Simply put, a lock cylinder, also known as a key cylinder, is the space where you insert a key. Turning it adjusts the pins in the cylinder itself. This shifting causes the lock to engage or disengage.
High Security Locksmith NYC replaces lock cylinders in Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York.
What types of cylinder replacements do we provide?
There are several types of lock cylinders available for residential and commercial properties.
Rim cylinder replacement
is part of a night latch system. In other words, it’s a standard unit where the lock is based on the outside of the door. Meanwhile, the interior comprises a knob with a turning mechanism to lock the door. A rim cylinder is inexpensive to replace.
A mortise cylinder has a threaded exterior and a cam. This is opposed to the rim cylinder bots and stem setup. On top of this, they fit inside the door instead of being found on its exterior. Strong and reliable mortise locks have been around long before the creation of the rim cylinder.
High-security locks replacement
are designed to provide an added level of protection against the primary methods of criminal attack. An example of this is a deadbolt cylinder. Instead of being able to lock the door from an inside knob or handle, deadbolts require a key to engage and disengage the system from the door’s exterior.
The Key in Knob (KIK) cylinder replacement
is actually the mechanism utilized in standard locks. It consists of the plug (where the key is inserted), locking pins, and a retainer to maintain their positions. This is enclosed in a case with springs and a plug cap. The K1K cylinder is normally part of a complete lock kit.
Baldwin Lock Cylinder replacement
Founded in 1946, Baldwin Hardware produces high-quality, hand-molded products. They feature KIK locks, deadbolts, and rim cylinders where the knob is separate from the lock.
Corbin Russwin Lock Cylinder
Corbin Russwin has been producing lock systems since the late 1830s. They currently make lock cylinders that are ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 approved. This organization of industry experts grades residential hardware according to security, durability, and finish. Corbin Russwin sells a variety of lock cylinders, including bump-resistant models, to prevent break-ins.
Ilco Lock Cylinder replacement
Based in North Carolina, Ilco sells rim, KIK, mortise cylinders, and high-security models like deadbolts. They are the largest U.S.-based key blank manufacturer. Additionally, they are ISO certified. This means Ilco meets qualifications published by the International Organization for Standardization.
Kwikset Lock Cylinder replacement
One of the most well-known lock manufacturers, Kwikset, has been around since the mid-1940s. While their specialty is keyless entry devices*, they still produce various lock cylinders.
* Keyless Entry Devices
Keyless entry devices have become the norm for commercial and residential entries. The advantage of this device, which utilizes a microcontroller (computer) to store a programmed passcode, is the ease and security of access. The disadvantage of a keyless entry is it’s run off of a battery. Thus, a keyed form of entry as backup is recommended.
Medeco Lock Cylinder replacement
Located in Salem, VA, Medeco lock cylinders have been manufactured for a half-century. They produce KIK, rim, and mortise cylinders with UL437 Physical Security. This rating from Underwriters Laboratories is a barometer for a keyed lock’s security.
Mul-T-Lock Lock Cylinder replacement
Like Medeco, Mult-T-Lock has been in business for over 50 years. They specialize in high-security cylinders for residential and commercial properties. All their products are ISO and UL-compliant. On top of high-security cylinders, Mul-T-Lock creates products that fit older type locks.
Schlage Lock Cylinder replacement
Schlage is another lock cylinder maker with a long history. Starting as a small locksmith shop in 1920, the company is now an international player in lock cylinders. Schlage produces single and double-layer (deadbolt) items that are quickly installed for added security.
Segal Lock Cylinder replacement
The first Segal lock was invented in 1912 by Samuel Segal. A New York City police officer at the time, he wanted to protect neighbors and residents from those who jimmied door frames to gain entry. Over a century later, Segal lock cylinders are still utilized. A majority of them are in apartment complexes across the country.
Yale Lock Cylinder replacement
For many, Yale locks are the torchbearer of the industry. Founded in Connecticut in 1868, it has received patents for many of its products. That includes Yale Lock Cylinders. Many property owners probably don’t realize their residences or commercial buildings are secured with the rim and mortise cylinders they manufacture.
Which lock cylinder is right for me
It depends on your needs and your style. Actually, the latter is a heavier consideration. You want the right design to fit your property. Thus, the lock cylinder installed in a front door plate should look good and protect your property.
Overall, you want to look for ISO and UL compliance of the company’s manufacturing plant and the lock cylinders. Though these don’t provide a 100% guarantee that they can’t be broken into, the compliance shows they meet or exceed the standards.
When does a lock cylinder need to be replaced?
There are a few reasons why the cylinder must be replaced. One is damage related to a break-in. In this situation, the party involved uses something other than your key to disengage the lock. As a result, the pins are damaged or broken.
Another reason to replace a door cylinder is difficulty rotating it with the correct key. This happens over time as the internal lubrication dries up. Additionally, this also results in sticking.
Then, your key can break off inside the entry cylinder. This occurs when you attempt to move the pins to lock or unlock your door. Though keys are made of strong materials, constant bending within the cylinder causes it to break.
Can I install a lock cylinder, or do I need a locksmith?
In the end, it’s best to bring in a locksmith. Particularly if you need multiple lock cylinders installed instead of a KIK kit. Generally, there are too many parts to a rim or mortise cylinder that you might damage.
Despite their regular use, cylinders are complicated machines. They require a key with specific cuts to shift the necessary pins. Thus, you want a locksmith to be the one to complete the installation. After all, they are subject matter experts who are trained and licensed for the task.
You want them there at the start instead of a moment when you incorrectly install the lock cylinder. Or worse, you break off a key because the pins don’t move. In those situations, the locksmith charges additional fees over the standard installation costs.
Needless to say, there’s more to locking cylinders than simply turning a key. So, review the information here several times before you select your next set of rim, mortise, or high-security cylinders.