01902 737 672
Knowledge Hub +
Frequently Asked Questions
Contents
Click below to skip to a section
Still Have A Question?
Master Key System FAQ's
Which Master Key System Would Benefit Me?
A basic master key system is a mechanical access system whereby a single key (master key) can open all the doors with cylinder locks within a complex or business. While the individual locks can have their own keys opening just that door and no other.
Key control systems are ideal for projects such as schools where there are multiple users who need access to selected areas, but each individual lock doesn’t have its own key.
e.g.
- Headteacher holds the master key and can enter all cylinders on the suite
- English teacher holds a key that will open all cylinders in the English block but no cylinders in any other blocks. (unless otherwise stated)
- Maths teacher holds a key that will open all cylinders in the Maths block but not cylinders in any other blocks. (unless otherwise stated)
Master key systems with sub keys are ideal for projects such as care homes where there are multiple users who need access to selected areas, but the individual locks need to have their own keys.
e.g.
- Care Home Manager holds the master key and can enter all cylinders on the suite.
- Carer who takes care of residents on floor 1 will hold a key that can open all doors on floor 1 and nowhere else.
- Cleaner holds a key that can get into only the communal areas which they need to clean and nowhere else.
- Kitchen staff hold a key that get them in to the kitchen and dining areas but nowhere else.
- Residents will hold a key that opens their own room ONLY but nowhere else.
Master key systems that include common cylinders are ideal for projects such as HMO’s
e.g.
- The landlord can hold the master key which can be used to gain access to all cylinders on the suite.
- The front door will be fitted with a common cylinder enabling the residents to access the main front door or any communal areas that are also fitted with a common cylinder and their own bedroom door ONLY but have no access to other occupants’ bedrooms.
Please bear in mind that common cylinders are built with convenience in mind. We would advise against common cylinders and recommend a 2 key system is put in place whereby the tenants will have a key to the entrance door and a separate key for their bedroom as this minimises the amount of moving components inside the main entrance cylinder and increases the cylinders life expectancy.
For a more detailed explanation of master keys systems please see our ‘Master Keys Explained’ sheets in the download section of our website here.
Can I Mix Different Types Of Cylinders Under The Same Master Key System?
Yes, you can mix cylinder types. In our Adapta range we have Euro, Oval, Scandinavian, Rim & Threaded cylinders available as well as high security padlocks.
Can I Have Cylinders Keyed Alike Under A Master Key?
Yes, keyed alike cylinders are available whilst also being operated by a master key.
Can I Have Cylinders Under A Master Key That Can Be Operated By More Than One Key?
Yes, cylinders under a master key can be operated by multiple subs if required.
How Many Different Keys / Cylinders Are Avaialble On A Master Key System?
The availability of different keys/cylinders that is available on any master key system depends on the complexity of the suite. (i.e. How many sub masters or common cylinders are required). It is possible to produce a system where more than 3000 key changes are achieved on a basic master key system although we would need to know at the time of first order of such requirements.
Cylinder Lock FAQ's
What Is A Common Cylinder?
Common cylinders are widely used for main doors. These cylinders allow for multiple keys to operate them. For example, a large house has been converted into apartments (HMO) Each tenant needs a key to operate their own bedroom and the main entrance (Common Cylinder) but no other bedrooms.
Please see our ‘Cylinder Operations’ sheet in the download section of our website here.
What Are The Different Types Of Cylinders Available?
The most popular cylinder types are euro & oval profile cylinder & turns, double cylinders and single cylinders, as shown in the diagrams below. There are other cylinder options available.
How Do I Size A Cylinder?
For a downloadable copy of ‘How to size a cylinder’ please see the download section of our website here
For a downloadable copy of ‘How to size a cylinder’ please see the download section of our website here
For a downloadable copy of ‘How to size a cylinder’ please see the download section of our website here
What Standard Are Your Door Cylinders?
All our cylinders here at MKS are accredited to BSEN1303 2005.
Are There Other Thumb Turn Available on The Cylinders?
Yes, we have a large disabled (DDA) turn, an anti-ligature turn, and a barrel turn available at an extra cost.
What Is the Best Way to Maintain My Cylinders?
We recommend the cylinders are maintained regularly with a SILICONE based lubricant. We advise against the standard WD40 oil-based spray as this can cause a sticky build up in the cylinder. please see our ‘How to maintain my cylinder’ sheet in the download section of our website here.
Adapta FAQ's
What Finishes Are Available on The Adapta Cylinders?
Our Adapta cylinders come in standard finish of nickel plate. They are available in special finishes which include Satin Brass, Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Dark Bronze & Polished Chrome. Other finishes are available on request.
Please see our ‘Finishes’ sheet in the download section of our website here.
What Is the Warranty on Adapta Cylinders?
We offer a 12 month no quibble warranty. For further warranty information please see our ‘Warranty’ sheet in the download section of our website here.
General FAQ's
Can I Purchase Key Blanks?
No, we do not supply key blanks only cut keys as every key we supply is a first cut.
Can I Get Keys Cut Elsewhere?
Only our open profile range can be cut elsewhere, although they will be on compatible key blanks. Due to this we would not guarantee the operation of the cylinders when used with non-original copy cut keys.
What Is the Difference Between Open Profile & Restricted Profile?
Open profile key section is readily available local in reputable key bars whereas restricted and patented keys are only available to be cut from ourselves.
What Is the Difference Between Anti Barricade/Clutch & Classroom?
These are cylinder and turns that operate the same as normal cylinder & turns except that if someone inside holds the turn knob the key will still over-ride and operate the cam.
These cylinders will only unlock a certain way using the turn either clockwise or anti-clockwise. Customers would need to inform us of how they require them handing or how the door is hung.
A door hinged on the left opening inwards or outward is a ACW (Anti-Clockwise Opening).
A door hinged on the right opening inwards or outwards is a CW (Clockwise Opening).
These cylinders are all fitted with the clutch/anti barricade function (as above) and are ideal for a classroom. For examples if the teacher leaves the room and locks the door behind them, pupils are still able to unlock the door. If a teacher leaves the room, pupils are not able to lock the door so there for won’t be able to lock the teacher out.
These cylinders work as the handed classroom cylinders but are sent out on to site with a kit and instructions allowing the handing of the cylinder to be changed on site.
Would I Be Able to Add Additional Cylinders and Keys to A System Later?
Yes, additional cylinders can be added into a master key suite later. We always allow for at least 20% growth on systems although basic suites may have much more than this available.
Can I Purchase Other Door Hardware From MKS?
Yes, MKS can source various items such as Door Handles, Lock Cases, Escutcheons & Hinges etc.
Order FAQ's
What Payment Methods Are Accepted?
Pro-forma accounts are to be paid at the time of order by either BACS/Electronic transfer or Card Payment. Please note that card payments are subject to a surcharge of 4%.
The payment details are supplied at the point of order.
Do I Have to Have an Account to Order?
No, we deal with trade customers, Landlords as well as the public. If you would like a quotation, please send a request to sales@masterkeysystems.co.uk or use the contact link on our website.
How Long Will It Take to Receive My Order?
We aim to complete all orders within 2-3 days ready for collection or despatch by courier. This is subject to stock and availability.
Is There a Fitting Service Available?
Yes, Installation is available from an associate company
Have more questions? Get in touch!
Alternatively, you may wish to call our team on 01902 737 672 or email us via sales@masterkeysystems.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.