- Location: A smart lock allows you to connect to your home hub before you even step inside. Get your interior arranged how you want it to welcome you home properly. Program lights, music, the fireplace and more. It will all be at your fingertips as you enter your home.
- Security: Homeowners who have solid security systems in place enjoy greater peace of mind than those who don’t. With top-quality home hubs and remote access keys in Fairfax, VA, you can rest assured that your home is protected while you are away—and that you’re protected while at home.
- Remote access: Have you ever slipped into bed, then wondered if you remembered to lock up downstairs? With this technology in place, you can simply grab your smartphone and lock everything up tight for the night. The same is true if you are on the other side of the globe on vacation. Use your device to lock your home or unlock it to provide access to a neighbor who needs to enter your home.
- Remote programming: Since your smart hub and locks can be controlled remotely, you can automate programs or set up new ones at any time. Turn exterior lights on and off. Start and stop music. Your remote programming allows you to make others think someone is home, even if you are a thousand miles away.
- Guest access: Remote access keys in Fairfax, VA make entertaining guests easy. Assign a user code to anyone who is staying with you, then delete it when their visit is over. Never worry about extra copies of keys again! This method is safer, as it eliminates the possibility of lost or stolen keys.
- Records: Smart locks allow you to track who has accessed your home and when. Keep tabs on teenagers, cleaning services, pet sitters and more. The system provides automatic accountability as it records each access.
- Aesthetics: Are you worried that a smart hub will add an unattractive piece of security hardware to your home? Fortunately, smart locks are available in a variety of attractive finishes and styles. They offer sleek, smart looks that integrate with your décor.
Are you ready to start taking advantage of remote access keys in Fairfax, VA? Contact the lock professionals at Artie’s Lock and Key. We have been servicing the Greater Fairfax and Washington D.C. area for over 40 years with expertise in residential, commercial and automotive locks. We would love to partner with you to make your home smarter and safer. Reach out to us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment.
