Lost your keys, and you’re on the verge of breaking your house window just to get inside? Before you do so, there’s a safe and efficient way to access your home even without your keys, and that is to hire a locksmith.
Locksmiths are not called “locksmiths” for nothing. These are gurus who know the safest and efficient ways to unlock a house in minutes. Here are some of the techniques they use and their usual charges:
Lock Picking
Lock picking is the most common and most straightforward technique your locksmith will try first to access your house. The method involves using specific tools to manipulate the lock components, such as tension wrench inside the keyhole and then inserting the rake. Your locksmith will need to pull and push the rake inside and outwards until the lock pins reach the cut of the line.
Once the lock pins reach the shear line, your locksmith will twist the tension wrench to open the lock.
If successful, you will be charged between $75 and $125, or more. Remember, locksmith charges are affected by several factors, such as the time of day and the season of the year. So, if it’s in the middle of the night and the middle of winter, expect to be charged more for the service.
Lock Bumping
Lock bumping is another common technique locksmiths use when lock picking doesn’t work. The technique involves the need to design a specific bump key for your lock to open.
The bump key will be designed in a way to ensure that it will move the pins the same way as the tension wrench to ensure it reaches the shear line. Lock bumping will cost you between $75 and $125 or more. Similar to lock picking, the time of the day and year will affect the price.
Lock Drilling
Lock drilling is the most destructive, but it’s very reliable. With this method, you will be able to gain access to your house in just a couple of minutes.
The downside? You will need to buy a new lock because the drilling process will kill all the lock pins and tumbler system. This is because the process involves drilling the lock to loosen up to make it easy to open the lock with the use of a flat head screwdriver. Locksmith drilling will cost you between $100 and $175.
The Real Cost of Hiring a Locksmith
Besides the price estimates discussed above, remember that locksmith services depend on several factors, such as the type of locksmith, the time of year, and the time of day you need their service. Since there are many locksmiths out there, it’s essential to do a bit of research to ensure the quality of services and pricing.
So, before you hire a locksmith, you can ask them first about their pricing before you call them out to your home. That way, you will be able to find the most affordable yet reliable locksmith who will open the door for you.
For a reliable locksmith in Cincinnati, OH, Allied Lock and Door is here for you. We specialize in locksmith services, door repair, and many more. Contact us today!