What does it mean for a Locksmith to Key-Alike?

Keying Alike, what does it mean? 

Keying alike means that you only need to use one key to open many locks. Keep in mind, however, that for you to key alike your locks, they have to all be the same brand. If you're not sure whether your locks are from one brand, simply insert that key into the lock.  If the key goes in, it can be rekeyed to that lock. Important to note is that the key does not need to actually open the lock, it just needs to be able to be inserted. 

Advantages to keying alike your locks

There are a few advantages to keying alike your locks. 

1. Convenience- You no longer have to carry around a large ring of keys with you wherever you go.  This can be especially important for a business owner, for example, who has many doors within their office building. Schools often have keyed alike locks on classroom doors. 
2. It can cost you less, in that you only need to pay for one key instead of many.
3. It can save you a lot of time.  Consider how much time is spent finding the right key on your keychain.  Add up all those minutes and the loss of time can be quite significant. 
4. If you lose your key, you only have to have one key made.  If you lose an entire key-chain and key-ring full of keys, it could be quite costly to replace them all. 

If you're still uncertain, check out the list below to see if your locks can be keyed alike.

Locks that can be keyed alike

Mortice Locks

Euro Cylinder locks 

Deadlocks – 3 lever / 5 lever

Sashlocks – 3 lever / 5 lever

Night Latches 

*BS3621 approved locks 

Furniture locks

House Locks 

• Bathroom 
• Bedroom 
• Home Office Door

Padlocks

*This is a lock standard for thief-resistant locks. These locks are often found on some front and back doors in the home.

If you're considering having your locks keyed alike, give Tys 303 Locksmith a call to discuss which options are best for you!