Locksmith Questions & Answers from Tru-Max Security Inc.

Have a question about locks, keys, doors or security? You’re probably not the first person to ask it.

Below are answers to some of the most common locksmith questions homeowners, businesses and property managers ask.

What does a locksmith do?

A professional locksmith does much more than unlock doors. Locksmiths can rekey and repair locks, cut keys, install new locking hardware, create master-key systems, service commercial doors and hardware, work with high-security key systems, and help diagnose physical-security problems.

At Tru-Max Security, our work extends into complete commercial door openings, door closers, panic hardware, electric strikes, access-control hardware, automatic door operators and other physical-security solutions.

Should I rekey my locks or replace them?

If your existing locks are in good condition, rekeying is often all that is necessary.

Rekeying changes the internal key combination so the old keys no longer operate the lock. You keep the existing hardware but receive a new key.

Replacement makes more sense when the existing hardware is worn, damaged, unreliable, unsuitable for the application, or when you want to upgrade your security. This distinction is one of the most commonly searched locksmith questions.

Should I change the locks when I move into a new house?

It is a good idea to regain control of your keys when moving into a new home.

You may have received keys from the previous owner, but you usually don’t know how many copies were made over the years or who still has one.

That doesn’t necessarily mean replacing every lock. If the hardware is in good condition, rekeying the existing locks may be the practical solution.

I lost my house keys. Do I need to replace all my locks?

Usually, no.

In many cases, a locksmith can simply rekey the existing locks so the missing key will no longer work.

If the locks are damaged, worn or due for an upgrade, replacement may be worth considering at the same time.

Can a locksmith rekey a lock without the original key?

In many situations, yes. A professional locksmith may be able to rekey an existing lock even when the original key is unavailable, although the exact procedure depends on the type and condition of the hardware.

Can all the locks in my house work with one key?

Often, yes.

If the locks use compatible keyways and cylinders, they can frequently be keyed alike so that one key operates several doors.

If you currently have a handful of keys for your front door, back door and garage, ask us whether the locks can be consolidated onto a single key.

What is a master-key system?

A master-key system allows different keys to have different levels of access.

For example, an employee’s key might open one specific door while a manager’s key opens several doors and a master key operates a larger group of locks.

Master-key systems are particularly useful for commercial buildings, offices, apartment properties and facilities with multiple controlled areas.

What is the difference between keyed alike and master keyed?

Keyed alike means multiple locks operate using the same key.

Master keyed means different individual keys can operate designated locks while another authorized master key can operate multiple locks within the system.

They’re related concepts, but they solve different access-control problems.

What is a high-security lock?

High-security locking systems can provide features beyond those of ordinary residential or commercial locks, depending on the system. These may include stronger key control, restricted key duplication and more sophisticated cylinder designs.

Tru-Max works with ABLOY PROTEC and PROTEC² high-security systems for applications where controlling who can obtain keys is especially important.

Can someone copy a “Do Not Duplicate” key?

The words “Do Not Duplicate” by themselves are not the same thing as a properly controlled or restricted key system.

If controlling unauthorized duplication is important to your home, business or facility, ask about a high-security/restricted key-control system rather than relying only on wording stamped onto a standard key.

Why is my key getting difficult to turn?

Don’t ignore a lock that is becoming harder to operate.

The problem could involve the key, cylinder, lock mechanism, door alignment, strike, hinges or another part of the opening.

If you’re having to jiggle, force, lift, push or pull the door to make the lock operate, something should be inspected before the problem gets worse. Questions about difficult-to-turn keys and doors that must be pushed or pulled to lock are common locksmith FAQs.

Should I force a key that won’t turn?

No.

Forcing a key can make the situation worse and may result in a bent or broken key or additional damage to the lock.

If a key that previously worked has suddenly become difficult to turn, stop and determine why rather than applying more force.

Why does my door only lock when I push or pull on it?

This often indicates that something in the complete door opening isn’t lining up correctly.

The lock itself may be perfectly functional. The issue could involve door alignment, hinges, the strike, frame, closer or movement in the opening.

A locksmith should diagnose the cause rather than automatically replacing the lock.

Can a locksmith remove a broken key from a lock?

In many cases, yes.

A locksmith can assess whether the broken portion can be extracted and whether the lock or cylinder has been damaged.

Avoid pushing the broken piece farther into the cylinder or repeatedly trying to operate the lock.

Can a locksmith repair a lock instead of replacing it?

Often.

Not every malfunctioning lock needs to be thrown away. Depending on the hardware and availability of parts, a locksmith may be able to repair, adjust or service it.

Tru-Max’s approach is to diagnose the problem first and then explain the available options.

Can a locksmith install a smart lock?

Yes. We can install many types of electronic and smart locking hardware.

However, the smart lock needs to be appropriate for the door and application. Door preparation, alignment, handing and existing hardware can all affect the installation.

Can you install a lock that I already purchased?

Yes. Tru-Max can install customer-supplied hardware.

If you’re unsure whether a lock you’ve purchased is compatible with your door, contact us before installation and we can help determine whether it’s appropriate for the opening.

Can a locksmith unlock a door without damaging it?

Professional locksmiths generally assess the lock and opening and use an appropriate method based on the situation.

The method required depends on the lock, its condition and the circumstances. Non-destructive entry may be possible in many situations, but it cannot be guaranteed for every lock or every situation.

For security reasons, Tru-Max requires appropriate identification/authorization for lockout services.

How much does a locksmith cost?

There isn’t one price that applies to every locksmith job.

Cost can depend on the service required, type of hardware, number of locks, parts required, complexity, travel, and whether the call occurs during normal business hours or requires emergency service. These are also the factors commonly identified in Canadian locksmith pricing guides.

Contact Tru-Max with as much information as possible about the problem so we can determine the appropriate service.

Why does an emergency locksmith cost more?

Emergency and after-hours calls require a technician to be available outside normal scheduled working hours, which is why emergency service generally carries an additional charge. After-hours pricing is commonly identified as a major factor affecting locksmith costs.

Tru-Max provides 24/7 emergency locksmith service for situations such as lockouts and buildings that cannot be properly secured.

When is a lock problem considered an emergency?

Typical security emergencies include situations where:

• You are locked out of your home or business.
• Someone is locked inside or unable to exit normally.
• A door cannot be locked or secured.
• A lock or door has been damaged and the property is left vulnerable.

If the property can be safely secured and the issue can wait, scheduling regular service may be more economical.

Do locksmiths work on commercial doors?

Yes—and commercial locksmithing can involve much more than the lock itself.

Tru-Max services and installs commercial locking hardware, steel doors, door closers, panic/exit devices, hinges, thresholds, electric strikes, access-control hardware, automatic door operators and other components of the complete opening.

My commercial door won’t latch. Do I need a new lock?

Not necessarily.

A door that won’t latch may have a lock problem, but it can also be caused by door sag, hinge wear, frame alignment, strike positioning, closer operation or other opening conditions.

This is why we assess the complete opening before recommending hardware replacement.

What is an electric strike?

An electric strike is an electrified locking component installed at the door frame that can work as part of an access-control or controlled-entry system.

The correct strike depends on the existing lock, door/frame construction, required function and other characteristics of the opening.

Can a locksmith make car keys and key fobs?

Many locksmiths provide automotive key services.

Tru-Max can cut and program a range of automotive keys and fobs. Vehicle year, make, model and existing-key situation help determine what options are available.

Can a locksmith open or service a safe?

Locksmiths with the appropriate equipment and experience can provide various safe services.

Because safes differ considerably in construction and locking systems, contact us with the safe manufacturer/model and a description of the problem so we can determine what service may be appropriate.

How often should locks and commercial door hardware be maintained?

Don’t wait until hardware completely fails.

High-use commercial openings benefit from periodic inspection and maintenance. Changes in closing speed, latching, alignment, unusual noises, loose hardware or increased operating force can be early signs that attention is needed.

Preventive maintenance can help identify smaller problems before they become emergency repairs.

Still Have a Locksmith Question?

Every door, lock and security situation is a little different.

If you don’t see your question above, contact Tru-Max Security Inc. and we’ll help you determine the next step.

Tru-Max Security Inc.
📞 343-308-0115
✉️ ken@trumaxsecurity.ca
Serving Ottawa and surrounding areas

Truly maximizing your physical security!