How Burglar-Resistant Are Your Locks? 3 Points to Consider

10 April 2019
 Categories: , Blog

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Waterproof and water-resistant locks aren't quite the same thing. Consider your smartphone. Some manufacturers claim that their products are waterproof, and while it might have a sealed body that means the phone won't be damaged if it's accidentally submerged in water, it's not as though it could be left underwater indefinitely without problems. A water-resistant phone can still work when exposed to water, but it might not survive a full immersion in water. Security systems and locks are, by their very nature, designed to make your home resistant to burglars. This isn't the same as being burglar-proof, but it's certainly close. And yet you can't assume that all locks and security measures offer the same level of resistance. Are your locks up to the challenge?

1. A Burglar Picks Your Front Door Lock

A lock has numerous moving parts which need to be manipulated into a certain position (via the insertion of the key) in order for the lock to function. General wear and tear is unavoidable, but be aware of signs of this wear and tear compromising your lock. This can involve stiffness (difficulty turning the lock in the key) or even the occasional jamming of the lock. This can be overcome with regular maintenance by a locksmith, keeping it in the best possible condition (and strength). A lock upgrade can also make it difficult for the lock to be picked through sheer lack of familiarity. A common lock that has been long in use might be familiar to a burglar, making it a simple task for them to pick it. A newer, stronger and even unfamiliar lock that has been professionally installed by a locksmith can be a deterrent to a thief.

2. A Burglar Kicks the Door Down

A forced entry might seem like an unlikely scenario, given that it's about the most indiscreet way to enter a property and is likely to draw attention. A robust lock can make the job more difficult, but what about the door itself, not to mention its frame? A door and its frame that has become warped, dried out or otherwise degraded can certainly make it easier to force entry. Take an opportunity to inspect the door and doorframe of each point of entry to your property to ensure that they're in good shape.

3. A Burglar Breaks a Window

Again, smashing a window might seem indiscreet, but the burglar could have chosen the most discreet point to do this, such as at the rear of your home. Locks on your window will make it infinitely more difficult for a burglar to actually gain entry after shattering the glass to reach inside. Of course, if the key is kept in the lock, all the burglar needs to do is turn it. Ensure that keys are not permanently kept in their locks. They should still be in the room in question but well away from the window. Likewise, for doors with glass on either side, never keep the key in the lock, as a burglar could break the window and simply reach inside to unlock the door.

It might not be possible to burglar-proof your home, but you can make it as burglar-resistant as it can be. Speak to a qualified locksmith for more tips on making your logs more burglar-resistant.