All You Need To Know About File Cabinet Lock

A file cabinet contains your most important and confidential documents. You organize and store these files in the cabinet to protect them against damage, theft, and unauthorized access. Because of this, you should increase its level of security. Apart from getting a durable storage cabinet, you must also install a reliable file cabinet lock.

Some filing cabinets have locks, while others don’t. You can install a durable lock for your cabinet as another layer of security. There are a variety of locks you can choose from for your cabinet. They come in different forms and sizes. Continue reading to discover all you need to know about file cabinet locks. 

Why Do You Need A Locking File Cabinet?

A high-quality file cabinet is the best place to keep valuable files, private documents, and confidential data protected. It keeps your files organized, safe, and secure. You can organize your important papers by arranging and labeling them. In this way, you won’t lose any of your files and you’ll easily find them.

File cabinets also keep your documents safe from damage since they have proofing against moisture, water, and fire. They are also tightly shut to prevent insects and pests from damaging your papers. 

Finally, and most importantly, a reliable file cabinet is highly secured. It is made of high-quality and durable metal that doesn’t easily break. You can install locks for added security. Only the people with a key to these locks can access your confidential documents.

The Importance of File Cabinet Locks

Many people don’t consider locking their file cabinets. They assume that their private documents are safe since their rooms or offices have locks. However, your door security is not enough. You must also lock your filing cabinet to create another level of security. This way, intruders will not easily get their hands on your file cabinet in the event of a break-in. 

Another importance of having a secure file cabinet emerges if you have a growing company. Getting a lock will limit the people who have access to your file cabinet. This will prevent access even from employees in your company who are unauthorized. This is especially important if you have client information you need to protect. 

Can You Add Locks to Your Filing Cabinet?

Some cabinets have built-in locks. If your cabinet doesn’t have one, you can install a locking device. Many file cabinets have a preset slot in which you can install a lock. Professional locksmiths will strike down this slot with a hammer to create a hole. Then, they will install a lock, usually a tubular cylinder lock, that fits perfectly inside the space. 

What Are The Different Types of Cabinet Locks?

We’ve already mentioned the tubular cylinder lock, which is the most common lock for file cabinets. You need a preset hole to install this type of cabinet lock. Another option you have is a padlock. A locksmith will install a hasp on your file cabinet, where you will insert the padlock. Other locking devices for file cabinets are the following:

• electronic keypad locks
• cam locks
• locking bars
• plunger tubular push locks

Is Lock Installation Better Than Buying a File Cabinet with Locks?

While file cabinets with locks secure your documents, the level of security they offer is considered substandard. First, they come with keys that anyone can and could have duplicated. Second, you can easily unlock or destroy the lock by applying force to the cabinet. 

We recommend you install a more reliable lock in place of the built-in locks. In this way, it will be more secured and guaranteed that no one else has a key to your cabinet lock.

What To Do When You Get Locked Out of Your Cabinet?

Being unable to open your file cabinet is a frustrating situation. You could attempt to break into your cabinet by force, but this could destroy the unit and affect your documents. Contact a locksmith, so they can professionally open your locks. They will use non-destructive methods to bypass your file cabinet lock and safely open it.

How Often Do File Cabinet Locks Need Maintenance?

You may have a high-security file cabinet lock now, but the level of security it offers will dwindle as time passes. Because of this, you must ensure that your locking system is still effective and reliable. As certified locksmiths, we recommend you have a professional assess and maintain your file cabinet locks once a year.

Annual maintenance of your locks will guarantee that they still do their job to safeguard your important files. It will also ensure that you won’t lock yourself out of your cabinet. Over time, the internal structure of your lock could break, stick, or harden, which will prevent you from unlocking it.

If you lock yourself out of your file cabinet, don’t delay and call Keysyll. We are your trusted and licensed locksmiths who can provide you with prompt and timely lockout service. Contact us today to learn more about the rates for our services.