Leave it to the professionals

The Hidden Costs of DIY Lock Drilling: Why Calling a Professional First Matters

Today, I faced a situation all locksmiths encounter, and it serves as a crucial reminder: I had to open a lock destructively because someone else had already attempted to drill it, unsuccessfully.

When a lock malfunctions, it can be incredibly frustrating, and the instinct might be to try and fix it yourself or call a general handyman. However, this particular job perfectly illustrated why that can be a costly mistake. The initial attempts at drilling by an unqualified individual had effectively destroyed the lock's internal mechanisms, making any chance of a non-destructive entry completely impossible. The very act of trying to force entry with a drill had worsened the problem, turning a potentially straightforward job into a far more complex and time-consuming operation.

For a trained locksmith, drilling a lock is always a last resort. Our expertise lies in understanding the intricate workings of each lock type, allowing us to assess the situation and attempt non-destructive entry first, preserving your door and frame. When drilling is necessary, it's a precise, targeted process designed to remove specific components without causing wider damage.

In this instance, due to the previous, misguided drilling, the original lock was so compromised that it left me no option but to perform a controlled, destructive opening and then fit a complete replacement. This not only took longer, but it also meant the customer faced higher costs for the additional time and the necessitated full lock replacement, which might have been avoided if the attempt hadn't been made.

The moral of the story is clear: If you're locked out or have a malfunctioning lock, please resist the urge to attempt a DIY drill or call someone unqualified. What might seem like a quick fix can often escalate into significant damage, increased costs, and prolonged inconvenience. Always contact a professional, qualified locksmith first. We have the right tools, the extensive training, and the knowledge to get you in safely and efficiently, minimizing damage and expense.