As a consumer, you may not know the exact things to look out for when choosing a padlock. With all the lock manufacturing companies out there trying to sell their locks to you, you are likely to be tempted to make your purchase based on the aesthetics or the outward beauty instead of considering the functionalities of the lock.
Though a presentable lock is also admirable on your door, you should be more vigilant while making the choice so that you choose a good padlock that will guarantee the safety of your home or business premises. Essentially, a good lock should have the following features-:
- Be resistant to twisting
- Resistant to cutting
- Resistant to drilling
- Able to grant you the security you desire
Below are seven tips to help you choose the right padlock for your premises-:
The Shackle
The size or the length of the shackle determines whether or not the lock can be easily breached through cutting with a hacksaw or be easily broken by twisting. A good padlock should have a very short shackle or a concealed one which does not make it easy to cut or to bend and break.
Built Quality
The built quality refers to the engineering aspects of the lock. A good lock should have its parts machined to the correct accuracy and tolerance to make them very effective in providing security to the places where you will be using them. For instance, when the padlocks have raised shoulders around the shackles or completely concealed shackles, they become more resistant to attacks.
The Lock Materials
There are different materials used to make locks but not all of them are of the same strength and quality. Though most of the locks are made from brass and steel, your ideal choice of lock should have weather resistant coating such as zinc, plastic or chrome as well as reinforced construction methods for increased durability.
Approvals by Third Party
Since you are not going to test the effectiveness of the lock before buying it, it is imperative to get the views from other third party. Of great interest are past buyers or users and the relevant Standards Organizations within the locksmith industry. You can check out reviews about the particular lock from the past buyers to see if the majority liked it or if there are any specific complaints about it.
Secondly, you should check if the lock is approved by the following-:
- Solid Secure – This is a standard by Master Locksmith’s Association
- Kite – this is the oldest quality mark and it is owned by the British Standards Institute and recognized internationally.
The Number of Key Variations
A good padlock should offer the largest number of key variations. If the variations are many, it reduces the chances of them getting copied. There are also other padlocks with keys that can’t be copied at all and if you need to replace the key, then you have to go back to the manufacturer and you will only be allowed to have the replacement if you can prove that you are indeed the person who purchased the original padlock.
Stainless or Hardened Locks
Stainless or hardened simply refers to the methods used in making the metal used for manufacturing the lock. Though both of them are of good quality, stainless locks will not rust even when exposed to harsh weather conditions. Hardened locks on the other hand are stronger and harder to cut or break by might get rust in harsh weather conditions.
Contact Panda Locksmiths in Chicago for the top padlocks to secure your premises. Our friendly and accommodative staff will guide in the choosing process so that you end up purchasing the most suitable locks for your premises.