Get matched with top locksmiths in Charleston, ME

Q: Are smart deadbolts worth it?

• <div><p>Smart deadbolts are a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking more convenience, flexibility, and advanced features than a traditional deadbolt can provide. While a strong conventional deadbolt offers sufficient security for most, smart deadbolts provide significant upgrades.</p><p>Key benefits include keyless entry via smartphone, keypads, or biometric sensors, and the ability to lock or unlock your door remotely. You can also manage access for guests by creating temporary codes, eliminating the need for physical keys and the risk of them being lost or duplicated. Many models integrate with smart home systems and offer features like automatic locking, entry-exit monitoring, and tamper alerts with encryption for enhanced security.</p><p>However, there are downsides to consider. Smart deadbolts are more expensive than their traditional counterparts and rely on batteries and wireless networks to function. This dependency introduces potential vulnerabilities, such as hacking by skilled intruders and privacy concerns. Installation can also be more complex. Despite these drawbacks, the added layer of convenience and protection makes them a compelling option for many.</p></div>

Q: What is lock bumping?

• <div><p>Lock bumping is a technique locksmiths use to quickly and quietly open a pin tumbler lock, typically found in most <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-of-deadbolts.htm">types of deadbolts</a>. It involves inserting a specially crafted key, or bump key, into the lock and tapping or &quot;bumping&quot; it with a mallet or similar tool. The force applied causes the lock's pins to jump momentarily, allowing the lock to be turned and opened. Unfortunately, thieves also use this technique to break into homes. Luckily, products like a deadbolt strap will fortify your lock.</p></div>

Q: How do burglars snap locks?

• <div><p>Using a combination of tools (often store-bought plumbing tools) and brute force, a burglar can easily snap the lock on a door. Snapping a lock aims to gain access to the cylinder inside, which holds the locking mechanism. Once the thief snaps the lock, they can pick the cylinder open and walk right in.</p></div>

Q: Can someone hack a smart lock?

• <div><p>As with any computer, smart locks can be hacked by someone with the technical skills to do so, but most people do not have that ability, making smart locks relatively safe. If you have any concerns about a compromised smart lock, opt for an encrypted smart lock, change your Wi-Fi password, and make sure that you only give out your password to trusted family and friends. </p></div>

Q: How do you open a door with a broken key in the lock?

• <div><p>If part of the key is protruding out of the lock, you can use a pair of needle-nosed pliers or tweezers to gently turn the key in the lock to open the door. If the key is fully inserted into the lock, you may also be able to use a key extractor to help turn the key into the unlocked position. </p><p>But if the key breaks off halfway into the lock or you simply can&rsquo;t reach it to help engage the unlocking mechanisms, you should probably call a professional.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Locksmith Service pros in Charleston, ME

*The Angi rating for Locksmith Service companies in Charleston, ME is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Locksmith Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Locksmith Service companies in Charleston, ME is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Locksmith Service needs.

Last update on September 28, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
Mr. Blakely was polite and professional. His prices were much more reasonable than some of the larger fence companies in the area. He's a hard worker and a real craftsman. Our fence looks great!
Blakely Fence and Forge LLC
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Reviewed in May 2024
Jeff is a highly professional individual with a thorough knowledge and expertise and complete the report in a timely manner. We are so happy with this company code of ethics, we recommend him to you and anyone interested in obtaining an inspection on a new purchase OR you can obtain one for...
Defender Home Inspections, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
My phone inquiry for service was returned immediately by the owner of this excellent company. I was given a reasonable quote and was able to schedule my appointment for the very next day. This was a stark contrast to my previous calls to other companies where my questions about pricing and...
AIR MAXX HEATING & AC, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
Very polite and professional. Quick and expert advice and information. Will definitely call them in the future.
Sprague's Plumbing Solutions
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Reviewed in October 2023
Good folks, would hire them again if the need arises.
DG & Sons Painting
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Reviewed in October 2023
Hands down, best service and company ever. Very nice not pushy, had others say they could do it cheaper but for me it's quality and a job done right the first time. If you want quality and a job right call them, they are excellent
Mid State Masonry
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Reviewed in April 2023
Reliable, professional, detail oriented, and provides excellent work.
S & M Lawn Care
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Reviewed in January 2023
I have hired JNS Contracting multiple times to do different things. So far I have had my bathroom and my kitchen redone and plan to call again for my next project in the spring.
JNS Contracting LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
William does a great job and shows up when he says he will. He troubleshoots unique plumbing situations and comes up with sensible solutions. He is straightforward but has a public -friendly demeanor. Very professional.
Keyko Plumbing and Heating Services
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Reviewed in November 2022
Great job at a TERRIFIC price! I intend to hire him again for any future similar projects!
Brackett Properties LLC
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Find Locksmiths in Charleston

DP Painting

5.0(

)

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"He came right away. Could not solve problems, but he showed us what is wrong. Now we need a locksmith. ( No locksmiths on angi)"

+12

Response time6 hrs

Response rate87%

25 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1997

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"prompt, willing to listen to what I wanted but offered his knowledge of what might work better. will hire him again"

Response time2 days

Response rate86%

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Did not hire them because they are not licensed in Rhode Island to do that work. Angie does not screen them well."

Recommended by93%of homeowners

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Credit card accepted

"I needed consultation for this type of work and Security One did not provide it.
"

Compare our Compact Door Sensors to our Competitors

+16

Recommended by84%of homeowners

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"The gentleman was very knowledgeable and got the job done in a timely manner,an also downloaded my printer onto my computer for me.Greatly appreacited it."

Helping a Victim who was being Cyber-stocked

Recommended by91%of homeowners

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Protect America Home Security

3.5(

227

)

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very well, very professional .
"

Platinum Package - Protects up To 15 Doors / Windows for FREE

Recommended by64%of homeowners

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Choice responded quickly but the insurance plan does not pay for all doors to be re-keyed unless you have very few locks. The number of locks covered by the insurance is determined by keyholes, not doors! (Read your policy!) You will likely have to shell out some money to have this essential new-home service if you have more than four keyholes. The locksmith they called was EXCELLENT and made all our locks completely functional. We will happily hire the locksmith again (R.L Locksmith LLC). We paid $201.81 (plus another $50 for some door re-alignment not included in the re-keying benefit) and Choice paid $100 for the job."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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1privateinvestigator.com

4.2(

)

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Great job, appreciate his professionalism and quick response, I would hire again"

Recommended by89%of homeowners

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New England Home Renovations LLC

4.0(

311

)

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1983

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I have worked with Richard (owner) for about a year now. Before knowing him I was always confused about how to get some work done in the house. I never had a reliable person to turn to. Since knowing Richard I do not have to worry about whom to ask for any help I need around the house. I can depend on him to find the right person to do any job for me. It is almost as if he is a part of our family. We have put our house on sale and he made sure everything was well taken care of and we were completely satisfied. I would recommend him highly for any work. He has very skilled people working for him."

+37

Recommended by89%of homeowners

Serving Charleston, ME and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Credit card accepted

"The installer did a great job, cared about doing the job right. Very professional!
"

Recommended by63%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 41

Locksmiths questions, answered by experts

Smart deadbolts are a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking more convenience, flexibility, and advanced features than a traditional deadbolt can provide. While a strong conventional deadbolt offers sufficient security for most, smart deadbolts provide significant upgrades.

Key benefits include keyless entry via smartphone, keypads, or biometric sensors, and the ability to lock or unlock your door remotely. You can also manage access for guests by creating temporary codes, eliminating the need for physical keys and the risk of them being lost or duplicated. Many models integrate with smart home systems and offer features like automatic locking, entry-exit monitoring, and tamper alerts with encryption for enhanced security.

However, there are downsides to consider. Smart deadbolts are more expensive than their traditional counterparts and rely on batteries and wireless networks to function. This dependency introduces potential vulnerabilities, such as hacking by skilled intruders and privacy concerns. Installation can also be more complex. Despite these drawbacks, the added layer of convenience and protection makes them a compelling option for many.

Lock bumping is a technique locksmiths use to quickly and quietly open a pin tumbler lock, typically found in most types of deadbolts. It involves inserting a specially crafted key, or bump key, into the lock and tapping or "bumping" it with a mallet or similar tool. The force applied causes the lock's pins to jump momentarily, allowing the lock to be turned and opened. Unfortunately, thieves also use this technique to break into homes. Luckily, products like a deadbolt strap will fortify your lock.

Using a combination of tools (often store-bought plumbing tools) and brute force, a burglar can easily snap the lock on a door. Snapping a lock aims to gain access to the cylinder inside, which holds the locking mechanism. Once the thief snaps the lock, they can pick the cylinder open and walk right in.

As with any computer, smart locks can be hacked by someone with the technical skills to do so, but most people do not have that ability, making smart locks relatively safe. If you have any concerns about a compromised smart lock, opt for an encrypted smart lock, change your Wi-Fi password, and make sure that you only give out your password to trusted family and friends.

If part of the key is protruding out of the lock, you can use a pair of needle-nosed pliers or tweezers to gently turn the key in the lock to open the door. If the key is fully inserted into the lock, you may also be able to use a key extractor to help turn the key into the unlocked position.

But if the key breaks off halfway into the lock or you simply can’t reach it to help engage the unlocking mechanisms, you should probably call a professional.

The Charleston, ME homeowners’ guide to locksmith services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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