Most people assume any key can be copied at the nearest shop or supermarket kiosk. Then they hand over their key and hear the words no one wants: “Sorry, we can’t cut that one.” It is a surprisingly common problem, and it usually comes down to one thing: not every key cutting machine can handle every type of key.
Here is a simple guide to the different types of keys, which ones an ordinary shop can copy, and which ones need a specialist, so you know where to go before you waste a trip.
The keys most shops can cut
The majority of everyday keys are straightforward, and almost any key cutter can duplicate them while you wait:
- Standard house keys (Yale-type / cylinder keys) — the common front and back door keys most of us carry.
- Mortice keys — the chunkier keys used in mortice locks, common on older doors.
- Padlock keys — for sheds, gates, lockers and padlocks.
- Window and cabinet keys — small, simple keys for windows, drawers and furniture.
If your key is a normal flat key with a jagged edge, you will have no trouble getting it copied. Bring the original in and it is a few-minutes job.
The keys most shops CANNOT cut
This is where people get caught out. Some modern keys are deliberately designed to be hard to copy, for security, and an ordinary cutting machine simply cannot do them. These need a specialist high-security machine:
Dimple keys
Instead of a jagged edge, dimple keys have small rounded indentations (dimples) drilled into the flat face of the key. They are increasingly common on modern front doors because they are far harder to pick. But not every locksmith can cut one, it takes a specialised machine. Some dimple keys also come with a security card or code, which you may need to have a copy made.
Laser keys (sidewinder keys)
Laser keys have a smooth, winding groove cut into the middle of the key rather than teeth along the edge. They are precise and hard to duplicate, and a traditional key machine cannot cut them at all, only a high-security machine can.
High-security keys
These combine advanced features, sometimes dimples and laser tracks together, and are built specifically to resist copying. They demand precise cutting on the right equipment, because even a tiny error leaves you with a key that will not turn.
Restricted or “Do Not Duplicate” keys
Some keys are legally protected, patented, or stamped “Do Not Duplicate”. For these, you may need to show proof of ownership before anyone can cut a copy, and some can only be cut by the original supplier.
Why the machine matters
The reason is simple: cutting a key is about precision. A high-security key has to be cut to an exact pattern, and the machines that do this are expensive and not something every shop invests in. Cut on the wrong machine, or cut carelessly, and you end up with a key that jams, will not turn, or even damages the lock. That is why it is always worth asking first, and going to someone who actually has the right equipment.
How to tell if your key needs a specialist
A few quick signs your key is not a standard one:
- It has round dimples on the flat surface instead of a jagged edge.
- It has a wavy groove down the middle rather than teeth along the top.
- It is thicker, heavier or unusually shaped compared to a normal house key.
- It came with a security card, code or a “Do Not Duplicate” stamp.
If any of these sound like your key, a normal shop will likely turn it away, and you need a specialist.
We cut the keys others can’t
This is exactly where we come in. At Ilford Dry Cleaners and Key Cutting, we have invested in specialist key cutting machines, so we cut the keys many high-street shops cannot, including dimple, laser and high-security keys, as well as all your everyday house, padlock and mortice keys. If another shop has already turned your key away, there is a good chance we can help.
See our full key cutting service for the types we cut and prices, or just bring your key into the shop. Most keys are cut while you wait, with no appointment and no call-out fee.
To check whether we can cut your key, pop into 85 Ilford Hill or call us on 07774 694552. If you are nearby anyway, you can sort your dry cleaning in the same visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all keys be cut at a normal shop?
No. Standard house, mortice and padlock keys can, but dimple, laser and high-security keys need a specialist machine that most shops do not have.
What is a dimple key?
A dimple key has small rounded indentations on its flat face instead of a jagged edge. It is a high-security key and needs a specialist machine to copy.
Can laser keys be cut?
Yes, but only on a high-security cutting machine. A traditional key cutter cannot cut a laser (sidewinder) key.
Do I need the original key to get a copy?
Yes, for standard cutting we need the original. Some high-security or restricted keys also need a security card, code or proof of ownership.
Do you cut dimple and high-security keys in Ilford?
Yes. We have specialist machines and cut dimple, laser and high-security keys that most shops cannot, as well as everyday keys.