What Is Rekeying A Lock?
Having high-quality door locks help to enhance the safety and aesthetic appeal of the property. It is perhaps the reason many people are conscious of the type of locks that they install on their doors. There are times, however, when the safety of the lock might get compromised because a copy of the key got lost or a burglar broke into the property. Some property owners might at times wish to get rid of the many keys and conveniently have only one key opening different doors to their property. Traditionally the ideal solution in each of the above scenarios was to replace the old lock with a new one, which was often expensive and time-consuming. However, with advancements in technology such a person has an inexpensive and less time-consuming option of rekeying the lock.
Resources:
www.centenniallocksmith.com
Wikipedia.com
kwikset.com
What is rekeying a lock?
Rekeying a lock is the process of altering the lock so that only a specific new key can work it. It involves the changing of the lock’s tumbler or wafer configuration to make sure that only the new key functions while the old ones don’t. The rekeying process traces its roots back to 1836, to a New Jersey locksmith by the name of Solomon Andrews, whose locks had adjustable tumblers making it possible to rekey them from time to time. A person wishing to rekey his or her lock can call a professional locksmith, or they could do it by themselves.
How to rekey the lock
Door locks contain an interior chamber consisting of lower as well as upper pins. It is those pins that the keys push into place to open the door. While rekeying, the locksmith replaces the lower pins to enable the ridges fit into the new key. It is an easy procedure that requires only a few minutes to complete. In fact due to its simplicity a determined house owner can carry out the procedure on his or her own, using re-keying kits.
The kits are available in local hardware stores. However when buying them, a person must make sure that they buy similar brands like the one on their lock since they are not interchangeable. The DIY kits come with special instruction sheets detailing how to remove the door knob, the retainer ring, and the cylinder plug from the cylinder as well as how to match the colored pins to the color code. Finally, it provides guidance on how to reassemble the lock.
Benefits of re-keying
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Cost-effective
Rekeying the lock provides a cheaper alternative to buying an entire set of new locks. Imagine a scenario whereby a person is dealing with multiple locks. It would be economical to rekey the locks as opposed to buying new ones.
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Less time-consuming
Secondly in comparison to the amount of time required to replace an existing lock, rekeying is much faster. In most cases rekeying takes fifty percent less time. Such a benefit is of significance, especially where a person is dealing with multiple door locks.
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Improved Security
The security of the property ends up getting enhanced since only the new keys can open the locks. The property owner, therefore, gets full control over who has access to his or her property.
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Peace of mind
Getting the locks rekeyed gives the property owner assurance that his or her property is safe since no one else has keys that can open the locks. Such reassurance can prove helpful especially for a newly moved in tenant, or someone who has lost a key.
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Convenience
A house that has many door locks can at times be annoying since it requires carrying multiple keys and spending a considerable amount of time trying to figure out which key fits what door lock. By rekeying the locks, that challenge is easily overcome since all that the home or office owner would need is one key.
Re-keying a lock offers a better solution than replacement in as far as restoring the security of the locks goes. However, the property owner should make sure that they are cautious when rekeying the lock to avoid ruining an existing good lock. If he or she decides to re-key the lock by themselves, they must use the recommended kits and follow the precise instructions. The best alternative is to enlist the services of well reputed professional locksmiths.
What Is A Master Key?
A master key refers to a key that can open several locks, each of which also has its own key. This key is especially essential when an individual lock key is either misplaced or broken. Considering the purpose it serves, it is therefore imperative that this key be handled with the highest level of diligence it deserves. It should be properly tracked as a measure against having it ending up in the wrong hands and thereby posing security concerns. The custodian of this valuable key should be someone who enjoys the confidence of all the owners or users of the other rooms to which this key has access. Special thanks to lakewoodcolocksmith.com for all the useful information.
When Would A Master Key Be Necessary?
The usage of a master key is not as common as the usage of the individual lock keys, and neither is its usage a preserve of its custodian. Though they should be uncommon in their occurrence, there are situations that normally prompt the usage of this key, and some of them are discussed below;
In the absence of the individual lock keys – An individual lock key could be missing or misplaced, and it is during this instance that the master key would come in handy. The usage of the master key should however be restricted, and its custodian should always ascertain the absence of the other keys before granting permission for the master key to be used.
In the event of security breaches- No home is new to security breaches, especially internally instigated ones. Given the fact that the individual lock keys are often many in number, security breaches might occur as a particular house resident or user may want to take advantage of the fact that the house has multiply access and use this to compromise the security of that particular house. This situation often calls for a rapid response on the part of the master key custodian. The custodian is expected to move with haste and confiscate all the other keys, as access to the room would now be controlled.
Storage And Tracking Of A Master Key
The custodian of a master key should be the prerogative of one person. This person should be one who enjoys the trust of all the others to whose house the master key has access. In most cases, it is normally kept by the patriarch of a family. In the interest of caution and security, the custodian of a master key should not be a frequent user of the houses to which the key can access.
While tracking the master key, due diligence should be observed, so that every movement of the key is known to the custodian As a general rule, the key should not change more hands than the actual cases that actually required to use it. It should be returned to the custodian from time to time while in use as a confirmation of its availability.
How To Get A Master Key
The best way to get a master key is from a locksmith. Locksmiths vary in area of specialization as well as degree of expertise. There are locksmiths who specialize in the making of master keys for residential areas, and the master keys they make are usually meant to access private rooms, food stores and even the gates. Other locksmiths specialize in master keys for commercial properties, and the areas they cover normally include control rooms and safes.
Getting the best master key will be greatly dependent on ones choice of a locksmith. At all cost, go for professionals for a professional locksmith will understand the specs of the locks and will therefore craft the best key that matches the design and functionality of the lock.
Is Master Key System A Welcome Concept?
Opinion is divided on whether to go or not to go for a master key system. Proponents of the idea claim it offers security back-ups in the event of loss of other keys. Opponents of this idea would however differ, and the reasons they give is that a master key system promotes laxity on the part of the holders of the other keys, and is in itself an inducement to the many security breaches common in many homes today.
In conclusion, all should understand that a master key is only meant to safeguard your lock against breakage for lack of its individual key. If security is so much a concern for many home owners, then the strength of the lock as opposed to the efficiency of a master key should take center stage.
The Top Brands Of Locks In The United States
When it comes to settling on a new lock which brand should you choose? Consumers in the US, whether they are home or business owners, want the highest quality lock and key set. With this said, knowing which brands you can trust, which ones afford the highest level of security, and those offering the most innovative product lines available, are some factors which will help you determine on the brand to purchase. If you are on the market for a new lock set, these are some of the most trusted brands to consider purchasing in the US today.
Resources:
www.lakeoswegolocksmith.net
baldwinhardware.com
kwikset.com
1. Baldwin –
Synonymous with innovation this company has been in business since 1946. They offer unparalleled quality for locks as well as lock accessories. For those with a high end home or fancy decor outside your business, the company also sells high end, ornate lock sets, as well as the most technologically advanced lock sets for you to choose from. They are high quality, they are hand crafted, and they afford the highest level of protection for your home. The company even offers a lock designer if you want to build your own lock set, which is an individual who works with you in the design process.
2. Omnia –
Since 1964 the company has been offering high end lock systems in the US and other regions in the world. They offer simplistic designs, modern features, and offer lock accessories for customers to choose from, when selecting a high end, durable lock system. Customers can choose from nine different aluminum or brass settings with the company, allowing you to custom design a lock set which is going to match your home, or commercial business exterior space, when installing a new lock set.
3. Kwikset –
Not only is it one of the most well known name brands in locks in the US, the company has been around for years, offering high end, custom design, and new modern technologically advanced lock and key sets. Hand sets, dead bolts, padlocks, light commercial locks, electronic locks, and more options are available. Further, the company offers a discount price, in comparison to some of the top, “luxury” name brands in locks ,meaning you are going to receive high quality and security, for less than competitors charge for this well known name brand. They even offer the “smart’key” rekey system, allowing customers to rekey their own lock sets, which is yet another method to save on cost of new lock sets for consumers.
4. Schlage –
Yet another well known lock set name brand in the US which is synonymous with high quality and security. With over 90 years of industry experience, the company is one of the biggest in the industry and one of the most highly trusted for both commercial and residential customers who are looking to install new locks. They are highly known for building commercial grade strength lock sets, into residential properties, providing homeowners with the highest level of security possible when they choose these lock sets. The company sells a variety of locks, including dead bolts, door levers, electronic sets, padlocks, and electronic accessories. High quality and high style are some of the descriptive phrases which customers have come to know as it relates to this top brand name in the US.
5. Weiser –
Since 1905, this company has been providing lock sets to US customers, and has become one of the top suppliers for both commercial and residential customers today. The company originally began making ornate custom design locks which were used in films, and eventually branched out to offering lock sets to all consumers. They focus on high fashion, high end designs, but also provide functional key lock sets, which are going to afford customers with the highest levels of security.
Due to the fact that there are a number of brand names for customers to choose from, if you want the best, these are some of the most well known and highly purchased brands in the US. With a variety of products, with affordable product lines, and with options which are both ornate in design, as well as provide the highest level of security, these companies have become synonymous with high quality lock sets, for US customers who wish to install new locks on their home or business.
The Most Expensive Locks On The Planet
Ever since man learnt how to create fire our creativity has sparked more and more innovations. With time our creativity led to the need for storage as we found ways to create surplus products and produce new ones through various skills. Barter trade became a key component of the human journey towards development and evolved into the modern day commerce. However this development came with its own set of challenges and one of them was insecurity. As the world developed from the Stone Age days to the present day, disparities became more evident as more people became far wealthier and others remained behind. The accumulation of wealth by society created a situation whereby those who wanted something the easy way began stealing from anybody who had it. This created demand for security services and related products all over as people looked for ways of securing their stuff from thieves. Locking things became the main way of securing things whether in a room, suitcase, vault, car, strong room, an entire house or any other lockable place to ensure that only those with permission can access a given item from the locked places.
Today there are a variety of locks of all kinds designed to meet all kinds of security requirements. A great number of people usually go for the highest quality they can afford as for most people good security is crucial. Usually the highest priced products are also considered the best quality in the market. So what are some of the most expensive locks on the planet today? Thanks to kentlocksmith.net for the info.
1) Schlage Electronics AD-400 Series Networked Wireless Electronic Exit Trim Assembly is probably the most expensive lock in the market. The lock manufactured by the security products manufacturer Schlage electronics has a starting price of 1600 dollars depending on where you get. However it does have some impressive features such as the ability to communicate wirelessly hence one can trigger a central lockdown remotely apart from being able to control a central lockdown using it. The audit function is also helpful for monitoring access. The door lock comes in a pleasing satin chrome finish and is one of the most expensive lock available.
2) The PDL3000 US26D Trilogy from Alarm Lock Systems Inc. is also among the most expensive locks on the planet. The lock can be programmed to allow free passage or total lock out of groups or even auto lock or unlock when necessary. Be prepared to pay more than 1000 dollars for this remarkable product though.
3) Samsung Ezon Shs-5230 Fingerprint Digital Door Lock–Samsung are well known for their cool smartphones and other home electronics like TVs. However the company also makes some unique security products and the Ezon door lock is one of them. The product will set you back more than 600 dollars from most retailers. However it features a finger print reader and can also operate using PIN access too. A digital touch keypad is embedded in the lock to enable ease of opening when using PIN access.The anti-picking function is also very handy as is the automatic and manual locking modes supported by the Ezon lock from Samsung
4)Prox Lock No Keypad IC 26D Weatherized is also another expensive lock that one can buy in the market. This lock is priced at around 1500 dollars in the market.This access control lock comes in a brushed chrome finish and has features such as the tap and add capability which enables you to add batch users quickly compared to other lock systems.Using cards eliminates the problem of losing keys and reduces the costs of rekeying new ones.It also features a key override and has the ability to
5)The Schlage Connect Century – Schlage is a popular locks manufacturer so it should come as no surprise that they have another product among the most expensive locks in the planet. The connection century lock is a robust lock that supports keyless, remote management capabilities and also has a nice touch screen that enables easy access and convenience. An inbuilt alarm also makes it easy to know when somebody attempts to break in or any unauthorised access when you’re not nearby.The lock costs around 300 dollars in major outlets and retail stores.
The best Locks for Home Security
During this generation, home security is becoming a very vital part of our lives. However, this can only be achieved by first looking into the common things we come across every day. Locks for our doors are the key to better security. There are many types of home locks but all are not the best.
Resources:
lock and key company in Beverly Hills beverlyhillslocksmith.org
homedepot.com
kwikset.com
Keyless locks
As technology progresses, everything even to the field of security improves. Keyless locks are becoming common to us. These types of locks include biometric and the Bluetooth locks. Others are finger print driven locks. These are the type of locks you can trust to secure your home. The locks are keypad operated and that is why they are hard to pass. The best feature with this lock is that, an anti-theft rolling code always makes sure that a code is not used twice. Other types of this kind of locks sound an alarm when an incorrect code is entered more than three times.
Deadbolt locks
This type of lock is a safe lock for homes also. With these locks, it means that the bolt is dead and needs a knob or key to manually move it.
This type of lock is secure compared to the keyless locks. The lock has three main parts which are, key accessible cylinder, the bolt which slides sliding inside the door jamb and the thumb turn. This allows for the manual control of the lock which makes it safe.
In the case of a glass door, this kind of lock has a double cylinder deadbolt. This needs the use of a key from both sides.
Smart locks
Smart locks are slowly getting common to us. They are also becoming the best Locks for Home Security. These locks are programmed locks that use mobile phone apps. They are remote access systems that will notify you in case of home entry through emails or text messages using photos. These systems may help in limiting door accessibility hours and days during particular periods. These smart locks also provide you with the feature of checking whether you have locked your home or not. You will be able to lock or unlock your home in any location.
These smart locks come in different features
- Mobile apps
Some of these home locks interfere with you through apps. These apps will enable you do things such as identifying a visitor, receive a notification that someone got into or left your home or help in providing virtual keys to other people. Some app also enables the use of an electronic fob. This enables you to use the lock without your phone which is a good option for your children and workers.
- Keys
Most smart locks also come with keys. In case of a power malfunction or you lose your phone. This will keep you sure of getting home in case of any of the above.
Entry locksets
These are medium sized security locks for a home. These kinds of locks have two door knobs. They can be locked from both the inside and outside of a house. These door locks feature re-key technology which is fully adjustable. They also have double cylinder deadbolts which make them more secure.
Mortise locks
These are common locks found in residential homes. This kind of lock consists of a flat rectangular box. The box fits into the door from the edge and includes two faceplates containing knobs and keyholes. The latch on this kind of locks can be operated from both sides unless the outside knob is locked. The deadbolt to this lock operates by turning of the inside knob
These are not the only types of locks available. There are hundreds of home locks available however; these are among the safest locks to use. It is advisable that you choose a lock depending what you find as the best locks for Home Security. It is therefore good for you to do further research on the type of lock you want to use before installing it. For improved security also you need to install some security extras at your home. These are devices that provide light security and are used together with other lock types to boost security of a home.
The Best Home Door Locks
Protecting your properties including home, business buildings among other is the most important thing. Apart from deploying security guards or installing electric fences, it is obvious that houses, gates, and cars among others must be kept away from burglars and other unauthorized intruders. Therefore, locking your premises with high-quality locks is the most important thing. It is the first step in securing your belongings. There exist high-quality locks in the market that are approved and tested. The trick is how to know which lock is the best. In this article, I will present you with a list of the best home door locks that you can use to keep your home more secure, with help from our friends at ahwatukeelocksmith.net.
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Keyless locks
Keyless locks are the best types of locks for advanced home security and convenience. The lock features an anti-theft rolling code that ensure the code is only used ones. Some keyless locks models have an alarm that sounds when an incorrect code is entered for more than three times in a row. The better part of the keyless locks is that some models are even compatible with select particular garage door openers or other security home systems. The keyless locks can be used to replace any standard deadbolts on the exterior doors.
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Mortise locks
These types of locks are common in most residential doors. The lockset of the mortise locks consists of a flat rectangular box that fits well into a recess in the door from its edge. It includes two faceplates with keyholes and knobs.
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Goji smart locks
This lock comes with wonderful features to boost and enhance the security of your home. This device works via Bluetooth for smartphone and fob proximity unlocking. It also works with Wi-Fi for remote control functionality. The manufacturer of this lock, Goji, offers customer service in case you lock out yourself without your phone near. The Goji lock comes with two mechanical backup keys and four electronic keys. It guarantees maximum home security.
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Kwikset kevo and kevo plus locks
A very smart door lock that is very much close to the standard of a deadbolt lock. It is a Bluetooth lock that works work by touch, just taping the lock and it unlocks provided the keyfob, or your smartphone is near. The lock comes with two physical keys and two electronic keys or rather ekeys. Also, it comes with free unlimited 24-hour guest keys. With kwikset kevo plus lock, a person is able to unlock the door remotely and get updates such as who had entered your home.
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Haven locks
Haven is another good technology lock that is anchored at the base of the front door, which is the strongest point. It serves as a mechanical barrier to whoever attempts to open the door. It is released or operated via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Also, the lock has physical footplate that releases the lock in case of an emergency. The Haven locks work much better with Apple home kit and the nest thermostat.
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Schlage locks
The lock has up to 19 user programmable codes enough for every family member, relative or and one r two friends. The lock is operated and managed by an internet connected device such as a smartphone. It is, therefore, possible to unlock the door remotely without having to give out the code.
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August smart locks
This lock is among the latest and newest lock models in the market today. The lock is configured to detect when a person is approaching or going for it to unlock. It is easy to control and manage this lock from an iOS, Android, or an online app. It is a Bluetooth operated lock that can replace the deadbolt locks to improve the security of your home. The lock, which is powered by 4AA batteries, can send low battery alerts to your phone when needed.
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Samsung Ezon Digital Door Locks
This lock opens with an RID tag or a passcodes. It requires the input of multi-leveled security codes before inputting the actual code. It is, therefore, hard to detect fingerprints in case of unauthorized people such as criminals. The lock is packed with a burglar alarm and a fire detection sensor.
The security of your home is very important. Adding any of the above electronic locks to your home is a great deal of stepping up the security. They are the best home door locks that cannot be opened by an unauthorized person. All of the above locks are controlled and manage with an internet connected device.
Rekeying Verse Changing Your Locks
Before you settle on whether to change the locks or rekey your home, it is important to know what rekeying actually is. So, before you jump the gun and spend the extra money on a whole new lock and key set, and all new hardware, consider these important factors pertaining to both, and when it is best to rekey, or simply go ahead and change all hardware with a new lock set.
Resources:
www.avondalelocksmith.org
Lowes.com
ansi.org
Rekeying –
What exactly is rekeying? It involves changing the lock tumblers so all wafers are in an order which is different than they previously were. Effectively you keep the same lock and simply change out the keys. The new code from the lock tumblers is then matched with a new set of keys, and you basically have a brand new set, since the old keys will no longer work in the system. With all ANSI security grade 1 or higher systems, rekeying is an option that is available to you.
What are the benefits of rekeying versus changing the system? For starters there is no need for new hardware, so it is far more affordable than changing all lock sets. It is far more convenient, and you don’t have to worry about lock lines, repainting, or doing other work which is required when you completely change the lock set.
Although rekeying is far more convenient and is typically much cheaper, there are some instances in which you should consider simply changing out the hardware and spending a bit more for an entirely new lock set. So, when should you invest in a new lock set for your home? Consider these situations below.
Changing your locks –
Although you are going to spend more money investing in new locks, there are certain situations in which you should bypass rekeying, and simply jump to invest in a new lock set. So, what are the situations in which you should consider a new lock and key set for your home? Consider these instances below to determine if it is time for you to invest in a new system.
1. Damage has occurred –
If a mishap has caused damage, if burglary has occurred, or if your home has otherwise been broken into and the lock set has been damaged, it is time to spring for a new lock set. It is also a good idea to consider it in the event of burglary (such as a recent break in around the neighborhood). When the assembly system and frames have been so worn down that rekeying them isn’t a possibility it is time to replace the old lock set with a new one.
2. Too old –
If your locks are older than your home, or if they are too old to find the parts for, you should consider new locks. If it is an antique set or if the manufacturer of your old set is no longer in business, these are signs that the time has come for a new lock set. Not only will this be cheaper than trying to shop around for parts, but new locks today are far more durable, offer far more intrusion and security protection, and you can find a new lock set for nearly any decor or style you wish to maintain, if you do like an older, eclectic theme for decorating the home’s exterior.
3. More security is needed –
Again, if a recent break in occurred where you live and you seek higher security, a new lock set provides far more than rekeying your old set. Or if your old locks have an inferior security level, you should consider upgrading to ANSI 1 level, in order to ensure optimal levels of security are attained in the home. Top brands not only offer these higher security, greater protection lock sets, but today you can find a variety of options, for much less than you would anticipate, when you have decided to replace your old lock set for your home.
When it comes to deciding between rekeying or replacing, these are some factors homeowners should consider. If any of the above have occurred, it might be time for you to consider replacing; otherwise, in many instances, rekeying affords the security you seek, and a far more affordable option for added security for your home.
Learn About Keyless Entry For Your Home
If you want to prevent unrestricted entry by burglars and thieves into your home then you will need to learn about keyless entry for your home. With the right entry equipment, you can be rest assured that nobody enters your home in your absence and it also helps in protecting the valuable possessions that are inside your home. With the technological advancements, a large multitude of amazing systems have been invented for preventing uninvited guests and unwanted intruders from entering into your home. The specially programmed key card enables the master or mistress of the home to access control to get through. It also records the time of entry into the home along with having beneficial features like face detection and fingerprint recognition. Thanks to the professional locksmiths of ChandlerLocksmithPros.net for the useful information.
With keyless entry for your home, you will not have to lock and unlock the doors of your home with a key as there are keyless electronic door locks that has been especially designed for protecting your home when you are not present. You will not have to use a key for entering your home but you can use the Bluetooth technology through a key fob, smart key or Smartphone for gaining entry into your home. With the use of Bluetooth, you can unlock your doors automatically as you are within the close range of deadbolt but when your device is out of the range then it can automatically get locked. Keyless entry for your home is very convenient as you will just have to push the button for unlocking the doors. Apart from the convenience, it also helps you to save time and it also makes the entry into your home much easier. It helps you to cut down the amount of time for entering into your home so that you can save considerable amount of time. Keyless entry has been gaining immense popularity among homeowners as it helps in the safety and security of your home. With this system you will not have individual keys for all the family members as these systems are very efficient. It also provides less opportunity for the intruders for invading into your home as you will have complete control over the accessibility of your home. When you install keyless system in your home, you will have better control over who gets inside your home and you can also identify any suspicious person from entering into your home. The remote cell phone door answering features allows you unlock the doors of your home remotely with the use of cell phone that acts as a trigger. It also allows you to send doorbell alert to your cell phone as well as the cell phone of other members of your family.
You should learn about keyless entry for your home because it is very beneficial for you since you will not have to worry about stolen, lost or duplicate keys as these systems are activated by your cell phone. You also have the option of reprogramming these features which is quick and easy as it gives you complete control over the individuals that comes and goes into your home. Keyless entry system also helps in improving efficiency and saves your valuable time with its remote, hands free activation. The digital door locking device in your home consists of electronic circuits that send wireless signals to automatic door when you want to gain access to your home. The locking system of your home can be operated with the remote or cell phones that work on wireless signals. The automatic locking system makes use of remote and hence the doors of your home cannot be opened by thieves and burglars. It minimizes the chances of theft in your home and it cannot be misused by any other individuals apart from you and your family members. The keyless system remote has the capacity of locking and unlocking if your home door from a distance of about 2 kilometers. Hence it provides you an opportunity of controlling the door movement as you have complete control over the accessibility of your home. It provides enhanced security for your home as it has a large number of features that is very important for the safety and security of your home.