People don’t often consider changing their locks often until they fail completely, and they are left either locked out or even locked in their property. But there are many reasons why it is important to get your door locks changed and it shouldn’t be just the result of an emergency. Below are some of the main reasons you should get your door locks changed regardless of whether they are old or new.

Lost Keys – This is very common and is something that the majority of us will experiences at least once in our lifetime! Although when your keys are lost the main thing, you tend to focus on is getting back into your property, anther key factor you should consider is who now has the keys to your property and what do they intend to do with them. The last thing you want is a burglar letting themselves into your property with your own set of keys. This is why it is always recommended that if you have lost your keys or worse, they have been stolen then you should always get the locks replaced, just so you can be sure that you and those you trust are the only ones with a key to your property, helping keep your home safe and secure.

Previous Occupants – If you have just moved into a new property then you can’t be sure that all the keys have been handed to you, many keys could still be in circulation, and you never know what the motives of the previous occupants or their friends or family that have been given a key might be. It is always better to be safe than sorry and have the door locks changed when you move into a new property, so you have the piece of mind that you know exactly who has access to a key to you home.

Attempted Break-In Or Break-In – If someone has attempted to or broken into your property then the chances are that the locks have been damaged. Even if they are still working, they will be weak and vulnerable and could lead to future break-ins! If locks are showing any signs of damage, then they should be replaced and potentially even upgraded to help towards preventing future break-ins. Also, if you have had a break-in and the locks remained intact it is still worth getting the locks changed as it is possible that the burglar took a copy of the key to use at a later date.

Old Locks – Old locks are prone to wear and tear and can often cause quite a few problems when they fail, as well as this, older locks will no longer be the most secure locks, and this could be leaving your property vulnerable. The security industry is constantly coming up with new and innovative security measures to improve locks to ensure they work well at keeping burglars at bay as well as combating any new techniques burglars are using to break into properties. The current British standard for locks is BS3621 and TS007 for uPVC doors. If your locks don’t meet this standard, then not only are you leaving your property vulnerable to a break-in, but you could also find that your current insurance policy is void. If your current locks don’t meet British standards, then you should call your local locksmith to come and upgrade them as soon as possible.
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If you need new locks or need the locks at your property upgrading, then contact Lime Locks Wirral Today - 0151 353 9607

When it comes to home security improvements its not just the measures inside your property you should consider, it is also important to secure the outside areas of your property which play a huge role in the overall security of a property. This is why our team at Lime Locks Wirral have put together this handy guide on outdoor home security tips, to help you achieve the maximum level of security at your home or business.
Outdoor Security Improvements

• CCTV
• Outdoor Lighting
• High gate or fence
• Blinds and curtains
• Secure locks on garages and sheds
• Keep valuables locked away and out of sight
• Makes sure tools, equipment and other items used in the garden are put away after use and stored in an area with a secure lock.
• Keep bushes and shrubs under control

You don’t have to implement everything on this list all at once, you can do it as and when your time and budget allows. A good place to start it installing a gate or fence as this makes your property a lot less accessible for potential intruders and works as a huge deterrent for most burglars. Also keeping gardening equipment, tools and kids toys locked away and the garden bushes and shrubs under control are an inexpensive and easy measure to implement straight away.
If you need more information on implementing new home security measures either inside or outside your home or business then contact Lime Locks Wirral today. We take pride in helping all of our customers improve their home security helping them to keep their homes or businesses as safe and secure as possible.  We provide free home security assessments and advice as well as only installing high security, good quality branded locks.
Call Lime Locks Wirral today for home security advice or improvements - 0151 353 9607

It may surprise you but this is a very common problem that us locksmith come across daily. This can be a very frustrating experience as it often leaves you either locked out or locked in your property!

Why Do Keys Break?

There are many reasons behind keys snapping off in locks, some of the most common include:

• Key has got damaged over time.
• Keys are often made from soft metals such as brass and nickel.
• The lock is not well lubricated or has become jammed.

What To Do If Key Breaks In Lock?

Regardless of how the key broke in the lock, getting the key safely extracted should always be the main priority:

• Broken keys can damage locks.
• You may not be able to lock the door and secure your property.
• You may be locked out or in your property.

How Do You Extract Broken Keys From Locks?

If you can see a small portion of the key sticking out of the lock it may be possible to extract the key yourself with a pair of needles nosed plyers, or even a strong magnet. However, if not much of the key is available then you should call out your local locksmith. They have the experience, knowledge and tools to safely extract a broken key from a lock without causing any damage to the lock. A locksmith will also be able to help you gain entry if you are locked out or in!

How To prevent Broken Keys?

There are some tips you can try to help prevent keys breaking in your lock:
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Lubricate locks – at least every 6 months you should lubricate your locks with a silicone-based lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants such as WD-40 as this type of lubricant will over time damage locks and cause them to get clogged up.
Replacement Keys – Keys are susceptible to wear and tear as they are used so frequently, as soon as you notice any signs of wear on your key you should make a copy and dispose of the old one.
If your having problems with your locks or keys or need a broken key extraction then contact Lime Locks Wirral today - 0151 353 9607

When making security upgrades to your property all the focus tends to be on the external doors leaving one vital security measures overlooked, the window locks. Your doors may be as secure as they can be but are your windows? Windows are a commonly used entry point  for burglars so it is important that you ensure they are as secure as they can be to avoid leaving your property vulnerable.

Reduce Risk and Save Money

Upgrading the window locks and improving their overall security not only makes your whole property more secure it can also help save you money on your insurance premiums. Insurance providers don’t just set minimum security requirements for door locks, they have them for windows too, so if your current window locks  don’t meet this requirement you could even find that your current policy is invalid. So it should be a priority to get your windows locks upgraded as soon as possible.

Types of Windows and Locks

To understand how to improve your window security you first need to know what type of window you have so you can apply the best measures for that window type.

Sash Windows  - Sash jammers or security stops can be fitted to this type of window. They will stop the windows from being able to slide past each other.

Casement Windows – This type of window usually requires two locks, one for the long handle at the bottom and another for the smaller side handle. You have the choice of either having new handles installed with secure locks already integrated into them or changing the locks that are in the existing handles.

Fanlight Windows – This type of window can be secured using a swing lock, this allows you to reach in and open a larger window. Mortice window bolts can also improve the security of this type of window.

UPVC Windows – This type of window often comes with high security locks installed; however, they handles are prone to wear and over time can fail so it is important to keep an eye on them and at the first sign of an issue you should call your local locksmith. Faulty window handles can easily be replaced.

If you are having problems with your window locks or they just need upgrading to more secure locks, then contact Lime Locks Wirral today on - 0151 353 9607

A burglary is committed in the UK around every 40 seconds, and with this being a UK wide problem it is shocking just how many homeowners neglect their home security measures making their homes vulnerable to potential intruders.

• Majority of Burglaries Happen During The Day – Most people when thing of a burglary tend to imagine it happening during the night, however most UK burglaries actually happen during the day time between the hours of 10:00am and 3:00pm. This is because the majority of people are out at work during the day so there is more opportunity for a burglar to get in and out of a property undisturbed.


• Burglars Rarely Take Household Objects – It is rare for a burglar these days to go into a property and steal a tv or stereo. More often than not when a burglar breaks into a property, they are looking for much smaller but higher value items such as car keys, bank/credit cards and personal identity information. These sort of items are much more valuable to a burglar as they can be used to make online purchases and take out credit. With this said, it is still wise to keep valuables and jewellery stored in a safe place and out of sight.


• Most Burglars Don’t Carry Tools – Burglars are well known for being opportunists. They are often experienced at breaking into properties, and have a keen eye for pin pointing properties they feel are an easy target. Because burglars want to stay unnoticed, and have a quick and easy get away they tend not to bother carrying tools or equipment with them, instead they will use tools they have found around your property such as gardening equipment, so it is important that you tidy up and lock away and tools or equipment you have been using, and keep sheds and garages securely locked at all times.


• 47% Of Burglaries Are Done Spontaneously – When asked most convicted burglars said the majority of burglaries they committed were done with a quick decision when they spotted an opportunity. This is why having visible security measures such as high security locks in place at your property can work well at deterring burglars.


• Someone Is Home During 28% of Burglaries – Most people believe that if their house is occupied then there is less chance of them getting burgled. However, in around 3 in 10 burglaries someone has been home whilst the offence has been committed. This is why it is a good idea to keep doors and windows locked at all times even if you are at home.


• Most Burglaries Are Done By Someone Living Close To You – A scary thought but in most cases the burglar will live within two miles of the property they have targeted. This is why it is important to not follow a strict routine so anyone untoward watching cannot predict your behaviour and when your property will be empty. It is also wise to keep holiday plans quiet until after you have been to avoid word spreading to the wrong people.

Here at Lime Locks Wirral, we are committed to helping our customers stay safe and secure in their homes. We offer free security assessments and will advise on improvements, upgrades and security measures that will help protect their homes from burglars.

If you need to improve your home security, then contact Lime Locks Wirral today - 0151 353 9607

There is a huge range of reasons behind people needing the services of a locksmith, some of which occur a lot more frequently than others. This is why our team at Lime Locks Wirral have put together a helpful guide on the most common reasons for locksmith call outs if you ever find yourself in one of these situations you will know exactly what it is you need to do.

Locked Out – It is inevitable that almost everyone will experience being locked out at least once in their lives, and this is by far one of the most common reasons for people requiring the services of a locksmith! Being locked out is never a pleasant experience, and most will find it rather stressful. Luckily, a trusted local locksmith is only ever a quick phone call away. When you call a reliable local locksmith they will promptly attend your property and quickly gain entry to your home without causing any damage to the existing lock or door, they will also be able to change the locks in the same visit if necessary for extra piece of mind that your home remains secure, just in case your keys have fallen into the wrong hands. It is always worth asking over the phone when you call a locksmith if they are able to gain entry to your home without causing any damage. This way you can be sure that the locksmith attending your property is experienced and will complete the task at hand effectively and not cost you more money in the long run.  

Lock Upgrades or Changes These days it is incredibly common for locksmith to receive calls to come and upgrade the existing locks at a property. This is mostly due to insures nee minimum requirements for locks, all locks must meet or exceed BS3621 or TS007 for uPVC doors, if your locks don’t meet this requirement you may struggle to get cover or may even find that your existing policy is void. It is also worth knowing that some insurers have been known to refuse to pay out on claims made on existing policies if the locks at the time of the break-in were substandard.  Although this is probably the main reason for people requiring new locks or lock upgrades, another common reason is when people have moved home. It is always advised that you get the locks change when you move into a new property to ensure that you are the only person with a copy of the key to the property as you can’t ever be sure of how many keys are still in circulation from previous occupants. Getting the locks changed is the best way to ensure your new home is safe and secure.

Lock Repairs – Another very common reason for needing the services of a locksmith. Like anything else locks are susceptible to general wear and tear. This is often due to how frequently they are used. When a lock fails the best option isn’t always to completely replace the lock, sometimes it is easier and cheaper to simply get the lock repaired. Any good local locksmith will be able to diagnose the fault and advise you on the best course of action be it repairing or replacing the lock.

Repairing Burglary Damage – When you have had a break-in it is always strongly recommended that always recommended that you have the locks changed as soon as possible even if there is no damage. This is because the intruder could have taken a copy of a key to use at a later date. Any damage to window locks and handles will also need dealing with, a locksmith will know the correct size handle and lock that is right for the windows that you have. Most locksmiths also provide a boarding up service for any broken windows or doors.
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If you require the services of a locksmith for any of the situations mentioned above or to try and improve your home security to prevent any of these scenarios, then contact Lime Locks Wirral today - 0151 353 9607

There are multiple reasons that mean you will have to have your door locks changed just a few are listed below:

• You have lost your keys and are worried who may have found them and what they intend to do with them.
• You need to upgrade your locks to meet insurers minimum requirements so that your property id fully covered by your insurance policy.
• You have moved home and want to ensure you are the only one with a copy of the key to your house.
• Your current lock is, damaged, faulty or just needs replacing.

For most if you have experienced any of these or similar then you would get straight in touch with your local locksmith and have them change the locks, however there are a few out there that try to save time and money by attempting the lock change themselves.

Unfortunately, a lock change isn’t that simple, and it will take more than watching a few videos to successfully change a lock. You need to find the correct lock type and size for your door and ensure it meets the current British standard BS3621. If you don’t have a BS3621 lock installed, then it is likely that should you ever come to make a claim your insurance provider will not be willing to pay out on any claims.

Why You Should Get A Locksmith To Change The Locks

Once you have decided to change the locks at your property you have to consider that the new lock for your property could be slightly different is size or shape, to correctly install this you will need specialist tools and some joinery skills. If you don’t have the correct tools for the job, then you are likely to cause more damage and you will end up spending more money than you would of initially spent as your mistakes will have to be rectified.

You also need to have the knowledge and understanding of the British standards and what lock standard is required for your door type to ensure it meets or exceeds your insurers minimum standards and your property is properly secured and protected.
There are many different lock standards in the UK. BS3621 is a lock standard by British Standards Institute for thief-resistant locks which is the reason that most insurance companies do require that door locks must be fitted to a minimum of BS3621 British Standard.
 
So overall, it is much more time effective and cost effective to have a reliable local locksmith come and change the locks at your property. Locksmith have years of experience and training, and all the correct tools you would need for any lock change allowing them to quickly and effectively install the best lock for your door that meets current British standards and ensure it is done correctly to keep your home safe and secure.

If you need the locks changing at your home or business or need help with any of your other security measures contact Lime Locks Wirral today - 0151 353 9607

In most cases wooden doors come fitted with a mortice lock. Mortice locks are available in lots of different brads and sizes so the one you have fitted to your wooden door will depend entirely on manufacturers preference. Unfortunately, locks that come fitted with wooden doors aren’t always the most secure and often don’t meet British Standard BS3621. To find out if your current locks meet BS3621 then you need to look for the kite mark that should be displayed on the faceplate of the lock. If there is no kite mark displaying BS3621 then it would be advised that you call out your local locksmith to come and upgrade your locks not only to ensure that your locks are as secure as they can be but it will also help you get insurance cover and possible even lower your premiums. You may also find that some insurers won’t offer you cover unless your locks meet or exceed BS3621.

Why Change A Mortice Lock?
There are a few reasons why you might want to change your mortice lock, some are listed below:

• Locks don’t meet BS3621.
• Faulty lock due to wear and tear or tampering. Faulty locks may not always need changing as they can sometimes be repaired but your local locksmith will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
• You have just moved home and want the locks changing to ensure only you and those you trust have a copy of the key.

Rim Cylinders
Rim cylinders are more commonly known as Yale locks. This type of lock is often used along side a mortice lock. Rim cylinder locks will automatically lock when you close the door behind you, this works well for security but not so much when you have left without your keys! Fortunately, any good locksmith will be able to help you gain entry into your property quickly and without causing any damage.

If your wooden door has a Yale lock on its own, then it is highly recommended that you have a mortice lock installed to use alongside it to help improve the overall security of your door.
Similarly, to the mortice lock you would want to have the Yale lock changed if you have move home, its damaged or doesn’t meet BS3621.

Extra Security
There are a few more ways that you can improve the overall security of your wooden door:

• If you don’t already have one, install a rim cylinder lock
• Have a BS3621 deadlock installed at the bottom of your door
• Have, chains or bolts installed, these can only be used when you are inside the property, but they offer that extra bit of protection at night.

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If your having problems with the locks on your wooden door, or would like to have the locks Upgrades then contact Lime Locks Wirral today - 0151 353 9607

Every now and then its worth sitting down and considering the home security measures you have in place. Like anything over time locks wear and they may not be working to their full potential or they may fail which can leave your property vulnerable to a break in. Your external doors are your first line of defence against potential burglars, so it is important that you ensure that both the door and the locks are in good working order. Below our team at Lime Locks Wirral have put together a helpful guide to help you spot the signs that your external door locks are ready to be changed in order to keep your property as secure as it can be.

Why Should You Replace A Door Lock?
Wear and Tear – It would be nice if everything lasted forever, but unfortunately like most things’ door locks have a life span and over time, due the frequent use of the locks they can start to wear and eventually fail and leave your home vulnerable. Try and look out for obvious signs of wear on your locks such as rust. If you have rust on your lock, then it is definitely time for an upgrade. 

Lost/Stolen Keys – By far, this is one of the most common reasons for people requiring the services of their local locksmith. Losing your keys or fearing they have been stolen is incredibly stressful, mainly because it poses two problems, first, you are locked out of your property and second you cant be sure who may have found or even stolen your keys so you cant be sure that once your back inside your property it is as secure as it once was. Most good locksmiths will recommend having the locks changed if you feel there is no chance of finding your keys. This is to ensure that your home stays secure and a potential burglar isn’t going to have easy access to your property and belongings by letting themselves in through your front door. When a locksmith has gained entry to your property and changed the locks you will be provided with a new set of keys so you can be sure you know exactly who has a key to your property.

Moving Home – When you move into a new property getting the locks changed should be high up on your to do list. Unfortunately, most people often overlook this or forget as there dealing with a lot of other stuff during the move. However, it is highly recommended, not just by locksmiths but by the police and insurance companies as well. This is because unless you have built the property yourself and are the first people to occupy it you can’t be sure of how many keys are still in circulation. The same applies if someone moves out of your property, a lodger or tenant for example.

Burglary – If you have been victim to a break in then after the crime has been reported and the police have been to collect evidence one of the first things you should do is get the locks changed. This is incredibly important as any damaged or broken locks will leave your home vulnerable to another break in! It is also possible that the burglars found a spare set of keys to your home during the break in so even if your locks weren’t damaged it is a good idea to have them changed. Also upgrading your locks at the same time will help deter potential burglars from future break ins.

If your having problems with any of your locks, or if they need upgrading to more secure locks then contact Lime Locks Wirral today – 0151 353 9607
 
 
 
 

A break-in is something that no one wants to experience, unfortunately it is something that happens regular and is on the rise in the Wirral area. During this stressful and emotional time, it is easy to lose focus. This is why our team at Lime Locks Wirral have put together this blog post to help you understand exactly what to do in the event of a burglary so you can get your home back in order as soon as possible.

Ring The Police – when you discover you have had a break in the first thing you should do is call the police so the crime is on record. The police will also issue you with a crime reference number which you should keep handy as you will need this when it comes to making an insurance claim. If, when you discover the break in you are outside of your property it is important that you stay outside until the police arrive as you could destroy crucial evidence.

Don’t Touch Or Move Anything – When you are waiting for the police to arrive don’t touch or move anything in or around your property as it could be evidence. If any evidence has been left behind it can play a crucial role in helping the police find and prosecute the culprit which could even result in the recovery of your stolen items. So, no matter what wait for the police before you start, tidying and taking inventory.

Make A List – When the police have finished gathering evidence then you can start putting together a list of any stolen or damaged goods to provide to your insurance company. It is important to try and be as detailed as possible, list any distinctive marks, serial numbers and a rough estimate of the items value.

Call Your Bank – This step is particularly important if you had credit or debit cards in the house at the time of the burglary. Even if your cards haven’t been stolen you should ask the bank to cancel them and verify the last few transactions. This is because the thieves could have taken not of the card details and left them behind allowing them to make online purchases without you being none the wiser.
Contact Insurance – Make sure you make a call to your insurance provider within the first 24 ours of the break in so that your claim can begin to be processed. You will need to provide them with the crime reference number the police provided you with and a list of stolen or damaged items so make sure you have these handy before the call.

Secure Your Property -After the police have done what they need to and give you the all clear you can finally get down to straightening up and getting things back to normal. While you are clearing up the mess you should also consider making your property secure once again. You should call out a local locksmith to come and board up any broken windows and repair, replace or upgrade your locks to ensure that your home is once again secure.

It would be worth considering upgrading your home security measures to help prevent any future break ins. This is something you can discuss with your local locksmith who will be able to advise you on the best security measures for your property and your budget.

If you have fallen victim to a break in or would like to improve your home security to prevent a break in then contact Lime Locks Wirral today - 0151 353 9607