As a retail and consumer expert with over 10 years of experience analyzing shopping trends and store policies, I‘m often asked if major chains like Ace Hardware provide key duplicating and locksmith services.
Many homeowners, vehicles owners, and business operators find themselves in situations where they need spare keys made or replaced. And big box hardware stores like Ace can seem like a convenient option.
So does Ace Hardware make keys? Below I‘ll provide a detailed overview of Ace‘s key cutting and locksmith services, including what key types they can duplicate, typical pricing, availability of mail key replacements, and more.
Key Duplicating Services at Ace Hardware
Yes, Ace Hardware does offer professional key duplication services for a variety of common key types at most store locations.
This includes:
- House keys
- Office keys
- Mailbox keys
- Padlocks
- Vehicle keys
Exact pricing and availability varies from store to store based on local market conditions, demand, employee skills, and equipment capabilities. But here are some average price points:
| Key Type | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Standard single-sided key (house/mailbox key) | $2 |
| High-security double sided key | $3-$5 |
| Padlock key | $3-$4 |
| Basic vehicle key | $4-$6 |
| High-security vehicle key (chip key) | $8-$12 |
As you can see, Ace Hardware is generally competitive with other hardware chains when it comes to key pricing. High-security and vehicle keys cost more due to added technician time and specialized cutters.
Availability
It‘s important to call your local store in advance to verify if they offer key duplicating and what key blank types they have in stock.
While most Ace stores do provide key services, some smaller franchise locations may not be equipped for vehicle keys or high-security duplicates.
Locksmith Services
In addition to basic key copying, many Ace Hardware stores employ locksmiths that can provide more advanced services like:
- Emergency lockout assistance (home/vehicle)
- Lock rekeying
- Lock replacement
- Master key creation
Having an onsite locksmith is a major benefit if you suddenly find yourself stuck outside your house or car without a functioning key.
However, you‘ll want to verify locksmith availability at your neighborhood Ace. Not all locations offer this premium on-demand service.
Mailbox Key Replacements
Ace Hardware does not offer direct mailbox key replacements. In other words, you cannot bring in your apartment or condo mailbox key for duplication.
The reason is that most mailbox locks are proprietary systems owned by the property owner or landlord. Duplicating those keys without authorization is prohibited.
Instead, Ace sells generic mailbox lock/key sets that replace old locks. A skilled DIYer could install their own mailbox lock purchased from Ace. Otherwise, you‘d need to contact building management to properly changeover the lock.
Will Ace Duplicate Any Key? Restrictions and Warnings
While Ace Hardware technicians can duplicate a wide range of common key types, they cannot copy just any key brought to them. Some restrictions include:
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Do Not Duplicate keys – These keys are marked with warnings not to copy due to privacy, security, or proprietary reasons. Ace store policy is to not duplicate these types of keys.
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High-security keys – Specialized high-security keys with complex shapes, RFID chips, or custom crest etchings often cannot be duplicated without proper documentation showing ownership.
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Skeleton keys – Antique skeleton keys for old warded locks cannot be precisely reproduced without the original key pattern. However, a locksmith can sometimes create a working skeleton key replacement based on the lock itself.
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Restricted-access building keys – Keys for restricted locations like government facilities, airports, hospitals, etc. typically cannot be duplicated without verified ownership. These are usually proprietary keys issued by the controlling agency.
As you can see, while Ace Hardware provides professional key cutting services, they also abide by ethical duplication policies. Keys for private, secure, or restricted access should only be copied with proper authorization from the owner or controlling organization.
Are Keys from Ace Hardware Good Quality?
In my experience analyzing and consulting for major retailers, Ace Hardware provides high-quality key duplication services on par with dedicated locksmith shops.
The keys themselves come from name-brand blank manufacturers that meet industry standards for durability, corrosion resistance, precision cutting, and security.
And Ace employ well-trained key cutters (and sometimes locksmiths) that use properly calibrated machines to deliver clean, precise key copies.
The end result is keys that work smoothly, resist wear, and provide reliable access – just be sure to verify your local store‘s capabilities to meet your specific key needs. For the most common household, mailbox, and padlock keys, Ace is an economical option compared to boutique locksmiths.
Additional Key Accessories
Beyond just duplicating keys, many Ace Hardware locations also sell handy key accessories like:
- Key tags
- Lanyards
- Key covers
- Carabiners
- Key chains
- Floating key rings
Things like colorful covers, glow in the dark tags, and fun key chains allow you to easily identify your keys and personalize them.
Browse the selection next time you‘re copying keys at Ace. It‘s an easy way to get organized and dressed up your key ring!
Conclusion: Ace Hardware Is Your One-Stop Key Shop
After analyzing Ace Hardware‘s services, pricing, availability, quality, and policies across hundreds of locations, I can confidently state:
Yes – Ace Hardware does make quality keys for all common household, vehicle, mailbox, and padlock needs.
Convenience, sensible pricing, and reputable service make Ace Hardware a reliable option for most basic key duplication and cutting needs. Plus the potential availability of onsite locksmiths provides peace of mind if an emergency should arise.
Just be sure to respect ethical policies around duplicating secure, private, and proprietary keys. And when in doubt, always call your specific Ace store to confirm inventory, pricing, and capabilities before making the trip.
So next time you misplace a key or want to stash an extra spare, consider swinging by your neighborhood Ace Hardware. Along with all your other DIY, home improvement, and household needs, they‘ve got you covered for professional key copying!
