Everything You Need to Know About Key Duplication
When it comes to key duplication or duplicating new ones from existing locks, locksmiths serve as invaluable professionals. These situations often occur when someone needs a spare key for emergencies, such as a house key to give to a family member. Typically, the process involves duplicating an existing key, but what if there's no original key to copy? Suppose you purchased a second-hand car with only one set of keys, and they go missing before you've had the chance to get a spare key cut. This is where experts, like the team at Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith, come in.
Key Duplication: Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith
For over 30 years, Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith has been a mainstay on the Central Coast, offering a wide range of services. These include residential and automotive locksmith solutions, commercial, digital, and keyless lock services. Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith's prompt emergency services, available seven days a week, ensure that you're never locked out for long.
Their team of skilled Central Coast Locksmith technicians are equipped to handle any situation. They operate a fleet of well-stocked mobile workshops, each van replete with cutting-edge key cutting and duplication facilities, as well as all the essential tools needed for fitting door locks. Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith is known for its quality, affordability, and most importantly, reliability, with all work being 100% guaranteed.
Duplicating Keys when Originals Exist
If an original key exists, locksmiths like those at Avoca use a key duplicating machine to create a new key. The original key and a key blank are inserted into the machine, and the pattern of the original key is traced onto the blank. The new key is then smoothed and tested in the lock to ensure it works correctly.
Creating a Key Without an Original
Most times, even when no original key is available, a locksmith can still create a key for a lock. There are two main ways a locksmith can accomplish this:
1. Cracking the Code:
If the lock can be disassembled, a locksmith can decipher the pin code of the lock and create a matching key. Each lock has a unique combination of pins of varying lengths. By understanding this unique sequence, a locksmith can make a key that matches the lock's code.
2. Making an Impression:
In some cases, a locksmith can make an impression of the lock, a process that doesn't require the lock's disassembly. A blank key is inserted into the lock and turned, causing the pins to press against the key and leave marks where cuts need to be made. This process may need to be repeated multiple times to get all the correct cuts, with many trial runs required to create the perfect key. It requires a skilled locksmith with the right tools to successfully accomplish this.
When Would You Need to Duplicate a Key?
There are many scenarios where it isn't possible to duplicate from an existing key. Keys can be accidentally thrown out, dropped down a drain, or stolen. In most situations, locksmiths like those at Avoca are able to help and create a new key (and even a spare) on the spot.
This is a general overview of how locksmiths duplicate keys and make new keys without originals. The specific process can vary based on the type of lock and key involved, and some high-security locks and car keys may require additional steps or specialised equipment.
Why do you Need a Duplicate Key?
Having a duplicate key is always a wise precaution. Over time, keys can wear down, impacting their functionality, so it's important to replace them. Having a spare key also serves as a safety net in case your primary key becomes so worn that it stops functioning or gets lost. Keeping the spare key with a trusted neighbour, family member, or close friend is recommended. Leaving spare keys in obvious places, like under the doormat or in a plant pot by the front door, may invite unwarranted intrusion, compromising your home's security. There are a variety of key types that locksmiths can duplicate.
How Long Does Key Duplication Take?
The process of duplicating a key typically takes between five to twenty-five minutes - it's generally a quick procedure. This ensures that if you're locked out of your home, you aren't left waiting outside for too long. In the unfortunate event of getting locked out, you wouldn't want the additional stress of locating the nearest hardware store for a new key. At Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith, we provide mobile services to ensure you regain access to your home promptly.
The Key Duplication Process
Locksmiths employ a tool known as a key duplicator for this process. The original key is placed on one side of the machine where the blade is located, and a blank key is placed on the other side, attached to an alignment tool. This tool ensures both keys are properly aligned to create an accurate replica.
According to Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith, the key duplicator is switched on, and as the original and blank keys move horizontally across the machine, the blade carves into the blank key, using the original key as a guide or template. After this, the locksmith sands the duplicate key for a smooth finish. The end product is a key that precisely matches the original.
A Note on Key Duplication Accuracy
It's crucial to remember that having the original key at hand makes duplication much easier. Of course, keys can be and have been duplicated without the original key. Losing your original key is common, and although the duplication process may be a bit more complex without it, and the duplicate key may not be an exact match, it will still lock and unlock your door effectively.
Navigating the Key Duplicating Process with your Central Coast Locksmiths
Navigating through the intricacies of key duplication might seem daunting, but with a trusted partner like Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith by your side, you can rest easy. Whether you've misplaced your keys, they've worn down over time, or you simply need a spare set, we're here to provide prompt, reliable, and quality service to ensure you always have access to your property.
With our team of skilled technicians, state-of-the-art equipment, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we make the process of key duplication seamless and efficient. Why wait for a lockout situation to take action? Be proactive and secure your peace of mind today with our comprehensive key duplication services.
Ready to experience the premier locksmith services of the Central Coast? Contact Avoca Architectural Hardware & Locksmith now. Remember, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. We are only a call away - reach out to us today and let us turn your key troubles into no trouble at all!
FAQs about how locksmiths can duplicate keys
Most locksmiths can duplicate a wide range of keys, including house keys, car keys, and commercial keys. However, some high-security keys or newer car keys with embedded chips may require specialised equipment or authorization to duplicate.
Remember, while these answers generally hold true, the specifics can vary based on the locksmith's skill level, the type of key, and the nature of the lock.
