Table of Contents
Key Duplication Myths Debunked By Markham Locksmiths
Okay, let’s talk key duplication. Ever stood in a hardware store, holding that flimsy copy of your house key, thinking, “This’ll do the trick”? Spoiler: sometimes it won’t. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We’ve seen it all at Pick4 Locksmith—the good, the bad, and the “why on earth would you try that?” moments. So, grab a coffee, and let’s debunk the wildest myths floating around about key duplication. Trust us, your locks will thank you.
Myth #1: Any Key Can Be Duplicated, Anytime, Anywhere
Hold up. If we had a nickel for every time someone handed us a high-security key and said, “Just copy this real quick,” we’d retire in the Bahamas. Truth bomb: not all keys are created equal.
- Standard keys (like your basic house key)? Easy peasy.
- High-security keys (think Medeco or Mul-T-Lock)? Nope. These often need authorization codes, proprietary blanks, or specialized machines. We once had a client in Greensborough try duplicating a restricted key at a kiosk—ended up costing them way more in lock repair service fees when it jammed their deadbolt.
And FYI, snapping a pic of your key and sending it to a random online service? Big mistake. Without physical verification, duplicates often fail. Always visit a local locksmith like us for tricky keys. We’re your mobile locksmith heroes in Markham, equipped for the complex stuff.
Myth #2: Key Duplication is Always Cheap and Fast
“$2 keys? Sign me up!” Slow down. While basic duplicates can be affordable, price isn’t universal. Here’s why:
- Material matters: Brass keys? Cheap. Titanium or high-security blanks? Pricier.
- Skill level: A kiosk can’t handle what a pro can. Complex keys need trained eyes.
- Urgency tax: Need a copy now? After-hours emergency locksmith services might cost more.
We’ve had folks call us for car locksmith help after a cheap duplicate snapped in their ignition. Total cost? Way higher than getting it done right the first time. So, if you’re Googling “key duplication near me,” remember: sometimes you get what you pay for.
Myth #3: Duplicated Keys Work Just as Well as Originals
Cue sarcastic gasp. If only! Duplicates wear down faster, especially if made from worn originals. Think of it like photocopying a photocopy—it gets blurrier each time.
Real-life example: A Markham bakery owner kept duplicating duplicates for their back door. Eventually, none worked smoothly, leading to a business lockout during a 5 a.m. dough rush. We had to perform full lock replacement services. Moral? Start fresh with a lock re key or new hardware when copies get sketchy.
Myth #4: You Can Legally Duplicate Any Key Without Permission
Yikes. This isn’t a spy movie. Duplicating keys without consent can land you in hot water:
- Property keys: Landlords or employers own those. Unauthorized copies? Illegal.
- Patented keys: Brands like Schlage enforce legal restrictions.
- Master key systems: Copying these without authorization breaches security protocols.
We handle eviction locksmith cases where tenants “accidentally” made extra keys. Don’t be that person. If you need access, ask the owner or hire a commercial locksmith to manage it ethically.
Myth #5: All Locksmiths Can Duplicate Every Key Type
Ha! Walk into a hardware store with a transponder key and watch the panic set in. Auto locksmith jobs require diagnostic tools to sync keys with your car’s computer. Meanwhile, residential locksmith specialists focus on deadbolts and smart locks.
At Pick4 Locksmith, we’re equipped for:
- Car keys & fobs
- High-security locks (Abloy, etc.)
- Master key lock system design
- File cabinet locks and mailbox locks replacement
But even we’ll admit: some keys need factory-level tools. IMO, that’s why you call pros who specialize.
Myth #6: Duplicating Keys is Foolproof DIY Work
“Hey, how hard can it be?” Famous last words. Key-cutting machines at big-box stores aren’t calibrated daily like ours. We’ve seen DIY disasters:
- Keys cut too shallow/deep
- Misaligned grooves jamming locks
- Broken keys stuck in ignitions (hello, auto locksmith rescue!)
Save yourself the headache. For deadbolt installation or panic bar installation, leave it to the experts. Your lock’s tolerance is tighter than your weekend plans.
Myth #7: High-Security Keys Are Just as Easy to Copy
Insert eye roll here. High-security keys have laser-cut angles, magnetic features, or rotating pins. Duplicating these requires:
- Brand-specific blanks
- Legal authorization
- CNC machines (not your grandpa’s key cutter)
We offer high security locks in Markham because they’re theft-resistant. But copying them? It’s like forging a passport. Possible? Sure. Legal or easy? Nope.
Myth #8: A Photo of Your Key is Enough to Duplicate It
Sigh. Thanks, social media. While technically possible, key photos rarely capture depth angles accurately. Plus, sharing key pics online? Security nightmare.
A client in Greensborough sent a Facebook pic of their key to a sketchy online service. The copy didn’t work, and now strangers have their key geometry. Pro tip: treat keys like your credit card—never broadcast them.
Key Duplication Best Practices: Don’t Get Locked Out of Common Sense
Let’s get practical. Here’s a quick reference table for duplication realities:
| Key Type | DIY-Friendly? | Pro Recommended? | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard House Key | ✅ | ⚠️ For worn keys | Copies degrade over time; replace originals periodically |
| Car Key / Fob | ❌ | ✅ | Requires programming & transponder sync |
| High-Security (Medeco) | ❌ | ✅ | Needs authorization codes; blanks restricted |
| Master Key | ❌ | ✅ | System integrity requires pro management |
| File Cabinet Lock | ⚠️ | ✅ | Tiny blanks; easy to mis-cut |
Golden rules:
- Get duplicates made early—don’t wait until your only key is bent.
- Use reputable pros: Your $3 kiosk copy could cost $200 in lockout service costs.
- Audit keys yearly: Toss old copies and rekey after losing one.
Need a lock change services or deadbolt installation? We’re your 24 hour locksmith in Markham. Seriously, try us at 3 a.m.—we’ve seen it all.
Frequently Asked Questions About Key Duplication
Q: Can you duplicate a key if I’ve lost the original?
A: Sometimes! If it’s a standard lock, we can disassemble it, decode the pins, and cut a new key. For high-security or automotive locks, it’s trickier (and pricier). Always cheaper to duplicate before losing the original!
Q: Why does my duplicated key keep jamming?
A: Likely a poor copy. Worn originals, cheap blanks, or uncalibrated machines cause friction. Bring it to us for a lock repair service—we’ll fix the key and the lock.
Q: Are car key duplicates really worth the cost?
A: 100%. A proper auto locksmith ensures your fob communicates with your car’s computer. Skipping this? Enjoy your shiny new key that…does nothing.
Wrapping It Up
Look, keys are tiny metal guardians of your world. Treat duplication like brain surgery—don’t trust it to a vending machine. Whether you’re in Markham or Greensborough, Pick4 Locksmith has your back. From mailbox locks replacement to master key lock systems, we blend expertise with zero judgment (well, mostly).
Got a key that’s seen better days? Locked out at midnight? Just want peace of mind? Contact Pick4 Locksmith. We’re fast, local, and we won’t feed you myths. Because in the end, your security shouldn’t be a copy of a copy of a copy. 😉
Reach Out Today!
📞 Call Pick4 Locksmith for any lock or key headache—residential, commercial, or auto. We’re your 24/7 solution in the Markham area!
