What goes wrong
We handle emergency lock work that starts with a call: house keys stuck in a deadbolt, a key snapped off in a rim cylinder, a front door jammed after the latch misaligned, or a commercial panic bar stripped of its tailpiece. When we arrive we assess the cylinder, bolt, strike and doorframe to find what failed and why. We use picks, plug spinners, and extraction tools for broken keys, and if the hardware is worn (thin latch plates or a loose strike) we recommend replacement with forged or solid components rather than repeated patch repairs. We drive out from Havertown to every job.
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What the job involves
If you are locked out, stay safe and avoid forcing doors or windows. For houses in Franklin Township we suggest you check alternate entries that are designed to be used in an emergency and to keep clear of anything that could bend or misalign the frame. For commercial lockouts, leave signage up to direct customers and keep staff away from the door until we say it is secure. If a key broke off, do not press a second key into the same slot; that often pushes fragments farther into the plug.
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Good to know
When we work on a deadbolt or a mortise lock we examine the bolt throw, the cam or tailpiece, and the condition of the strike on the jamb; a long throw bolt needs a reinforced strike or it will pull through soft wood. If a cylinder is corroded or hollowed out the reliable repair is a cylinder swap and keying, not repeated fiddling with lubrication. For electronic keypad failures we check batteries and connections and test the solenoid action; if the mechanism is scorched or water-damaged we replace the module and rekey mechanical backups.
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Worth knowing
To help us finish the job on the spot have your identification and proof of residence or business ownership ready, and tell us about recent work on the door (new hinges, planing, or painting) that might affect alignment. If you have a spare key code, key card, or original lock documentation, have that available. For vehicle lock issues we need the make, model and year and whether a key fob is present; for properties around Franklin Township, London Britain Township or New London Township mention any recent lock changes. We’ll explain the options and what components we intend to fit before we start.
