Master key systems

One key for the owner, one for the manager, one for each office. A good system is planned on paper before a single pin is cut.

How it works

Each lock is pinned so it opens with its own key and with one or more master keys above it. A typical layout has a grand master for the owner, a master for each floor or department, and individual change keys for each door.

A ring of brass and nickel keys beside several small interchangeable lock cores on a dark desk — Interchangeable cores pop out with a control key, so a lock can be changed in seconds without taking the door apart.

Plan it before you pin it

List every door and who needs it.
Group doors into levels: building, department, office.
Leave room to grow: new offices, new tenants.
Choose a keyway, ideally a restricted one.
Keep a key log: who has which key, signed out and back.

Restricted keyways and interchangeable cores

With an ordinary keyway, anyone can copy a master key at a hardware store. A restricted keyway means only an authorized locksmith can cut more, with your written approval. Small-format interchangeable cores (often called SFIC) let a lock be re-cored in seconds when a key goes missing.

Questions people ask

What happens if a master key is lost?

Every lock it opens should be re-pinned or re-cored. With interchangeable cores, that can be done quickly. It is the strongest argument for restricted keys and a key log.

Can our existing locks be added to a system?

Often, if they are good-quality commercial cylinders. We check each lock during the survey.

Planning a security upgrade?

Key-En-Lock surveys your doors, explains the options in plain terms and quotes the work.

Request help Call (321) 224-5625