Blogs and Keys

Unfortunately, nowadays there are many thieves and burglaries, so choosing the right locksmith can be a challenge. Not everyone has the necessary skills to pick a locksmith and it takes a little experience and some good advice to make the right choice. One can learn to take the best decisions and if your interest is picking the best locksmith, go ahead and listen to the following advice.

What do I do If I lost my keys?

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

What is a Master Key?

A Master Key is created when a group of locks are “custom” coded so each lock uses a different key, but a combination is “added” so one key will open all locks. It is a myth that there exists a particular Master Key that will open all locks. In order to Master-key a group of locks the locks must all be made by the same manufacturer or at least have “common” Keyways. In a group of locks that are Master-keyed (MK) each lock is operable by both it’s own individual key and the Master-Key. Each individual key operates it’s own lock only. The Master-Key operates all the locks in the group. Other systems are also possible using sub-Masters, Grand-Masters, etc.

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. Requiring proof of ownership before cutting a key by code is a standard procedure used by Security Professionals to safeguard security.

I want all of my locks on my house to take the same key, can this be done?

Yes, your locksmith can help you do this. In most cases you can keep your existing locks, you can have a locksmith code them alike. This is refered to “Keyed Alike”. An easy test to see if your existing locks are able to be keyed alike, is to see if the one common key will enter the cylinders (keyway) on the other locks. Generally, if one common key will enter all locks, then they can all be “Keyed Alike”. If your locks are not compatible, you may be able to use most of your locks, and need to purchase 1 or 2 to accomplish your goal. Consult with your locksmith, we can help get you on the right track, with a minimum amount of money spent.

Someone Has stolen my keys, I need to change my locks, Do I have to buy new locks?

No. You can have your locksmith rekey your locks. Rekeying a lock is the process of replacing the tumblers (pins, wafer tumblers) of a lock cylinder with new tumblers of different sizes. A new key will coincide with the new tumblers and the old key will no longer work. In other words, it is not necessary to buy new locks. Re-keying locks is something that should be done if you have moved into a new residence or lost a set of keys. Most automobile locks can be Re-keyed as well. Re-keying locks is usually significantly less expensive than replacing locks.

I have a new car, It has some kind of security device built into the key, do I have to go to the dealer to get a copy?

No. Most locksmiths can reproduce these keys. Including the latest high security vehicle keys. In nearly all cases, your locksmith will save you money over the dealer. Believe it or not, your locksmith is usually more familiar with, how these systems work, than your dealer.

more FAQ locksmithing from our expert locksmiths in denver Colorado

Q: Why should I use a professional locksmith company?
A: Skilled professional locksmiths bring experience and fund of knowledge in lock, safe & security problems and are better prepared to solve security issues to your unique situation. Professional locksmith can prescribe state-of-the-art products that work, and more effective solutions in an efficient manner.

Q: I have a key marked “Do Not Duplicate.” Can I get a copy of it anyway?
A: Keys marked “Do Not Duplicate,” ” Do Not Copy,” or “Unlawful to Copy” may be duplicated only if a letter of authorization from the owner or supervisor is presented with the request for duplication. The letter should be on company letterhead and identify the key to be made, the number of keys, the person picking up the keys, and the name and number of the person writing the letter. The person picking up the keys will be required to fill out a “Request for Restricted Keys” form. We reserve the right to refuse to duplicate any key marked “Do Not Duplicate.”

Q: My key does not insert or withdraw easily or it has difficulty turning.
A: First spray the lock with light penetrating oil (such as WD-40). This oil can be found at most hardware stores, but can even be found at some drug stores and supermarkets. Don’t be afraid to spray too much, but have a paper towel handy to pick up the excess. Spray the oil into the keyhole and onto the bolt mechanism. Move the bolt in and out to allow the oil to penetrate into the lock. Do not take the lock apart if you are not confident you can put it back together.

Q: The lock doesn’t lock and unlock smoothly.
A: After you have tried the above solution, check to see it the lock operates smoothly with the door open. If it does, your The lockproblem is not in the lock, but rather in the alignment of the door and frame. Look for obstructions at the threshold and in the door jamb. Also check the door and frame for twists and warps. The door should completely rest against the door stop and stay there. If the door rests at the stop at the top or bottom only then the door or frame is twisted. If the door springs open then the hinges are probably binding. If you have weatherstrip on the door, it could be obstructing the path of the door. Keep in mind, wooden doors and frames will warp and swell with temperature and humidity, and metal doors and frames will twist and rust with age.

Q: I have lost my car keys, what do i do?
A: Sometimes a key code is available. You will only have access to this code if you are the original buyer of the car. This code is typically written on the original bill of sale which you may have or the car dealership may have. Rarely, these codes are written on the cover of the owner’s manual. So check there as well. A key by code can save you money over having a key fitted to the car on-site. Expect to pay from fifteen to fifty dollars for a key by code.

Q: What is the difference between rekey & master keying.
A: Re-keying means adjusting the tumblers in an
existing lock so that only new keys can open it.

Many people, who continue to use the same key that they received when they bought their home, have no idea of how many people such as tradesmen, neighbors and friends etcetera, who are no longer relevant, have had access to that key. For a small fee All Time Locksmith will re-key your locks and give you the security of knowing that only you and the people you trust will have access to your domain.

Lost your keys? Relax; re-keying will adapt your existing locks to new keys.
All-Time Locksmith installs, replaces and upgrades lock cylinders, locksets and deadbolt locks.

Master Keying

Did you know that you might need only one key for all the locks in your house or business? Locks of the same manufacture can usually be keyed alike. This means replacing your bunch of keys with a single key.

Master keying enables two different and distinct keys to open one lock. Master keying regulates access to specific zones while having one master key that accesses all zones. We supply master keys for all buildings such as hospitals, office buildings and residences in which there are a number of compatible locks.
Now its possible to re-key your home, gate, garden shed etcetera so that one key opens them all.

Lock cylinder removal and assembly
This section deals with cylinder removal and assembling a wide variety of common locksets
Using shim stock
This section deals with using shim stock during the process of removing a cylinder. We also deal with other methods of removing a plug when no key is available
Using a LAB multi pin kit.
This section deals with using a LAB multi pin kit with its 20 pinning charts.
Tips and tricks
This is the most useful section in this series. It deals with my 20 years of experience and offers you tips and tricks to save you valuable time.

Please note:
Re-keying only restarts a cycle. There are number of reasons for home or business keys falling into the wrong hands.

Duplicating standard keys is a simple matter. They only have to be taken to a locksmith at any store. Nobody asks for identification or proven authorization before duplicating keys. Even copying the serial number on a key makes its duplication possible.

Re-keying your locks doses not solve all your problems. It only restarts the cycle that leads to expensive repetitive re-keying.

In order to maximize the scope and flexibility of a new system, you should evaluate your current and future organizational needs.

Q: Is the “Do Not Duplicate” marking on a key enough for controlling key duplication?
A: No. While we respect the “Do Not Duplicate” marking on a key, many discount stores do not. To effectively prevent unauthorized key duplication, a restricted key lock should be used such as Medeco or Mul-T-lock Locks.

Q: Can I buy lock opening tools?
A: No, it is illegal in most states to sell or possess burglary or entry tools.
Denver Locksmith will not sell entry tools to anyone.

Q: Is there such a thing as a key that can open all locks?
A: No. A “master” key is a key which works many locks. In order for a particular master key to work in a lock, the lock has to be set up to work on that master key. Locks are typically master keyed in hotels, office buildings, and schools. Rest assured that there is no such master key that opens all locks.

Q: I can install the hardware, why not just buy it at the home center and do it myself?

A: Products typically sold in home stores are residential quality at best, at worst the shelves are stacked with low end products meant to increase profits for the manufacturer and the retailer. High quality goods offer characteristics such as, pick and drill resistance, access control options, protection against the unauthorized duplication of keys. The question you have to ask is what is your time really worth?

Q: My landlord gave me the keys why should I get new ones?
A: It’s your stuff! When was the last time the locks were changed? If you don’t know the answer then you and your company are potentially at risk. Some property management companies in an effort to save money simply swap the locks from one unit to another and have a brand new set of keys made. A previous tenant with some time to kill could simply try his key in each door in the complex until he finds one that works.

Q: Why do I have to wiggle my keys in the lock to make it work?
A: As locks age over time, the pins in a lock cylinder tend to “wear” down causing your keys to stick and forcing you to “jiggle or wiggle” the key in the lock to make it work. Most likely the keys you were given have probably been “copied” several times and this, plus pin wear, can cause your lock to act like it is breaking.

Q: I am moving into a new home, should I rekey the locks? They seem to be working properly.

A: The answer is YES! Everyone has someone that they trust with their house keys; this does not mean you can trust them. How many neighbors, old baby sitters, cleaning people are walking around with the key to your home? Change the locks and then give keys to people you and you alone trust.

Locksmith services can be many; right from residential, commercial, emergency to automotive and not getting a reliable locksmith for any one of the services may end you up in great distress, especially when your kid has locked herself inside the car or you have lost your car key.

These are just some of the instances when you would require the locksmith services of a company the most and that too in an emergency situation to promptly counter it. But more often either we don?t know whom to call or else, whomsoever we call take ages to come or didn?t appear at all.

Auto locksmith San Diego thus work with one aim and mission to deliver customer satisfactory services at any time of the day. With a vision to make a safe and secured society to live in, Auto locksmith San Diego, provides all possible locksmith requirements as far as you security needs are concerned, be it residential, commercial, emergency or automotive, they know how to tackle it and give you reliable solutions.

However, its clients feel that its auto needs that they specialize upon apart from providing excellent services in the rest of locksmith service domain. Auto locksmith San Diego understands that getting locked inside a vehicle is no fun and so is losing your car keys. They understand that during such critical situation if a client is looking forward to something, then its quick recovery and that?s what Auto locksmith San Diego masters in.

As far as their services are concerned, Auto locksmith San Diego provides master keys for the following cars Peugeot, Ford, Rover, Vauxhall, Nissan, Toyota and Volvo. Their automotive services include laser cut keys, damaged lock repair, high security keys, key replacements and much more that one can?t even think of. They also deal in foreign and domestic trucks, car and other vehicles too.

Their skilled and experienced locksmiths who are hard core professionals are considerate and well mannered. They know their task well and one need not waste time in explaining them the same. They are trustworthy when it comes to solving your auto locksmith requirements and understand the importance of time. They are quick and use the most modern tools and equipments which ease out the process further.

Auto locksmith San Diego is a licensed locksmith provider company that takes care of all your regular as well as emergency automotive needs by reaching in time as soon as they receive your call. Indeed a God send crises rescuers!!!

Planning to open an office and don?t know whom to call for the security requirements??? Already have a huge commercial space but looking for a reliable locksmith provider company that can look after your commercial locksmith needs without disturbing your entire set up??? You have a small store but still need for safety is indeed the same and looking forward for someone who, in a very cost effective manner do the needful to look after your security requirements???

That?s just what Commercial locksmith San Diego is in the locksmith trade for. Their punctuality will surprise you and their services would in no case ever disappoint you. They no their domain very well and believe in finishing off their work in time. They value their customers? bust schedule and lack of time and so do theirs. The best is that they are available 24/7 to look after your emergency requirements as well.

Commercial locksmith San Diego looks after all their clients with the same professional attitude; no matter if you own a big business house or a small store. They believe in client satisfaction and working towards the same. Their courteous, polite and considerate staff of locksmiths looks after each and every requirement of the client in the most individualistic manner.

Commercial locksmith San Diego has groomed its locksmiths to perfection. They constantly undergo regular training session in the company?s established workshops so as to improve their skills for the ease of their clients. Their locksmiths are knowledgeable about the latest and most modern tools and equipments and using their experience of work along with the state of the art tools, work towards solving each and every problem related to locksmithing.

Commercial locksmith San Diego is not restricted to locks, keys and safes alone. They provide a comprehensive resolution to all your commercial requirements, be it providing master keys for your office or setting a CCTV. Some of the commercial services that Commercial locksmith San Diego provides are:

Gates and iron works
Door closers
CCTV (Closed Circuit Television systems)
File cabinet locks
Intercom systems
High security locks
Access control system
Master system re-keys
Exit devices and much more

It?s the client oriented character of Commercial locksmith San Diego that keeps them moving ahead of their competitors. They have been providing quality services to all their clients and their clients in turn are spreading good words about the quality services provided by the company, consequently bring fame and a good name for the company in the domain of locksmiths.

Most of the times we start taking things for granted and don?t see their importance. We get to know how vital it is only when we get stuck in some emergency situation.

Such is the requirement of a locksmith. When we end up losing the keys of our car and don?t know what to do or our child manages to lock himself inside the car or when we enter a new house and realize that all the old locks need to be repaired and new need to be installed, we comprehend that finally we have to look for a good locksmith now.

Locksmith in El Cajon is a team of skilled and experienced locksmiths striving hard for your security. They are a licensed company committed to deliver perfection oriented services to the clients. Believing in providing clients with a 100% satisfactory service they are keen to work towards excellence. Locksmith in El Cajon is a sure shot and complete solution to all your security needs, be it residential, commercial, automotive or emergency.

Locksmith in El Cajon understands how important your home and office are to you. Most of your time is spend in either of the two. Respecting your love for your domain and try to secure it, Locksmith in El Cajon?s accomplished expert locksmiths know what all locksmith services you would require for your home, work dedicatedly to provide you the same. Using state of the art tools and equipments their friendly and specialized locksmiths ensure that you get the best possible service in the town.

Locksmith in EL Cajon provides following services in the field of residential security services:

? Changing Locks

? Lock Repair & Installation

? House Lock Out

? Master Key Systems

? Installation of Decorative Hardware

? Garage Door Locks

? Lock Upgrades

? Door Knobs

? High Security Locks Installation

? Padlocks

? 24hr Emergency Service

Locksmith in EL Cajon offers you following commercial service:

Biometric locks,
Combination locks Safes,
Emergency lockout,
Office lockout locks,
High-security locks,
Digital locks
Alarm Systems,
Automatic door locks,
CCTV Locks,
Telephone Systems,
Intercom, Security door locks, Push Button lock,
Panic bars,
Fingerprint locks,
Rekey,
Door Closers,
Cylinder locks and many more…

Locksmith in EL Cajon provides the following automotive locksmith services to our clients:

Broken key extraction
Ignition repair
Ignition replacement
Re-keying car locks
Lock Picking
Replacement of lost Transponder keys
Installation of garage door locks

Locksmith in EL Cajon also provide their clients with 24/7/365 days emergency services. So next time you get caught in an emergency, you know whom to call. They will take no time to reach you and take you out of a catastrophic situation.

A locksmith is required every by and then and one cant escape the need of an experienced and prompt locksmith especially during emergency situations.

Locksmith La Jolla, CA is a promising locksmith company that ensures all possible locksmith solution to its clients keeping in mind the importance of time. It is their high quality service standards that have contributed in a big way in the success of the company. It has brought to the company satisfied clients and has inculcated such a strong bond of trust amongst the clients that Locksmith La Jolla, CA has been the front runner in the industry throughout.

Locksmith La Jolla, CA believes that their strength lies in their infrastructure; be it the machinery, or the manpower. They play a prominent role in a company?s success. They understand the very need of a strong infrastructural facility backed by most latest and innovative locksmith equipments and a skilled team of locksmiths and make sure that the best is offered to their clients. Their locksmiths are highly capable and specially trained to use such high end machinery and understand the processes and methodologies. This makes the entire task very easy.

Locksmith La Jolla, CA provides following services:

There are many advantages of going with Locksmith La Jolla, CA, as far as locksmiths in La Jolla are concerned. Locksmith La Jolla, CA has a lot going for it. Locksmith La Jolla, CA has an excellent team of talented and well-experienced locksmiths. Locksmith La Jolla, CA leaves no stone unturned to provide a complete satisfaction at a very reasonable rate. Locksmith service offering has nothing to do with the time. You will get locksmith service at any point of time without any delay.
Here are some of the magnificent services offered by Locksmith La Jolla, CA at a glance.
They offers a wide range of locksmith services related to commercial service, residential service, automotive service and most importantly emergency services. Needless to say, all services are of top quality and never give you a single chance of complaint. These services cover:
Locksmith La Jolla, CA Residential Services: We offer a huge selection of residential services for all your residential locksmith problems. Our residential services include:
? Replacement of cabinet or desk lock
? Home lockout,
? Install/change/repair of all kind of lock
? Replacement of stolen & lost key
? Duplication of Key & Knob or
? Re-key or Install Master Key
? Deadbolt Installation
? Lock picking
? Lock and Mailbox Keys replacement

Locksmith La Jolla, CA Commercial Services: Additionally, they offer commercial services to protect your office and highly valued assets. Their commercial services include following things like
? High Security Systems
? Replacement of Mailbox Key
? Door Closers or desk lock
? Panic Bar and File Cabinet
? Alarm Security Systems
? Installation of Master Key
? Lockout at the office
? Locks Up-gradation
Locksmith La Jolla, CA Automotive Services: They can also solve any kind of auto locksmith problems as they offer various auto services like
? Replacement of Ignition Key
? Installation of the Garage Lock
? Car Keys Replacement
? Opening of all kinds of Cars locked
? Padlock Replacement
? Door Opening or Car Lock Out
? Opening Locked Vehicle
Apart from these services of Locksmith La Jolla, they also offer emergency locksmith services on the button. Their all technicians are always ready to offer you 24 hours a day and 7 days a week emergency services. You can get our emergency Locksmith La Jolla, CA services in a jiffy.
Their services are very reasonable and affordable that comes under everyone?s pocket. All locksmiths are well experienced and at home in their filed of locksmith. Locksmith La Jolla, CA never charges extra for night and weekends services. Therefore, whenever you need a perfect and experienced locksmith, ring a bell to Locksmith La Jolla, CA.

Too Much Freedom?

MA has no restrictions on the Locksmithing Industry.

Our country was founded on the idea of freedom. But allowing anyone to be in charge of the security of your business or family is just going too far. In Massachusetts there are absolutely no restrictions when it comes to certification of a locksmith. They do not need to be licensed, bonded or even have the slightest clue as to how a lock works! Just put a number in the phone book and off they go… putting your business and family’s well being in jeopardy.

It is absolutely outrageous that something so important, in this day and age, is not being taking seriously by anyone in or around Boston. Steps need to be made by lawmakers and legislators alike to help filter out the fake locksmiths who will not only charge ridiculous prices, but who will also not even do the job correctly!

A very nice woman came into our shop today, here in Randolph, with a bill she received from a sub contracted phony locksmith. He charged her for a service call, $30 to rekey a deadbolt, and $25 in labor. She was confused and upset, and so was I. In my book, rekeying the deadbolt IS the labor! Why was she charged twice? She wanted to have it rekeyed one more time because she did not trust the man who went to her home. When we took the cylinder out to rekey it, it was grinded down and ruined. The man had over charged her and ruined her lock! What a crook.

One organization that is working to correct this problem is the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). You can visit them online at www.aloa.com to learn more about what they do and how they are working to rectify such a large national problem. Here at the Flying Locksmiths we rely on more than just our 63 years of creditable service. Every technician is certified through ALOA and obtained a rating of Certified Registered Locksmith. We are urging everyone to find a local Boston MA locksmith they trust before they need one. It can’t hurt to program that number into your phone for emergency use, and it might save you a lot of trouble.

The Flying Locksmiths – A Local Boston MA Emergency Locksmith

Many people think a San Jose locksmith just concentrates on installing locks on homes and helping people enter locked cars. While residential security as well as car security are two things that a San Jose locksmith or a Saratoga locksmith does, they also work with businesses to provide safety solutions.

You are deep asleep in the middle of the night when startled awake by the sound of a door squeaking. You grab the phone, call 911 and then, realizing the lock will need fixing so you will feel safe, you call for a locksmith. Jacksonville Locksmith Service immediately dispatches a residential locksmith specialist to repair the damage. Within minutes an experienced locksmith arrives to assess and repair the damage.