There are many different methods of securing your property, and with the vast range of products on the market today, it pays to seek advice before you spend your hard earned cash on an expensive security upgrade.
So what features should you look for when purchasing high security locks?
Quality:
Look to purchase products from reputable brands. The extra money they cost is well worth the peace of mind. For example; the door cylinders on your exterior doors are probably the most vulnerable components of your lock hardware. If an intruder can manipulate the cylinder, they can gain entry to your property. Medeco®is a highly respected, leading lock manufacturer, offering a wide range of pick, drill and bump resistant cylinders that in independent laboratory tests have been proven time and again to be highly resistant to attack. It isn’t worth cutting corners when it comes to your security. Always buy the best quality products your budget will allow.
Serviceability:
Are the locks easy to service if something goes wrong? How expensive will it be to cut a duplicate key? Does the installation company offer good customer service if you want to upgrade again in the future? A reputable dealer should be able to answer all these questions for you. Remember, it’s no good investing in a high tech, electronic security system if there are annual or additional costs that make the system unviable.
Special security features:
Do you need the flexibility to adapt your security periodically? Do you require a master key system to be put in place for maintenance staff? Do you want the convenience of a single key to open all the doors on your premises?
Business owners have different security needs to people looking to secure a residential property. Key control is just one aspect of security you may need to consider. For tailor made, individualized security plans at this level, consult the experts. Again, it isn’t worth the trouble cutting corners and trying to do it yourself, especially if you have valuable contents to secure.
ANSI/BHMA standards:
Last of all make sure that all your hardware complies with recognized industry standards.
ANSI is the American National Standards Institute which oversees guidelines relating to consumer goods. The body coordinates voluntary standardization to develop and maintain performance standards for builder’s hardware. It introduced the idea of product grades to help identify the quality and durability of locksets through a series of operational and security tests.
BHMA stands for the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association. This is the trade association for North American manufacturers of commercial builder’s hardware. BHMA is involved in monitoring standards, safety regulations and other activities that specifically impact builder’s hardware.
Products that are marked as ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 are the strongest available residential or commercial lock products.
Always buy locks that are ANSI/BHMA approved if you want to be sure you’re buying the highest quality locks available.
For advice on installing or upgrading a high security lock system for your home or business, ring 1-877-864-4134 to speak to one of our Miami Locksmiths.