Most experienced locksmiths can create a duplicate of your keys even without a single copy of the original.
If you find yourself backed in a corner where you have lost your only existing set of keys, (or cannot remember where you hid the spare set) there is no need to get stressed.
All you need to do is contact an expert Gainesville locksmith to evaluate and suggest a quick solution to your problem.
Locksmiths have methods they rely on to create a key from a lock where there is no key available to duplicate.
Whether you misplaced your house or car keys, an experienced locksmith will assess the locking mechanism and determine the best way to create a key for you This article explores these methods and supplies basic information on how to pick the best locksmith in your area.
By Cracking the Code
Keys and their corresponding locks are designed to match by using alphanumeric codes.
Specific models of locks and keys use either blind or biting alphanumeric codes that are unique to the set.
Where a locksmith has access to the code, it is easy for them to place a blank key into the cut and make a precise copy depending on the precise alphanumeric code.
The simplicity of this process makes it the cheapest option in key replacement for those without a copy of the original key.
Disassembling the Lock
Where a locksmith does not have access to the specific alphanumeric code that corresponds to your lock, they will have to disassemble the lock in order to decipher the code.
This is a fairly expensive method for replacing lost keys because it is very intricate, messy, and takes a long time.
Experienced locksmiths will attempt to reverse engineer the internal components of your lock in order to decipher the alphanumeric code.
The locksmith will eventually use this alphanumeric code to cut a blank key into the exact replica of the one you lost.
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By Making an Impression
Locksmiths spend years perfecting the skill of making an impression from a lock because it is largely a trial-and-error process.
Making an impression is a convenient key replacement method because it does not involve disassembling the lock or knowing the lock’s alphanumeric code in advance.
The process involves several attempts depending on the locksmith’s level of experience.
Making an impression of a lock usually involves inserting a blank key into the lock and turning with sufficient force so that the pins in the lock will press against the key and make scratches/marks where cuts need to be made.
The locksmith will repeat this process several times to ensure that all the correct marks have been impressed on the blank key.
An experienced locksmith using the right tools (usually a proper key blank, vice grip, and a file) should be able to make a perfect impression in no time.
Other Problems that a Locksmith Can Solve For you
Locksmiths are not only good for saving the day when you have locked yourself out of your property and are unable to sneak in.
Thrifty homeowners know that one of the best ways to get discounted prices is to contract craftspeople for multiple jobs at a go.
Locksmiths are perfect at fixing faulty window locks that develop in homes over time and if ignored, these can compromise your entire security system.
Rekeying your home also becomes necessary if you want to upgrade the system, deny any previous key holders’ access or if you lost your keys in a suspicious manner.
High lock security installation and electronic access installation are upgrades you should consider speaking to your locksmith about.
How to Choose the Best Locksmith in Your Area?
Locksmiths need to be well-trained, highly experienced, and trustworthy individuals.
Making the wrong choice of a locksmith will compromise your security due to shoddy workmanship or breaches at the company that exposes your keys to suspicious individuals. Take your time and do ample research before settling on a locksmith.
The best and quickest way is to ask for referrals from trusted individuals like colleagues, friends, family, or other reliable craftspeople.
If you cannot get a personal referral, rely on internet referrals by checking the online reviews and ratings for the various locksmiths in your area.
While reading online reviews, be sure to compare the cost of services, the billing practices, and the general customer satisfaction that clients are expressing.
