Master Keys: Simple Security With Convenient Access

Hotel managers, night cleaning services, landlords and business owners use master keys regularly to gain access to properties, buildings or individual rooms for a variety of reasons. They allow individuals to have access to areas that may be locked, despite not having an individual key for each individual door or room. Understanding how they work can give you an added sense of security if you know someone has one for your residence or business. You may also want to know how these interesting devices work if you’re considering installing them on your property. Cylinder Locks Are The Most Common Style Most homes and businesses rely on cylinder locks. These use a key to turn the cylinder or plug; the plug then turns a cam, which pulls the bolt that keeps the door securely closed. If the cam is turned in the opposite direction, the bolt is shot into place, releasing a spring that keeps the door closed. The most popular style of cylinder lock uses a pin and tumbler system. A section of small pins of various lengths rests in the plug; when a key is inserted, the notches push the pins up. The correct one will push up the pins properly so that the cylinder and housing align perfectly, allowing the door to open. How Master Keys Work For locks that need to be opened by two different people or groups, pin and tumbler locks can easily be customized. Change keys are made to open only a particular lock, while the master can open not only that lock, but others within a specific group. These locks contain an extra pin sometimes called a spacer that allows the lock to open because of a gap created that allows both types of keys to turn properly in the cylinder. This lets the person with the master open all the locks within a group, while others can only open the individual locks assigned to them. Advantages For A Variety Of Businesses Master keys are easy to use, allowing specific individuals access to numerous rooms or buildings. They are particularly convenient for businesses, allowing owners to let themselves into all of their stores or offices without having to contact a local manager when they are on the road. Individual locks can easily be rekeyed any time without having to redo the master lock or all of the others within a set. It’s very difficult to duplicate masters because of the complex cylinder structure of the locks. Most are also stamped “Do Not Duplicate,” and can only be created by the original manufacturer. Any time access may be needed to more than one location while still allowing individual access to specific individuals, a master lock is the best choice. Some examples of individuals who often use them include: LandlordsrnOffice cleaning servicesrnDoctor’s officesrnLaw officesrnChain store ownersrnHotels For security and convenience, master keys are a simple solution.