7 Ways to Recycle and Reuse Old Keys

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If you are like most homeowners, chances are, you have a drawer or a cabinet in your home that is referred to as a ‘junk drawer.’ Just hearing the name may spark visions of random paper clips, tape dispensers, notepads, pens, old receipts, phone charger cords, and other items that do not seem to have a proper place anywhere else in your home. There is a good chance that your junk drawer also holds numerous keys that have ended up there for one reason or another.  

If you have an abundance of older keys that you are no longer using, what are you supposed to do with them? If you have moved around a lot and have acquired extra keys or simply gathered them do to circumstance, there are several things you can do to get the most use out of these old keys. With old keys, you can reuse them for everything from practical needs to more creative projects. 

Are you ready to start recycling and reusing your old keys? Below you will find a list of suggestions for how to reuse your old keys that may be appealing to you and your family members. Adults and children alike can get involved in recycling their old keys. Check out some of the best suggestions below for how you can reuse your old keys, instead of simply tossing them out. 

#1 – Clean Boot and Shoe Treads 

Keys are great for cleaning in between the bottom of shoe treads. If you have a pair of hiking boots, running shoes, or other footwear with lots of tread on the bottom, using an old key to clean them can be a lifesaver. Save an extra key or two and leave it by your door or in your mudroom. That way, you can quickly and easily clean out any mud, dirt, or debris that gets stuck in the shoe treads. 

#2 – Create a Key Hook for Your Wall 

You can recycle your old keys to create a key hook for your wall to be used for the keys you do currently use. Bending and manipulating keys is not hard. If you have the right tools, you can bend the keys at the bottom to create hooks and attach the heads of the keys to the board. You will then have a creative key hook to store all of your sets of keys, as well as other items such as dog leashes, hats, and other items you may need as you rush out your front door. 

#3 – Anchor Down Balloons 

Keys are great for weighing down balloons at parties and other events. Simply attached a key to the string of each balloon and you will have an inconspicuous and effective way to keep all of your balloons in place. Instead of buying cheap, plastic balloon weights, use your old keys instead! 

#4 – Weigh Down Curtains 

If you have lighter curtains around your home windows that don’t seem to want to stay put, you can slip a key into the bottom hem of the curtains. This will help weight down the curtains when the wind blows or when your air conditioner is running.  

#5 – Create a Toy for Children and Toddlers 

Have you ever noticed that babies and toddlers love playing with key sets? This is because children love to mimic what they see their parents and other adults doing around them. With some old keys, you can create a fun toy for your children. With their own play key set, children can feel more grownup and enjoy a new toy at the same time. You can throw on old keychains, toys, and other items to the keyring as well to make it fun and interesting for your children. 

#6 – Make Jewelry or Ornaments 

Old keys can be turned into jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets. This is an easy project to undertake, as you can simply place one of your old keys on a string and format it into a necklace or other piece of jewelry. You may also decide to create Christmas tree decorations with old keys, especially if these keys hold some kind of sentimental value to you and your household. 

#7 – Make a Sentimental Piece of Artwork 

Do you remember where some of the old keys were used for that you plan on recycling? Perhaps you still hung on to the first key you had for your first apartment as a young adult. Or maybe you have a house key from your childhood home that you have always kept and have been unable to part with. If you have keys that carry sentimental value, you can create a shadow box and display the keys with the location and dates of where they were once used. You can also try incorporating your keys into paintings, drawings, and other forms of artwork. When it comes to any sentimental value inherent in your keys, the options are endless when it comes to the kind of art you can create. 

Contact the Best Locksmith in Alpharetta, GA Now! 

Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC has been the number one locksmith in the Alpharetta, GA for years, thanks to our commitment to high-quality services, 24-hour response times, and superior upgrades and repairs. We understand that nothing is more important than your personal security and the protection of your assets. At Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC, we offer a variety of services that are sure to meet all of your lock and key needs. All of our services are performed on-location, including on-site services for vehicle locksmithing repairs and replacements. No matter what your home, automotive, or commercial locksmithing needs are, we guarantee that no other services in the Alpharetta area can provide the same great locksmithing services for the same low prices. Give us a call if you are in or near the Alpharetta area today and let us help you get started on your next locksmithing project! Call now! 

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Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC: Who is Authorized to Change Locks

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Who is authorized to change locks? This is a great question to ask, especially if you’re thinking the time has come to change your locks. On that same note, you need to know who to call when locks begin to fall apart. We are hoping this article addresses your questions and concerns!

Issues with your current locks, or the desire to upgrade, can leave you asking who can change locks. Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC offers customers the information they need to better protect their property. Here in Alpharetta, GA we have quite the reputation, but we believe the information provided in this article will help anyone who is looking into changing their locks and ensuring it is done the right way. We provide both consultations and price quotes for free to locals in the area, but don’t worry if you are not located here – we are sure there is a locksmith by you that offers the same perks.

Oh, and that’s your answer – a locksmith! When you want someone to change your locks properly, and you want to know the locks will work correctly, you are going to need to call a locksmith. You are able to authorize this expert to change your locks. When you own a property or even rent a property, you have to be responsible and protect everything inside of it. One way to do this is to have sturdy, reliable locks. Without them, anyone could get inside your property. Likewise, it is also important that you hire a licensed and insured locksmith. The lock and security provider that you hire should want some sort of evidence that you are in fact the property owner, and not someone just trying to gain entry. Now, let’s discuss the various lock change options available. Yes, there is more than one because there are different properties that you can own!

Commercial Lock Change

We will start with commercial. Do you need to change your locks at your place of work? In order to hire a locksmith, you need to be authorized to contact and hire a locksmith. This would mean having management or ownership status, or some sort of evidence from the person who does own the property that you are in your rights to change the locks.

Residential Lock Change

Do you own a home? Do you rent a property? If you own it, you are authorized to hire a locksmith. If you rent your property, though, the owner might prefer to go through the information with the locksmith. You can also check into any lease agreement if you rent, as this might provide information on lock changes and the right steps to take in order to attain this service.

Lock Change for Automobile

Do you need an automotive lock change? You just have to have some sort of proof of ownership or authorization to be able to hire a locksmith. For a person who is the true owner of a property, these things are easy to do.

Now you know who is authorized to change locks. Are you authorized to hire the locksmith to change the locks? If you are, then here is the next step – you will need to hire a licensed and insured locksmith in order to ensure things are done to your satisfaction. Having insurance is important. You also want them to be experienced enough to do the job – hence, have licensing. You should also ask about free consultations because you certainly might have questions for this expert.

You know who is authorized to change locks. But do you know if you need to have your locks changed, or if rekeying them would be better? Some don’t even realize they have the option to rekey. Of course, a locksmith can point you in the right direction, but we will provide some general information here.
You might have the opportunity to rekey locks depending on your situation. All this means is that the original lock is the same but the interior is altered. A locksmith can work with springs and pins to make the rekeying change. You can do this if the locks are in good condition, meaning not broken or rusted or falling apart. But maybe you want different locks!

So, let’s say it’s a better option for you to change your locks. This entails a new lock and key. Likewise, it is slightly higher in cost than rekeying. It’s a good option if your locks are damaged, or if you want something different altogether, or if you experienced a break in.

When you want an expert to change your locks and you want to see to it that the job is done appropriately, and you want to know the locks will work when the job is done, you are going to need to call a locksmith. You are able to permit this expert to change your locks. When you own a property like a single-family home, or rent a property whether it’s an apartment or condo, you have to be responsible and protect the items inside of it. You can only do this with functional locks. A locksmith is able to change your locks!

You can call us if you are ready to hire an expert to do this service. But if you aren’t in our area, you still have options. Even if you aren’t local to our business, you are still going to be able to find an expert by you who can carry out the lock change that you need. Google (or use your search engine of choice) a phrase such as “lock change in [city]” and surely you will see the options start popping right up. And don’t forget that when you do hire a locksmith, they should have insurance and specialized training – they should be licensed. A locksmith is authorized to change your locks, and as a property owner, you are authorized to hire a locksmith to do this for you. Thanks for reading!

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How to Know if You Should Rekey or Replace Your Locks

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Lock replacements and rekeying locks are two of the most common locksmithing tasks homeowners need. While these two procedures are similar to one another, there are some major differences to be aware of. In the following article, you will learn more about rekeying and lock replacement procedures, as well as how to determine which one will serve your personal security needs best. 

Rekeying Locks – The Benefits 

Whenever you rekey your locks, you are essentially making it so that a new key works with the lock and the old key becomes obsolete. This is a simple procedure that can be performed by a locksmith. The internal components of the lock are manipulated to accommodate a new key, while the external lock remains intact and in place on the door. The great thing about rekeying your locks is it is inexpensive, quick, and does not require the removal of the original lock itself. If you are looking for a fast way to secure your home, rekeying your locks may be a good option. 

Rekeying Locks – The Downsides 

The downside to rekeying your locks is that this type of procedure is typically considered a limited or minor security upgrade. Rekeying your locks is only effective to a certain extent. A complete lock replacement may be necessary in some circumstances, especially if you are dealing with a broken or worn lock. If you are unsure whether or not rekeying your locks will be enough to ensure your security, you should contact a locksmith for an expert opinion as soon as possible. 

Lock Replacements – The Benefits 

Replacing your home locks can offer you some great advantages. The first is the ability to upgrade. With advancements in technology, you do not just have to settle for the standard deadbolt lock that may currently be on your front door. In fact, there are a variety of residential electronic locks available on the market today that fit every homeowner’s security needs and budget.  Replacing your locks gives you the opportunity to upgrade your home locks to electronic or smart lock models of some kind.  

Even if you choose not to upgrade your home locks to an electronic or smart lock model, you will still benefit from a lock replacement. Standard deadbolt locks wear out after 5-7 years, depending on how often they are used and how well they are maintained. If your lock has been present on your door for some time, you should consider a complete lock change. This will increase your security since a brand-new lock will be placed on your door and you will also receive a new set of keys once it has been installed. 

Peace of mind is another reason you might consider changing your locks entirely. Sometimes it is best to start fresh with new locks and new keys. Especially if you are concerned about your personal safety for whatever reason, it is highly recommended that you receive a professional lock change as soon as possible. 

Lock Replacements – The Downsides 

The only real downside to lock replacements is their cost. While rekeying your locks is a standard, quick, and easy process, lock changes tend to be much more involved and expensive. Lock replacements include attaching new hardware to the door and door frame, as well as ensuring that all of these parts are in proper alignment. You can expect to pay more for any lock replacement parts and hardware you receive. You will also need to factor in costs of labor, too, since the installation process for lock replacements will be much more extensive than a rekeying.  

If it is not within your current budget to replace your locks, you should plan on rekeying them instead. Even as just a temporary fix, a rekeying is better than nothing at all. If you are unsure about the total costs of the lock replacements you would like to receive, call a local locksmith in your area to get a price quote. 

Hire a Professional – No Matter What! 

Regardless of whether a rekeying or a lock replacement will suit your security needs best, always be sure to hire an expert to help you. Rekeying always requires special skills that professional locksmiths have, as well as the ability to make replacement keys on-site. It is unlikely you will be able to rekey your locks yourself without a professional. 

If you intend to replace a lock or two around your home, you should also plan on hiring a locksmith. Even though some lock changes may appear straightforward at first, such as with deadbolt lock placements, there can be unforeseen problems that may make the placement difficult, if not impossible, for someone with no experience. You do not want to attempt to replace your locks yourself, only to have to call a locksmith later on anyway. It is best to work with an expert from the start who can address any surprises or concerns as they come up. 

You may also want to consider hiring a locksmith for a consultation and inspection prior to making any sort of decisions about your lock changes. A local locksmith may be able to suggest better alternatives and upgrades that will meet your security needs more effectively. Most locksmiths will offer their customers free consultations and price quotes, so it is always worth it to at least call a local specialist near you and see what they can offer. 

Work with a Local Locksmithing Expert Now! 

Alpharetta, Georgia residents know they can always count on Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC when it comes to lock changes, upgrades, and other security concerns. Our expert locksmiths are all professionally trained, certified, and insured. When you work with Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC, your repairs and replacements will always be guaranteed. Let us take care of all of your locksmithing needs in the Alpharetta area today with the help of our dedicated and trusted locksmiths. Our staff is standing by 24-hours a day, seven days a week to take your call!  

 

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Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC: Lock Maintenance

When you think about maintenance and repairs for your home, you probably think about things like the dryer, fans, pipes and so on. You might not necessarily think about how maintenance is needed when it comes to security features. But lock maintenance is something that is actually quite important. Just like anything else on your property – your garage door, your sink and so on – your locks need maintenance from time to time. Anything that is used regularly needs to be kept up with – think about how often you need to do things to maintain the functionality and safety of your car! It’s the same idea with door locks, although they might not require as much maintenance as something else.
Locksmith Alpharetta LLC serves customers located in and around beautiful Alpharetta, Georgia. We want to make sure that no matter where you are, you recognize the importance of lock maintenance! Keep reading for more information and you will discover why this is an important topic.  

Failing to Maintain Locks 

Property owners use their door locks a lot. This is true across the board, whether you own a home, rent an apartment or run a commercial property. Unfortunately, it can be easy to put maintenance for locks on the backburner. The thing is, locks are subject to having issues, and many of these issues are the result of failing to maintain the locks. It could also be that the locks were not installed correctly in the first place. Your door lock needs to be installed by an expert so it will function correctly. And you can’t assume that the lock was built to last forever. Sure, you can have a great lock that lasts years, but most don’t last more than a few years.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Locks

In terms of lock maintenance, there are some steps you can take to maximize the lifespan of the lock, for example, ensuring your door is hung right prior to installing the lock. The lock won’t work if the door was not installed right because the door might put too much pressure on the bolt or latch of the lock.
You will also want to ensure your deadbolt and latch work properly. The dead latch should not fall on the strike plate. Being improperly aligned can cause the lock to malfunction, leading you to need maintenance faster. Does the deadbolt operate freely when the door is closed? You want to make sure the deadbolt can’t fully extend so it can actually lock. When things are done the right way in the first place, it can lead to longer lasting locks.

Think About Cleaning Locks

This might not be something you previously considered, but when you want to externally maintain your locks, you will find that it is actually quite simple. Not to mention, if you are concerned about germs, it is a good idea to clean your locks sometimes because many hands will touch them. If you are pregnant, you might want to do this a little more often. If someone in your household is sick, then you will definitely want to do this more often! Just use a mild detergent. In some cases, just a damp rag or towel will do the trick. You will want to avoid using a chemical cleaner or abrasive cleaner which could cause damage to the finish of the lock.

Lubricate the Locks!

You might lubricate other parts of your home, like your garage door. But did you know that lubricating locks is important, too? If you are not doing this at least once a year, you should start. But use a graphite lubricant or dry lubricant. Don’t use petroleum-based products unless you have been advised by an expert or the manufacturer to do so. You want to apply the lubricant into the keyway. After you do this, insert the key and take it out a few times, and make sure you wipe off the key each time you do this. If you are comfortable doing so, it’s a good idea to take the lock off the door in order to ensure you are getting enough lubricant in the latch and bolt. But don’t do this if you are not comfortable doing so, because you could end up re-installing the lock incorrectly.

When you previously considered upkeep/maintenance and repairs for your home or commercial property, you might have only thought about things like the dryer, fans, pipes and so on. Maybe you didn’t really think about how maintenance is needed when it comes to security features such as locks and similar products. Yet after reading this, you realize that lock maintenance is something that is actually quite important. Just like anything else on your property, your locks need maintenance so that they can last their expected lifespan or even longer. Anything that is used on a day to day basis needs to be maintained, cleaned and kept up with – of course you don’t have to do these things on a daily basis, but just knowing and being aware of the fact that it is important to check on the maintenance of your locks once in a while is important.

Reach out to a Locksmith!

You can always hire a locksmith to come out to inspect your locks if you are concerned at all about the shape that they are in. A locksmith can tell you if they could benefit from rekeying or if you could benefit from new locks. They can give you maintenance tips. We hope this article on lock maintenance has been helpful for you. We hope that you realize that importance of maintaining your locks so they can last a long time. If in doubt, you can always see instructions provided by the manufacturer of your specific lock, because we know that there are so many out there, from knob locks and lever handles to keyless locks and smart locks. Different ones and different materials will require different maintenance solutions.

Thanks for reading about lock maintenance!

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Business and Commercial Property Security

Any responsible business owner has security on their minds all the time, whether they are at their business or away from it. To keep your property and assets safe around-the-clock, there are certain measures you can take that will help you keep your eyes on things even when you cannot physically be there. From the locks on your doors, to proper lighting, and everything in between, know that there are several things you can do as a business owner to help keep your business protected and free from theft, break-ins, and other major security problems. 

Hire a Locksmith for an Initial Inspection 

If you have just purchased your commercial building or have not updated your business security in a while, you will want to hire an expert. A locksmith can be helpful if you are looking to upgrade locks in your building, add additional security measures, or simply want an overview of where security weaknesses may be present in your building.  

Proper Lighting is Important 

Make sure both the interior and exterior lights around your building are all working properly and provide adequate lighting. Having a well-lit exterior is especially important around areas where criminals may potentially hide, such as around dumpsters or in back alleys. Lighting is great at preventing criminal activity, since most criminals are hesitant to commit crimes in broad daylight or where others may easily be able to see them. 

Communicate with Your Staff Members 

Sometimes, lapses in security present themselves due to miscommunication issues. Making sure that all of your employees know the proper procedures involved when it comes to keeping the building secure is important. Periodically reviewing security and safety procedures is also critical and will help keep your staff on top of things. Find a way to consistently communicate with your staff through weekly meetings, messages, or communication boards in order to make sure everyone is aware of any security changes or adjustments that need to be made. 

Repair Any Damages Right Away 

If you have a lock on your building or some other security fix that needs attention, be sure to take care of it as soon as possible. Most locksmiths are open 24-hours a day and can repair or replace locks on request at any time. Do not wait to call until the morning or for a more convenient time to call if you have any broken locks or other security problems that need to be addressed right away. 

Install Access Control or Electronic Locks 

Having access control locks or electronic locks installed is an upgrade you should consider as a business owner if you have not already. Electronic locks allow employees to use different methods to enter a building that do not involve traditional keys. Since traditional keys can be a hassle to cut, hand out, and replace, most businesses opt to have keyless entry locks or use card readers instead.  

Electronic locks allow you to customize entry for employees, as well as access to certain parts of your building. You may decide to have keypad combination locks, for example, on public restroom doors that act as standalone locks, while other locks and doors in the building run on an interconnected access control system.  

If you are particularly concerned about your business security while you are away from your business location, then access control is a good way to gain peace of mind. Access control locks not only increase security, but some models feature options that will allow you to check on your business security remotely or while on-the-go, thanks to advanced technology.  

Do Not Forget Security Cameras 

Security cameras are a must for business owners. With how many options are available, not to mention how affordable security cameras have become, it is advised to have at least one interior and exterior camera in your business. Depending on the size of your commercial building or the value of your assets, additional security cameras may be necessary. If there is any place to save on budget, security cameras are not it. You will want to invest as much as possible in a reliable and secure camera or CCTV system.  

Having proof of theft or other mishaps is critical for reimbursement from insurance and for legal purposes, so make sure you have working cameras in your business that are able to hold and store footage. Do not make the mistake of installing security cameras that are either just for show and do not actually record or only store footage for hours at a time. Investing in a system that provides the right features could save you from any financial or legal liability in the future if something unlawful or unethical were to happen in your business or to your business assets. 

Let a Professional Help! 

If you feel overwhelmed or lost when it comes to your business security or installing certain measures that will enhance your security, know that you can always look to a locksmith for advice and hands-on assistance. Locksmiths can help you install new business locks, access control systems, and other devices that will help protect your assets, employees, customers, and overall business. If you need a locksmith to inspect your business prior to making any kind of installations, know that a lot of locksmiths offer free consultations and property evaluations in order to help you make the right choices for your security. 

Need a business locksmith who will know exactly how to help? Look to Locksmith Alpharetta, LLC in Alpharetta, Georgia! If you own a business anywhere inside or around the Alpharetta area, we are the locksmith to turn to when you need help the most. We can install a variety of security enhancing measures, as well as look for any areas on your property that may need some extra attention or repairs. We also assist with home and vehicle locksmithing requests, so call us first the next time you have any kind of lock and key requests or security concerns.

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