Locked out with no keys? Need to unlock your door in the middle of the night? Door locks are the main security feature in any home, protecting against intruders and ensuring your safety. But when you forget your keys and can’t get inside, it can cause major inconvenience. Here’s a guide to locksmith and lock replacement services.

Types of Door Locks

There are many types of door locks on the market. To ensure accurate communication with locksmith(s), take a photo of the lock and send to them. Common types of locks include knob locks, cross locks, triple locks, mortise locks, drawer locks, mailbox locks, and brass padlocks. Each lock generally consists of three parts: the cylinder, the core, and the body.

Cost of Unlocking a Lock

Prices depend on the type of lock, whether the lock is damaged, or if the key is broken and stuck in the cylinder. If the lock is undamaged, unlocking a door typically starts at SGD50. Additional charges may apply for remote locations, holidays, or late-night service. In the case of a damaged lock or a broken key stuck inside, the locksmith will need to inspect the situation on-site for an accurate quote.

There have been reports of late-night locksmiths charging exorbitant prices, with customer being quoted several hundred dollars. However, another locksmith resolved the issue for just one-sixth of that price. Be cautious—while locksmith fees may vary depending on their experience, such large price differences are uncommon.

Unlocking Methods and Time

Never try to force open a door, kick it, or insert a screwdriver into the lock, as this can make the situation worse and significantly increase the cost of repairs. In the worst cases, you may have to pay hundreds to replace the entire door. If the lock is intact, a professional locksmith can typically unlock it within 10 to 20 minutes using specialized tools.

If the lock is damaged or the key is broken and stuck inside the core, the locksmith may need to try different methods to extract the broken key, such as using wire, lubricant, pliers, or superglue. Only after removing the broken key can the locksmith proceed to unlock the door, which may take over 30 minutes.

Replacing a Lock

The replacement process depends on the type of lock. For most common door locks, if the body isn’t damaged, only the cylinder needs replacing. For simpler and cheaper locks like knob locks, the entire lock can be replaced. Door locks contain many small parts, so it’s easy to lose components if you’re not careful. If you lack experience, it's recommended to hire a professional locksmith for lock replacement.

Causes of Lock Damage

In addition to regular wear and tear, loose hinges, swollen floors, damaged walls, or debris near the door can all cause lock damage. When replacing a lock, pay attention to the surrounding environment to determine whether these factors contributed to the lock's failure.

We hope this information helps. For detailed quotes or inquiries about locksmith services, download the Call Handyman app and consult a professional locksmith directly.

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