AboutJames Expertise I am knowledgeable in almost every area of Locksmithing. This includes locks, keys, lost keys, residential and commercial lockouts, rekeying, masterkeying, high security locks, access control, electric locks, security cameras and home safety. I have been running an online business since 2004 where I sell all types of lock and security hardware to everyone from apartment renters to business owners to the US government. Before that I started a locksmith service in 1999. I deal with many types of security equipment including high security safe locks, heavy duty padlocks, exit devices, biometric readers, electric strikes, magnetic locks, full surface hinges and I only sell what I personally stand behind 100%. The online business has given me a more in-depth look at the locksmithing industry, helping me to learn more about each and every product that I offer, as well as products I don't have but end up finding for customers to solve any issues they have with security or door hardware.
Please don't submit any automotive or safe questions as these aren't areas that I can help in.
Experience I have been Locksmithing since 1999 and own my own Locksmithing business. I have many years of hands-on experience through the many services I have performed for my customers. I've run my business the way I wanted, treating everyone as I would like to be treated and knowing that any customer could be my last if I didn't perform my locksmithing duties as I had promised.
Organizations Montana Locksmith Association
Education/Credentials I have a diploma in Masterkeying, Advanced Locksmithing & Locksmithing from Foley-Belsaw.
Past/Present Clients US government, colleges, schools, city and state governments, large and small corporations, home owners.
Question Is there any way to change a Schlage lock so that when you are going outside and the lock is locked it will unlock the door at the same time as you turn the knob? It is frustrating to walk out of the house to get the mail and realize that I forgot to turn the lock inside and now I am stuck locked outside. Thanks, John
Answer Hello John,
My advice to everyone regardless of the brand or model of locking lever or knob on every exterior door of every house is to change it to a passage function and use a deadbolt on the door. This way you can only get locked out if you lose your key after locking it with the key as you leave.
Schlage locks cannot be changed from the way they are. I understand they make a different style but those are only available special order from a locksmith or online retailer. Some other brands are also doing their locks the same way. This is due to some changes in life/safety codes in many areas around the country. They are designed to be unlocked from the inside at all times to prevent someone from having to take the time to unlock it before opening the door in the event of an emergency.
If you are unwilling or unable to take my first advice, get into the habit of opening the door, grabbing the outside knob or lever and turning it, then shutting the door. If it won't turn, it's locked so simply unlock it before shutting the door.
