Since they’re responsible for their homes, homeowners have countless tasks to stay on top of. Otherwise, the house and its residents will suffer.
Security is up there when it comes to priorities. Without it, there won’t be anything protecting the residents from outside elements.
Malicious people will take advantage of their vulnerability and possibly endanger them.
Therefore, all households must have home locks installed as their first line of defense.
But even though it’s their purpose to secure, home locks are still technology. Hence, they’re bound to develop some form of dysfunction.
Once that happens, it’s time to contact professionals from Locksmith Plus Inc. in Vancouver WA, or any local locksmiths in your area.
However, simply labeling it as ‘dysfunction’ might sound too broad. So, here are different scenarios that embody ‘dysfunctional locks’ suitably:


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When They Show Signs of Age
Compared to doors, home locks can’t last as long as they do. Even if manufacturers typically manufacture metal locks, they’re still susceptible to wear over time.
Considering they’re exposed to the elements, rust is an issue that metal has to endure eventually, especially if they’re positioned somewhere that receives a lot of sunlight and moisture.
Granted, high-quality locks have a better chance at longevity.
However, it’s not long enough to make a significant difference since it still needs to be replaced.
After about seven years, wear will eventually crop up on your home locks as seen from the near-constant door jams or faulty locks.
When They’ve Been Tampered With
A successful break-in can only happen if burglars have the right equipment for their heist.
Typically, their ‘equipment’ enables them to bulldoze their way into the house while making as little noise as possible.
And among the methods to do that, breaking the lock is their most obvious choice.
However, if you know how to keep your home secure and install high-quality locks, you have a better chance of discouraging them.
But be that as it may, your locks didn’t succeed unscathed. After receiving rough treatment from potential break-ins, their locking mechanism is likely damaged.
Although, it’s a different problem altogether if they try lock-picking because your locks are compromised. Whichever the case is, urgent lock replacement is needed.
When You Just Moved in
Moving into a new home has always been a flurry of activity and excitement.
But as easy as it is to get carried away in relocating and handling your belongings, remember that you might be targeted in your area.
Since the neighborhood expects you’re still setting up, people frequently come and go to your new place.
With so many things happening in your new home, you’re basically sticking out like a sore thumb.
Even though you haven’t moved all your belongings yet, replace your new home’s lock as soon as possible, especially if it’s a rental.
Regardless of what the landlord says, previous tenants still might have the keys to your new home.
To have peace of mind, it’s better to be safe than sorry and replace the old locks.
When You Lost Your Keys
Misplaced keys often turn up hours later, whether someone else found them or you stumbled into them accidentally.
However, losing keys is a completely different matter.
Considering they could be anywhere outside, anyone might get their hands on it the longer you haven’t found them.
Sadly, all sorts of people are out there; it’s purely out of luck if the person who obtained your keys is a nice person.
Regardless, losing keys is already a huge security risk, especially if they’re hanging on a keychain along with your contact information.
Contact a locksmith immediately for a lock replacement.
However, for those who have a habit of losing their keys, consider installing smart locks this time instead of the traditional ones.
Because of all types of locks, smart locks are the most convenient when all you need is to connect your phone.
When Living Arrangements Change
Loved ones moving out is normal. However, the problem comes in when your previous housemates are forced out, causing bad blood to take root.
Although you’re familiar with them already, anger brings out the worst in people, even if you can never imagine them doing anything that might endanger your life.
If you had a fallout with your previous housemate, replacing your home locks is a wise decision.
When They’re Outdated
As technology continued to advance, manufacturers viewed it as constant business growth.
After all, improving on previous models often guarantee promising results since they’re supposed to resolve pre-existing issues.
Updating home locks for newer models enables you to stay on top of your home security.
Moreover, some advanced features maximize convenience on top of top-notch security.
Takeaway
Maintaining a home can be extremely overwhelming, considering how many factors are involved in ensuring a high-quality indoor life.
Home security greatly contributes to indoor comfort, with home locks standing as your home’s first line of defense.
Despite that, some homeowners rather push lock replacements back until their damage is much more obvious.
To ensure your home is an impenetrable fortress, keep a lookout for signs indicating your locks’ need for replacements.