A lock and key system delivers security in a world that is no stranger to robberies and home invasions, but do you need to rely on blocky, gaudy locks and intimidating barricades to keep yourself safe? Sure, prominent security can be a deterrent, but a determined thief that makes it past any sophisticated security isn't likely to be turned away by an ugly, large lock. To keep your home secure while maintaining an inviting presence to those who are actually invited, consider a few security and design points.
It's The Inside That Counts
There are many different types of locks, each with their own intricate set of tumblers, pins and other defense mechanisms. Some locks operate by using a set of pins that create an unlock pattern when the proper key is inserted, while other locks use digital biometrics to unlock based on fingerprints, retina patterns or other physical attributes of a person with the help of a computer.
What isn't covered is the outer appearance. The lock and key are icons of culture in all their iterations, ranging from the prominent lock and door handle designs of Victorian-era England to the futuristic but now commonplace black screen of fingerprint scanners. All of these appearances can be covered up or altered for design without affecting the original function.
It isn't as simple as creating a mold of a device and sticking it over the lock. A simple shell allows moisture, insects and debris to get inside the new design, which may lead to corrosion and damage to the lock. The original inner lock may be damaged as well, since the inside is still subject to getting dirty--albeit at a slower rate.
A Locksmith And A Mind For Design
The best approach would be to create the lock with design in mind from the beginning. A locksmith can be used to help create the key components of the locking mechanism while looking at the design that you or a decorator has in mind. A metalworker, jeweler, sculptor or other designer that knows how to work with the lock materials is necessary, depending on if you plan on using a full metal lock or a combination of metal, stone and plastic designs.
Metal should usually be the main component of any design. Unless you want to take a locksmith's suggestions for other, stronger materials, steel or brass locks are a sturdy choice with the ability to add other designs on the outside. As long as the outer designs are airtight and conforming to the inner locking mechanism, you can create any beautiful design without sacrificing security.
Contact a business like Arapahoe County Security Center Inc to learn more.
Share9 December 2015
Letting your tween stay home alone for the first time may be an exciting experience for them, but it likely makes you a little worried. To give yourself some peace of mind and to help protect your tween while home alone, it’s a good idea to create a safety kit and store it in a safe place that can be accessed from outside of the house, like in a locked box in the garage, that can be used in case of emergencies. The kit should include first-aid items, emergency phone numbers, and even a prepaid cell phone. You should also have your locksmith change all of the locks for a fresh start and make two copies of the new keys for your tween – one to keep with them at all times, and one to hide outside in case the first is lost.
