Our Blog

Unlocking Security: The Art of Master Key Systems with The Locksmith Company

In the heart of Knoxville, TN, Doug Hutchison, the owner of The Locksmith Company, recently undertook a project highlighting the importance of security, precision, and tailored solutions in the commercial sector. As a mobile, insured locksmith service extending our expertise throughout Knoxville and its surrounding areas, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier security solutions that meet each client’s unique needs. This time, our journey took us to a commercial building spanning three levels, each telling a story of its own, locked away behind 18 doors. This process took roughly 4 hours to complete, not including prep work.

The challenge was intriguing: a master key system for a commercial building with a total of 18 locks distributed over three floors. The system utilized the standard commercial Schlage SC4 keyway, a notable upgrade from the more commonly used SC1. For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of locksmithing, the SC4 keyway is a 6-pin lock system, offering enhanced security over the 5-pin SC1 lock. This distinction might seem minor to the uninitiated, but these details can help fortify a building’s security.

The task was substantial, not merely because of the number of locks involved but due to the absence of working keys for all doors left by the previous tenant. This hiccup required me to pick 5 of the locks.

Step 1: Plan, Organize, Then Rekey and Master Key

But let’s dive deeper into what makes a master key system useful and valuable for larger properties with many users. The heart of any master key system lies in its planning. It’s about orchestrating access control with meticulous attention to detail. Communication plays a pivotal role.

A master key system unfolds its true potential only when it’s crafted based on precise, comprehensive information provided by the company or building owner. This is why I emphasize the importance of a “sit-down” with the ownership or leadership team before constructing the system.

This meeting isn’t merely procedural; it’s foundational. It’s where we discuss and define the security goals, understand the nuances of access required across different levels or departments, and chart out a system that aligns with the operational flow and security needs of the business. Such collaboration ensures that the master key system isn’t just a mechanical solution but a strategic asset to the company’s security protocol.

Step 2: Generate The Master Key System Chart and Get To Work

In this particular project, the outcome was a seamlessly integrated master key system that not only enhanced the security of the commercial building but also offered a streamlined access solution tailored to the specific needs and structure of the premises. By utilizing the SC4 keyway and ensuring each lock was meticulously picked, dumped, and rekeyed according to the master key chart, we delivered a solution that stands as a testament to the locksmith’s craft: a blend of precision, expertise, and strategic planning.

At The Locksmith Company, we believe in setting ourselves apart from the competition. While Tennessee doesn’t require locksmiths to have a license anymore, we did possess a TN locksmith license.

Our commitment to excellence, coupled with our dedication to understanding and meeting our client’s unique needs, ensures that we’re not just providing a service but safeguarding a legacy. Whether it’s through the intricate workings of a master key system or the simple turn of a key, we’re here to unlock the potential of security solutions that protect and serve our community in Knoxville and beyond.

Remember, in the realm of security, the right conversation can be the key to unlocking a world of possibilities. Let’s sit down and discuss how we can fortify your world, one lock at a time.