Your garage door key is a small but important item. It’s the only way to open your garage door manually, and if you lose it, you could be locked out of your garage and all the valuable belongings inside.

That’s why it’s important to know how to replace your garage door key if you lose it. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, from finding the right replacement key to making a copy.

What types of garage door keys are there?

There are two main types of garage door keys:

Tubular keys: These are the most common type of garage door key. They have a hollow center and are usually made of brass or nickel.
Sidewinder keys: These keys have a wavy pattern on the edge and are usually made of steel.

How to find the right replacement garage door key

If you know the brand and model of your garage door lock, you can usually find a replacement key online or at a hardware store. However, if you don’t know this information, you’ll need to take your key to a locksmith.

The locksmith can identify the type of key you need and make a copy for you. They can also rekey your garage door lock if necessary.

How to make a copy of your garage door key

If you have a replacement garage door key, you can make a copy of it at most hardware stores. The cost is usually around $5 per key.

To make a copy of your key, simply insert it into the key copying machine and follow the instructions on the screen. The machine will cut a new key that is identical to your original key.

How to rekey your garage door lock

Rekeying your garage door lock is a more complex process than making a copy of your key. It involves changing the internal pins of the lock so that it can only be opened with a new key.

To rekey your garage door lock, you’ll need to call a locksmith. The locksmith will come to your home and rekey the lock for you. The cost of rekeying a lock is usually around $50.

When to replace your garage door lock

There are a few reasons why you might need to replace your garage door lock:

If you’ve lost your key and can’t make a copy of it
If your key is broken or damaged
If your lock is old and worn out
If you suspect that someone else has a copy of your key

If you decide to replace your garage door lock, you’ll need to choose a new lock that is compatible with your existing garage door. You’ll also need to make sure that the new lock is secure and reliable.

Tips for keeping your garage door keys safe

Here are a few tips for keeping your garage door keys safe:

Make a copy of your key and keep it in a safe place.
Don’t leave your keys in the garage door lock when you’re not home.
Don’t give your keys to anyone you don’t trust.
Consider getting a keyless entry system for your garage door.

Conclusion:

Losing your garage door key can be a frustrating experience, but it’s not the end of the world. There are a few different ways to replace your key, and you can usually get a new key or rekey your lock within a few days.

If you’re not sure how to replace your garage door key, or if you have any other questions about garage door security, please contact a locksmith.

Additional tips:

If you’re buying a new home, ask the previous owners if they have any spare garage door keys.
If you’re having work done on your garage door, make sure to keep your keys in a safe place.
If you’re going on vacation, consider leaving a spare garage door key with a trusted friend or neighbor.

Troubleshooting:

If your garage door key is stuck in the lock, try wiggling it back and forth. If it’s still stuck, you may need to use a lubricant or call a locksmith.
If your garage door key is broken, you’ll need to replace it. You can usually get a replacement key from a hardware store or a locksmith.
If you’ve lost your garage door key, you can make a copy of it at most hardware stores. If you don’t have a copy of your key, you’ll need to call a locksmith.