Can a Master Key Open Any Lock?

If you own a building that has many different doors, such as an office building, school, or apartment building, or you own a house that has many exterior doors, you may consider having a master key made. But, before you do, you may wonder if a master key can open any lock. Read on to learn more about what a master key is and whether it can open any lock.

What Is a Master Key?

A master key is a key that opens all of the locks in one building or apartment complex. For example, think about a school. Each classroom has its own lock, yet a custodian only has one key that opens every door to every classroom, gym, and cafeteria. This one key is called the master key. Or think about a hotel. A maid does not have a key to each room. Instead, they have one key, called a master key, which allows them to access every room they need to access and get it clean. One key that opens every door in a building or space is called a master key.

Can a Master Key Open Any Lock?

In order for a master key to work, each cylinder must have specially placed pins inside to ensure the master key works. This means that the master key to one office building will not work to open doors in another office building. It will only work in the building that has cylinders and pins designed specifically for the master key. This is important to note, because if any tenant in an apartment building changes their lock, the master key will no longer work on that lock. A master key will only work with locks that are designed and set up specifically for the master key.

Are There Downsides to Having a Master Key?

One of the downsides to having a master key is that it allows access to multiple spaces in one building. This means that if the key is lost and ends up in the wrong hands, one person can have access to pretty much every space in a building. If this is a concern, a master key system can be designed using a Restricted Keyway. A Restricted Keyway Master Key, and all other keys in the building can only be copied by the locksmith that designed the original system and only for people that are authorized on the list the building owner has on file with the locksmith. The biggest downside to using a master key is that every lock has to have the same cylinder and pin set up to work with a master key. This means that you may have to rekey your building if you are setting up a master key situation for the first time.

Who Should Consider Having a Master Key Made?

Master keys are commonly used in situations where there are multiple doors, and a few people who may need access to these multiple doors. For example, a janitor needs access to every classroom and space in a school. A maid needs access to hotel rooms. Or an apartment maintenance man needs access to every apartment in the building. If you are in a situation where individuals may need to access multiple locked spaces in a building, a master key may make perfect sense for you. Additionally, homeowners like having a master key. This allows them to have one key for their front door, back door, garage door, and shed, that opens every door, rather than having multiple keys.

What is the Most Common Security Feature on Commercial Doors?

In addition to locks, there are other security features on commercial doors. One of these features is a door closer. A door closer slowly closes a door, helping to ensure it shuts after someone exits a commercial building. Another common security feature on commercial doors is hinges. A hinge can be set to keep a door open, rather than having it shut. This is vital in case of a fire. It ensures the door can be kept open, allowing people to safely exit.

Can You Change Locks Yourself?

If you are thinking about having a master key set-up installed in your building, you may wonder if you could change the locks yourself. The average person can change locks themselves. However, it can be time-consuming, especially if you have multiple locks. You also may be unsure of how to set up the locks so that they work with a master key. A locksmith can arrange everything, including installing new locks and setting up a master key. They can install all of this in a timely manner, ensuring your new system can be used quickly.

To Get Help with All of Your Locks, Contact Express Locksmith!

Having a master key made can help prevent situations where locks need to be changed in case a key is lost. A master key also ensures that someone can access a building or apartment in the event of an emergency or when maintenance needs to be done. Master keys make a lot of sense for large commercial buildings, apartment complexes, or schools. However, in order for a master key to work, all of the locks in the building need the same cylinder and pin setup. Here at Express Locksmith, serving the greater Houston area, our team can work with you to change all of the locks in your building and create a master key that works on all of the locks. Contact us today to get started.

Categorised in: Master Key