Do you have a question about Certified Locksmith or commercial Locksmith issues? If so, the following are the answers to common questions and useful information that will provide you with a better understanding of who we are and how we can help you.

Q:What is Lock "Bumping" ?
A:Lock Bumping is an old technique used by locksmiths to open locks that may have internal failures. Lock "Bumping" has gained attention because of the lack of specialized tools needed and the free exchange of information over the internet. Learn More.

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 a light penetrating oil (such as WD-40). This oil can be found at most hardware stores, some drug stores and supermarkets. Don't be afraid to spray too much lubricant, 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 lubrication solution, check to see it the lock operates smoothly with the door open. If it does, your lock problem is not in the lock, but rather in the alignment of the door and frame. Look for obstructions at the threshold and in the doorjamb. Also check the door and frame for twists and warps. The door should completely rest against the doorstop 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 a weather-strip 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:What is the difference between re-key & 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, who you don’t know, have had access to that key. For a small fee Certified 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.

Certified 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.

Please note:
Re-keying only restarts a cycle. There are a number of reasons for home or business keys to fall 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 does 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 Arrow ‘61’, Schlage Primus, Schlage Everest, Medeco, KeyMarkX4 or Mul-T-lock Locks.

Q:How a lock cylinder works?
A:  

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, and protection against the unauthorized duplication of keys.

Q:  My landlord gave me the keys why should I get new ones?
A:  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 keys made. A previous tenant could 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 lock wear, can cause your lock to act like it is breaking.

Q:Is there really a difference between locks?
A:Yes, a lock is tested and given a grade based on it's performance during the test. Grades given range between 1 and 3. Learn More.

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