Lock questions Fort Collins homeowners ask most

Short, practical answers from Choice City Locksmith, a mobile Fort Collins locksmith.

Should I rekey or replace my locks after moving in?

Rekey, in most cases. Rekeying changes the pins inside the cylinder so every old key stops working, and the handles and deadbolts stay as they are. Replace only when a lock sticks, is damaged, or you want to upgrade to a keypad or smart lock.

I'm locked out of my house. What should I try first?

Check every door and ground-floor window, including the garage entry. If a spare key is with a neighbour or family member, that is the cheapest fix. Avoid forcing a door; a split frame costs more than the lockout.

Are keypad and smart locks worth it in a Colorado winter?

Yes, with two precautions: use lithium batteries, which hold up better in the cold, and pick a model with a physical key or a 9-volt jump terminal so a dead battery never locks you out.

I lost my only car key. Do I need the dealer?

Usually not. Many car keys and fobs can be cut and programmed at the vehicle by a mobile locksmith, which saves a tow.

What makes a front door actually secure?

The frame, more than the lock. Swap the short strike-plate screws for 3-inch screws that reach the stud, and make sure the deadbolt throws fully into the strike without pushing on the door.