Top 4 Things to Do Before Calling a Locksmith

A visit from an emergency locksmith could cost you as much as $200.This is no small chunk of change, so obviously, this is a situation you’d probably prefer to avoid. In many cases, people end up calling out a locksmith unnecessarily. 

So how can you make sure you don’t call for a locksmith necessarily? This article lists some tips that could help you establish whether or not you should be calling a locksmith. 

1. Lubricate the Lock

One of the main things you should try before calling a locksmith is lubricating the lock. You should use a lubricant like WD-40. Quite often, the mechanism of a lock simply seizes up due to wear and tear. Applying a bit of lubrication can get things working again. 

In some cases, it might feel like you’ve installed a brand new lock. Before you call in a locksmith, always try some kind of mechanical lubricant first. 

2. Try a Different Key

If your key doesn’t work and you find yourself asking, “do I call a locksmith?” you should try with another key first. In many cases, people jump to conclusions and think that their lock is broken when in fact, it’s the key that’s the problem. 

If a key gets bent out of shape or otherwise malformed, it won’t fit in your lock. In this case, you don’t need to call out a locksmith. You just need to get a new key cut. Generally, this will be significantly cheaper than paying a locksmith services callout fee. 

3. Pull the Door Towards You

In some cases, the door mechanism might have been knocked out of alignment and come loose. In this case, you might be able to address the problem by pulling the door towards you when you turn the lock.  Lifting the door as you try to open it works similarly to the previous method.

You may need to use a bit of force, but sometimes this will slide everything back to where it needs to be and enable you to open the door. You may still need to call a locksmith, but this method might at least enable you to get in the house and avoid a callout charge. 

4. Try Lifting the Door

This is another method that might let you alleviate a mechanical defect long enough for you to at least get inside. Lifting the door as you try to open it works similarly to the previous method. It might slide all of the mechanisms back into place and enable you to at least get in the house. 

Now You Can Save Money on Calling a Locksmith

As you can see, calling a locksmith isn’t always necessary. Before you call, make sure you try out some of the tips listed here. Of course, if you still can’t get in, you’ll need to call out an emergency lock service to help you.  Lifting the door as you try to open it works similarly to the previous method.

If you want to learn more about some other home-related topics, check out the rest of our blog posts.