Knowledge is your best security tool. Charleston Locksmith Pro has compiled these free resources to help Charleston homeowners and business owners make informed decisions about their security. Browse guides, checklists, and expert tips from our licensed technicians.

Home Security Guides

Home Security Checklist

A complete room-by-room security assessment checklist for Charleston homeowners. Deadbolts, smart locks, window locks, and more.

When to Rekey vs. Replace Your Locks

Understand the cost difference and security implications of rekeying vs. full lock replacement for your home or office.

Lock Grade Guide: ANSI Grade 1, 2, and 3

Learn what ANSI security grades mean and which grade is right for your front door, interior doors, and commercial use.

Smart Lock Buyer’s Guide 2025

Compare Lockly, Schlage, Kwikset, and Yale smart locks. Features, compatibility, battery life, and installation requirements explained.

Commercial Security Assessment Guide

How to identify vulnerabilities in your business’s physical security — doors, access points, windows, and high-value storage areas.

Car Key Types Explained: Transponder, FOB, Smart Key

Understand the difference between basic keys, transponder keys, key fobs, and push-to-start proximity keys — and what replacement costs to expect.

Quick Security Tips

Rekey After MovingAlways rekey all exterior locks when moving into a new home — you never know how many key copies exist from previous residents.

Grade 1 for Exterior DoorsUse ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts on all exterior doors. Grade 2 or 3 provides insufficient resistance against forced entry.

3-Inch Strike Plate ScrewsReplace the standard 3/4-inch screws in your door’s strike plate with 3-inch wood screws that reach the door frame stud.

Don’t Hide a Spare Key OutsideCriminals know all the hiding spots. Use a lockbox with a code or leave a spare with a trusted neighbor instead.

Sliding Door SecurityPlace a cut-down wooden dowel or metal bar in the track of sliding doors to prevent forced entry even if the lock is defeated.

Annual Lock InspectionHave a licensed locksmith inspect your home’s locks annually — worn cylinders and loose hardware are often invisible security risks.

Free Security Consultation

Not sure which security upgrade is right for your home or business? Call Charleston Locksmith Pro at (843) 380-5647 for a free phone consultation. Our technicians provide honest, unbiased recommendations based on your specific situation — no pressure, no upselling.

Adam K., Senior Locksmith Technician at Charleston Locksmith Pro

Written & Reviewed by: Adam K., Senior Locksmith Technician

With over 12 years of experience serving Charleston, SC, Adam specializes in emergency lockouts and high-security locks. Charleston Locksmith Pro is a fully-equipped, certified locksmith provider available at 1730 Savannah Hwy Suite B, Charleston, SC. Adam holds an ALOA membership and is a certified Mul-T-Lock technician.

ALOA Certified SC Licensed 12+ Years Experience
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