Question:
I haven't got a key for my roll-over garage door lock.
To open it, I need to enter the garage via the rear door and operate
the interior door handle.
What would be the best way to get this sorted?
Answer:
I had the same problem years ago. If you want something interesting to do,
take the lock barrel out - they are usually very simple with very
few "pins". Get a key blank that fits and file your own key. Doesn't take
long when you can see what the pins are doing.
If that's too boring, take the barrel out, down to the locksmiths and see if
they can sell you a new barrel.
I usually find that I can swap the pins around to suit an old key
that fits in the lock. That saves a trip to buy a blank.
I also have a small drawer of pins of various lengths.
Give the top edge of the door a really good slap with both palms. It'll
usually spring open. That or just pull very hard on the handle.
Then when you've found how easy it is to open fit bolts at each corner,
not forgetting to mash the threads on what you fix 'em with so they
can't be undone from outside.
