Locksmith Tips

If you’re replacing locks stay away from cheap locks at discount stores.

Yes you can buy a deadbolt lock for under $10, but they are easy to pick and offer little security.

Many criminals have tools that allow them to easily bypass low quality locks.  Where your security is important consider high security locks.

As locksmiths we recommend security doorbells with video to deter & identify criminals approaching your property.

As years of experience have shown us, deadbolts are some of the most secure locks you can install. Locksmiths know that good deadbolts have at least a one-inch “throw”, which requires more effort when trying to kick a door in.

On the “strike side,” there should be a security strike with screws at least three inches long that go all the way into the studs behind the door jamb.

Give us a call and we can discuss installing and updating deadbolt locks.

This could be one of the best locksmith tips for everyone.

Make a set of spare keys for all important locks. Then consider keeping the keys either offsite, e.g. friends or family, or in a secure place in your home.

Where you have spare keys you’ll have a backup should you temporarily lose or misplace keys, especially car keys. When you need keys cut, give us a call and we’ll come by as convenient to you and make a complete set of spare keys for your home, business or vehicles.

Whenever you move into a new home, replace or rekey the locks.

Many homes have had numerous owners, or even the builder has a key for your home. Ensure your security, rekeying or replace your locks is the only way to avoid people having access to your home.

Most homeowners can call our locksmiths to rekey the locks vs replacing to make the home secure, and ensuring only you have the key to your home.

Happy I called these guys! Had a quote immediately on the phone, they came to me, the service was fast, I paid a fair price. Overall, extremely easy and great service! Would highly recommend. A Alexopoulos, Whitby GoogleReviews

Many times a sagging door can cause locks to be out of alignment. Is your door no longer level? Does the bottom of the door drag on the threshold when it is being closed?

Here’s how to fix a sagging door. This easy fix to a sagging door can fix an out of aligned lock when the dragging is done on the door knob side (not the hinge side). Take a 3″ screw and put it in the very top of the uppermost hinge.

Home builders many times by default use hinges held in by 1/2″ screws. Over time the door can sag over time due to its weight pulling on the hinges.

A 3″ screw into the top screw hole of the uppermost hinge will suck the door back into place as the screw will reach the 2X4 studs behind the jamb and suck the door back into place.

While you’re at it. Put 3″ screws into all of the hinges and strikes to greatly and affordably improve your door’s security.

Failed transponder keys or a damaged ignition key?  Many drivers assume that the only way to repair their problem is to take their vehicle back to the dealership for transponder or chip keys.

Years ago this may have been true but modern advancements in technology have provided our locksmiths with the tools and specialized equipment needed to replace and program your key fobs, repair a broken ignition or install new locks, on site.

This means we will come to your location, and provide fast, effective and affordable automotive services so you can get back behind the wheel in no time.

Unlike other locksmiths, the locksmiths at Al & Gord’s Lock & Key speak directly to you.

Have a lock or locksmith question?  Call now and speak directly to Gord or Ryan to discuss your lock issue.

We’re happy to give advice over the phone, or provide you with a quote that we stand by.

No call centers, referrals, or unauthorized people.  Speak directly to the locksmith at 905-718-5168 today.