What better way to ring in the beloved nuptial season than with the wedding of the century?

As the Bishop of London said so eloquently at the Royal Wedding, “in a sense every wedding is a royal wedding.” And every royal wedding comes complete with a showering of gifts for the happy couple.

Many couples use traditional wedding registries to populate a gift wish list requesting items to fill their new home. These registries typically include the usual suspects: linens, dishware, décor and other home goods. But for the couple that already has a home and all the traditional trimmings, it presents a challenge to wedding guests and the couple alike.

Addison HandlesetA unique wedding gift idea comes in the form of safety, security and peace of mind. Sounds like a pretty great gift, huh? Below are a few ideas on how one could gift such a thing:
 

• For the fashionable couple, bring style to the couple’s home. Most homeowners prefer matching door hardware (style, design, finish) throughout their home. Offer to replace existing outdated door hardware with sleek and contemporary designs. Stylish Schlage hardware in the most desired finishes can be purchased at home improvement stores and online.
• For the couple moving in. If the couple is moving in to an existing home, replace all their locks with high-quality deadbolts and decorative handle sets. Schlage offers residential Grade-1 deadbolts that provide the strongest security in the industry. A Schlage Grade-1  deadbolt can be purchased for $30-$40 and a decorative Schlage handle set for $120-$140 at home improvement stores or online.
• For the couple that travels often, being connected to their home while away is a priceless (and convenient) gift. The Schlage LiNK home automation system puts the home in the palm of the couple’s hand, as it allows them to lock and unlock doors, adjust the thermostat, view live camera feed and adjust lighting from anywhere in the world via smart phone app or web application. A starter kit can be purchased for $199-$299 online or in home improvement and electronics stores.
• For the couple with kids, an Electronic Keypad Lock is an ideal gift since kids tend to lose keys and get locked out. An electronic keypad lock offers freedom from lost keys and the dangerous hide-a-key. Each family member can be assigned their own special code that gives them entry access. When looking for an electronic keypad door lock be sure to look for Grade-2 or higher and one with wear-resistant keys, so potential burglars can’t guess a code based on wear and tear. A Schlage Electronic Keypad Lock can be purchased for $110-$140 online or at home improvement stores.
• For the tech-savvy couple, a technologically advanced home automation system like Schlage LiNK keeps them connected and ahead of the pack. Schlage LiNK remote home automation keeps tech-savvy home owners constantly connected with their home via apps. Users can conserve energy by adjusting the thermostat and lighting. They can keep an eye on things by viewing live camera feed, and grant access to unexpected individuals by unlocking/locking doors. Currently Schlage LiNK has an app for the iPhone, Android, iPad and web. Schlage LiNK can be purchased online or other home improvement and electronics stores for $199-$299.
   

Laura W.
Social Media Brand Marketing

 

As a fellow renter, home security is one of those issues that I worry a lot about but feel constrained by the rules and regulations of my property management group, thus leaving me to think creatively about how I protect myself and my belongings.

After scouring the internet for some rental security tips, I came up with a list of things you can do to make your rental a safer home:
 

• Meet your neighbors: By doing this you’ll get a feel for who is supposed to be there and who is not.
• Lock your doors and windows: Keep your doors and windows locked at all times. Unexpected visitors are most likely not a good thing.
• Change the locks: Regardless if you’re just moving in or have lived there for a while, ask your property manager to change the locks for you. You never know how many duplicate keys are running around.
• Add an alarm: While most property management groups won’t allow you to install a monitored alarm system (and it probably doesn’t make sense to do so), you can still find off the shelf alarm products that can provide you with peace of mind and let you know what’s going on at your door. For example, Schlage’s new keyed entry lock with built-in alarm is easy to install and requires no monthly fees.
• Add a deadbolt: Often times the locks that come on apartment doors are easy to break into. Ask your property manager for permission to add an additional layer of security by adding a deadbolt to your door. These can be easily installed. Security experts suggest purchasing a Grade 1 deadbolt as it will provide the highest level of security.
• Fake alarm stickers: You can pick these up on the cheap at local home improvement stores. Buy one for each site of the house and place them on windows. This can help deter potential intruders.
   

I personally have implemented a few of these tactics at my apartment and already feel much safer about my surroundings. It’s amazing what a little peace of mind can do!

Don't forget to share your tips! What do you do to stay safe while renting?

Laura W.
Social Media Brand Marketing

It seems like all of a sudden, the holidays are just a few weeks away. I’m looking forward to digging out the decorations from the basement and decking the halls. Maybe you are itching to get your tree up, or maybe you’re just going to set out a few special mementos.

No matter how you decorate, don’t forget your door knobs. They are often overlooked, but can become a focal point or a complementary accent to a table centerpiece or mantel decorations. Schlage decorative door hardware, of course, has plenty of style in its own right, but can be easily dressed up for the holidays. For a festive touch, just hang a small wreath or decorated gift bag on your door knobs or door levers.

Door knob hangers are easy to buy or to make. If you’re not crafty, just adapt some holiday decorations you already have by adding a hanger (ribbons, wire, or garlands), or purchase ready-made door knob hangers at The Find or handmade ones at Etsy. Or if you’re a glue gun guru, check out the wide variety of ideas online for making your own.

Here are some crafty ideas we’ve found:
 

• Hanging frosted pine cones
• Simple festive felt birds
• Count-down calendar
• Jingle bells
• Candy cane hanger
• Christmas Reindeer Doorknob Hanger
   

And here’s a wealth of ideas for giving your door knobs some holiday flair!

Have fun and let us know what door knob decorating ideas you’ve come up with!

eHow, an online library of advice for just about anything you need to do, has a nifty article about how to choose interior door hardware. We at Schlage know it can be overwhelming to walk into a hardware store and choose the right door hardware for your style and your needs, so this article can help make it easier.

First, it helps to know a little about the components of door hardware: the door locks, the door handlesets, and the hinges. The lock and the handleset are the most important, but of course, once you’ve chosen them, you want the hinges to match.

First, figure out how many interior door knobs you want to replace. Then, follow the steps below.
 

1. Determine what kind of lock each door will need. You can choose from door locks, standard latches without locks, or a keyed lock.
2. Decide on whether you want door knobs or door levers. Here again, your choice will depend on a number of things including the function of the door.
3. Select a style of decorative door hardware. Schlage’s decorative collection gives you many choices from traditional to transitional contemporary.
4. Finally, choose a finish. Schlage door hardware offers you many choices to meet your personal taste and the style of your home including satin nickel, antique brass, and aged bronze.
    

For details on how to choose interior door hardware, visit eHow and read the full how-to.

Trend watchers agree that 2012 will be a year for comfortable, cozy, cocooning. The word among interior designers is that this home-centeredness includes a new respect for craftsmanship and quality as well as an appearance that reflects a sense of warmth and age.

Dennis Hockman, editor of Chesapeake Home + Living magazine, notes that home style trends follow fashion. The metallic finishes of hardware, lighting, plumbing fixtures and some furniture follow trends in jewelry; designers often refer to hardware as jewelry for the home. He sees finishes moving away from silver and chrome to warm golds, especially antiqued brass. He points out that antique brass conveys the warmth of age and use and adds comfort and sophistication to any room.

Michele Bogg, an Indianapolis interior designer, agrees that that although "Chrome, bronze and brushed chrome are still popular, but you are going to see a more tarnished, muted gold coming back.” She identifies the new muted brass as “a more classical, timeless finish that looks elegant on its own or mixed with the muted tones of silver or bronze." She also advises not being afraid to mix finishes.

Schlage's Decorative Collections of door hardware are well suited to the new comfort-focused style trends. You can choose from over 1,000 combinations of decorative door hardware designs and finishes, including on-trend antique brass, aged bronze, and distressed nickel. Style-wise, our collections range from traditional to contemporary, meant for mixing and matching your designs based on the room, floor, or exterior. And of course, our locks offer the utmost in door security and quality that will stand the test of time.

Schlage Decorative Collections of interior hardware, exterior door hardware, and door handlesets were created to help you add designer touches to your home without the designer price tag. Visit our Decorative Collections Configurator to build your lock from scratch to match your personal style, and then print it out for shopping. Our Decorative Collection is currently available on Amazon.com and build.com and will soon appear in stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot.

Sources include “Furnishings feeling brassy — again", The Baltimore Sun, September 29, 2011

This month is National Crime Prevention Month, the official month for recognizing and celebrating the practice of crime prevention, while promoting awareness of important issues such as victimization, volunteerism, and creating safer, more caring communities.

At the end of the month is Halloween, a night of trick and treating when costumed figures fill the streets after sunset, with some looking to cause mischief and mayhem. That means that your home safety and home security is especially important.

Here are some tips for what NOT to do on Halloween.
 

• Don’t leave your door unlocked; an intruder posing as a trick-or-treater could easily let themself in. Make sure your door locks are sturdy and secure.
• Make sure older trick-or-or-treaters have a set return time and cell phones handy. With an electronic lock, you can give them their own code, rather than trusting them with a key.
• Don’t leave your porch light off and replace any broken exterior lights. A dark house and yard makes it easier for vandals and burglars to walk up undetected.
• Don’t answer the door after a certain cut-off time; legitimate trick or treaters should be off the streets by 8 or 9, depending on your community.
   

For more ideas about how to have a safe and secure holiday, take a look at these Halloween home security tips.

October is National Crime Prevention Month, the official month for recognizing and celebrating the practice of crime prevention while promoting creating safer, more caring communities. And at the end of the month is the one night of the year when you need to be more alert than ever about your home security. On Halloween, when your home is most vulnerable to vandalism, a home automation system can help protect yourself and your property.

Here are ten tips to keep you safe on Halloween and all through the year:
 

1. Don’t leave your door unlocked; an intruder posing as a trick-or-treater could easily let himself or herself in. A home automation system allows you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere.
2. Keep your home well lit, especially if you can’t be home. With a light control system like the Schlage LiNK, you can put your lights on a schedule to make it look like someone’s home and control them from any PC or smartphone with Internet access.
3. Keep your property lighted, and remove toys and debris from your hard. You don’t want a trick or treater taking a fall on your property (can you say lawsuit?).
4. Decide on a cut-off time to answer the door for trick-or-treaters. Legitimate trick or treaters should be off the streets by 8 or 9, depending on your community’s traditions and curfew. Turn off your porch light for a few hours, but turn it back on before you go to bed.
5. With a home automation system, you can control home security camera remotely to record activity on your porch and property. Wireless camera recording can be triggered by door/window motion sensors.
6. If you have pets, keep them inside. Some people think it’s fun to harass or hurt dogs and cats. It’s also good to keep pets away from the front door so that they can’t leap on trick or treaters.
7. If you have older kids going out, set a time for their return home and make sure they have a cell phone with them. Ask them to check in with you regularly. With remote control locks, they won’t have to carry a key and can let themselves in with a code. You can keep your door locked and be alerted when they use their code.
8. With wireless sensor integration, you can check the status of your windows and detect motion in an around the home from anywhere.
9. Don’t leave candles burning inside pumpkins or anywhere a costume could come in contact with the flame. Consider battery-powered lights.
10. If you see any suspicious activity, call your local police department immediately.
     

What safety tips do you have for Halloween?

Years ago, it was common to find multiple generations of a family living together under one roof, and it’s becoming a popular way to live once again. Today’s higher housing costs and the country’s struggling economy are prompting families to take in their parents and/or their adult children.

But with so many people needing to come and go for doctor appointments, jobs, or grocery shopping, home security can be an issue. And if family members have their own separate entrance, door security becomes more complex. A parent’s home care provider may need to visit them or kids or grandkids may need to let themselves in after school. Each person needs their own key, and that can mean many keys to lose. A Schlage digital door lock can solve this problem and give each family member the freedom to come and go as they need and help aging parents maintain a strong sense of independence. Each person can have their own digital code and lock and unlock doors without having to keep track of a key.

Schlage keyless entry locks come pre-programmed with two user codes and feature a 19-user code capacity with 10,000 user code combinations to choose from. They also have a battery life of over three years. Schlage electronic locks are available as a deadbolt or as a handleset. And they come in a variety of styles and finishes to match every décor. Door levers are often easier for older people to use.

When looking for an electronic deadbolt lock, be sure to look for Grade-2 or higher and one with wear-resistant keypad buttons, so would-be intruders can’t guess a code based on wear and tear.

Multigenerational living situations can be stressful, but Schlage digital door locks can help. And in addition to financial benefits, the family can become closer. Grandchildren can get special attention from grandparents, and the grandparents can feel less isolated. Young adults, too, experience a sense of safety and security when they move back “home” with their parents. Even though it can be a situation you’d rather not be in, multigenerational families living together under one roof can enjoy positive opportunities that many families will never have.

Around 1920, the founder of The Schlage Manufacturing Company, Walter Reinhold Schlage, created the bored cylindrical door lock, the basis of all interior door locks today with a push-button lock centered in the door knob. This revolutionary invention was designed to fit into two simple round holes bored in the door, eliminating the need for expensive mortising. It could be installed in minutes using ordinary hand tools.

On April 12, 1920, Schlage applied for his first cylindrical door lock patent, which described a lock made out of assembling the knob, spindle, and latch retractor into one unit within a circular housing. He received his patent on May 22, 1923.

Schlage continued to improve his door lock design, and in October 1920, filed a second patent for locking push-button door locks. The patent described a cylindrical lock design with a locking mechanism operated by pushing a button in the center of the door knob to lock and turning the interior door knob to unlock. He received his patent for the locking push-button door lock on April 8, 1924.

Four basic kinds of door knobs and door levers feature the bored cylinder design.
 

• Entrance Door Knob—Generally used for exterior applications with a keyed locking cylinder.
• Privacy Door Knobs—Generally used in bathrooms and bedrooms. Privacy knobs can be locked with a push button and come with a slotted tool that can be used to unlock from the outside.
• Passage Door Knobs—Also referred to as hall and closet knobs. These door knobs are not lockable.
• Dummy Door Knobs—These knobs are mounted on the front of the door and do not have a latch mechanism. These are most often used for bifold doors or decorative interior hardware applications that do not require a latch mechanism.
   

Schlage is proud to give our customers the value that comes from our 90-year heritage of door lock manufacturing. Continuing Walter Schlage’s legacy of continuous improvement, we have created keyless entry locks (electronic door knobs) and are now developing biometric locks. You can count on Schlage for quality, durability, and easy installation.

Our next post will continue this series with a look at the history of door knobs.

As anyone who’s thought of doing a home renovation knows, it can really take a chunk out of your pocket. It can also be really disruptive with carpenters, electricians, and what-not trekking in and out of your home. That’s why it’s usually a good idea to remodel in phases.

If you want to make a quick update to set the stage for your renovation, consider updating your entry door hardware, interior door knobs, and cabinet hardware. You can do these projects yourself without spending a ton of time on them. Schlage door knobs have been specially designed to last a lifetime and come in a wide variety of designs, so you’ll have the freedom to coordinate every detail of your décor.

Start with your entry door and a keyless door lock. Our customers report success in getting a new keypad door lock installed in 20-25 minutes, with no prior experience required.

• Insert the latch assembly into the latch hole in the door edge.
• Place the keypad assembly on the outside of the door, threading the spindle through the latch.
• Slide the interior assembly onto the keypad assembly.
• Attach a 9v battery.
• Screw on the interior lockface over the mounting plate.

Schlage interior door knobs install quickly in existing doors. Using only a Phillips screwdriver, you can replace your old locks in about 10 minutes each. Here’s a brief how-to:

• Insert the latch assembly into the latch hole in the door edge and screw it in.
• Place the lockset assembly into the hole in the front of the door, inserting the spindle through the hole in the latch.
• Slide the opposite knob assembly onto the lockset until the backplate is flush against the door surface and screw it onto the door.

Check the door to be sure it closes securely.

With Schlage door locks, you can begin your renovation quickly, inexpensively, and all by yourself in just one afternoon. We’ve built our reputation on delivering the easiest-to-install door locks and door hardware in the business, backed by strong customer support. For example check out the numerous how-to videos on our website and our YouTube channel.

Electronic locks have gained popularity in recent years. An electronic lock operates by means of electric current generated by batteries. Electronic keypad door locks feature ten buttons that you can use to create custom entry codes and codes can be easily added or deleted right at the keypad. Some electronic locks relock after five seconds, ensuring your home is safe and secure at all times. Keypad door locks are ideal for exterior, side, back, or garage entry doors.

Because they’re keyless, keypad locks offer super convenience for busy people. A keyless lock means no worries about kids losing keys, no need to carry a key when you leave the house, and no need to hide a key outside (bad idea anyway!). You can assign each family member his or her own special code to unlock the door. You can add and delete codes as often as you want or need to in seconds! Schlage keypad locks come pre-programmed with 2 user codes and feature a 19-user code capacity with 10,000 user code combinations to choose from. They also have a battery life of over three years.

When looking for an electronic keypad deadbolt lock, be sure to look for Grade-2 or higher and one with wear-resistant keypad buttons, so potential burglars can’t guess a code based on wear and tear. Consumers rank Schlage locks highest in areas of importance such as durability and security. In fact, Consumers Digest rated Schlage keypad deadbolts as a “Best Buy.”

It’s unbelievable to think that school starts so soon. Where did the summer go? School supplies have filled store shelves for weeks, and August is Back to School Safety Month.

If school isn’t already back in session, it will be within the next 3 to 4 weeks; the school bell will ring and parents will once again scramble to get the kids out the door on time. For working parents, taking the kids to school and picking them up can be a scheduling nightmare, and sometimes it’s just impossible. That means kids may be leaving home on their own or arriving home to an empty house.

Here are a few tips to keep your kids safe before and after school:

1. Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your child can walk to school or ride with on the bus. Find a safe place where the kids can wait for the bus, away from traffic and off the street.

2. If your child walks to school, consider starting a “walking school bus,” in which an adult accompanies a group of neighborhood children walking to school.

3. Be sure your child has a list of phone numbers of people to call if they can’t reach. Put it on their cell phone or on a card they can carry in their backpack or wallet. Post emergency numbers by your home telephone.

4. If alternate adult supervision is not available, make special efforts to supervise your children from a distance. Consider using a home monitoring camera to check in on them.

5. Children should have a set time to arrive home and should check in with a neighbor or with a parent when they do. Wireless locks can notify you wherever you are when your front door is opened.

6. Make sure your children know to keep the doors locked when they are home alone.

7. Set guidelines on who they can have over (if anyone) and what they are allowed to do, such as watch television or use the stove. Use a home monitoring system to see if they’re following the rules.

Remote home monitoring offers peace of mind for many parents during the school year and anytime. Home monitoring cameras that can be viewed remotely from a cell phone or computer let parents check in on their kids to be sure they’re safe and doing what they’re supposed to do. Schlage LiNK home automation system starter kit comes with remote home monitoring camera and wireless door locks that you can program to open at certain times as well as notify you when they are opened.

What is there about glass that works so brilliantly in home décor? So many things. It’s light reflecting, adds an elegant touch to any design style, and can take many shapes from table tops and shelves to accessories like vases and bowls to door knobs, sidelights, and transoms, and even mirrors.

In Feng Shui, glass is a water element and is used to keep positive energy flowing. Water features are especially powerful in the wealth and career areas because the element of Water has a direct association with the flow of money.

Consider glass as an accent to your front door. You can hang crystals to enhance feng shui. Or for sidelights, consider glass blocks. Popular in the 1950s and 1960s, they look cool and are functional in that they transmit light and help to reduce heat bills. When used in your front entryway, glass blocks can provide increased security; add style, privacy, and light; and block unwanted views and sound.

To accent glass blocks, consider door hardware finishes in reflective metal finishes such as satin nickel, distressed nickel, bright brass, satin chrome, or satin stainless style. Schlage door handlesets are of the same superior quality you’ve come to expect from us. And, for the utmost in door security, all Schlage front entry door handlesets are precision-engineered, built with a rugged all-metal chassis, and feature a professional Grade 1 security deadbolt. Our handlesets include a lifetime limited mechanical and finish warranty.

Our Style Selector will let you see how different door handleset finishes look with a glass door inset.

Want to bring your last decade’s entry door into this one? Turn your dumpy door into a style statement with stand-out metal accents including door handlesets. Today you can find many sturdy door hardware styles, such as mid-century, colonial, contemporary, or Mediterranean, and metal finishes are abundant, too, including distressed, brushed, hammered, antique, bright, and matte.

Choose door hardware styles and metal finishes to complement your existing furnishings or create contrast through furniture, lamps, vases, wall décor, and other accessories. In the kitchen, metal accents can be used on counters, appliances, backsplashes, and plumbing fixtures to complement natural materials like slate and marble. Throughout the house, lighting fixtures, doorstops, and other trim can be sharp eye catchers.

Schlage offers a variety of styles and metal finishes to turn your entry door into a fashion statement. And, for the utmost in door security, all Schlage front entry door handlesets are precision-engineered, easy to install, and built with a rugged all-metal chassis.

Schlage door hardware finishes carry a lifetime and include:

Satin Nickel - Complements any traditional or modern decor

Bright Chrome - Makes a dramatic statement in a modern or retro setting

Aged Bronze - Rich appearance, popular in both traditional and modern applications

Antique Brass - Ideal for colonial and other traditional settings

Distressed Nickel - Natural weathered appearance that complements materials like slate and marble

Oil-Rubbed Bronze - Acquires a natural beauty as it ages

Visit Schlage’s Style Selector to see how different hardware styles and metal finishes can add style to your door!

Before you leave on a summer vacation, here’s a quick checklist of things you can do to protect your home and property.

1. Give trusted family, friends, and/or neighbors your phone number, email, hotel phone, etc. so that you can be contacted for emergencies. Don’t discuss your absence in public and especially not on social media like Facebook.
2. Put your mail and newspaper on hold (at usps.gov you can easily put your mail on hold). Ask a family member or neighbor to check your home and collect any fliers or advertisements hung on your door or thrown in the yard.
3. Arrange for lawn care. Overgrown grass is a giveaway that you're on vacation.
4. Unplug electronic items especially the TV, sound system, and especially computers. Power surges from storms or other things can damage their systems resulting in costly repair or replacement.
5. Make sure faucets are tightly turned off. Unplug your washing machine hoses; they can break and cause damage to your home before you can do anything about it.
6. Save energy by turning the air-conditioning thermostat up to between 81 and 85 degrees and putting your water heater on its vacation setting. By installing a Trane ComfortLink™ remote control thermostat, you can use your smartphone to turn your air-conditioning setting down so you can return home to a nicely cooled house.
7. Make your house looks lived in by putting some lights on timers. Be sure to schedule them at normal times, but if you can, schedule them randomly so it won’t look like you’re using timers. If you’d like to remotely control your lights, explore the Schlage LiNK™ home automation system. Close blinds and drapes to keep valuables out of sight. Leave a TV or radio on so it sounds like someone is home.
8. Disconnect the garage door so that it cannot be remotely operated. Typically, there is a handle you can use to lock the door.
9. Last but not least, lock all doors and windows throughout the house. Every entry door should have a Schlage Grade 1 deadbolt, including the door between your garage and house. If you have a freestanding garage or shed, consider installing a Schlage cable lock or padlock.

For over 90 years, Schlage has been dedicated to ensuring your home security with the most reliable professional security locks and deadbolts. Check out our full product line of door locks, including digital door locks, keypad door locks, deadbolt locks, and door knob locks to find the right ones for your

Your neighbors will be so jealous!

How many times have you lost the key to your front door, and had to head to the local hardware store to have new ones made? Or hidden a key under the doormat for someone, knowing that it's not exactly the safest way to go? Thanks to Schlage Electronic Security, there's no reason to do any of that!

Schlage's keyless locks are easily installed with no more than a screwdriver, and it allows the user to add, change or delete user codes in just seconds. No more making extra keys or leaving the security of your home under the doormat. Electronic Security keypads relock after 5 seconds, ensuring your home is safe and secure at all times, and boast a 3-year battery life.

Electronic Keypad LocksIf this isn't enough to convince you, we've compiled a list of Top Ten Reasons to go keyless!

Top Ten Reasons To “Go Keyless” With Schlage Keypad Locks
 

1. You just got rid of your 8-track collection and typewriter, so upgrading your old mechanical lock is the logical next step.
2. The other joggers are beginning to complain about the loud jingling of keys in your pocket.
3. Three-year battery life is one of the longest commitments you’ve ever had.
4. You’re afraid of the dark, but that’s okay because the keypad is backlit for easy visibility at night.
5. The neighbors will be so jealous.
6. You can give out personalized access codes for all your friends, and then deactivate them when you get into an argument.
7. You just love things that last a long time, like lifetime mechanical and finish warranties.
8. You like to surround yourself with success, so the #1 brand of electronic lock, the most secure home keypad lock, and a Consumers Digest best buy rating is right up your alley!
9. You know how TV remote numbers wear off?  Well, these buttons won’t wear over time.
10. You’re into heavy metal, and our ANSI Grade 2 keypads are just that.
    

Chris D.
Schlage Portfolio Manager

With Memorial Day, comes warmer weather and longer days perfect for sprucing up our homes’ exteriors. Improving the look of your home can be easy and budget friendly. As many home improvement television programs point out, starting with the front of your home can produce big dividends. The front of your home is the first thing prospective buyers or visitors see; it plays a crucial role in the perceived value of your house. If your home’s first impression is uncared for or run down, it may suggest that other parts of your home may hide items that need repair.

The entry to your home includes the lawn, concrete walks or driveways, landscaping, and the front porch and door. Even updating your mailbox can make a difference. A front yard with bare spots or that’s overrun with weeds suggests that the homeowner has neglected home maintenance. Take a weekend or two to shape up your yard. The easiest thing to do is to keep your grass mowed and edges trimmed. Then attack those weeds. Prune any shrubs, and consider adding a touch of color with flowers. Add fresh mulch to your flower beds.

Be sure any concrete areas are level and cracks are sealed. Then consider pressure washing to remove dirt, mold, mildew and cobwebs on your home’s siding or in the entryway. Clean your windows inside and out. Check the gutters. Fix anything that’s broken.

Your door is especially important, and it could benefit from a fresh coat of paint in a coordinating color. Replace your old welcome mat and add a few flower containers. Door hardware is often the most underappreciated items in the home; in addition to providing security, it can make a bold design statement. Schlage offers a great selection of door handlesets, door knobs, door levers, kick plates, doorbells or knockers, peepholes, and house numbers. Our precision-engineered, easy to install, front entry handlesets come in many finishes and styles to match your home’s appearance. In addition to style, buyers notice well-made door hardware immediately. Schlage door hardware offers quality and style.

Enhancing your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to be a major effort or expenditure. Try to look at your home with objective eyes, or have a friend point out areas that could be improved. You’ll be surprised what a few quick and inexpensive upgrades can do.

With just a quick stroll down the hardware aisle at any local home improvement store, one can easily become overwhelmed with the variety of home security options available. From deadbolts, to keypad locks, to keyed levers, to remote home automation the possibilities are endless! And without a clear understanding of the feature functionality inside a lock, it's at times difficult to distinguish the good from the bad and find the one that best meets your needs.

Today, a lesson on deadbolts....

A few features to look for when purchasing a deadbolt:

Grade 1 or 2 Deadbolt- Security is obviously the most important feature to consider when purchasing a deadbolt. Choosing a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt ensures your family is getting the strongest security available on the market. For more info on security grading, check out this article.

Anti-Pick Shield - Look for a deadbolt that has an anti-pick shield across the top and bottom to protect against picking from these angles.

Sleek Face - A low profile face is almost impossible to grab with a wrench and cannot be unscrewed.

3" Screws - Longer screws provide greater strength in the door jamb.

Largest Bolt - The larger the bolt, the more kick-in resistance exists. Schlage offers the largest bolt on the market, being 10% bigger than typical bolts.

Additional lock security features are shown in the diagram below. Like everything else that's important in life, be sure to research the deadbolt prior to purchasing to ensure it has all the right interal features that will keep your family safe.


Laura W.
Social Media Brand Marketing

Keeping your family safe is an ongoing concern, and in summer, even more so. With warmer weather, more people are out and about with time on their hands.

If you have kids, they may be running in and out of the house, which may leave one or more of your doors unlocked without you knowing it. When you leave your doors unlocked, you’re inviting in trouble. According to the US Department of Justice, over 8,000 home invasions occur per day in North America with one of every five homes experiencing a break-in over time. And, surprisingly, over half of household burglaries occur during the daytime (Bureau of Justice Statistics 2008).

One of easiest ways to feel secure in your own home is to keep the doors locked and to use top-grade door locks. Protect your home and family by installing Schlage door security locks. To choose the right door locks for your home, consider how and where you will use them. Then think about the level of security needed for each particular door. 

For the doors you use most often, choose ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts for optimal security. You might want to install deadbolts on every entry door to your house. Schlage’s Grade 1 deadbolt locks offer professional grade security with the biggest adjustable bolt available. Deadbolts with keyed entry from both sides can enhance security for doors with panel glass (check your local building codes before installing this solution). 

For exterior doors that get a lot of use by children, babysitters, housecleaners, and so on, you might want to consider keyless door locks or electronic locks. There are no keys to lose, and you avoid the risk of hiding a key outside. And if you need to travel, you can add, change, or delete user codes in seconds. Schlage keyless door locks are ANSI Grade 2 certified, offering excellent security and durability for your home. 

Adding extra security to your home with Schlage door security locks is easy; the electronic locks and deadbolts are easy and quick to install, requiring only a screwdriver.

In addition to upgrading your door locks, consider installing doors with solid cores rather than hollow wooden doors, and/or install peepholes in your doors so you can see who the visitor is before opening the door.

NOTE: The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a private non-profit organization that administers and coordinates voluntary standardization to develop and maintain performance standards for builder's hardware. The purpose of product grades is to help identify the quality and durability of locksets through a series of operational and security tests.

Ah, the riotous colors of spring: lush green lawns, pastel blooms, and of course, the many elegant metallic hues of Schlage door hardware. OK, we admit, a new handleset or knob for the front door may not be the first thing that springs to mind when embarking on the time-honored tradition of the spring clean-up, but maybe it should be.
 

After a long, gray winter, a spruced-up front door can be a major facelift without a major hassle. When your lawn and garden are looking their best, your front door should too, with smart-looking door hardware that complements your personal style and your home décor. You’ll be amazed at what a difference the right door hardware makes to the appearance of your home.

Your front door is the focal point for visitors approaching your home; it is truly the first impression you make with guests. Schlage’s eleven door hardware finishes and huge selection of door knobs, handlesets, and door levers ensure you make an impression that reflects your home’s distinctive charm.

Often the toughest part of taking on spring home maintenance is that we saddle ourselves with chores just as the warmer weather beckons us to come out and play. That’s why a seasonal door makeover is ideal: a fresh coat of paint and our easy-to-install door hardware will net you a big improvement in just an hour or two, freeing you up for more carefree pursuits, with the satisfaction of knowing your home is now both more handsome and more secure.

If installing new door hardware doesn’t sound like a breeze to you, chances are you haven’t installed Schlage hardware. We’ve built our reputation on delivering the easiest-to-install door locks and door hardware in the business, backed by strong customer support. Our customers report success in getting a new door lock installed in 20-25 minutes, with no prior experience required.

You’ll probably spend more time contemplating your many style choices than you will with screwdriver in hand, but we can help with that part of the job too; try our online hardware style selector to quickly narrow your door hardware choices to the one that suits you.

Imagine you and your family have just returned home from a long trip and realize you somehow managed to get locked out of your house. In this situation you would probably dial up your trusty neighborhood locksmith that you know and can count on.

Oh, you don’t have a locksmith handy in your smart phone’s contacts? 

If you’re like many of us, you don’t think about finding a reliable locksmith until an emergency occurs, which is often at the most inconvenient time. You haven’t had the luxury of building a relationship with someone you'll be trusting with a most important job, your home’s security. 

So how does a victim of a lockout go about finding a trustworthy and qualified locksmith? We asked a few locksmiths on our Schlage Facebook page to share their advice, and this is what we came up with:

 

Visit Credible Locksmith Organization Websites
There are a few credible locksmith organization websites out on the web that require the locksmiths listed to meet certain requirements and qualifications. 

Findalocksmith.com (http://findalocksmith.com/search.aspx) is a website sponsored by Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). This site only features professional locksmiths who are registered with ALOA. The site allows you to search by company or by location and the type of services required. (Joe Prieur)

 

Word of Mouth
We’ve all heard how powerful word of mouth advertising can be. Ask your neighbors, real estate agent or other people you trust for references. Good locksmiths will have built strong relationships with their clientele.(Mike Loblein)

Be careful to only ask people you trust for references. Asking a stranger is not ideal in situations that involve the integrity of your home’s security.

 

Local Shop
Everything is digital these days, but setting up shop is a sign of a legitimate locksmith whose business is devoted to making homes secure for the long haul. It’s advised to visit their brick and mortar store location to get a feel for how they operate their business and treat their customers. (Mike Loblein & Edward C. Mangione Locksmiths Inc.)

 

Beware of Fraud
There are so many sites and forums out on the web that may appear legitimate, but require no verification process. Trusting sites like these could land you in a vulnerable situation. Sites like these can be deceiving, so always give a call and ask lots of questions to determine if the locksmith is in fact trustworthy.  (Mike Loblein)

Upon calling a locksmith, if the legal business name isn’t stated, ask for it. If there is any hesitation or push back, there is probably cause for concern. Hang up and move on.

 

Checking Credentials
Locksmiths should have a valid state locksmith license or registration. Make sure to ask for this upon obtaining service.

Also, your locksmith should double check you are who you say you are. They should ask to see a valid ID and proof of residence/ownership. This is done to protect all parties involved.


If you have any tips or suggestions you would like to share, please do so by clicking here and filling out the form.

 

Laura W.
Social Media Brand Marketing