Tips & Tricks for Secure Properties in Markham, ON

Did you know that around 1.85 million people in Ontario have a disability? That's one in seven people. Providing easy access to your business's entryways is not only helpful to the disabled community — it's the law. 

The solution? Automatic door operators. 

If you're looking for automatic door openers in Markham, we are proud to offer installation services. But, before getting started, here is a quick guide: 

Do you ever find the door of your business stuck open, letting in cold winter air? Do you have a door that never clicks shut, allowing strangers to sneak in, or even worse, slams shut on people as they try to step through? If so, you need an automatic door closer.

A door closer, which controls the swing of a door and guides it as it closes, can keep a door from sticking open or slamming shut. You'll need one if you remodel or build new construction since the Ontario building code now requires power door operators for disabled users. So how do you choose a door closer?

Here are some things to consider when buying a door closer in Markham.

A door closer is a mechanical device that maintains the closure of the door. They play an important role in maintaining the security of your building and also efficient temperature control. Door closers come with a wide variety of benefits and can be placed on any type of door, including fire doors and interior doors. Choosing the right door closer will depend upon multiple factors, such as weight of the door, location, frequency of opening and closing along with the preferences and affordability. Count on Affordable Lock Services Inc. for commercial and residential door closers in Markham and the GTA. We help access your premises and suggest a door closer that best suits your needs. We have been providing a full range of lock and door hardware, including residential, specialty and commercial products since 1984.

Commercial security cameras have grown a lot in popularity over the past few years. Making use of video for enhanced security in commercial properties has become a standard feature and it is rare to see businesses that don’t have CCTV video surveillance. It can be tricky to purchase the right equipment for CCTV video surveillance, as there are many options available. You can always count on Affordable Lock Services to provide you with reliable security cameras.

Does your door slam every time you leave it open? Does it feel like you are inadvertently disturbing those around? Maybe you should consider installing door closers in your building. They shut a door automatically after someone passes through it, thereby ensuring mobility and security in commercial properties which have plenty of traffic passing through them every day.

If you’re anything like most people, chances are you’ve found yourself in need of spare house keys before. Maybe you left yours inside before pulling the locked door shut, misplaced them when running late to work or needed an extra pair to give your neighbour so she could water your plants while you were away. At Affordable Lock Serves, we encourage you to make a few sets of replacement keys so you’re always prepared for these situations. Here are four reasons why you should always have spare keys on hand.

When you own a business, it’s your responsibility to make sure your company’s products, equipment, data and employees stay safe and secure at all times. That’s why it’s important that your business has the latest commercial security features to keep intruders from gaining access to valuable assets and sensitive information. Here are a few tips for preventing unauthorized access to your Markham business.

Getting a spare key cut might seem like an easy enough task. It probably seems like the best idea would be to get the job done as quickly and cheaply as possible, right? Well, making a spare key is actually a lot more involved than most people think. When it comes to cutting keys that provide access to your home or business, it’s important to use a service that you trust. At Affordable Lock Services Inc., we offer professional key cutting to those in Markham and the Greater Toronto Area. Let us show you four different reasons why using a professional locksmith is the right choice for all your key cutting needs.

Technology has the ability to make life easier for people, but the latest advances don’t always provide the best solutions to existing problems. Keep reading to learn more about smart lock technology and how effective it is at keeping your home or business secure.

When it comes to protecting the most valuable items in your home, “good enough” just won’t cut it. You need the best protection you can find. At Affordable Lock Services Inc., we help our clients with their residential locksmith and home security issues in the Richmond Hill area, including key cutting, lock repair, security cameras, and a host of other services.

In Ontario, we like to welcome everyone. If you run a business in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), you may have a further obligation to make sure that all your customers are taken care of. Although it was passed in 2005, the Ontario government is still phasing in the requirements on businesses for the Ontarians with Disabilities Act. By 2025, every business in Ontario will be required to have an accessible customer service plan in place, which may include adding or retro-fitting to aid with the opening of doors.

When most people think of security cameras, they associate them with large businesses and shopping centers. Although security camera systems can be found at smaller businesses, they are not as common. A large percentage of homeowners have alarm systems without cameras for their homes. Having a security system with cameras is very beneficial and is something that all home and business owners should consider.

Ways to Spot a Locksmith Scammer

Most often the customers who need a locksmith are in an emergency, and emergency situations tend to attract less-than-wholesome people. In the past decade or so there has been a rise in locksmith scammers who take advantage of these people in desperate need of help. Here are a few ways you can spot a lock con artist.

Movies like Ocean’s Eleven and National Treasure make breaking into security vaults look easy. Life is not a movie, though, and there’s no way you could break into these high-profile vaults, even if you had a team as skilled as Danny Ocean’s.

When was the last time you looked at your keys? Not looked for your keys, but at them.

A transponder key presents a whole new world of security for vehicle owners and even homeowners. Although transponder technology applies to a variety of situations, automobile security remains their main use.

What makes a good locksmith? There are several traits that make a pleasant tradesman, but of course your satisfaction comes from more than pleasantries.

Professional locks are the best way to secure your home, vehicles, and valuables. But, if you’re like many other people, you may have trouble finding your keys on the way out the door, remembering your computer password after you’ve changed it, and keeping track of your safe passcode without making it easy for thieves to find.

In November 2014, Oxford County Cycling Committee teamed up with the non-profit organization Transportation Options to develop cycling routes that would appeal to Ontario cyclists. The routes vary in length, and some estimate that they will be ready to launch in 2015.

It's only been a few weeks, but winter weather has been fierce this year. Multiple storms have left Ontario under a thick blanket of snow, and many residents have to be extra cautious in their daily commute.

We use keys every day—to get into our homes, to start our cars, and to lock up our valuables. We hardly think twice about our keys, unless we lose them! But have you ever wondered where your keys came from? The history of keys is a fascinating subject, even to people who don't spend all their time around keys. Read on to find out where the keys in your pocket came from.

On November 1, 2014, Ontario's Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) came into force. PHIPA is a consent-based health information law that says patients have primary control over their personal health information. They must grant consent to healthcare providers before providers can share that personal information with other people, such as family members.

Baby Face Nelson, The Boyd Gang, Jesse James—the ingenuity, recklessness, and moral abandon of these famous criminals captures the imagination. Often, robbers like these leave a lasting legacy of fear, reluctant interest, and increased security.

While shopping for new locks, you may notice that each lock has a lock grade. These grades come from the ANSI/BHMA grading system. This grading system is used for locks produced and sold within the United States and Canada. It tells you the overall performance of the lock and helps you choose the right lock for your home.

In 2014, Torontonians endured 3,516 auto thefts, up one percent from the year before, and 1,010 general thefts, up three percent from 2012, according to the latest Toronto police reports. Burglaries and robberies were also commonplace.

A key, though just a small piece of metal, is all that stands between an individual and his or her entrance to your property. It’s no wonder that you are hesitant to give out keys and increase your risk of theft or damages.

Mona Lisa? Check. The Scream? Check. Storm on the Sea of Galilee? Check. The Concert? Check.

These four pieces of artwork have two things in common: each is considered a masterpiece and each has been stolen at least once.

Whether you have a small, family-run operation or a large company, if you have been overlooking electronic card access systems, now is the time to reconsider. While traditional keys and locks have their purposes, electronic key cards definitely have their benefits. What’s more, you can even make operating your business easier and more affordable with card access systems.

There are a lot of advantages to buying a used vehicle rather than a new one – but that doesn’t mean it’s an easy process.

Your vehicle is not only valuable; it protects valuable possessions as well. This includes you, your children, other passengers, and pricey items such as GPS units, iPods, phone accessories, and other belongings you store in your vehicle. These things are important and priceless and make protecting your vehicle a high priority.

When you ride your motorcycle, you might feel on top of the world. Your bike gets you where you need to go quickly and safely, and you love the sense of independence that only your motorcycle can bring.

Making your business accessible to all is not just a moral obligation, it may also be a legal requirement. Recent changes to Ontario’s Building Code as it pertains to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) has made the installation of power door operators obligatory in many cases. Adoption of these doors in a manner that’s safe, secure and up to par with building code standards is not as disruptive or as costly as you might think. We can retrofit power door operators in most entranceways and other key points with limited intrusion upon your business’ everyday functioning. Does your business fall among those that are impacted by this amendment?

Extreme weather is not always predictable, but most of the harsher storms that hit the Greater Toronto Area do come with some warning. By preparing ahead of time, you can reduce the amount of damage your business in North York and Newmarket experiences in these extreme situations. Most importantly, you need to ensure that the security for your business premises is up to date before the next storm strikes.

Owning a business can be very stressful. From managing accounting, to dealing with absent employees, there is a lot involved in running a successful business. If you consider the additional stress of potential robbery, it can be overwhelming. Robbery is not solely a threat to retail stores, but also to libraries and offices. In order to avoid undesirable situations, it is crucial to stay ahead of the game in retail security. We at Affordable Lock Services Inc. do just that, with high-quality, traditional security products. In addition to traditional retail security methods, some retailers are using Electronic Article Surveillance.

High-security locks are given a high-security rating based on a set of safety criteria. To be considered a high-security lock, a lock must be more time-consuming or expensive to defeat than is feasible. To contrast, standard locks have fewer security features. They are less expensive and tend to use simpler designs.

In order to function, every business—whether big or small—needs to be safe and secure. Many business owners are having a hard time safeguarding the businesses they’ve worked so hard to build because both internal and external circumstances are wreaking havoc on the workplace and disrupting productivity.

Securing your small business is important to you. You’ve worked hard to grow your small business and invested a significant amount of time and money earning your success. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your greatest asset is safe while you are away. When it comes to securing your small business, there is a lot to protect against. Where do you start?

Ontario is home to thousands of businesses. From retail stores to vehicle production plants and paper mills, Ontario businesses play an essential role in the Canadian economy. While Ontario’s economy is diverse, all Ontario business owners have one thing in common: they worry about theft.

Business security is a huge concern for most business owners and managers; and it starts with the right locks. Locks designed for commercial use are quite different from the ones made for residential use. That is why it is important for business owners to use a locksmith in Markham that specializes in commercial products. Check the company’s reviews to assess their track record.

In the past, you would hire a retired military man and a German shepherd for your business security patrol. But security technology has evolved, and business owners now have plenty of electronic options for protecting their property.

If your business is open to the public, accessibility should be one of your major concerns. You should have a building and property that is easily accessible and if it is not, you should look into those upgrades that make it such. One way to do so is by installing automatic door operators.

If you are looking to buy a commercial safe for your business, our team can help. We have years of experience with security systems, locks and safes and would love to assist you in purchasing the right safe for your needs. Whether you have unique items to be stored, specific spatial requirements, or are interested in a specific locking system, Affordable Lock Services, Inc. has the safe for you.

Going away for school is always exciting. While you are packing up all of your personal belongings (iPads, cellphones, computers, and even your credit cards), how much thought have you put into protecting those items? College dorm rooms are the perfect hunting ground for thieves. With doors constantly left unlocked and rooms unattended throughout the day and night, thieves can slip in and steal just about whatever they want.

Coming home and discovering you’ve been robbed is an emotional event. And even though we at Affordable Lock wish no one ever has to experience this kind of violation, the unfortunate truth is North American homes are broken into every day. Learning what to do now should your home ever fall prey to thieves can be useful, as this knowledge may well become an anchor during a turbulent time. Follow these steps if your home should ever be robbed.

As a homeowner, protecting your family and belongings is the most important function of your front door lock. While you may think you have your bases covered in terms of home security, it can be helpful to understand the common tactics and techniques burglars use in order to target and gain access to residential properties.

There are plenty of home security myths out there and just about everyone has given into and even repeated one of these myths themselves. These myths will feed your preconceived notions about what you can and cannot do to protect your home and your business premises. Now, it is time to dispel the conflicting, wrong information and discuss what is true and what is not.

When you are considering your options for home security, you may have come across the option of security cameras. They are often advertised as a favourable deterrent to thieves and a potential way to increase your home or business security, and they are for the most part. However, before you invest in a security system, you may want to consider a few facts to make sure the installation of security cameras is what you need for maximum security.

Caring for your family is never easy. You have to pay your bills, cook meals, clean the house, and make sure your children make it to school on time. You have to wash piles of dishes and sort through mountains of laundry.

Since 2003, crimes reported to authorities decreased 35 percent. Even though Canada is a safer place to live, work, and raise a family, it’s still important to practice proper safety steps to keep your home secure. Listed below are a few ways to keep your home protected against the few criminals that remain on our streets.

Home is where the heart is, but it’s also where all your valuables and belongings are – and most importantly, it’s where you are! When you move into a new place, whether it’s a home or condo, there are certain things you should know about the locks and keys you are using.

You only have one home. You only have one family. The most important things in life are all irreplaceable, and most of them are within the walls of your home. You owe it to the people — and the things — you love most, to protect them the best you can.

A sense of security is irreplaceable. It is an invaluable feeling that makes life more enjoyable and puts your mind at ease. A home safe can help you enjoy these feelings.

A vacation should be a happy time where memories are made and laughter is shared. It should not be a nerve-wracking occasion where you are constantly worried about the safety of your home. Be able to leave home “at home” the next time you go on a vacation by following these tips to keep your home safe and secure.

Forget about checking to make sure you’ve locked your doors tonight—bump keys are out there and just as effective as any other home intrusion technique. What exactly is a ‘bump key’? A bump key is a specially cut key that can be used on any number of locks for forced entry.

Have you ever noticed how in spy movies the secret safe is always behind a picture? This idea is neat and all, but if I am ever a villain in a spy thriller, I am checking behind the pictures first.

Have you ever been running late and just as you turn to leave, you realize you don’t have your house keys? Or have you pulled your phone out of your pocket and realized your keys have scratched up the screen? If anything like this has happened to you, you might be thinking about a keyless lock for your home. Keyless locks have unique advantages that make them more secure and convenient.

Whether your bank is right around the corner or across the province, there’s no need to store all of your valuables there. While banks have 24-hour security and nearly impossible to hack alarm systems, the things you choose to secure there usually aren’t insured.

It happens to everybody. You need to start your car or get into your house, but when you reach for your keys, they’re not where they should be.

When you lose your keys, what do you do? Most of us grab the spare and figure the original will show up sooner or later. That’s what a spare is for, right?

You have many reasons to own and invest in high-quality jewelry. One of the most important is longevity. Pieces made with pure precious stones and metals can last decades. If you care for them properly, your family will still enjoy your jewelry generations from now.

Even though TV shows and movies are filled with crime scenes and burglary, robbery seems like something that might happen to other people, but surely not you. However, the U.S. Department of Justice reported that more than 3 million burglaries occur each year in the U.S. If you are in this disorienting situation, you might need help knowing what to do next.

Canada is one of the safest places to live, and crime rates have been on the decline for several years. According to Statistics Canada, 6 of the top 10 safest cities in Canada are in Ontario.

In peaceful Monett, Missouri, Sherry Davidson prepared to rent a Westco building. An old century-old safe stood in the back of the showroom, so Davidson called in a local locksmith to reprogram it for further use.