Facts About Lock-Picking

Here some helpful facts about the secret world of lock-picking deadbolts:
• Locksmiths spend a lot of time training for their profession and learning how to pick a door lock is indispensable so they will know how to open a lock without damaging it.
• Although surprising, picking a lock is not a typical burglar's first choice for breaking into your home. This is primarily because of faster and easier techniques like breaking a window or kicking in the door. It is most likely a spy or private detective who would take the time to pick a lock.
• Just like there are computer hackers, there are also lock hackers. They pick locks for the challenge and for enjoyment, even though it is against the law and immoral. These lock hackers risk being arrested for serious breaking-and-entering charges.
• A basic understanding of lock-picking makes it clear that normal locks are not without their flaws, since they can be cracked with negligible effort. Armed with the know-how and the right tools, a resolute prowler can break almost any lock. There are even electric pick guns which can open a dead bolt in seconds, although they can be flaky depending on the lock.
• In the event your lock is picked, an affordable door alarm that sounds when the door opens could be beneficial.

Door Hardware for Commercial Uses

When designing an office, warehouse, or retail store, you should consider using commercial door hardware that will make the space more versatile and interesting. For example, large barn-style door panels can be made very user-friendly with sliding barn door hardware. Such design solutions are also known as heavy duty door hardware and industrial hardware.
Commercial exterior uses for sliding door hardware include:
• Large warehouse doors
• Vehicle maintenance doors
• Hanger doors
• Security gates
• Doors and gates for zoos
Commercial interior uses for sliding door hardware include:
• Art gallery and museum display panels
• Chalkboards and tack boards for classrooms or boardrooms
• Showroom displays or dividers
• Theater acoustical panels or stage dividers

Installing a Dead Bolt

After choosing a deadbolt that complements your design style and provides the level of safety needed, it's time to put in the new hardware. Installing deadbolts is very similar to installing door handlesets or handle locks, except that a dead bolt is installed higher up on the door. One crucial thing to take your time doing is the marking your drill holes, as you don't want to mess up your door.

Step 1: Mark up a dead bolt template using the one included by the manufacturer with your dead bolt or make your own. The important thing is that your hole in the door face and the hole on the door edge match up correctly. It's always a good idea to double-check your measurements.

Step 2: Drill holes in the door, following any instructions provided by the dead bolt manufacturer. Usually, you want to drill the door face holes first, and then drill the latch hole. You may need a spade drill bit and a hole saw to cut a clean, smooth hole.

Step 3: It is now time to installing your dead bolt lock and the latch plate. If done correctly, the dead bolt will slide easily into the latch plate providing more security for your home.

Handy Hints for Installing Doorbells

When preparing to install a doorbell in your home, there are several things to keep in mind:
• When running wire for the doorbell, take a measurement of the length from your pushbutton location to the transformer, and then add about 15 feet to the measurement. This additional cable length will help provide you with some leeway as you route your cable through twists and turns.
• Installing two or more doorbell pushbuttons? Calculate the measurement of the distance from each of your pushbutton locations back to the transformer, and then add the extra 15 feet to that total.
• Pushbuttons are the most convenient when installed at doorknob level about four to five inches from the edge of the door.
• To ensure an unobtrusive chime box, mount your interior box unit six feet from the floor, at a minimum.
• Run cables inside walls or ceilings so they are safely out of sight.
• Remember to always use caution when working with electricity in your home, or call an electrician when in doubt.

"Child Friendly" Door Stops

A typical doorstop has two pieces, a metal spring and a rubber end cap. This type of hardware can be a hazard for young children in the home.

An alternative for a two-piece doorstop is a one-piece plastic doorstop, which has no sharp edges, springs or removable end caps. This doorstop is a "child friendly" substitute for your home. It provides the same conveniences of a traditional doorstop with shock absorbsion and wall protection, but doesn't have the safety hazards.

A one-piece doorstop will aid you is achieving a "child-proof" home.