What does a locksmith do?

Locksmiths can do a large variety of jobs related to locks, keys, and safes. The most commonly requested jobs are lockouts, rekeying, repairs and duplication of keys. Beyond that it is almost endless with electronic, commercial safes, special installations and almost everything you could think of.

What is rekeying?

Rekeying is the process of replacing tumblers (pins) in an existing lock cylinder so that it will take a new key and the old one will no longer work.

When and/or why should I rekey my home or business?

If you are purchasing a new home, someone has stolen your keys, you are unsure of how many keys have been made and given out on a property, you’ve had an employee change or if you feel uncomfortable for any reason about the security of your property, you should consider rekeying.

What is a ‘master’ key?

Master-keying is a system in which a group of locks that are master-keyed are operable by it’s own individual key in each lock and the master-key. Each individual key operates it’s lock only. The master-key operates all the locks in the group. The locks must be made by the same manufacturer or at least have common ‘keyways’. Other systems are also possible using sub-masters and grand-masters.

When should I purchase new locks?

You should purchase new locks only if yours are not in good condition or you want to upgrade the quality of locks. If you have good quality locks, most of the time repairs can be done without replacement of the whole lock.

I want all of my locks to take the same key, is this possible?

Yes, they can be keyed alike if they are all the same brand of lock. You can test this by trying the common key in each lock and if it will go in (even if it will not turn) it can be done. Otherwise, you may have to purchase a few new locks of the same kind.

My new car has security built into the key, do I have to go to the dealer to get a copy made?

Sometimes, but not always. Call your locksmith and ask if they are able to duplicate it for you. You will have to give the make and model of the vehicle.

Should I buy a high security lock, are they safer?

High security locks are better constructed, they are very hard to pick and are not compromised by bumping, but our answer is “No”. Most burglaries are by breaking a window, kicking a door or forcing the lock with tools.

Should I use WD-40 to lubricate my locks?

No! WD-40 is not recommended for locks, because there is a slight amount of water in the product, which can cause corrosion over time. Use a silicon-based product for your locks.

Can a locksmith cut a key from a number?

In many cases, keys can be made by a locksmith from the code number of a lock. This is common with vehicles, padlocks, filing cabinets, etc. They cannot be made from VIN numbers.

What should I do if I lose my keys?

Call a locksmith. Locksmiths can generate new keys for most types of locks, this includes automobiles as well as home locks.

What is a restricted key system?

A restricted key system prevents the duplication of keys by unauthorized people. The restricted key is only available from the locksmith that installed the system and can only be duplicated by the person who set it up and whomever he/she has authorized. A signature and ID is required and total number of keys made is recorded.

What does Emergency Service mean?

Services are available after closing and on weekends for emergency situations. Fees are slightly higher for emergency services.