Wondering if it’s possible to restore your tired locks? As leading locksmiths in Brighton, we can confirm that not only is it possible, but it can be relatively painless when you hire the right person for the job.
Many people live in period properties with old doors and the hardware used in the construction of such doors is a vital part of maintaining that older aesthetic. That said, it is no surprise that many people would rather not change the locks out of fear of ruining the appearance.
Older doors have mortise locks that are fixed into a pocket and cut into the edge of the door. These locks have a latch, operated by the doorknob, and tend to use a separate dead bolt. This mechanism increases the chances of the lock accumulating dirt with every day usage which, overtime, will lead to unresponsive or jammed locks. In some cases the keys will even get stuck in the lock. Here at Brighton Locksmiths, we can remove the antique locks, clean them, readjust them and restore them without so much as a scratch of damage to that period aesthetic.
In some cases, the cost of restoring your old locks could actually be considerably cheaper than the price of a brand new locking mechanism. Although new locks come with three keys, already cut; your antique door could lose its appeal if opt for a new lock that is completely out of sync with the look and feel of your home.
Are The Old Locks a Security Risk?
Old locks may not have the five lever security found in many modern day locks but they are still secure nonetheless. If you are not convinced about the security of your lock or if you want your locks to meet insurance standards, you can invest in a second lock and a spy hole for additional security. When done properly, this can enhance the security of the locks without negatively impacting on the appearance of the old door.
What is The Cost Effective Thing to Do?
That said, depending on the type of lock you are looking to restore, you may end up spending the same amount as you would on a brand new lock. It could all come down to how badly you want to retain the look and feel of your antique door. If you make any security changes to your door though, don’t forget to tell your insurance company exactly what you did as it could see you qualify for a reduction during the next renewal.
If you are unsure of what to do, you can contact us here at Brighton Locksmiths to help you make an informed decision. Give us a call, right away, for the best security advice in the Brighton area.