A master key system is a convenient way to control access for multiple locks. It also ensures that a particular key cannot open another door by accident.
This is particularly helpful for apartment buildings where residents maintain individual keys but property managers and maintenance workers need to enter various rooms. This can also be useful in offices and schools.
Rekeying
When you have a master key system installed, it’s important to know how rekeying works. Rekeying is a process that allows you to control who has access to your doors and keeps your building secure. Rekeying your locks is easy and convenient, and can be done in a matter of minutes.
When keys are rekeyed, the pins and springs in the lock cylinder are replaced with ones that work with a new set of keys. This prevents previous keys from opening the door and provides a higher level of security in situations where keys may be stolen or lost.
Rekeying a master keyed lock can be done with a variety of kits available from locksmiths. Some of these come with color coded charts that tell you which pins to remove from the cylinder and where to insert the new ones. It’s important to use a kit that matches the brand of your locks for an accurate and clean job.
A master keyed system is designed with a “change key” that opens a specific number of doors and a “master key” that can open all doors. These key numbers are then assigned to personnel who will have access to the building. Then, when an employee leaves or changes positions, rekeying is done so the old key no longer works and the new one does.
Installation
If you are a business owner who has limited budget and wants to control access in your building, a master key system is an affordable solution. Our locksmiths can install a system that allows authorized personnel to unlock multiple doors with one key.
These systems work by incorporating a change key that cannot operate any other locks and a master key that will work with all the other locks in the set. There are different levels of access for each lock in the set and it’s up to you which ones you want to give out to each person.
If someone tries to break into your facility and access sensitive areas, a master key system can prevent them from doing so. It’s a great way to balance security and convenience for all your employees and visitors.
It is important to regularly lubricate your master key lock installing to avoid friction between the different parts and to keep the system working properly. You can choose from a grease or oil type of lubricant; both are effective. However, spray lubricants are easier to use as they do not leave behind any messy residue and can be used in a smaller space. It is also recommended to lubricate the key pin and driver pin with the grease or oil. You should lubricate your lock at least once a year.
Maintenance
Unlike standard locks that require a full key ring to access various rooms, master key systems provide convenience and improved security related to controlling and restricting access. These lock systems are customizable and scalable for every facility size and set of access permissions. With a master key system, designated keys can open multiple doors and even operate different types of locks such as door, cabinet, or padlocks (provided the cylinders are of the same type).
Rekeying refers to replacing the pins and springs inside the locking cylinder in order for new keys to work with it. This process requires a few tools, but is relatively simple to perform. Rekeying a universal keyed lock is also convenient because it allows for easy essential control in the event of change of property ownership or any changes in personnel with keys that need to be reissued.
It’s important to have a maintenance plan in place for all master keyed locks. This plan includes regularly rekeying each of the locks on your building’s master key system. Rekeying is a quick process that requires less than an hour to complete. It also requires a number of blank keys that match your locks, which are typically available in small quantities from most commercial distributors. These blanks are used to create new key codes and replace old ones that have been compromised or lost.
Replacement
When a key gets lost, stolen, or damaged, it can cause serious damage to your business. You need to take action quickly to ensure your valuable assets, including digital files and physical property, remain secure. This may require changing your master lock system.
Changing a master key system requires a professional locksmith, but you can conduct some of the work on your own with a few simple tools and supplies. You’ll need a can, pair of scissors, marker, ruler, and pliers. First, wash the can and cut off its top and bottom. Then, use the pliers to flatten out its aluminum sheet. This will create a large enough space to fit the key inside of it.
Most modern locks have pins housed in a cylinder and a slot for a key to insert. A cylinder that’s pinned for a specific key system will open for that key only. A cylinder that’s not pinned for a specific key system will accept a standard interchangeable core or conventional lock.
A patented high security master key system is designed to scale as the facility or business grows. It allows a single mastered key to open all or selected doors, reducing the number of keys in circulation and enabling dynamic access control.