Residential Services | Greater Boston's Residential Lock Specialists
A few of the many brands we carry in stock: |
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In Depth Guide To Our Services | Greater Boston Residential Locksmith
In this section, we will go into more detail on some of our more common residential services.
*Locks Repaired*
We always aim to repair a lock versus replacing a lock. We do this because it is more resourceful and cost effective. Truth be told, not all locks warrant repair- some are not serviceable or are of low quality and should be replaced. On each of our service vans, we stock replacement parts for many locks and also carry a full array or replacement locks. When you call us, we are usually able to determine what the problem is just by hearing the symptoms. Price quotes are available by phone.
Old locks, Mortise locks, Vintage hardware
In the Boston Area there are a lot of older homes and, thus, a lot of old style lock hardware- much of which is original to the building. We are seeing many of these locks, due to their age, needing to be serviced- or sometimes replaced all together. Many old houses have mortise locks, which are now almost exclusively used in high end commercial properties and high end condos. Mortise locks are generally of very high quality and have a lot of nice decorative features- which we recommend restoration of.
For a mortise lock restoration, we will completely strip the door of all lock hardware, dissemble the lock, clean the internals, and replace all parts that have excessive wear. If replacement is warranted, we typically offer two options. First option is to replace with a new mortise lock, which is a high quality decorative product that will last a long time and have decorative value. The second option entails retrofitting the door to accept a modern entry lock, such as a locking high quality door knob. Option 2 is the more popular, as the price of a new mortise lock is often cost prohibitive. Retrofitting the door for a new door knob is a great option, and there are still many decorative styles that can be chosen. We most commonly install a commercial grade entrance function door knob- which is highly durable, as well as easy to operate.
For a mortise lock restoration, we will completely strip the door of all lock hardware, dissemble the lock, clean the internals, and replace all parts that have excessive wear. If replacement is warranted, we typically offer two options. First option is to replace with a new mortise lock, which is a high quality decorative product that will last a long time and have decorative value. The second option entails retrofitting the door to accept a modern entry lock, such as a locking high quality door knob. Option 2 is the more popular, as the price of a new mortise lock is often cost prohibitive. Retrofitting the door for a new door knob is a great option, and there are still many decorative styles that can be chosen. We most commonly install a commercial grade entrance function door knob- which is highly durable, as well as easy to operate.
Modern style door knobs, deadbolts
Most common causes for a knob or deadbolt not working properly are door alignment issues, strike plate alignment issues, lock misalignment, or low quality hardware. With this type of lock setup, we can often immediately identify the culprit of the problem, and quickly fix it. If the hardware is old and worn, or is low quality, then we will recommend switching to a higher quality grade 2 hardware, which is much more durable and better quality. On our vans we carry good quality grade 2 locks at a good price- stocking the most common finishes. We carry some decorative hardware, but a lot of times we will show you a catalog of hardware which we can order to tailor to your specific tastes.
Rim cylinder locks, Surface mounted locks
Another old style of lock is a surface mounted lock, which is mounted on the inside of the door and operated by a rim cylinder which is flush to the outside face of the door. Issues found with these are typically alignment related, and usually due to a lack of maintenance over many years. Sometimes we find low quality hardware that needs replacement also.
*Locks Re-Keyed*
A rekey of a lock refers to the changing of a lock's internals in a way that bars all former keys from working- by setting the lock to a new set of keys. Almost all locks on residences are pin tumbler locks, and during a rekey, the pins are changed- which essentially changes the "combination" of the lock. To re-key a lock requires knowledge, skill, and the correct parts.
*Locked Out Service | Lockout Help*
This service includes any lockout, whether of your home, file cabinet, home safe, mailbox, car, or anything else. We respond as fast as we can to your call. Almost always we will pick your lock- or find another way to bypass the lock for non damaging entry. Occasionally due to a lock malfunction, we will need to break the lock- but always arrive prepared for that with the correct tools and replacement parts and hardware. We also usually are able to make the new lock match your existing key- rather than a whole new set of keys, which is more convenient for you.
*Master Key Systems | Master Keying*
A master key system is where you have a system of hierarchy for your keying. There are many ways we can build this type of keying. Typically there is a master key which can be used to operate all locks on a property, a sub master or several sub masters that work on some doors (such as one for electrical rooms, one for storage closets, one for maintenance rooms), and also each lock may have its' own key (called a change key). In a triple decker for instance, a master key could be used to operate all the property's locks, and each separate apartment would have its own key, as well as a separate key for exterior doors. This would allow a landlord or property manager to carry just one key for an entire property. This will also allow, for example, in larger apartment buildings, for an electrical contractor to be handed a key that operates the electrical rooms only- so there is no key compromise or worry- he will only be where allowed. Our techs are highly experienced with master keying for both small and large projects.
*Locks Fresh Installed | Deadbolt Installation*
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We recommend every exterior door be equipped with a deadbolt- having one is a major deterrent to criminals. Installing a deadbolt fresh on your door is a relatively simple task, but does require the use of several different tools to do; and skill and experience to do it right. We also install security strike plates with long screws to anchor and protect against forced entry. A deadbolt or other lock fresh installed is ideal if you a looking to increase the level of security in your home, at an affordable rate.
We also fresh install other types of locks for your home. Jimmy proof deadbolt, night latches, surface mounted deadbolts, peep holes, chain locks, hotel locks, and more. |
Deadbolt being installed in Watertown, MA
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*High Security Locks | Restricted Keys*
High security locks are locks that are extremely difficult to near impossible to pick, drill, or manipulate open in any other way. The materials used are of high quality, drill resistant steel; and the lock cylinder is intelligent and complex in design. The keys require an authorization card as well as proper identification to be copied- and only can be copied through some locksmiths. Many landlords opt for restricted keys to prevent tenants from making copies of keys; and thus are able to control their keys (they know how many keys were issued to a tenant, and expect the same amount to be returned upon vacating the unit). Some landlords even have a "lost key" clause in a lease, in which if a key is lost or replaced, the responsible party will be required to pay for the cost of replacing the key- or even having the locks re-keyed.
*Interchangeable Core | LFIC, SFIC | What is IC core?*
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Interchangeable core locks are very common for rental units, and are a major convenience and a cost saver for landlords and property management companies over the long run.
Also known simply as IC core, it is a lock system that uses special cores, which can be removed with a special key called a control key. The idea is that when you have an apartment turn over, you can "change the locks" by yourself, and without any special tools or skill. By using the control key, you are able to remove the old cores and install replacement cores. We give you extra cores, so you have sufficient supply to rotate through the property. The cores can also be re-keyed and returned to you. IC cores can be master keyed, and can also use restricted keyways with non-duplicate keys. It is an investment that will absolutely pay off for you in the long run- offering both convenience and cost savings. |
IC core cylinder being removed from housing
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Residential Locksmith Projects | Boston Residential Lock Service
Winchester, MA deadbolt installation before
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Winchester, MA deadbolt installation after
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Call us @ 617.863.0609
Proudly serving Boston, the North Shore, & Merrimack Valley 24/7.
Proudly serving Boston, the North Shore, & Merrimack Valley 24/7.