There are few things more disheartening than losing a key. The same goes for getting locked out of your home. Keys might offer security, but if lost, they can keep you, the rightful owner of your home, out as well.
That’s the bad news. The good news is that locksmiths can help you get back into your home relatively quickly. At times you may have wondered, “If I lost my key, can a locksmith use my lock to make one?” The answer is yes.
Can locksmiths make keys from a lock without a key? Also, yes. Read on to find out how.
Using a key code to cut a new key
One way that locksmiths can create a new key using just the lock is by cutting the key using its key code. This process is made tougher if you don’t have the original key, as the key code is usually stamped on the key itself. For high-security locks, a special card is provided that contains the lock’s key code, and the locksmith can use that.
A licensed locksmith can contact the manufacturer to obtain the lock’s key code. Once the locksmith obtains the lock’s key code, they can use that information to cut a new key using a code cutter. A code cutter is a machine that cuts the key according to the lock’s key code and fashions the key into a usable form. This process isn’t that difficult, but it’s not foolproof, and it can take some time to complete.
Making an impression of the lock
Have you ever wondered, “If I lost my key, can a locksmith use my lock to make one?” The answer is a resounding yes. We covered key codes above, but another nonintrusive way to craft a key is by making an impression of the lock. This is a preferred method because it’s less invasive than using key codes and doesn’t require the acquisition of the codes themselves.
The process is fairly simple if a bit imprecise. The locksmith takes a blank key and inserts it into the lock. He or she then turns the key inside the lock. This process creates impressions on the blank key as the lock’s pins press against it. This indicates where certain cuts to the key will allow it to fit into the lock and turn. The only downside is that this process is inexact and it may take several attempts to get a key that will consistently work.
Deconstructing the lock
Can locksmiths make keys from a lock without a key? Yes, they can, by taking apart the lock. This is a laborious and involved process, as the locksmith must carefully deconstruct the lock without damaging it and reverse-engineer the key by using the positioning and alignment of the lock’s pins and tumblers. If you don’t have the original key, the locksmith must pick the lock before disassembling and measuring it. Once finished, he or she must then reassemble the lock. This method is often a last resort and should be avoided if possible.
Call for your key today
If you’ve lost your key and need a new one, call us at Artie’s Lock and Key. We have more than four decades of experience in the locksmith industry, and we offer a wide variety of locksmith services, so call us today.
With the weather getting colder, it’s important to understand the effect lower temperatures have on your locks. For example, people often wonder, “Can weather prevent my lock from opening?”
In fact, extremely cold temperatures could cause your locks to freeze, making them almost impossible to open.
Read on to learn about more common weather effects on locks.
Freezing
One of the most common cold weather effects people experience with their locks in winter is freezing. When exposed to cold air, the key slit in locks can fill with a layer of ice, making it difficult to insert a key.
You don’t want to get home on a cold day only to find out you can’t go inside because of a frozen lock. Freezing can occur on almost any lock, including your car door locks and window locks.
Contraction
Another common lock problem in winter is contraction. If your locks contract due to cold temperatures, you may not be able to get your key inside the slit. Contraction can even permanently damage your locks.
Maintaining your locks
The best way to keep your locks from getting damaged during winter is by providing them with proper maintenance. Proper lock maintenance should always include regularly oiling all your locks, including your door locks, car locks and window locks. Regular oiling will help prevent rusting and other issues. Just be sure to use a top-quality oil.
It’s also important to prevent moisture from getting into your locks. Moisture will not only lead to rust, but it can also cause your locks to freeze in cold temperatures. Keep your locks away from rain and snow as much as possible. If your locks do get wet, be sure to warm and dry them right away.
Get help when you need it
So, can weather prevent your lock from opening? Absolutely. Common weather effects on locks include freezing and contracting. These issues may not seem like a big deal, but they could cause a major disruption in your day and make it difficult to properly secure your home. That’s why it’s important to take care of problems with your locks as soon as you notice them.
Sometimes you can fix issues with your lock by simply spraying them with a top-quality lubricant. You could also try warming the key a bit in your hand before inserting it into the lock. If these solutions don’t work, you’ll want to get in touch with a professional locksmith.
You don’t want the problem to get worse, and trying to repair a lock on your own could lead to disaster. Instead, let a professional quickly and efficiently repair your lock, so you won’t have to worry about it.
Speak with the experts at Artie’s Lock and Key
At Artie’s Lock and Key, our expert locksmiths will ensure your locks work properly all winter long. Contact us today, and we’ll be at your location in no time to help you get into your home, car or place of business. Some of our great services include door repairs, key replacements and lock replacements.
A good security system starts with an excellent locking system. While most doors already come with locks, it never hurts to add some extra security. Multi-point locks may be just the thing you need for some peace of mind. As their name suggests, these locks feature several different locking points as opposed to one deadbolt.
Below, we cover everything you need to know about these locks, including how to use multi-point locks most effectively.
More about multi-point locking systems
As mentioned above, multi-point locks feature several different points, usually at the top, bottom and middle. Instead of having to break through one deadbolt, an intruder would have to pick through three secure locks. If you’re looking for increased security, there are few better locking options than multi-point locks. These locks make it extremely difficult for even the most experienced lock picker to get through.
Multi-point locks are extremely easy to use, as most operate the same as traditional locks. You simply have to use one key to lock and unlock your door. You can even set a multi-point lock to secure your door after closing it.
How to use multi-point locks
Using multi-point locks depends on the type you get. With older locks, you need to secure them from the inside, turning a lock at each separate point. With modern locks, you only need to use one locking mechanism to lock all three at once. This makes things much easier, so it’s often better to invest in a more modern multi-point locking system. With some multi-point locks, you only need to pull up a lever on your door to engage them all.
Tips for using a multi-point lock
You may already have a multi-point lock and not even realize it. Multi-point locks often run the length of an entire door and feature a bolt coming from the sides and/or the top and bottom. Taking care of these locks is easy as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You may need to routinely spray a Teflon-based lubricant on the lock. Just be sure to avoid removing the lock to service it. Doing so may make the multi-point lock impossible to put back together.
Installing a multi-point lock
Now that you know how to use multi-point locks, you’re probably wondering how to install them. While it’s possible to purchase and install a multi-point locking system on your own, consider working with a professional instead. Multi-point locks can be difficult to install, and you don’t want to end up wasting a lot of time and energy.
Do your research on different types of multi-point locks, and choose the one that fits your needs best. You could also ask a reputable local locksmith for their recommendation.
We work with all brands
Contact the experts at Artie’s Lock and Key to install or repair your multi-lock system today. We can service and replace a variety of brands, including Peachtree, Andersen, HOPPE, Trilennium and Pella. Our services include key replacements, door repairs and lock re-keys.
Getting locked out of your garage is never an enjoyable experience. This typically happens when a garage door opener gets jammed due to a signal issue, a power outage, a failure of the garage door remote or a mechanical or electrical problem.
When such a problem arises, what are some steps you can take to get back into the garage and get the door working again?
Here are a few tips.
Use the manual release
Your first step should be to use the manual-release device attached to the garage door opener. Older doors might have exterior handles that trigger the manual-release feature from the outside. Otherwise, you may need to get inside the garage and use the pull cord hanging down from the ceiling to manually lift the door up.
Of course, if you can’t get inside the garage at all this could make things a bit more difficult, but this is a good place to start.
Invest in a wi-fi enabled opener or smart lock
Wi-fi enabled garage door openers are the latest advancement in garage door technology and are extremely convenient because they can be controlled from a smartphone or tablet via an app. This means you don’t have to rely on a garage door opener and radio frequency system, adding one less thing that can go wrong and prevent your door from working.
In addition to this, you’ll be able to use smart lock functionality that allows you to monitor the use of the garage door or even lock or disable the system if you so choose—all from a single digital platform that’s accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. Smart locks can work with garage doors in a very functional and convenient manner.
If you’re at work and suddenly remember you forgot to close your door, you can use the app to shut it and maintain your peace of mind.
Get a locksmith out to the property
Any time you have issues with a garage door, it is strongly recommended that you let a professional handle the problem rather than trying to do the job yourself, especially when there’s a mechanical issue to handle.
Professional garage door technicians have the tools and knowledge necessary to complete the job safely. This is crucial because there are some aspects of garage door repairs and maintenance that can be extremely unsafe. Any time you need to work with the springs or tension components, for example, there is a real risk of life-threatening injury if you do not know what you are doing. The tension in the springs can release and cause fatal accidents.
It’s always better to be safe and call a professional instead of trying to save some money and doing the job yourself.
Interested in some more tips about how you can restore the operation of your garage door if you get locked out? Contact our team at Artie’s Lock and Key in Fairfax, VA today with any questions you have for us, and we will be pleased to work with you.
There are many reasons why you might replace a door. Not as common, however, is a situation in which a person wishes to place a frame but keep the door.
This is something that can be done. You can install a new frame while keeping the same door, but this is harder than you might expect. You’ll need to measure carefully, pick all of the right materials for the job and make sure you cut the frame out with precision to ensure it works properly with your existing door.
The real question is not “Can I replace my doorframe and keep the door?” but should you? This depends on the condition of the door. With the frame, the following are signs that you should probably make the replacement:
Deep scratches in the wood that cannot be sanded out
Warping that has made it difficult for doors to open and close properly
Dents in the wood
Wood rot or other issues with the condition of the wood
The frame may be able to be repaired if the damage is not significant, but there are situations in which the damage will not be reversible. This commonly occurs when there has been significant water damage or warping or if someone has broken into the home by kicking the door in, causing breakage in the frame.
Make sure you carefully inspect your door slab while inspecting your frame. If there are obvious deep scratches and dents, it’s probably a good idea to make the replacement. Doors can be refinished if the scratches are minor, but at a certain point, it’s a good idea to make the replacement. Also check all the hinges and locations where they are attached, and make sure that the wood is not broken near them.
If the door is not hanging in the frame correctly, consider why and the types of adjustments you can make.
It can be hard to know when to replace your door and frame, but, ultimately, it’s likely in your best interest to replace the entire door unit if the frame is having issues—unless you are especially attached to the door you have.
Starting with a new door unit gives you brand-new materials that have been designed to fit together. You don’t have to worry about cutting new holes or making adjustments. The door and frame will look good together, which will increase your curb appeal and will provide greater security. You’ll also benefit from having a warranty that protects your investment in case anything goes wrong.
Interested in learning more about replacing doors or doorframes and what is all involved in making the decision?
We encourage you to contact us at Artie’s Lock and Key in Fairfax, VA with any questions you have about the services we provide. We’ll be happy to come out to your property, inspect your door system and give you some recommendations about what would be the best solution to your door-related problems, so you can have lasting quality and security.
