Most everyone has experienced the sinking feeling of thinking they locked themselves out of their home or vehicle. Often, their key is just in a different pocket, and they get in easily enough, but sometimes, a call to a locksmith is needed.
Have you ever wondered, how does a locksmith open a door? Most of the time, they will use tools they have to pick a lock, but in some cases, they will have to replace the lock.
Picking a Lock
Most locks are pin tumbler locks, in which inserting the key causes several pins to line up in a specific manner, allowing the lock to open.
Pin tumbler locks are also the easiest type for a locksmith to open. They will use tools such as tension wrenches, picks, and rakes to line up the pins in your lock and allow it to open.
Lock picking is the preferred method for opening a lock because it leaves the lock undamaged. If you simply locked your key inside, that key will still work in the lock once you’ve gotten in to retrieve it. You will not need to replace your locks or keys.
Replacing a Lock
Occasionally, a locksmith may not be able to open your lock without damaging it. This situation can happen if the lock is rusted or damaged in some other way that prevents a locksmith from opening it with their regular method.
In these cases, a locksmith may have to drill out your existing lock and replace it with a new one. Replacing the lock will require new keys, but if the lock was already damaged, it is the best option.
Other Reasons for a Locksmith
The obvious reason for calling a locksmith is that you’ve lost your keys or locked them inside your home or vehicle. However, there are other situations in which a locksmith can help.
If you have moved into a new home and it’s possible that previous tenants still have keys, or if someone stole your keys, a locksmith can re-key your existing locks and make new keys. This option saves you from having to completely replace the locks.
Additionally, if your key becomes brittle and breaks off inside the lock, you can call a locksmith to remove the key.
Locksmiths can also help you if you have an electronic keypad lock and can’t remember the code or the lock has malfunctioned.
In any of these cases, a locksmith can use their tools and expertise to either get your lock opened without damage or replace it with a new lock.
Locksmiths Get You Back Inside
Locksmiths can help you in various situations, whether you’ve locked your keys inside, lost them, had them break in the lock, or had them stolen. They can also help if your lock is damaged or you’ve moved into a new home.
Whether they pick your lock, re-key your existing lock, or replace a damaged lock completely, they can get you back inside and your property secured once again.
Whatever your reason for needing the help of a locksmith, you now never again need to wonder, how does a locksmith open a door?
