What is a Master Key System?
Master keys are something our clients are often fascinated with, and this fascination is often born out of confusion as to what master-keying actually does. While the nature of a these systems are quite simple, it does need to be carefully designed.
In general, a master key system is a system of locks and keys with multiple levels of access. The person who has the highest ranking key can open all locks within the system, while other keys can be made to just open a particular door or unlock some but not all of the locks within the system.
Keys in a master system
Master key systems can have 4 different types of keys. Listed below are the keys used in this type of key system, listed in order of least access to most access.
Change Key, also called sub-master key, opens only one lock or a set of locks that are exactly the same. The locks that can be opened with a change key can also be opened with a master key and all keys above that rank.
Master Key (MK) is necessary to change a regular lock into a master keyed lock. In some systems this is the highest ranking key. Without a it, there is one key for only one lock.
Grand Master Key (GMK) can access multiple master systems. This key will open every master system under it, and the subsequent change keys under those systems.
Great Grand Master Key can access all the grand master systems under it, the master systems under those, and the change key systems under those. In theory, there could be even more levels until the locks become too complicated to function.
What are the benefits of a master key system?
Master key systems are usually programmed for the convenience of those accessing the locks, in order to carry only one key to open all the doors within the property. This type of key system, often used in commercial facilities, creates ease of use and simplified organization. For example, the owner of a business can have access to all areas, while the employee could only unlock certain doors. Another example could be a homeowner, wanting to give the key to the gates and a storage area to the gardener, but not to allow them inside of the house. All of this can easily be done with master-keying.
Contact unlock Chicago and we will help you design your master key system
Designing a master key system can be somewhat tricky, as you need to plan it thoroughly. Fortunately, skilled locksmiths at Unlock Chicago are experienced with these types of locks, and we can help you implement them in your property without worry. All you need to do is tell us what keys you want to have access to which areas, and we will design your new master ky system it while you go on with your usual schedule.
Sounds good? Contact us, and let’s get your property master-keyed!
