Quick Navigation
Navigate swiftly to the information you need by clicking on the topics below:
- What services does a locksmith provide?
- Exploring the locksmith’s workplace
- Most commonly used lock brands in the USA
- Popular lock models in the USA
- Cost of mobile locksmith services
- How a locksmith unlocks a car
- Unlocking a house door lock: The locksmith way
- Finding the best locksmith in your area
- Avoiding scams from fake locksmiths
- Delving into locksmith history
Defining a Locksmith
A locksmith is a specialized professional who focuses on lock and key repairs, can create and program new car keys, unlock doors, safes, and windows, and provide security solutions for everything from cars to commercial businesses that use lock and key systems. For more information, check out our car locksmith and commercial locksmith services.
Locksmith Services
From commercial to residential and automotive services, locksmiths offer a wide array of services.
Lock Installation
Incorporating a new lock mechanism into your original door by creating space for it, ensuring optimal security.
Lock Repair
Fixing broken locks, replacing faulty parts, or offering complete replacements when necessary.
Lock Rekeying
Alteration of the internal…
Window Lock Installation
For bolstering the security of your residential and commercial windows, most locksmith technicians offer lock installation services.
Push Bar Installation
Not every locksmith company provides push bar installation. But why hire a locksmith and not a handyman for this task? A locksmith technician is usually more equipped and can even cut matching keys for other doors if needed.
Mailbox Lock Services
Lost your mailbox key? A professional locksmith can unlock it and install a new lock for you.
Door Closer Services
For smooth operation and accurate installation of your door closer, consider calling a professional locksmith.
Key Duplication
Whether you need key duplication for your home, car, or office, a locksmith can provide the right service. You can either visit a locksmith store or call a mobile locksmith to your location.
Key Recovery
Lost the only key to your car or house? Locksmiths can recover the original key by using a key code, either from the dealership or by tracing the vehicle’s vin number. This service is available 24/7.
Lock Picking
Locked out of your car or house? A professional locksmith can help you gain entry. They can also help unlock other types of locks, such as safes, cabinets, and desks.
Access Control
Some locksmiths also install access control systems, allowing you to manage all of your doors and locks to ensure only authorized personnel have access to restricted areas in your home or business.
Emergency 24-hour Service
Locked out of your car or house? You can call a 24-hour locksmith to help you get inside. They can provide most locksmith services on short notice, any time of the day.
Understanding a Locksmith’s Workplace
Most locksmiths are mobile due to the demands of their job. In cases of emergencies or routine jobs, the technician will meet you at your location. Some locksmiths also maintain a storefront where customers can purchase locks, safes, and other security items.
Most Common Lock Brands Used by Locksmiths in the USA
- Kwikset
- Schlage
- Defiant
- Yale
- Master Lock
- Amtek
- Baldwin
- Mul-T-Lock
- Medeco
- Arrow
- Corbin-Russwin
- Falcon
- RR Brink
- Sargent
- Kaba Ilco
- Adams-Rite
Most Common Lock Models in the USA
- Here are the most common types of locks in the USA:
- Deadbolt
- Doorknob
- Padlocks
- Lever handle
- Cam lock
- Mortise lock
- Euro profile cylinder
- Jimmy proof deadbolt
- Keyless locks
How much does a mobile locksmith service cost?
The cost of a mobile locksmith service is contingent upon the company’s rates. The figures provided below are average estimates and can vary based on location and time. These costs typically include the service call, which is a nominal fee charged by locksmiths to travel to your location:
Car lockout: $50 to $150
House lockout: $50 to $150
Lock change: $50 to $500 (Depending on the brand of the lock)
Lock rekey: $15 to $50
Safe unlocking: $80 to $600
Car key: $150 to $650
Key duplication: $2 to $25
Fresh lock installation: $70 to $200
Keyless locks: $100 to $500
How does a locksmith unlock cars?
A locksmith uses various techniques to unlock cars safely:
Slim Jim: This slender metal bar can unlock some car models, particularly those manufactured before 2005. However, this tool carries a high risk of damage.
Airbags with Long Reach Tools: This technique is commonly used due to its safety and zero-damage guarantee.
Lishi Tools: Lock picking using Lishi tools is safe and reliable. While it may take longer compared to the airbag method, it has a high success rate.
Laser Key Decoder: This tool operates similarly to Lishi tools but is specifically designed for cars with laser key locks.
How does a locksmith unlock a house door lock?
To unlock a deadbolt or a doorknob, locksmiths can utilize a variety of tools such as:
Pick Gun
Electrical Pick Gun
Manual Pick Tools
Bump Key
Airbags
Bypass Doorknob Tool
Under the Door Doorknob Tool
Note: High-security locks like Kwikset Smart Key or Mul-T-Lock may resist these tools, requiring the locksmith to damage the lock for entry. As doorknobs are usually easier to unlock than deadbolts, locksmiths often recommend the latter for enhanced security.
How to find the best locksmith in your area
Check out the following platforms to find reliable, certified locksmiths:
Yelp: Known for its robust review system, Yelp offers both customer reviews and professional ratings.
BBB (Better Business Bureau): BBB helps consumers identify businesses with questionable practices. However, it’s primarily used for retail businesses and less for service providers.
Google: Google utilizes numerous factors such as the frequency of business activity, quality of reviews, online presence, and more to rank professional services, making it an excellent place to find a trustworthy locksmith.
How not to get scammed by a fake locksmith?
Beware of locksmiths offering suspiciously low rates, such as $15, as this often indicates a scam. Reputable locksmiths provide price ranges or estimates over the phone before service. Be cautious of locksmiths who refuse to give an estimate until they see the job.
Locksmith history
Locksmithing, one of the oldest professions in the world, dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt. Initially, locks were a luxury affordable only to the wealthy. Through the centuries, locks have evolved from simple three-pin designs to intricate, unpickable safety locks. Today, we use variations of these sophisticated mechanisms, with some even offering remote access and activity tracking capabilities.
December 10, 2020
Thank you for letting me know that having my locks replaced would probably cost me around $50 up to $500, depending on the brand that we’ll choose. We won’t be home for the holidays and we thought we can use some extra security. I’ll try to look for a locksmith that offers lock replacement services and ask for an estimate.