What to Do When You Lose Your Back Door Key

Losing your back door key can be a stressful experience, especially if it means you can't immediately secure your home. Here are the steps you can take to ensure your safety and security:

Secure Other Entry Points

Ensure that all other doors and windows are locked. This immediate action can help prevent unauthorized access to your home. If you discover that other entry points are not secure, take the time to lock them up to create a safer environment.

Use Temporary Measures

Consider using a temporary lock or a security bar on the door. This will provide an additional layer of security until you can arrange for a permanent solution. Temporary locks are readily available at local hardware stores and can be a quick fix to your situation.

Contact a Locksmith

Call a locksmith to either replace the lock or create a new key for you. This is often the most secure option, as they have the expertise and tools necessary to handle the task professionally. A locksmith can also help you secure other entry points in your home that may have been compromised.

Consider a Smart Lock

If you frequently misplace keys, you might want to consider installing a smart lock that can be operated via a smartphone app or keypad. Smart locks offer convenience and security, as you can control access to your home from afar.

Notify Neighbors

If you live in a neighborhood where neighbors watch out for each other, consider letting them know about the situation. This can help ensure the safety of your property while you resolve the issue.

Plan for a Replacement Key

Once you have secured your home, plan to get a replacement key made as soon as possible. Having a backup key can help prevent future incidents where you may lock yourself out again.

Review Security Measures

After resolving the immediate issue, consider reviewing your home security measures to prevent future incidents. This might include installing additional security features like deadbolts or improving the overall security of your home's layout.

With a bit of effort, you can secure your back door and your entire home. The safety and peace of mind it provides are well worth the time and effort. Remember, you are not helpless or just clueless. With the right resources and a step-by-step plan, you can quickly and efficiently secure your home.

Beyond Basic Security: DIY Key Making

For those who frequently misplace keys, obtaining a key for the existing lock can be incredibly simple. For a reasonable and capable adult, making a key for the existing lock is not an insurmountable challenge. Here are some tools and resources you can use:

KeyMaking Book: There are many excellent resources available online and in bookstores that can guide you through the process of making a key for your lock. These books often provide detailed instructions and illustrations to make the process straightforward. 1/8 inch round chainsaw file, a small flat file, and cylinder removal tool: These tools are required to impression the key. Start by removing the cylinder of your lock, then extract the plug with the lower pins still in place. Cut the key to match the pins, then reinstall the plug and cylinder back into the door. Plug follower: You can easily make this tool yourself if needed, but it can also be purchased from a locksmith or hardware store. Cylinder removal tool: You can make this tool for most common locks such as Kwik-Set or similar.

Impression key making involves using a file to carefully cut the key based on the existing pin heights. There's no need to shove clay into your lock! Simply remove the cylinder, extract the plug, and carefully file the key to match the pin heights. Once you have a working key, copy it. Impressions can be made quickly and effectively, especially with the right tools and knowledge.

Alternatively, installing a new lock is a straightforward solution that can be easily done by even an 11-year-old if the existing lock holes are already drilled. After removing the old lock, install the new one. Don't forget to rekey your back door or front door lock so that they are keyed alike. This means that only one key will work for both doors and any deadbolts you might have. By rekeying all your locks, you can ensure that only one key is needed, making it easier to manage and reducing the risk of locking yourself out.