We understand that most of our clients are not experts on security or locksmithing, and that they don't know where to begin in looking at the security of their home or business. Therefore, we offer a free, no obligation survey of your location to provide you with the peace of mind to know how to secure your site. We will review your site and make recommendations on basic steps to protect your location and provide cost estimates for performing the work. We will also give you ideas on more advanced levels of protection if you need them.

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Whenever we work on a door for any reason, we perform our "Ten Step Door Check". While a lock is certainly important component of security, the door itself must operate properly for it to provide the intended security. As with all mechanical devices, doors and locks need to be maintained routinely. We check ten different components of a doorway every time we touch a door.

If a simple repair is required we perform it. If something more substantial needs to occur, we'll make sure you know it.

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Do you know who has the keys to your home or business? If you have had the same keys for more years than you can remember, the answer is probably that you do not. Most keys can be easily duplicated (see Products for Non-Duplicable Keys), and over time you have probably had more made than you remember. Changing a lock cylinder (rekeying lock) so that new keys operate them is a simple procedure for a locksmith and it instantly gives you a specific answer to who has your keys. If you have too many different keys for different locks floating around, it is also possible to key those locks "alike", or make other minor modifications (usually), so that you have fewer keys to keep track of and therefore a better idea of who has them.

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A Master Key system is a hierarchical method of key control for a group of locks. It allows a single key to be issued to individuals who need access to a number of controlled areas, while issuing a different single key to those who need access to a limited area(s). Master Key systems provide great convenience to users in these situations, and can enhance security through the knowledge and control imposed. However, professional care must be exercised so that security is not accidentally jeopardized.

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The true nature of craftsmanship in locksmithing is exhibited in the installation of security hardware. From the relatively straightforward installation of deadbolts to the more involved nature of electric strikes and exit devices, this area is were the skill of the locksmith is most appreciated and most necessary. The doorway to a facility (or an area) is the first thing a visitor is going to encounter, it is crucial that hardware has been installed in an ascetically pleasing manner. From a security point of view, the installation methodology may either increase or decrease security. To achieve the correct balance is the true measure of locksmith craftsmanship.

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The most common thing locksmiths are known for is making copies of keys. It is for this reason that key duplication is offered at locations other than lock shops such as hardware stores. It is not that simple! Certainly a copied key that doesn't work is obvious. What is not so obvious is how keys improperly cut might work initially but over time improperly wear a lock cylinder (or the key) so that a key will not operate the lock at some future time. Key duplication accuracy starts with a high quality key blank (the metal form which is cut to match a key or lock cylinder) that meets the manufacturer's original specifications. It continues with the quality and routine maintenance of the equipment that duplicates the key blanks.

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The manufacturers of many different products that have locks understand how important it is that their customers can get into their locked products. Therefore, they create lists of locks that they use and the way that they are keyed. These lists are then often provided to locksmiths who then can create a key if they know the lock cylinder number. For example, when you buy a new automobile, the original keys often have little metal tags with them. If you ever lose your keys (but retain the metal tags), these tags will provide the lock cylinder number so that we can cut your keys without having one to copy from.

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Lock Outs

People get locked out of their automobiles and their homes all the time. While we can certainly get you back in when it occurs, we can also help you from having it cause you big time headaches and unnecessary expense. This starts with extra copies of your keys. An extra set of automotive keys at home can come in really handy at the location where you access your car the most. It may be appropriate to put a hidden key case on your car so that you have one available wherever you are. It is also possible that a key hidden outside your home, or one left with a trusted neighbor could help out big time. Always remember there are potential security ramifications with hiding keys.

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