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How long does a locksmith take to open a door?

Imagine coming home after a long day only to find yourself locked out. Your key won’t turn, or maybe you’ve lost it, and there’s no spare key available. Now you’re stuck on the wrong side of the door, with questions racing through your mind – what should I do now? How long will the unlocking process take?

At Sure Lock & Key, we understand that being locked out is more than just an inconvenience – it’s a stressful experience that demands a quick response. So, we’re here to guide you through it.

In this article, we’ll explain the locksmith unlocking methods, the factors affecting the timing, and how professionals can get you back inside without unnecessary hassle.

Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.

What Methods Does a Locksmith Use to Open a Door?

Unlocking a door isn’t as simple as one might think, especially without a spare key or the right tools on hand. The process usually requires a combination of unlocking techniques, specialized instruments, and experience. Professional locksmiths typically use two main methods – non-destructive and destructive.
Non-Destructive Methods (Preferred):
  • Lock Picking: This classic technique involves using tools to manipulate the lock's pins into position, allowing the door to be unlocked without causing any damage.
  • Bump Keys: These specially crafted keys can "bump" the pins into place with a little finesse, opening the door without harming the lock.
  • Latch-Slipping Tools: A simple yet effective method where locksmiths manually slide the latch back using thin tools specifically designed for the job.
man open a door with a doorknob
Destructive Methods (Last Resort):
Drilling: If non-destructive methods fail or time is critical, a locksmith may drill through the lock to open the door. This method requires replacing the lock afterward, but it’s quick and effective when no other options are available.
Typically, locksmith door-opening methods start with non-destructive approaches. It usually takes about 10 minutes for a locksmith to regain access to your home. Drilling may take more time, but it is only used if the lock is severely damaged, highly complex, or if time-sensitive situations demand rapid entry.
man open a door with a doorknob

What Affects the Time a Locksmith Needs to Open a Door?

Despite these general time estimates, the actual time it takes to unlock your door can depend on several factors, including:
  • Lock Type: High-security or poorly installed locks can take longer to open. A standard residential lock might take just a few minutes, while a high-security lock could take 30-40 minutes, even for a highly skilled locksmith.
  • Lock Condition: If the lock is old, broken, or jammed, the locksmith will need to troubleshoot first to determine the best approach. This can add some time, especially if non-destructive methods are preferred.
  • Multiple Locks: Sometimes, it’s not just one lock causing the issue. Many homes have multiple locks on the same door – if you’ve lost the keys to all of them, it will take longer to unlock them all.
  • Urgency and Method Used: The situation matters. In emergencies, a locksmith may prioritize speed over precision, using destructive methods to get you inside as quickly as possible.
instalation a new doorknob
While it’s hard to predict an exact door unlocking time, professional locksmiths always aim to get you back inside as quickly and safely as possible.
instalation a new doorknob

Speed vs. Precision

There's a common rule of thumb in locksmithing: a skilled locksmith should be able to open most doors in under 10 minutes. Yet, while speed matters, so does precision. We know you want to unlock the door fast, but rushing the process may lead to more damage than expected. Drilling might get you inside quickly, but it also means replacing the lock – and possibly some of the surrounding hardware.
At Sure Lock & Key, we believe in balancing speed with care. Our goal is to get your door open as quickly as possible while minimizing any damage. After all, the last thing you need after a stressful lockout is to spend more time and money on unnecessary repairs.

Summing Up

So, how long does it take to open a door? Sometimes, it’s as quick as a few minutes, and sometimes it takes a bit longer, depending on the factors we discussed. One thing’s for sure: we’ll get you back inside as fast as possible, with minimal hassle and maximum care.
Faced a sudden lockout? Looking for professional assistance? Contact Sure Lock & Key, and let us handle it for you! Whether it’s a quick fix or something more complicated, our professionals are always happy to help you get back to your day.

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