Open Door - Bathgate Locksmith News

LockRite Locksmith Bathgate News & Updates

The latest locksmith news and updates from LockRite's Bathgate Locksmith, Ralph.

Read our latest posts for home security tips, Bathgate securty news, and more.

Ralph, Your LockRite Bathgate Locksmith

Customer Review - Fixed at Last

After trying several different companies and more months than I care to admit to replace or repair a busted patio door lock, it wasn't until Ralph turned up that a successful outcome happened. It took him a few hours as it was complicated, but at the end I could use my patio door again. I can't praise Ralph enough, really nice bloke and explained everything, even the botched attempts to repair the lock by previous companies never put him off, and by the end he had the lock refurbished and working. Couldn't recommend highly enough, and the next time I need a locksmith his will be the only number I call. - Mr P Would You Recommend Our Services? : Yes | Rating : Five Star Review

Reasons to Get Your Locks Changed

Lock Snapping

Lock Snapping is a method used by burglars that involves snapping a particular kind of cylinder lock, enabling the intruder to easily gain access to the home. If the right level of force is applied to the cylinder, it can snap and give easy access to the locking mechanism. Lock Snapping has become more prevalent over the last few years as it requires no special equipment or expert knowledge, only the power of a hammer, mole grips or anything else that can physically grab and take hold of a lock cylinder is sufficient to gain entry. Numerous readily available online videos demonstrate the shocking force, speed and simplicity of the technique that thieves are utilising to get into houses all across the country, with Bathgate no exception to this disturbing criminal trend. One video clip which we've viewed reveals how criminals can get access to a cylinder even if it is not sticking out from the handle. In cases like this the handle is shown literally being ripped off of the door, the lock cylinder revealed and the locking mechanism compromised making use of household tools like a hammer and screwdriver. Alternative home security measures which might be installed on your door like shoot-bolts, dead-bolts, roller keeps and anti lift bars are made useless because as soon as the lock cylinder is snapped and extracted from your door the intruder can access the locking mechanism via a screwdriver or comparable tools. As soon as the locking mechanism is bypassed your door will be unlocked and provide quick access, intruders have even been known to gain entry to properties with alarms fitted employing this method because of the speed of entry.  Most lock repairs can be completed by your Bathgate locksmith within the hour (depending on the level of damage to the door. Locks and doors with excessive damage may take a bit longer to repair). A recent TV documentary revealed how a former burglar, with no prior experience of snapping locks, could utilize this method to gain admittance to a house within 40 seconds, even he admitted how astonished he was at the simplicity and rate of gaining entry, he said an expert lock snapper would possibly gain entry in as little as fifteen seconds.  Another former burglar admitted that even if he had the greatest lock picks in the country, he would prefer to snap the cylinder simply because "it's quicker and much less difficult". Police said it is believed around 22 million doors all over the country might be at risk from lock snapping where the lock cylinder can be snapped in seconds.  Your LockRite locksmith Bathgate is a specialist in fitting anti snap locks.

Which Locks Are At Risk

Locks which are at risk of lock snapping are those of Euro Cylinder profiles, and any locks that extend beyond 3mm of the handle. The further the lock cylinder sticks out from the door the more likely to tampering it becomes as it is much easier to clasp and take hold of, but even if a lock cylinder doesn't protrude from the handle it still isn't immune to tampering, something which our Bathgate locksmith understands only too well. Euro Cylinders are usually installed in uPVC doors. Different types of Euro Cylinder include: The Single Cylinder, which provides key entry from one side only, The Double Cylinder that provides key entry from the front and back of the door and The Double Cylinder with Thumbturn which offers key access from one side and employs a thumbturn on the opposite side of the door. The lock cylinders are available with different types of locking mechanisms, such as disc tumbler, pin tumbler, and wafer tumbler locks. Cylinder Locks can come in a variety of sizes and profiles to accommodate specific door sizes, but the profile susceptible to lock snapping by criminals is known as the Euro Profile.

Anti-Snap Locks

Cylinders that are of a TS007 3 Star standard (also referred to as 'anti-snap' cylinders) are cylinders which fulfill the specifications to hold up against lock snapping attacks. Anti-Snap locks possess an integrated 'shear-off' section that will come away if an intruder was to try to snap the lock, which makes cylinder shorter, thus making it much harder to clasp. With the help of built in grip defenders it can make getting hold of the lock cylinder even more challenging. In addition anti-snap locks contain a toughened bar which will not break, it will only bend making snapping virtually impossible. Make sure that your current locks do not over extend. If they appear susceptible you might want to consider having them replaced by your LockRite Bathgate locksmith. We can easily fit anti-snap locks to your doors to safeguard you from this kind of attack.  Call us on 01506 538393 for a free, no obligation quote.

Lock Changes by LockRite Locksmiths Bathgate

We can repair damage to your doors and frames and fix or change any locks that have been damaged during the course of a burglary. Just bought a new property?  Do you know how many other people possess keys to your house? Usually, home-owners will accidentally keep door keys or forget that they have an extra set after they re-locate and purchase somewhere new. Not just that but copies of the keys may have been made for relatives or friends to gain access while the homeowners were on holiday. For your safety and peace of mind your locksmith Bathgate can exchange the locks in your property and guarantee that you're the only person who possesses the new keys.

Why You Should Choose LockRite When Looking For a Locksmith in Bathgate

There are several good reasons why you should consider choosing LockRite when looking for a locksmith in Bathgate.

  • All our locksmiths are DBS (CRB) checked which means they do not have a hidden criminal past.
  • The price quoted is the price you pay. We do not artificially inflate prices on the doorstep like some unscrupulous locksmith companies.
  • LockRite is a national and trusted brand but all our locksmiths are self employed individuals who live within, or close to, your area.  By choosing LockRite you are choosing to support local business, keeping money within your local economy.
  • If it is an emergency we can usually be on our way to you immediately and we will show up (unlike some companies who say they will but don't, wasting your time).
Call us now on 01506 538393 for a free, no obligation quote.

Tips For Choosing a Locksmith in Bathgate

There are many factors to consider when choosing a locksmith in Bathgate.  Our checklist below should help you when making a decision.

  • Check the locksmith is DBS (CRB) checked.  This will reveal whether they have a hidden criminal past.  You need someone you can trust working with your home security, so if they do not have a clean DBS (CRB) check walk away.
  • Check the price quoted is what you will pay.  Many locksmiths will quote one price on the phone only to bump the price up dramatically once the work has been undertaken.  Make sure you know what you will be paying before work commences and sign something agreeing to the charges.
  • Make sure you are happy with what the locksmith says regarding your home security and don't be pressurised into an expensive upsell.  Not all locks are equal, and some cheaper locks do not provide adequate security for home insurance purposes so make sure if you're having new locks installed they are right for you.
  • Always use a trusted locksmith with a decent reputation and accountability.  There are many rogue traders who just want to rip customers off.  Check their websites for testimonials and guarantees.  If anything looks or feels dodgy, walk away and find another locksmith.
  • Call their advertised number and see how long it takes them to answer.  If calls are left ringing with no answer or diverts to voicemail numerous times it could indicate they will be difficult to get hold of if there is a problem with their work.  Use a locksmith who answers their phone!

Hopefully this checklist will help you to choose the best Bathgate locksmith for your needs. All LockRite locksmiths are DBS (CRB) checked and will always confirm the price you will pay before commencing any work. Call 01506 538393 now for a free, no obligation quote.

Identifying Different Types of Door Lock

When calling a locksmith it is important to know what type of lock needs fixing or replacing.  Use our visual guide below to identify your particular lock type. Wood Door Wood Door Locks - Rim Cylinder, Mortice Sash Lock, Mortice Dead Bolt uPVC Door UPVC Door Locks - Euro Cylinder, Thumb Turn Cylinder Aluminium Door Aluminium Door Locks - Screw in Rim Cylinder, Oval Cylinder, Euro Cylinder

Home Security in Autumn

As autumn approaches and the temperatures start to drop the nights start closing in.  Unfortunately darker evenings mean more opportunities for burglars so it's essential to look at your home security and make sure it's up to the job.  Anti snap locks, deadbolts and window locks will help to prevent most opportunist thieves and security lighting will deter intruders. If you are unsure how secure your home is, call your local LockRite Bathgate locksmith today on 01506 538393 to arrange a home security survey.

Home Security in the Summer Months

As summer approaches and the days get warmer it is natural to leave windows open and doors ajar to keep homes cooler.  Unfortunately this can be an open invitation to the "sneak-in" opportunist burglar who will take advantage of open doors and windows and make off with small, expensive items such as mobile phones and laptops, or even a set of house keys to return later when the house is empty or everyone is asleep. If a burglary takes place without any visible signs of forced entry it can invalidate insurance claims, so it is important to remain security conscious in the summer.  One way to help prevent "sneak-in" burglaries is to install door security chains and window restrictors.  This allows doors and windows to be left open slightly while offering enough security to deter an opportunist thief. Call your local Bathgate locksmith on 01506 538393 today to discuss your home security needs.

New Home? Get Your Locks Changed!

Do you know how many sets of keys are in circulation to your new home? How many generations of people have lived there? Do they still have keys? Do you trust they will never return or pass on those keys? Don't take any chances, change your locks today!  We can supply and fit brand new front and rear locks at a very reasonable price.  Call now for a free, no obligation quote.

Why You Should Choose LockRite Locksmiths in Bathgate

When it comes to something as sensitive as securing your property you need to be 100% sure you can trust the person doing the job, so when it comes to choosing a locksmith in Bathgate you probably can't do better than choosing LockRite, and here's why:

  • We are a nationally recognised and respected brand with a local locksmith who lives in, or near Bathgate and in most cases, can be with you within 30-60 minutes.
  • Our local Bathgate locksmith is fully trained in the latest non destructive entry techniques, is CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checked and always carries photo ID so you know when you book a LockRite locksmith you are booking a trustworthy professional.
  • All work is 100% guaranteed with 12 months guarantee on all parts and 90 days guarantee on all workmanship.
  • Call us now on 01506 538393 for a competitive quote and peace of mind you are dealing with a company that cares about your security.

Check Burglary Statistics in Bathgate

Home security is always worth considering, and even more so if you happen to live in an area which is prone to crime.  The website www.police.uk has an online, interactive map which shows you crime and burglary levels in your area.

Click here to view crime and burglary statistics for Bathgate

Bathgate Mobile Locksmith - We Come To You!

No matter what the problem, whether you are locked in or locked out, if you need your locks changed or re-keyed or if you just need new keys cut, we come to you.  We can be with you within 30 minutes* and all work is fully guaranteed with 12 months on parts and 90 days on all labour. Don't risk your hard earned cash on a cheap locksmith with no accountability as many of these use questionable sales tactics and cheap, sub-standard parts.  Choose LockRite and get it done 'Rite' first time! Call 01506 538393 now

Lock Snapping on 'The One Show'

The dangers of lock snapping were recently discussed on the One Show (7th March 2012) and the advice is to ensure the locks on your uPVC doors are designed to withstand this kind of forced entry. Lock snapping is a technique used by burglars where uPVC locks are literally snapped in half allowing quick access to your property.  Unfortunately this type of forced entry is becoming more and more commonplace, and many homes with uPVC doors in the Bathgate area are susceptible to this kind of attack unless the locks have been upgraded with anti-snap cylinders. We can provide anti-snap, anti-bump and anti-pick locks for your doors.  Call us now on 01506 538393 for a free, no obligation quote.

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