Although some specialized locksmith services vary from storefront to storefront, some basic services are offered by virtually every locksmith, in every town on the map. These services have to do with making new keys, opening locked doors and installing or repairing new locks. Before hiring a locksmith for any new job, be sure to ascertain that they have earned a good reputation in the business for executing the most basic tasks. If a locksmith company can perform the basics with excellence, they are more than likely to be a trustworthy hire for more complex or high-security jobs.
Most locksmiths use what is known as a code machine on a puncher in order to make new keys. Every key has a series of ridges on it that are specially designed to match the pin heights in your lock. Each of those ridges is at different heights; a locksmith code machine has a different code number for each different ridge height. So, as soon as a locksmith figures out the “code” of each key, they can simply set the machine to the proper code and start punching. Every time the machine is punched down, it creates one of the distinctive notches in the key.
Other cutting methods are used by locksmiths to make new keys, but this the code machines serves as a standard method, that virtually every locksmith understands how to use.
If you have ever locked your keys in the car of accidentally left your keys inside the house, you know that virtually any locksmith can come and open your locked door for you. There are a number of different methods employed by professional locksmiths, from slim Jims, to bump keys to duplicate keys.
A good locksmith should be able to open your car, house or any other door without doing any damage to the lock or the property itself. If the locksmith is sloppy and scratches your car or harms your home lock, you would be wise to choose another service the next time around, as damage is not necessary at all.
Most locksmith services can install new locks for you in a timely, cost-efficient manner. Whether you are interested in keeping the outer hardware and simply changing the inner workings of the lock or are desirous of a new locking system including door handles, etc. a locksmith should be able to provide what you need.
These days, many locksmiths are also branching out into keyless locking systems that operate via a computer system.