Q: How can I get a copy of my key without the original?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t have your original key, the easiest way to obtain a copy is to call a locksmith. For house keys, your locksmith has several options for configuring a new key: </p><ul><li><p>They can input a lock&rsquo;s identification code into a database to obtain key-cutting instructions.</p></li><li><p>They could analyze the lock cylinder to determine how to cut a new key.</p></li><li><p>They can create an impression of the lock cylinder from which to cut a new key. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: Are two door locks better than one?

• <div><p>You might assume that having two locks on one door will offer more protection than only one lock, but there may not be an advantage. While there&rsquo;s nothing wrong with having two locks if you feel it&rsquo;s best for your living situation, rest assured having one high-quality deadbolt installed correctly will offer a high level of protection.</p></div>

Q: What should I do if my key breaks in the lock?

• <div><p>If your key breaks in a lock, first remain calm and avoid forcing the broken piece further in. You may be able to remove it yourself if a portion of the key is still protruding from the lock. To aid removal, lubricate the keyhole with a graphite-based spray. Then, try using tools like pliers, tweezers, a bobby pin, or even a jigsaw blade to gently grasp and pull the broken piece out. If these methods don't work, you can't reach the key, or you're concerned about damaging the lock, it's best to call a professional locksmith for assistance.</p></div>

Q: Can I rekey my own locks?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-rekey-door-lock.htm">Rekeying your own locks</a> is a low-cost task that prevents you from having to replace the locks themselves completely. The first couple of times you rekey a lock may be challenging because this is an intermediate DIY task. You can purchase a rekey kit from most hardware stores, but make sure you&rsquo;re buying the kit from the brand of lock in your home that you&rsquo;re going to rekey. </p></div>

Q: How often should door locks be replaced?

• <div><p>Door locks should be changed roughly every seven years. The average lifespan of a door lock is <b>seven to 10 years</b>, so it&rsquo;s best to err on the side of caution and change them early, especially if they are showing signs of wear and tear. Examples of deterioration include visible rust and difficulty opening or closing the door. Some locks can work safely beyond 10 years, but it depends on how often they are used and whether they are exposed to damaging environmental conditions like precipitation or extreme temperatures.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Locksmith Service pros in Williamstown, VT

*The Angi rating for Locksmith Service companies in Williamstown, VT 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 Williamstown, VT 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 May 22, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Alex was extremely easy to deal with; polite, quick response & worked with me in keeping the cost within my means. His attention to safety was very important to me & he safely brought the huge tree down without any problem for our neighbors home or ours & more inportantly, for his safety & his...
Tree Frog Outdoor
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Reviewed in January 2024
Eric has done a lot of work for me. He's dependable, does great work and is prices are fair.
Marceau Home Improvement
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Reviewed in September 2023
Prompt and friendly service with a fair price. . I also asked for and received much appreciated suggestions for continued safety and security. I would recommend Vermont Lock and Key to everyone.
Vermont Lock and Key
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Reviewed in September 2023
Spencer and Logan O'Brien were amazing to work with. They, and their crew, were competent and trustworthy to be at our home during this construction job. Spencer is a very good communicator and responds to questions and requests in a timely manner. He was able to organize all the needed...
KBB Building and Electrical LLC
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Reviewed in August 2023
These guys have done work for me multiple times and I would highly recommend them. The owner put in a fence around my back yard, has done handyman work in my house and recently installed gutters! He is reliable, is here on the day and time he says he is gonna be and does spectacular work! He...
Northman Gutters
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Reviewed in August 2023
Ryder is very knowledgeable in his field. He is an extremely hard worker and completed the job in a timely manner. I would recommend him to any and all people who are looking for electrical work.
Vertex Contracting Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2022
Prompt professional and dedicated to do a service that satisfies the customer.Could not have been more pleased with the brush hogging that Mangan performed.
Mangan Excavation
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Reviewed in July 2022
Very quick response on the quote, excellent customer service, on time, very reasonable cost, high quality work and very pleasant to work with. I would highly recommend them and would hire them again!
Gutter Vacuum
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Reviewed in July 2021
Troy returned my calls promptly and did a great job for a reasonable price. I would hire him again.
Troy West Carpet Cleaning
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Reviewed in February 2021
Mike is a great painter and has been in the business for decades. He treats your house like his own. Mike does what he says he is going to do for a reasonable price. If u want things done right then hire Mike. And his work is impeccable and done on time and never leaves a mess. I have used him...
Painters in Paradise - Home Facebook
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Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The equipment is easy to install, no need to hire anyone. Any questions will be answered with a phone immediately. I never had to wait like other places. I was treated fairly and with respect."

Recommended by93%of homeowners

Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I communicated with Rob Calbo for services of a background check with CSI Secure Solutions and he was fantastic.
He spoke with me in a very professional manner and put me at ease right away.
The process was seamless and my request was delivered very efficiently. Within just a few hours of providing them with information, I was able to get feedback. Rob took the time to speak with me and answered all of my questions.
I will definitely be using them again in the future should the need arise, and I would definitely recommend them as being very efficient, professional and reliable.

"

+12

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Credit card accepted

"It was a great experience, fast, friendly, professional.
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Compare our Compact Door Sensors to our Competitors

+16

Recommended by84%of homeowners

Serving Williamstown, VT 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

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Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

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Emergency services offered

"Very professional.
Pricey but high quality and excellent customer service. The company and all service personnel and customer service are ALL in the United States of America.
The system is easy to use and any questions are answered promptly and completey.
"

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

Recommended by64%of homeowners

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1privateinvestigator.com

4.2(

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Serving Williamstown, VT 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

Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Prompt and friendly service with a fair price. . I also asked for and received much appreciated suggestions for continued safety and security. I would recommend Vermont Lock and Key to everyone."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Credit card accepted

"Serviceman was on time and did an excellent job.
"

Recommended by63%of homeowners

Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

SkyCover provides a total home security and automation solution that is 100% wireless with 100% cellular monitoring and no long-term contract. SkyCover monitoring includes interactive services for remote system control and access. Trust SkyCover to deliver with risk-free 30-day trial, free shipping and no long-term contract monitoring.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Serving Williamstown, VT and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"Their warranty cost and service prices are more expensive than a lot of other options. They hire out to contractors with terrible ratings and you're stuck with whomever they assign you to."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 25

Locksmiths questions, answered by experts

If you don’t have your original key, the easiest way to obtain a copy is to call a locksmith. For house keys, your locksmith has several options for configuring a new key:

They can input a lock’s identification code into a database to obtain key-cutting instructions.
They could analyze the lock cylinder to determine how to cut a new key.
They can create an impression of the lock cylinder from which to cut a new key.

You might assume that having two locks on one door will offer more protection than only one lock, but there may not be an advantage. While there’s nothing wrong with having two locks if you feel it’s best for your living situation, rest assured having one high-quality deadbolt installed correctly will offer a high level of protection.

If your key breaks in a lock, first remain calm and avoid forcing the broken piece further in. You may be able to remove it yourself if a portion of the key is still protruding from the lock. To aid removal, lubricate the keyhole with a graphite-based spray. Then, try using tools like pliers, tweezers, a bobby pin, or even a jigsaw blade to gently grasp and pull the broken piece out. If these methods don't work, you can't reach the key, or you're concerned about damaging the lock, it's best to call a professional locksmith for assistance.

Rekeying your own locks is a low-cost task that prevents you from having to replace the locks themselves completely. The first couple of times you rekey a lock may be challenging because this is an intermediate DIY task. You can purchase a rekey kit from most hardware stores, but make sure you’re buying the kit from the brand of lock in your home that you’re going to rekey.

Door locks should be changed roughly every seven years. The average lifespan of a door lock is seven to 10 years, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and change them early, especially if they are showing signs of wear and tear. Examples of deterioration include visible rust and difficulty opening or closing the door. Some locks can work safely beyond 10 years, but it depends on how often they are used and whether they are exposed to damaging environmental conditions like precipitation or extreme temperatures.

The Williamstown, VT homeowners’ guide to locksmith services

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