Kwikset SmartKey System: be Your Own Locksmith
Written: Nov 02 '08 (Updated Jan 07 '09)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: easy to install and requires only seconds to re-key
Cons: Some installation instructions might puzzle first-time DIY locksmiths
The Bottom Line: Kwikset's SmartKey system takes the guesswork out of "Who has a key to my house?" And it's so simple to use, anyone can do it!
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| scmrak's Full Review: Kwikset Single-Cylinder Deadbolt with SmartKey |
We moved into a new house last month, one of the few things we seem to do about with the same frequency as an average American (every five years, in other words). Even though this is the fifth time we've bought a house, this time I did something I'd never done before: I changed every last lock in the place. Trust me on this, if you had gotten a good look at the previous owner's son-in-law (who'd been living on the premises) you'd have done the same thing!
The house has three exterior doors plus a door into the garage; all are protected by deadbolts and three are protected by locking knobs. The owners gave us a total of three keys to the house, claiming those were all they had (they have five children: wonder where the all other keys wandered off to?); all three were copies - I got more nervous by the minute.
The question, of course, was how to get four deadbolts all keyed the same.
The answer is to buy four Kwikset deadbolts using the SmartKey system. They'll turn you into a "locksmith" in just seconds! With a SmartKey lock, you can re-key any lock(s) to match any Kwikset key in seconds - I kid you not.
First things first: Installation... This single-cylinder deadbolt (you don't need a key to open it from the inside; which is required by many building codes) comes with all parts needed for new installation or replacement, including the strike plate and a brass bolt receiver that's to be screwed into the doorjamb for additional security (one thing that's oddly missing, however, is installation instructions and a drilling template). Installing a replacement for a regular deadbolt lock or a doorknob is a task that even beginners shouldn't fear; though installing a new door and lockset is considerably more advanced (and requires more tools).
I replaced four deadbolts and a keyed knob in the space of about an hour, including searching out tools and flashlights (did I mention that almost everything we own was still in boxes?). Two of them I replaced while carrying on a telephone conversation - it really is easy... Tool-wise, the replacement required only a Phillips-head screwdriver and a pair of needle-nose pliers, both of which should be found in almost any household. The only other tool needed for installation - a tiny Allen wrench for a set screw - is supplied in the kit. Kwikset supplies two keys per lock; and prints a code on the package top so that, if you're lucky, you can match more than one lock in the store to get additional keys.
Now comes the moment of truth: re-keying the locks so that they're all the same. It took longer to read the instructions than it took to re-key the first lock. No kidding: use the special tool supplied and then all you need is a few seconds' work, the current key for the lock, and a new key. That's right, for security purposes, you can't re-key the lock unless you have the current key. Speaking of security, the deadbolt is rated ANSI Grade-1 for security (when properly installed¹) and is protected against "bumping."
Kwikset SmartKey deadbolts are available in six finishes and in single- and double-cylinder designs. SmartKey System locks are available in handleset, knob, and lever styles.
As locksmiths say, you have no idea who has keys to your new house - why not invest in new locks today? With the Kwikset SmartKey system, you can re-key any or all of your locks to any Kwikset key (I have half a dozen of them rattling around in drawers, mostly keys to locks I haven't seen in decades). You can change a lock temporarily for the pet-sitter or plumber; then change it back when the job's done. Think of the possibilities. And while you're at it, think about the sleazeball who has the old key to your house on his keychain...
¹ proper installation includes using the bolt receiver and two-inch plus screws that reach through the door jamb into the adjacent stud.
See also Signature Series Entry Knobs with SmartKey
Recommended:
Yes
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