How To Choose The Correct Keying Option
We are often asked the same question by first time customers... "When I order my locks, will all of them use the same key?". By default, eBuilderDirect will key all locks alike on a per order basis, the default keying option of "same keys alike" is chosen for you to accomplish this. This simplifies the operation of your home lock systems. Instead of carrying around a handful of keys to operate each lock on your home, you can use one key to open all knobs, deadbolts, handlesets, etc.
We do offer several other keying options to accommodate any special needs that you might have. Below are some other options available to you and the explanation of how or why they might be used.
Same Keys Alike
As mentioned above, this is the most common keying preference and is selected by default when adding items to your cart. With this option chosen all locks on the order will operate with the same keys regardless of the sub category (ie. Entry and Deadbolt). This is typical for most residential applications where occupants would like the ability to open all locks with the same key.
Individual Keys
With the "Individual Keys" option chosen, all locks on the order will operate with different keys. This is not typical for most, but may be used for storage closets at an apartment complex.
Master Keyed
With the "Master Key" option chosen, all locks on the order will operate with their own individual keys and then all locks will be "master keyed" to a specific key that will open all of the locks. This is typical for Landlords and Facility Managers. Each tenant/occupant has their own set of keys to open their lockset, but they cannot access other occupants locksets with that key. However, the landlord can open all occupant locks with the single "master key". Locks can be paired as sets and master keyed upon request.
Keyed in Sets
Often times home builders and contractors will order several homes or units at a time. While they may not need them masterkeyed, they will likely want each home keyed differently from one another. If this is a requirement for your order, please leave us comments at checkout indicating that the locks are keyed in sets.
Below is an example... this order includes 8 Entry Knobs and 8 Deadbolts.
| House # 1 | House # 2 | House # 3 | House # 4 |
|
2- Entry 2 Deadbolts Same Key |
2- Entry 2 Deadbolts Same Key |
2- Entry 2 Deadbolts Same Key |
2- Entry 2 Deadbolts Same Key |
In this example each home would have its own keyed alike locks that would not open each of the other homes.
For more technical keying requirements like builderkeys or construction keys please reach out to us at 704-489-2990 and we will be able to accommodate you!
Thanks for reading and happy shopping!
