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Changing the locks on your storage unit can be a quick and easy way to secure your valuables. But you need to know which kind of lock is best for your needs before purchasing one.
There are several types of storage lock options to choose from, including disc locks and closed-shackle padlocks. Disc locks are the most popular choice for storage units because they’re resiliently strike-proof, drill-proof and pick-proof.
1. Remove the Locks
If you’ve misplaced your keys and need to remove a lock from a storage unit, there are several techniques that can help. First, you’ll want to determine what type of lock you have.
The most common locks used on storage units are round locks. These are easily picked and can be broken with a paperclip or other small object.
You can also use a bolt cutter to cut off these locks. However, you should be careful to apply the right amount of pressure when using this tool.
In addition, make sure you don’t cut too slowly; this could cause the metal to heat up and bind together, making it more difficult to cut through.
Once you have a bolt cutter and drill, it’s time to start removing the locks from your storage unit. To do this, simply drill two holes into the top of your lock cylinder. Then, insert your bolt cutter blades into these holes and apply pressure until the cylinder breaks into two pieces. After that, simply remove both halves of the cylinder from their respective sides of the door frame.
2. Open the Door
There are a few different types of storage unit locks. Some are padlocks, while others use a combination of lock dials and keyed or numbered combinations.
Storage units that have roll-up doors are typically easy to open. They come in a variety of sizes, and some are automated.
When opening these kinds of doors, it’s best to keep your hands on the handle while it’s rolling up. This will help prevent dust from blowing into the air.
Another tip is to be careful when opening hinged doors. These can be quite large, and it’s important not to bang up anything inside your storage unit.
For a quick and easy way to open these types of locks, try using a credit card. The angled end of the latch bolt should face toward you, and you can push it with the card until it slides between the bolt and jamb.
3. Remove the Latch
Getting locked out of a storage unit is a frustrating experience, but there are ways to get back in without damaging the lock. First, you have to decide how you want to handle the situation.
Then, you have to assess the lock to determine what methods you can use to open it. There are two options: the “easy way” and the “hard way.”
If you have a lock that is too complex to be opened using a method of your choice, the “hard way” might be the best option for you. This is the fastest and most reliable method, but it can also be destructive.
This is why a professional locksmith avoids this method whenever possible. It is also the most likely method to break the lock beyond repair, which will leave you in a worse situation than before you started trying to open the door. This is why a professional will take the time to research the lock, determining the best methods for opening it, so you can get back in as quickly and safely as possible.
4. Replace the Locks
When choosing a lock, it’s important to pick a quality product that will provide maximum security for your items. Some of the best options are disc locks, closed-shackle padlocks and cylinder locks.
These are all strike-proof, drill-proof and pick-proof. They also have a thickly built shackle that fits around the latch of your storage unit door.
Some facilities are even starting to install cylinder locks, which fit into a special latch plate and are more similar to your front door’s lock than traditional padlocks. These locks can’t be cut, which makes them the most secure option available for self-storage.
In addition to picking a high-quality lock, it’s also important to consider the type of metal that it’s made of. Some locks are made from cheaper metals, which can be easier to break into.