Facts About Using Multiple Locks With the Same Key
In a nutshell, “keyed alike” is the term used by locksmiths to describe multiple locks having the same internal pattern so that a single key can be used on them. You either purchase a set of door locks that are already keyed alike or have your current ones retrofitted and rekeyed.
There are pros and cons to having multiple locks with the same key. If you’re thinking of getting keyed alike locks for your home, here are the things you should know:
Advantages of Keyed Alike Locks
The biggest advantage to keyed alike locks is the convenience they give you as a homeowner, especially if you’re already satisfied with your current level of security. Since you only need one key to open multiple locks, you don’t have to worry about which key works on a specific lock.
Disadvantages of Keyed Alike Locks
Although using only one key is convenient, it reduces your security and privacy. If your main key falls into the wrong hands, the person who has it can open all your locks. And if you ever lose your key, you may also need to have all your locks changed or rekeyed to prevent unwanted people from gaining access to your home.
Meanwhile, if you have multiple keys for the house, you may be able to restrict access to parts of your home to specific individuals. For example, some people would allow one of their neighbors to enter certain areas of their house for emergencies. The homeowner can restrict the neighbor from entering the garage or the bedroom by only providing them the key to the front door or gate.
Other Key Management Solutions
If you’re having trouble managing your house keys, you can also have a master key system. It can be used in residential and commercial settings. In this configuration, a master key can open all locks, while the copies can only open specific areas of the house or building.
If you don’t want to deal with multiple physical keys, you can try to upgrade to a keyless lock or a smart lock instead. These two can be opened with either a keypad or access cards. More advanced locks may use biometric systems to provide a higher level of security.
Knowing these pros and cons can help you decide on whether having your locks keyed alike is the right option for you. If you ever need a residential locksmith service that you can trust, look no further than Oliphant Lock & Smith. Give us a call to schedule an appointment.
