If you watch CBS 2 News here in Chicago, you may have seen their recent report regarding deadbolt locks and break-ins (http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2012/12/07/do-your-deadbolt-locks-offer-maximum-security-you-might-be-surprised/#comments ). As installers of doors and door hardware, we were very interested to see this report and impressed by the coverage. There are a few very important points to take from this: 1) Deadbolts only work if they are installed properly, making sure that the backset hole is drilled deep enough in the jamb to allow the bolt to fully seat. If not, it is extremely easy to slip a screwdriver or other tool between the door and jamb and pop the lock open. 2) A cheap lock, regardless of how well it is installed, is very simple to break – soft metal and plastic parts give way very easily, making them pretty much useless. 3) All houses settle, so locks should be checked periodically to make sure they are still operating properly. If not, adjustments need to be made to correct the problem. 4) Finally, it doesn’t matter how good your locks are if you don’t use them! It never ceases to amaze me how many people install locks and security systems, but then fail to engage them regularly!
Here at Evergreen Door & Window, our crews test all hardware when they install it, making sure everything works properly before they leave. This is true of handset locks, deadbolts, storm doors, and security storm doors. We also make sure our clients are comfortable with operating their locks to avoid issues down the road. But, you still have to use them to make them work. The same applies if you have a security system installed in your home. It only protects you if you use it!
Many people, when they purchase a new home, will immediately replace the locks, just to make sure there are no stray keys roaming around from previous tenants. But, oftentimes they will select the least expensive option available at the hardware store. Remember, this lower price probably means the materials are less substantial, making the locks more susceptible to break-ins. In the long run, if you choose to do it yourself, it is more cost effective to choose the more expensive hardware to get a higher security rating. Bottom line, check to see how the locks are assembled and what they are made of before purchasing them, to make sure you are getting something that will actually do the job.
Better still; make the investment on the front end to have your new hardware professionally installed, either by someone like a home improvement specialist such as Evergreen Door & Window, or a locksmith. That way, you will be secure in knowing that you have the right hardware for your needs and that it has been properly installed. And, of course, don’t forget to use it properly!
When you are ready to replace your doors, storm doors, or add a security storm door, or just update your locks, give us a call for your security needs. We’ll do it right the first time!
