Best locksmiths near Horn Lake, MS

When the temps drop, sometimes you need to thaw a lock to regain access. Options include warming the key with warm water, applying a de-icing spray, or using a hair dryer on low heat. Avoid using boiling water to prevent damage. To prevent future freezing, consider installing a cover or shield over the lock to keep water and ice out. Remember to be patient and gentle during thawing to avoid damaging the lock or key. If all else fails, consult a professional locksmith.

Standard residential deadbolt locks come with a steel bolt that locks your door into place using a key (or keypad) on one side and a thumb turn on the other. When you lock it, the bolt slides into a strike plate on your door jamb to secure your door shut.

Expect to pay between $50 to $200 if you hire a locksmith to change your locks. That figure includes labor and the cost of basic hardware. The cost will naturally be higher if you plan to install more expensive locks, like smart locks, and if you need a lot of them.

Homeowners can save money by replacing locks themselves. A typical rekeying kit costs about $10 to $25. The only additional cost is purchasing new house keys, and those are no more than a few dollars per key. If you want to replace the locks on your own completely, the main cost is the price of the locks themselves. A standard knob-style lock starts around $25, while electronic locks and smart locks will run in the hundreds of dollars. The only additional tools you should need are a tape measure, screwdriver, and screws if they are not already provided.

Security experts recommend deadbolt locks as the most secure option for a house's exterior or entry doors. Deadbolts provide the best security because they can prevent most types of forced entry and are harder to lockpick. Common types include the standard single-cylinder deadbolt, which is often found on front doors. For enhanced security, you can opt for a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key to operate from both the inside and the outside.