There is nothing worse than getting locked out of your own house. Do you feel helpless because of an accidental lockout or losing your keys? Luckily, professional locksmiths are our real heroes. Armed with specialized skills and tools, they can unlock the door to your house in a matter of minutes and do so without damaging it in most cases.
Do Lock Smiths Unlock House Doors?
The short answer is yes. Locksmiths are skilled professionals trained with the right tools to open house doors by type of lock set up on them. Locksmiths are also equipped to service a wide range of locks from traditional mechanical locks to smart locks.
Next: Types of Locks Locksmiths Can Open
Locksmith services handle different types of locks including:
- Pin tumbler locks: The most common kind seen in residential doors.
- Deadbolts: Relatively hard to pick, but have accessibility to locksmiths.
- Smart locks: Complex locks that often need technical skills and tools.
- Mortise locks: Popular in older homes, these need particular knowledge and tools.
Why Hire a Professional?
It is better to call a pro locksmith to open your car door than trying to open the door on your own. Here are some often unwanted outcomes of a DIY attempt:
- Lock or door damage: Without the right tools or skills, it’s easier to destroy than help.
- Higher expenses: Damaging a lock or door while attempting to break in can be costly, often making hiring a locksmith the cheaper option upfront.
- Security risks: A professional locksmith will ensure no further issues leave your home vulnerable.
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Locksmiths Non Destructive Methods
One of the impressive things about locksmithing is locksmiths can open a lock without causing damage to the lock. They are non-destructive, meaning that they do not damage your lock at all and help you to avoid unnecessary expenses and trouble.
Lock Picking
One of the most common methods employed by locksmiths to unlock doors is known as lock picking. It refers to tweaks on the internal parts of a lock in order to open it without a key.
- How it works: Using tools like a tension wrench and lock pick, locksmiths slowly shift the pins inside the lock to their correct positions. Then once all the pins are in line the lock will turn and open.
- Why it works: The lock is still complete, so you can keep using it once the locksmith is done.
- Lock picking skill: Lock picking definitely takes some skill, the lock mechanisms knowledge, and practice.
Bump Keying
Bump keying is a very different method frequently seen on pin tumbler locks.
- What is a bump key? : A bump key is a key that’s been specially designed to fit in the keyhole of a lock. When applied force (or “bumped” into it) nudges the internal pins into place, the lock can open.
- Pros: Fast and efficient with certain locks.
- Key Details: Bump keying is sensitive to avoid damaging the lock and requires proper equipment.
Impressions
Locksmiths can also generate a key impression to unlock a lock without its original key.
- How it works: The locksmith places a blank key in the lock and applies pressure to find contact points that create slight impressions. These impressions assist the locksmith in manufacturing a new key to be used in the lock.
- Time needed: The method may require longer than the other methods, though, but it is also very effective, particularly for unique locks or complex ones.
Destructive Approaches: Last Resorts
Locksmiths will do their best to use non-destructive methods, but in some cases, the only solution is a destructive one. These techniques are usually only employed for locks that are badly damaged or inoperable, or if time is of the essence.
Lock Drilling
When all else fails, lock drilling may be used to open an exceptionally difficult lock.
- How it works: The locksmith drills through the lock’s cylinder, destroying its internal parts. When the lock is drilled the lock will be easily removed and door opened.
- When it’s used: Drilling is usually only used if non-destructive measures have failed, or if the lock is already broken beyond repair.
- Afterwards: Drilling will require a replacement lock, but attacking this way yields some formidable results.
Force Entry
- In specific situations, locksmiths might use force access, forcing the lock or door gadget by bodily way.
- Damage potential: Moderate, as this method can damage the lock, door, or frame to a greater extent.
- When it’s called for: Breaking down a door is typically a last resort in emergencies, like when somebody is trapped inside a residence or in instances of pressing security threats.
| Method | Damage Level | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Lock Picking | None | Standard locks, non-emergency situations |
| Bump Keying | Minimal | Quick access to pin tumbler locks |
| Impressions | None | Creating duplicate keys for unique locks |
| Lock Drilling | High | Non-functional or stubborn locks |
| Force Entry | Very High | Emergencies requiring immediate access |
Advantages of Engaging a Professional Locksmith
When you get locked out the best thing to do is call a locksmith. Here’s why:
Expertise and Efficiency
Locks are fitted in a manner that makes it impossible to simply pick them with a given pin or removing it proves impossible, meaning professional locksmiths come in with years of training and practical experience with complex lockout jobs solving them efficiently. They have highly specialized tools and techniques that ensure you receive a resolution as quickly as possible.
Safety and Security
A reputable locksmith helps to keep your home safe by not compromising your security. Steering clear of unlicensed individuals or do-it-yourself approaches reduces the chance of endangering your lock system or putting your space at risk.
Emergency Services
Most locksmiths work 24/7 and can be counted on no matter the hour or day. If you get locked out at 3 a.m. or on a holiday, assistance is only a phone call away.
Conclusion
Lockouts are inevitable, but they don’t have to ruin your day. A locksmith is a highly-skilful tradesman that can get your home door opened in a matter of minutes using a range of destructive and non-destructive techniques. Be it via lock picking, bump keying, or drilling, they shall make sure to help you regain entry to your residence fast and safe!
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