What types of house keys can be duplicated?
Residential key duplication in Alief may involve many standard key styles. The type of key, its condition, and the lock it operates all affect what can be copied.
Common residential keys include
- Standard single cut house keys
- Double sided keys
- Deadbolt keys
- Knob lock keys
- Lever handle keys
- Patio door keys
- Garage side entry keys
- Fence and gate keys
- Mailbox keys
- Storage room keys
- Some restricted or specialty keyways
Most homes around Alief use a mix of deadbolts and handle locks. A front entry near Bellaire Boulevard may use one key for the deadbolt and another for the knob. A townhome near Dairy Ashford Road may have separate keys for a front door, rear patio door, and community mailbox.
If you are not sure which key belongs to which lock, bring the key and explain where it is used. A quick description can help avoid copying the wrong one.
Can a worn key still be copied?
Sometimes it can, though worn keys need a closer look. A key that has been used for years may have rounded cuts, a bent blade, cracks, or damage near the bow where you hold it.
Copying a worn key can also copy its wear pattern. That may leave you with a new key that still sticks or turns poorly. If the original key is damaged, it may be better to inspect the lock and determine whether the problem is the key, the lock cylinder, or both.
Watch for these signs
- The key only works when jiggled
- You have to push hard to turn it
- The key catches halfway into the lock
- The key comes out with visible metal wear
- The lock feels loose or rough
- The key is bent or has a small crack
A resident near Highway 6 might say, “It works, but only if I give it a little wiggle.” That little wiggle is often a clue worth checking before making several copies.