How To Identify Old Door Locks

Knockoffs are blank faced like this one.

How to identify old door locks.

3 name on the lock latch. This mortise lock set is installed in a 1930 colonial in the boston area. Iron is silvery gray. This screw should hold the knob securely to the spindle when you turn the knob.

An old mortice lock may display problems and issues that are difficult to diagnose so you will most likely have to resort to the help of a specialist in the event of an issue. Notice the set screw on the base of the knob on the right. Is the lock on the chiselled into the door. Morticed or on sits on the outside rim what locking mechanisms are on the lock.

Genuine kwikset deadbolts have the name kwikset embossed in bolt s face plate on the edge of the door older ones say kwikset right on the faceplate of the lock. These can be rekeyed using kwikset keys and factory tumblers as key cylinder dimensions are usually identical. Bring a magnet with you when looking for padlocks. The majority of kwikset and schlage keys use different head shapes.

3 ways to identify your hour keys and locks. Metals can be identified by their color. If you re having trouble identifying your door lock type follow these simple steps. Check for a manufactures stamp on the lock face plate.

The keypad can be programmed to accept a numerical digit code that can easily be reset to a. Place the front door key for. The age of the building where the door knob was installed. Doing so will ensure that even if you cannot remember exactly where the key is you know that it is nearby.

Look at the edge of your door on the latch for a name. Brass is yellow or reddish. Many of today s locks feature a keypad with a code instead of an old fashioned key to unlock the door. Place and keep each key next to or near its matching door.

Meet the mortise lock and door knobs. 4 key head shape. In assessing the age of door hardware like hinges and knobs and locks it would be helpful to know. And steel is brownish gray.

Other clues and data regarding building age and history of modifications additions renovations.