At present traditional keys are being replaced by keyless entry (such as entry codes, access cards, key fobs biometrics) and automatic locks. Therefore, access to locksmiths and related services is limited these days. Due to this, it will help to know where these services are available for traditional key users. Though groceries and hardware stores might be the first pick for most, did you also know that home improvement stores like Lowe’s also offer this service? In this article will see, Does Lowe’s make keys?
Lowe’s is a retail company located in Mooresville, North Carolina, the U.S. which specializes in home improvement. It began in and expanded ever since from a small hardware store to the 2nd largest home improvement supplies company in the United States.
The company sells many home improvement products ranging from Home decorations, furniture bathroom, Kitchen, plumbing, paint, hardware & tools, pet supplies sports fitness, and many more.
The company also offers many services including but not limited to home services such as flooring, fencing, appliances, countertops, and doors and windows.
Lowe’s offers duplicate key-making services as a part of the hardware department services.
Lowe’s Key Blanks
Customers can shop key blanks at Lowe’s. These are keys that have not been cut to a specific biting. Those who need a spare key can bring the key blanks to the locksmith to copy their key.
Lowe’s offers a range of key blanks with different designs like butterflies, soccer balls, and other logos to resemble the manufacturers’ lock hardware.
How to duplicate a key at Lowe’s
At Lowe’s spare key making is offered to the customers in two ways; locksmith’s services or a self-service kiosk.
Lowe’s locksmith’s service
It is encouraged to schedule an appointment to make at Lowe’s to avoid hassles caused due to not meeting personal requirement (s).
However, customers can walk into the store for a spare key.
- Meet a locksmith at the Lowe’s hardware section.
- Inform your need and provide the original key.
- Select the appropriate key blank.
- This can be bought at the store or preordered online.
- To order online, visit Key Blanks at Lowes.com
- Pay for the order using any mode of payment.
The total cost including the process of making the key and key blank will be around $5.
Self-service kiosk
This is a fully automated key duplicating/cutting service by minute key facilitated at Lowe’s. The process is less time-consuming and cheaper than meeting the locksmith.
Insert your original key to the one-minute kiosk key (a lime green machine available at the entrance). Follow the instructions as displayed in the machine.
- Select the blank after the confirmation of compatibility.
- The machine runs an evaluation to check its compatibility to cut the key.
- Make the payment.
This costs around $2. Customers can pay only via credit cards or by cash. When paying by cash pay the amount in exact change.
This takes only a few minutes but the duration varies based on the complexity of the key cutting from 2mins to over 15 mins.
- Receive the original key and the created spare key after the transaction completes.
Is self-service better than the locksmith?
The answer to this depends on customer requirements. The subjective decision of selecting one of these options depends on the nature of the original key (simple or complex), the brand of the key, additional preferences, and how soon the customer needs the solution.
- Receiving the service through a locksmith would be a better option for customers who prefer interaction with suggestions. Also, you can shop for other supplies while you wait for your spare key. However, this is more costly and time-consuming. In addition, the availability of locksmiths at stores is inconsistent.
- Self-service would be a great option for customers in a hurry. This is also less time-consuming and cheap. you will not be able to leave the automated machine for shopping until the process is completed.
- The performance of both methods is limited by the key brand. Each locksmith’s capabilities can vary but can be inquired about by making a prior appointment by delivering the customer’s requirement. The automated machine also has the same downside as it only allows popular brands like Schlage, Weisser, Titan, and Kwikset.
Are Lowe’s locksmiths available at any time?
No, Lowe’s locksmiths are not available at any time within the working hours as well as in any store. Therefore customers are required to make an appointment. Though some locksmiths are available their services might be limited to popular ones like Schlage and Kwikset. Therefore customers can call the local Lowe’s store to avoid inconvenience by informing your requirement to them.
The stores sell rekey sets in the event they do not have locksmith staff.
Conclusion
Lowe’s is a perfect place to get a key duplicated. It not only offers skilled locksmiths to prepare a quality spare key but also facilitates fully automated self-services to save customers time.
Frequently asked questions
What other stores offer key blanks?
The retail companies that offer key copying services include home depot, Walmart, Kroger, Sears, Kmart, and Meijer.
How to schedule an appointment for key cutting at Lowes?
Visit the website to find the nearest store to you. Click on the store location to view the store details including products, service, business hours, and contact details. The availability of key duplicating services is present in the in-store features.
The relevant store customer care division can be contacted for appointments and other details about the service.
Is it compulsory to make an appointment for key cutting?
No, But the customer can save time by avoiding long queues and traveling to stores without the service being offered.
What are the key blank brands available at Lowes?
Medeco
Kwikset
Hy-Ko Products
Hillman
Fanatix
BALDWIN
Axxess
Does Lowe’s duplicate car keys?
Yes, service is offered. However, only a few brands can be duplicated at Lowes.
Can I purchase automatic locks at Lowe’s?
There are many alternatives to traditional keys at Lowe’s. The most popular alternative is automatic door locks. There are several door lock brands such as Locky, Milocks, Kwikset, Schale, and Yale security available at Lowe’s. Customers can purchase as well as gain paid installation services.
