Does Lowe‘s Make Keys in 2024?
Lowe‘s is one of the most popular home improvement retailers, with over 2,000 locations welcoming DIYers and professionals alike. When you realize you‘ve lost a key or need a duplicate made, the first question that comes to mind is: does Lowe‘s make keys? I did extensive research into Lowe‘s key cutting services, uncovering everything you need to know to get keys made in 2024.
Overview of Lowe‘s Key Cutting Services
Lowe‘s offers convenient key duplication and cutting services at neighborhood stores nationwide. According to a Lowe‘s spokesperson, 99% of stores have key cutting machines operated by knowledgeable hardware employees. Lowe‘s can duplicate or cut new keys for most common lock types during all open store hours.
In addition to employee-assisted key cutting, over 1,700 Lowe‘s locations feature KeyMe self-service key kiosks. These automated machines walk customers through duplicating keys themselves in just minutes. KeyMe kiosks accept credit/debit cards and are available whenever the store is open.
| Key Cutting Options at Lowe‘s | Details |
|---|---|
| Employee-Assisted | Available at 99% of stores during all open hours |
| KeyMe Self-Service Kiosks | Available at 1,700+ locations whenever stores are open |
What Types of Keys Can Lowe‘s Cut?
The home improvement giant can duplicate or cut the following common key types:
- House keys – Including front door, garage, sliding door, gate keys
- Apartment/condo keys
- Office keys – Including door, cabinet, desk keys
- Padlocks – Keyed padlocks for lockers, gates, etc.
- Mailbox keys
- Filing cabinet keys
- Door keys – For knob locks, deadbolts, storage rooms
Lowe‘s cannot duplicate keys marked "Do Not Duplicate" for security reasons. Employees are trained to deny copying restricted keys.
For automotive keys, Lowe‘s can cut basic manual keys only. The company‘s machines do not program transponder chips required for most modern car ignition keys. You‘ll need to visit a dealership or locksmith for this specialized programming.
Lowe‘s Key Cutting Prices and Blanks
The cost to get keys made at Lowe‘s depends entirely on the type of key blank needed. Basic duplicate blanks for common house or door keys start at just $2-$3 per key. More complex automotive key blanks with transponders cost $50-$150 each from Lowe‘s.
Overall, Lowe‘s offers very reasonable key cutting prices compared to professional locksmiths. Copying a basic key at Lowe‘s starts under $5 vs. $10-$15 from a locksmith.
Lowe‘s also stocks over 1,500 different residential, commercial, and automotive key blanks in stores and online. Blanks range from $1.25 for basic specs to $50 for high-security options. This extensive selection ensures you can get the exact key blank you need cut on-site.
| Key Blank Type | Price Range at Lowe‘s |
|---|---|
| Basic House/Door Blanks | $2-$3 |
| Automotive (No Chip) | $5-$10 |
| Automotive (Chip/Transponder) | $50-$150 |
The Benefits of Key Cutting at Lowe‘s
Getting keys duplicated or cut at Lowe‘s offers many advantages over using a locksmith:
Convenience – With thousands of locations and weekday/weekend hours, you‘re never far from key cutting services.
Speed – Automated kiosks and hardware counters deliver quick key copying in minutes. Wait times are shortest during off-peak hours.
Affordability – Keys made at Lowe‘s are cheaper than locksmiths for standard home/office keys.
Efficiency – Order blanks online for in-store pickup to get exactly what you need.
Accessibility – Assistance is available anytime without an appointment needed.
For simple key cutting needs, Lowe‘s combination of convenient locations, digital kiosks, knowledgeable staff, and fair prices provide a handy option for DIYers. The nationwide home improvement chain can duplicate or cut new keys for nearly any residential or commercial lock.
