If you’ve ever lost your car keys or had a key stolen, you know how expensive and inconvenient it can be to get a new set of keys made.
Not only do you have to pay for the new keys, but you also have to pay for the locksmith’s time and labor. And if you’re locked out of your house or car, that can add even more stress to an already stressful situation.
King Locksmiths Gaithersburg is here to help. We offer a variety of key duplication services at an affordable price. Plus, we always provide upfront pricing so there are no surprises when you receive your bill.
Are There Key Copying Services Offered At The Local Hardware Stores?
There are a few key duplication services that your local hardware store may offer on a weekly basis. The first service is the creation of new keys from scratch. If you have lost your keys or if they have been stolen, this service can be very helpful. The second service is the duplication of existing keys. This is useful if you need an extra set of keys for a family member or friend.
Finally, the third service is the repair of broken keys. This can be useful if one of your keys has snapped in half and you need it to be fixed in order to use it again. These are just a few of the key duplication services that your local hardware store may offer on a weekly basis.
How Long Does It Take To Copy Keys?
Depending on the type of key you need to have duplicated, the process of having keys copied can take anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. For example, standard house keys can be easily copied at most hardware stores. However, keys for more high-security locks, such as those found on safes or automobiles, may need to be sent to a specialized locksmith.
The length of time required to copy a key also depends on the number of copies you need. If you only need one or two copies, the process will be much quicker than if you need a large batch of keys. In general, it is best to allow for at least a few minutes when having keys copied, just to be safe.
How Much Does It Cost To Copy A Key At A Locksmith’s Shop?
Copying a key at a locksmith’s shop usually costs between $1.50 and $4.00, depending on the type of key it is. The most common type of key is a standard house key, which generally costs between $1.50 and $2.50 to copy. A more specialized type of key, such as a car key, can cost up to $4.00 to copy. The price may also be higher if the locksmith needs to make a special trip to your home or office in order to copy the key. In general, it is always cheaper to have a spare key made by a locksmith than it is to replace a lost or stolen key.
Benefits Of Having A Spare Key Made
A spare key is always a good idea in case you lose your primary key or if it gets stolen. Having a spare key made can also be cheaper and easier than having to call a locksmith every time you need a new key. Here are some other benefits of having a spare key made:
You’ll Never Be Locked Out Of Your Home Or Car Again
If you’ve ever lost your keys or had them stolen, then you know how frustrating it can be to be locked out of your own property. With spare car keys, you’ll always have a way to get back in.
It’s Cheaper Than Calling A Local Locksmith
If you need a new key made, it’s usually cheaper to just have a spare key made than it is to call a locksmith. This is especially true if you need multiple keys made.
You Can Give A Spare Key To Someone You Trust
If you have a duplicate key, you can give it to someone you trust in case of an emergency. This way, they can get into your home or car if you’re ever locked out or if there’s some other emergency.
It’s Convenient
Having a spare key is just more convenient than not having one. You never know when you might need it, so it’s always good to have one on hand just in case.
You Can Use It As A Backup.
If you ever lose your primary key, a spare key can be used as a backup. This way, you won’t have to worry about being locked out of your home or car until you can get a new key made.
Overall, there are many benefits to having a spare key made. It’s always a good idea to have one on hand in case of an emergency. They’re also convenient and can be used as a backup if you ever lose your primary key.
What Factors Can Affect How Much Does It Cost To Copy A Key?
The cost of key duplication can be affected by a number of factors, including the type of key you need to be duplicated, the number of keys you need, and the time frame in which you need them. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering the cost of key duplication:
The Type Of Key You Need To Be Duplicated
Some keys are more complex than others, and as a result, can be more expensive to duplicate. If you need a transponder key or a chip key duplicated, for example, it will likely cost more than if you just need a regular key copied.
How Much Does It Cost To Copy A Key According To The Number Of Keys You Need
Obviously, the more keys you need duplicated, the higher the overall cost will be. If you only need one or two keys made, it will obviously be less expensive than if you need a dozen or more keys.
How Much Does It Cost To Copy A Key According To The Time Frame In Which You Need Them
Key duplication can often be done pretty quickly, but if you’re in a hurry, it will likely cost you more. If you need your keys right away, be prepared to pay a bit extra.
Keep these factors in mind when considering the cost of key duplication. You’ll be sure to get the best deal possible.
How To Get A Copy Of Your House Key If You Lose It Or It’s Stolen?
The first step is to purchase key blanks that match your original key. If you’re not sure what kind of key blank you need, you can bring your existing key to a locksmith. Or you can go to the hardware store and they will be able to help you find the right match. Once you have the key blank, you’ll need to have it cut to match the profile of your existing key.
This can be done at most hardware stores or locksmiths. If you’re worried about someone stealing your key blank, you can also purchase a keyless entry device for your home. These devices use a code that is entered into a keypad to unlock the door, so there is no key for anyone to steal.
