Protecting your property through properly functioning locks is always important. Obviously, as a homeowner or property manager, you want to ensure that anyone with less than honest intentions doesn’t have easy access to the inside of your home. Therefore, it’s helpful to consider the five signs that you need to change your home locks immediately. If you see any of these signs, your next step is a new lock installation in Philadelphia.
1. See Visible Signs of Wear
Examine your locks and note if you see visible signs of wear and tear, including corrosion, rust, or any other signs of damage. A worn-out lock won’t help protect your property from intruders, so this is a good sign it’s time to replace those worn-out locks.
2. You Experience Difficulty Turning the Key
Another indication that your locks likely need to be replaced is your inability to turn your key properly. This can make you think you need help, like for emergency lockouts in Philadelphia to gain access to your property. However, what this likely means is that the internal mechanisms within the lock itself are failing. This can be caused by wear and tear over time or might be the result of debris or dirt within the lock itself. Yes, cleaning the lock and lubricating it can get a little more life out of your locks, but it is only a temporary solution.
3. Frequent Lockouts
Again, this could be your sign to call emergency lockouts in Philadelphia as you frequently find yourself locked out of your home due to improperly working locks. If this happens more than once or at most twice, it’s likely an indication that the lock is wearing out and needs to be replaced.
4. Key Sticks in the Lock
Another indication that your locks are worn out and in need of replacement includes your key getting stuck in the lock. This happens when the pins and tumblers get too worn, keeping your key from coming back out. It’s important not to force the key out as this can actually cause damage to both the lock and key, making the problem worse.
5. Keys Have Been Stolen or Lost
Though it has nothing to do with the condition of the locks themselves, another sign that you need to have them replaced is if you have lost your keys or they have been stolen. Obviously, if you lose your keys, there is no way for you to ensure that someone won’t use those keys to gain access to your home. Therefore, it’s important to immediately replace your locks and get new keys, especially if you have something attached to the keys (or within the stolen property) that identifies your address.
Even More Reasons to Change Your Locks
Beyond the five reasons above, it’s also important to change your locks if you are moving into the home as a new homeowner. You don’t know who has access to your home from the previous owner, and it’s just not worth the risk. Also, if you have noticed a recent break-in attempt, even if it was unsuccessful, it’s an indication that someone is trying to get into your home. This is a great reason to consider upgrading your security overall and replacing your locks as part of that enhancement.
Get Your Locks Replaced by Jefferson Locksmith Company
We proudly serve the greater Philadelphia area and are happy to help you replace your home locks whenever needed. Consider the five signs listed above and the bonus reasons why you might consider doing this job for added security and increased property protection. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to request a callback. We are here to make your home safer and specialize in new lock installation in Philadelphia.
