Key Cutting, Duplication & Replacement in Houston, TX
If you are searching for a key cutting and duplication service in Houston, TX, you usually need one of three things fast: a spare key, a duplicate for someone else, or a replacement because the original is gone. Express Locksmith Houston provides accurate key cutting, clean duplication, and professional key replacement for residential, commercial, and many automotive keys.
If you are locked out right now, start here: Emergency Locksmith Services. If you need car key programming or fobs, use: Key Fob Replacement. If key control is the real issue because keys were lost or stolen, the right security move is: Lock Change and Rekey Service.
Want a full overview of what we handle? Visit our Locksmith Services hub.
Fast Key Cutting and Duplication That Actually Works
When you search for a “key maker near me,” what you really want is a key that turns smoothly, seats properly, and does not grind your lock over time. We cut keys precisely and duplicate from the best available sample to reduce sticking, miscuts, and premature wear.
- Spare keys: backups before an emergency hits
- Duplicate keys: family members, staff, tenants, vendors
- Replacement keys: when the original is missing or broken
- Security guidance: when duplication is not the right answer
If you do not trust who has copies, that is not a duplication problem. That is a security problem. Start here: Lock Changes and Rekeying.
Key Cutting Service in Houston
Key cutting is not about making something that looks close. It is about cutting the correct bitting so the key seats fully, turns cleanly, and does not damage the cylinder. A poorly cut key can stick, fail under load, or wear your lock down faster.
What we can cut and duplicate
- Common house keys and standard deadbolt keys
- Many commercial keys and office keys (depending on keyway and restrictions)
- Some automotive keys (varies by vehicle system and whether programming is required)
What makes a “bad duplicate” happen
- The original key is worn down and the copy inherits the wear
- Inaccurate machine calibration or rushed cutting
- Wrong blank profile or poorly finished edges
For general background on how mechanical locks and keys interact, review an overview from LockWiki on pin tumbler locks.
Why Choose Us?
American Locksmith Association
Licensed and Insured: B-07357401
24/7 Services
100% Satisfaction GuaranteedKey Duplication Service in Houston
Duplication is the right choice when you have at least one working key and you need spares for family, staff, tenants, or trusted backups. We duplicate keys with clean edges and consistent cuts so the copy performs like the original.
Best times to duplicate keys
- Before a move-in, tenant turnover, or staff onboarding
- Before a key becomes worn and unreliable
- Before an emergency makes everything more expensive
- When you need controlled access without chaos
When duplication is the wrong solution
- You lost keys and do not know who has copies
- Keys were stolen or there was a security incident
- A roommate, employee, or vendor should no longer have access
In those situations, the correct fix is rekeying or lock replacement: Lock Change and Rekey Service.
Businesses that need organized access should also review: Master Key Systems and InstaKey Security Systems.
Key Replacement in Houston When You Have No Copy
Replacement is different from duplication. If you have no working copy, the solution depends on what the key is for and what condition the lock or system is in. We may need to originate a key, decode the lock, or recommend a rekey or lock change when security is the real issue.
What to have ready for faster replacement
- Photo ID
- Proof of ownership for vehicles or property
- Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN when applicable
- Any remaining keys or broken key pieces
If your key was stolen or you suspect someone still has access, replacement alone may not be enough. That is when rekeying or a lock change is the correct security move: Lock Change and Rekey Service.
For vehicle keys that require programming, this is typically the correct page: Key Fob Replacement.
Key Cutting and Duplication FAQs
Can you duplicate a key from a worn original?
Often yes, but worn keys can produce poor duplicates. If the original is heavily worn, we may recommend originating from the lock or duplicating from the best remaining key to improve accuracy.
What is the difference between duplication and replacement?
Duplication means you have a working key and need copies. Replacement means you do not have a working key, and we may need to decode, originate, or recommend rekeying depending on the situation.
Do you cut keys for businesses and property managers?
Yes. We cut and duplicate many commercial keys. If your goal is organized access, review master key systems for cleaner key control.
If my keys were stolen, should I just replace the key?
Usually no. If keys were stolen or you do not know who has copies, the correct fix is rekeying or lock replacement so old keys stop working. Start here: lock change and rekey service.
Do you help with car keys and fobs?
Yes, but vehicle systems vary. For fobs and programming services, use: key fob replacement. For lockouts and vehicle locksmith help, use: automotive locksmith services.
Need a Key Made in Houston Today?
We provide key cutting, duplication, and replacement in Houston with accuracy and clear guidance. If you have a working key, duplication is usually fastest. If you have no key or the key was stolen, we will recommend the correct security fix.
Houston Key Cutting and Duplication Coverage
We provide key cutting, duplication, and replacement service within Houston city limits. Call for availability based on key type and your specific situation.