Monday, May 20, 2019

Atlanta Magic Locksmith, LLC: Commercial Safes – Need to Know

If you are thinking about purchasing a commercial safe, it is likely that you have valuables that are worth a lot of money that you need protected. This implies that you might want one for your workplace so that you can store a few valuable items without fear of burglary or damage due to factors such as fires and floods. You will most likely need a safe that has high ratings and has thick locks that cannot be tampered with or broken. Commercial safes are what you are looking for that can fit into a workplace but offer high-standard security and protection.

Consider Cost

One of the things to consider is cost. If you want a reliable safe, you may need to invest more than you thought since high quality means a higher price. You do not want to risk purchasing a cheap safe just because you found a good deal. Do not let cost be the only factor that leads you to make a decision. Lower prices mean cheap quality safes that can be broken into easily and do not provide any kind of protection against unforeseen circumstances. A higher price can imply better quality but you do need to look at the burglary and fire ratings to ensure whether or not a safe is worth the investment. 

Do Your Research

Make sure to do your research and know what ratings you should be familiar with, because you might even find a safe that falls on the lower end of the price spectrum but has all the high-quality ratings that a good safe should have. The safe also needs to serve the purpose for which you need one so make sure to look at various options and sizes before making a decision. Some safes may look smaller but have plenty of space inside. Some safes look sturdy but have thin metal sheets that can be broken with ease. Therefore, look at all aspects of a safe in comparison to your needs to make sure you get the one that suits you best.

Monday, May 13, 2019

Security Options to Better Protect Your Residential Property

Security is one of those facets of home ownership that is easy to overlook. A broken appliance, for example, seems much more urgent than upgrading your door locks—until the unthinkable happens, like a burglar gaining access to your home. Many people assume that if they always lock all of their doors and windows that their security is ensured, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. 

An experienced professional locksmith, such as those employed by Atlanta Magic Locksmith, LLC, will partner with you to meet your residential security goals, no matter your budget. Choose a locksmith in Atlanta, Georgia like ours that is willing to work with you and not push products you don’t need or want.   

Basic Security Protection

It’s imperative to ensure that your basic security is rock solid before you more on to additional security measures. An alarm system is much less effective if your locks are worn out or damaged, for example. Start by ensuring that the doors themselves are in good condition, and not subject to any weather-related deterioration. If any of your doors need replacing, it’s a good idea to invest in that sooner rather than later. In addition, all hinges should be facing the inside. 

By focusing on optimizing your home’s simple security, including all exterior door and window locks, you’ll create a solid foundation that keeps you, your family, and belongings as safe as possible.  

Deadbolts: Seasoned security experts recommend that every exterior door of your home be protected by a properly functioning deadbolt. This means that the deadbolt should lock and unlock without impediment, and when engaged, the bolt should extend all the way into the plate that is fitted into the door frame. You shouldn’t be able to open the door even if you put a good amount of pressure on it when the deadbolt is engaged. If any of your home’s entry doors lack deadbolts, you should have them installed as soon as possible.

Sliding Glass & Patio Door Locks: These vulnerable access points are frequently used by intruders, as the simple latches that are typically used are easy to thwart. There are additional locks you can add to increase the security of these entryways for an affordable price.

Monday, May 6, 2019

Car Key Stuck in Your Ignition? What You Should Do Next

Being in a situation where something prevents you from operating your vehicle properly is always stressful. Your car key getting stuck in your ignition is one of those problems you may never see coming, even if you’ve previously experienced issues such as the key sticking momentarily when you turn the vehicle on or off. Follow the advice listed below if your car key has gotten stuck in your ignition lock. If you’re still having issues, turn to Atlanta Magic Locksmith, LLC to diagnose the exact problem. Our experienced automotive locksmith technicians can repair or replace your ignition cylinder, depending on the circumstances.  

Causes of a Car Key Stuck in the Ignition

While most risk factors that may cause your key to get stuck in your ignition cylinder usually apply to older vehicles, some can affect newer models. The problem may be difficult to pinpoint yourself, and could be caused by the key itself, the ignition cylinder that houses the lock, or another problem. Some problems are simple and some are more complex and require professional intervention. 

  • A Damaged Key: It’s easier than you may think for a key to become damaged and cause problems with your ignition cylinder, such as getting stuck or not fitting in the lock at all. The metal portion of your key is shaped into “teeth” which are specifically cut the fit the combination of pins inside the lock cylinder. These can become damaged or bent, especially if the key is older. Excessive use can also cause wear and tear to a key’s teeth. To prevent this, take care of your key when not in use and don’t use it for anything other than its intended purpose. Inspect it occasionally and have it replaced if it’s showing signs of damage or wear and tear. 
  • A Faulty or Damaged Ignition Cylinder: An ignition cylinder is an important vehicle component, but it’s not a complicated one. Your ignition cylinder includes a series of wafers that are calibrated in a unique configuration, into which the teeth of your key fit. Over time, these wafers become worn out and even damaged, especially if you tend to yank on your key. This can either prevent your key from turning or cause your key to become stuck if the wafers get hooked on the grooves of your keys. 
  • Debris in the Ignition Lock: Even if you keep your car spotless, dust or dirt can find its way into your ignition lock and begin to pack down inside of the cylinder. If you have anything on your key, it can transfer to the lock’s interior which can also lead to buildup that eventually causes an obstruction. 
  • Issues with Other Mechanical Components: Your ignition issue may not be directly rated to the lock or key, but instead to another component of your vehicle. Usually a professional will need to diagnose these problems and perform the appropriate repairs.