A locksmith can create a duplicate key from a lock without any problem even if you don't have a spare key.
Most locksmiths can make a key for your lock. Some locksmiths specialise in only one type of key (for example, automotive keys) and other locksmiths can make nearly any kind of key. A locksmith can create a duplicate key from a lock without any problem even if you don't have a spare key.
If you need to have a key made, the first thing to understand is that there are two different kinds of keys: cut keys and stamped/milled keys. An original key can help you to make a duplicate key of your lock without any extra effort and hitch.
You can never underestimate the skills and expertise of a locksmith, as they are capable of creating a key without the original. They can use blank and a file to create a key from scratch without the need for an original key.
They can use additional tools to cut a new key to the code with the help of a code cutter. In this way, a locksmith can make a key from the lock. Or locksmiths adopt new approaches like impression the lock to open it.
Cut keys require the locksmith to use their tools on your existing lock hardware while stamping/milling requires them to remove some material from the key blank before cutting the final profile onto it. Mortice locks are a different story than common door locks.
Locksmiths can accurately determine the type of lock and unlock or open it without any hassle.If you've experienced any damage to your current hardware due to corrosion or warping, it may be easier and cheaper for the locksmith to mill out a new key rather than trying to repair or straighten your old one.
An experienced locksmith can also use a blank key that is inserted into your lock and turned. The pins are inserted into the lock and pins press against the key leaving marks where the cuts have to be made. Professional locksmiths can prepare a key for any type of lock, such as door locks, cabinet locks etc.
If you need to have a key made, but don't have the original, most locksmiths will be able to make a new key without any kind of physical copy. A key can also be created from a key code. Key codes can be interpreted with a series of alphanumeric characters. There are several steps involved in the process of opening a lock. Some locksmiths may store the last few profiles they've cut in their database for this exact reason; others may simply use an advanced scanner that can recreate all kinds of data. The safety and security of your house rely on the use of efficient locks and security systems. The simple answer to all your safety concerns is to use high quality locks and hire services of professional locksmiths in case of any emergency. Of course, there are some downsides as well: cutting a new key costs time and money, while stamping/milling a key is much faster. This means that if you are in an emergency where the lock must be opened immediately, there are other options for getting inside your home or office. The only exception to this would be an advanced high-security system that uses "coded" keys where each cut of the key generates a unique code which must match with the corresponding code from the lock itself. In these cases, a normal locksmith may not have access to compatible blanks and so specialised knowledge about how these systems work is highly recommended. While there are some downsides, these methods do allow many locksmiths to get fast service while still maintaining accuracy and security. You shouldn't try complex things on your own such as creating a new lock.
With a rekey (sometimes called "re-keying" or "relocking"), your locksmith takes your existing hardware and makes new keys that work with the same keyway - which means that there is zero chance of any kind of malfunction when trying to turn one side or the other.
If you've recently moved into an older house where the locks haven't been used in decades, this can be particularly important: if someone wanted to break into your home rather than pick through an actual lock mechanism, they might simply drill out the pins in your lock and put their key into the empty holes - which would most likely set off any alarm system you've worked hard to install.
While this kind of damage can be repaired, it's often less risky to just replace the entire mechanism with a brand-new one that can't be accessed by criminals. Rekeying also works on new locks: if you're planning on moving out of your current location or are having insurance problems with your original hardware, simply replacing your locks can save you money, time, and stress.
For most people, this will simply be a matter of replacing your old hardware with something brand-new. By frequently changing the code on your locks and using higher-end systems that can't easily be compromised. You can vastly reduce the risk of anyone ever stealing or damaging one of your keys - and thus entering into your home without permission. The second part of rekeying is much more straightforward: once you have all new keys made for any given lock, it's as simple as inserting them and turning the pins until they lock into place. Some practical tips to remember. Never try to force a key into place if it doesn't fit (this will usually damage both your lock and the replacement), don't take apart a locking mechanism unless you have the proper tools to reassemble it, and always take your time when working with this kind of hardware.
If you only need to replace the lock but not make new keys, this usually won't be much of an issue - unless your previous key was broken, in which case it might cost at least $3-5 to get a replacement one.
If you do need your lock rekeyed after losing all of your existing keys, however, it's generally best to hire a locksmith rather than attempting to change them yourself; if anyone has ever tried to force their way into your home with old locks and mechanisms, there may be damage that can only be repaired by someone who specialises in locks. Probably best not to install a new lock on a door yourself, if you don't know what you are doing.As always, remember that trying to do this type of work without professional training can result in injury or property damage - so if any part of the process seems too complicated or risky, give your local hardware store a call and let them handle it for you.
Yes, locksmiths can often come to your home to make new keys based on old mechanisms. This is usually done with newer, specialised machines that are far faster than human-operated key duplication systems. This means that you can get all of the necessary changes done in a short time without ever needing to leave your house. If you need to change many sets of keys for older locks, however - rather than just making one or two copies - it's generally best to do this at a hardware store or other public space rather than attempt to manage it yourself.
This depends on the types of locking mechanisms in your house: while most modern homes have standard pin and tumbler systems which will generally be easy to rekey even without special knowledge, homes built during earlier times may have much more outdated systems.
Such as skeleton keys or tubular locks. While you can still attempt to change your locks with these older types of hardware, it's often better to hire a professional if they seem too complicated.
By taking apart the lock and rebuilding it with new technology, you'll always know that your door will securely fit into place when locked. For more information on locksmiths, or advice on how to become one, take a look at the Australian Government's Your Career website.