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Q. Is it worth fixing a lock
if it's broken? |
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A.
In most cases a broken lock
mechanism cannot be repaired. For peace of mind,
you should always replace your broken lock with a new
one
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Q. What is
the abbreviations for KD & KA mean? |
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A.
KD (Keyed Different) - an individually
keyed cylinder operated by its own unique key
KA (Keyed Alike) - Two or more
cylinders operated by the same key. This is ideal for
residential applications (i.e. front and back door)
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Q. What is
Master Key and Grand Master Key? |
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A. Master
Keyed (MK) - A system consisting of several
cylinders and each has a unique key. Within the
system, there would be one Master Key (or pass key) that
will operate all cylinders within the system
Grand Master Key (GMK) - This
is an extension of a master key system where the cylinders
are divided into two or more groups. Again each
individual cylinder has its own unique key. Each group
would have its own unique Master Key and to make this a
Grand Master Key, there will be one Grand Master Key (or
pass key) that will operate all cylinders
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Q. What is
the difference between a mortise cylinder and a rim
cylinder? |
A.
A mortise cylinder is installed by
screw in threads and is used on locking units that are
"mortised" into a door. Typical mortise cylinder
applications are motel doors and aluminums framed doors
on commercial buildings
Rim cylinders are installed with
long screws that hold the cylinder in the door from the
inside. Rim cylinders operate locks that attach to
the surface of the door. An example of a rim
cylinder application would be an inward opening or front
door
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Q. What does
the cam on a mortise cylinder do? |
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A.
When the key is rotated,
the cam (found on the back of the cylinder) will move the
locking bolt or latch
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Q.
How do I determine the length
needed? |
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A.
The length of a mortise cylinder
is determined from underneath the head to the outside of the
cam (see illustration below). Mortise cylinders should
reach the centre of a door but should not screw in far
enough to touch the cylinder or turn knob on the reverse
side of the locking unit.
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Q.
What's the benefit of
double cylinder deadbolts? |
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A.
People think that double cylinder
deadbolts offer twice the security as single cylinder
deadbolts. The fact is that double cylinder deadbolts
are only necessary for specialized applications such as
doors with glass on or near the deadbolt. Intruders
can break the glass, reach in and release the thumb turn on
single cylinder deadbolts. Since double cylinder deadbolts
require a key to lock or unlock both the exterior and
interior of the lock, ultimate security is enforced.
But be careful. Many communities prohibit the use of
double cylinder deadbolts. Make sure to keep a key
nearby and ensure that everyone in your home knows its exact
location
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Q. What's
the difference between Grade 1, Grade 2 and Grade 3 door
hardware? |
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A.
The grade of locksets is based on a
series of tests done by ANSI (American National Standards
Institute). These tests determine the durability and
level of security protection of the lock
- Grade 1 certification:
A commercial quality lock designed for heavy use in
commercial and public buildings
- Grade 2 certification: The
best residential quality lock, designed and built to offer
excellent security and durability for most residential
applications and some light commercial applications.
Grade 2 certification is highly recommended for acceptable
home security
- Grade 3 certification:
The minimal acceptable quality for residential door
locks. Most locksmiths recommend Grade 2 certification
for all residences
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Q.
Which door lock offers the
best security for my home? |
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A.
Security experts agree that a Grade 2
deadbolt with a 1" bolt and 3" reinforcing screws is the
best lock choice for home security. Deadbolts should be
installed on all entry doors - from front rear and side
entrances to all walk - in doors leading to your garage.
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Q.
What is a Profile Cylinder? |
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A.
A profile cylinder is a pin tumbler
cylinder designed to fit into an European style
keyhole.
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Q.
Where are they used? |
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A.
Profiles originated in Europe when
older locking hardware was retrofitted with a pin tumbler
cylinder. The design easily fits into existing
European hardware. This retrofit prevented the
replacement of very expensive doors. Today profile
applications may be found on upscale homes in the USA
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Q.
How do I determine the length
needed for a profile cylinder? |
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A.
For a more accurate measurement,
remove the existing cylinder from the door. Profile
cylinders are measured in millimetre. To determine the
length on the double cylinder with the cam in the centre
first measure the overall length (L), subtract the cam
measurement (B), and divide the length (L) by two.
This will give you the proper measurement for the inside (A)
and outside (C) of the cylinder.
To determine length of a profile
cylinder when the Cam is not cantered, measure the length to
the inside of the door (A) from the centre of the screw
hole, and the measurement to the outside of the door (C)
from the centre of the screw hole.
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