Frequently Asked Questions

Rekeying changes the internal pins of your existing lock so old keys no longer work, while replacing means installing an entirely new lock. Rekeying is more cost-effective and works well for homes, offices, and rental properties. At A.W. Gifford Inc, we often recommend rekeying when locks are functioning properly but key control is the concern.

You should rekey locks after moving into a new home, when keys are lost or stolen, or when a roommate or employee with access moves out. This ensures previous keyholders can no longer enter. Rekeying is a quick security update that doesn't require replacing your entire lock hardware.

Yes, multiple locks can be rekeyed so a single key operates all of them, which is convenient for homeowners and property managers. This service requires matching lock brands or compatible keyways. At A.W. Gifford Inc, we rekey homes, offices, and rental properties to simplify key management without replacing hardware.

A master key system allows one master key to open multiple locks, while individual keys only open specific doors. This provides controlled access for offices, apartment buildings, and institutions with different entry levels. The system can be expanded or maintained as your property's security needs change.

Cost depends on the type of lock, door hardware requirements, and whether you need high-security or electronic systems. Commercial-grade locks, panic bars, and access control devices cost more than standard residential locks. At A.W. Gifford Inc, we help businesses in Springfield select hardware that matches both security needs and budget.

A Grade 1 deadbolt with at least a one-inch throw bolt offers the strongest residential security. Look for hardened steel bolts and anti-drill plates. Professional installation ensures the deadbolt aligns properly with the door frame and strike plate for maximum strength and reliability.

Yes, experienced locksmiths can repair antique and specialty locks by servicing internal mechanisms, replacing worn parts, or fabricating custom components. These repairs preserve historical hardware while restoring functionality. At A.W. Gifford Inc, we work on vintage locks found throughout older Springfield homes and buildings.

Keypad systems eliminate the need for physical keys, allow access codes to be changed instantly, and provide control over who enters and when. They're ideal for offices, rental properties, and restricted areas. Electronic access logs can track entries, adding another layer of accountability for commercial properties.

The biggest mistake is failing to rekey or upgrade locks after moving in or losing keys, leaving homes vulnerable to previous keyholders. Many also install low-grade locks on exterior doors. At A.W. Gifford Inc, we recommend Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts and professional installation for reliable security.

Not always—fire-resistant safes are designed to withstand heat and protect documents, but many lack heavy steel construction needed for burglary protection. For maximum security, choose a safe rated for both fire and burglary resistance. We help customers select safes based on what they're protecting and where it will be installed.

Professional locksmiths use specialized tools and techniques such as manipulation, drilling, or scoping to open safes without damaging contents. The method depends on the safe type and lock mechanism. At A.W. Gifford Inc, we provide safe opening services and can change combinations or upgrade locks afterward.

Panic bars are exit devices that allow doors to be opened quickly by pushing a horizontal bar, required on emergency exits in commercial buildings for fire safety. They're common in schools, offices, and retail locations. We install panic bars that meet local codes while maintaining building security from the outside.

The process starts with a door-by-door access audit that maps exactly which employees need entry to which areas, then builds a key hierarchy — grandmaster, master, sub-master, and change keys — so each person only opens the doors their role requires. Restricted keyways are used throughout to prevent unauthorized duplication. A.W. Gifford handles this design work in-house for Springfield-area businesses.

A locksmith with dedicated commercial experience understands grade-rated hardware, building code requirements, and how individual locks fit into a larger access-control plan — not just how to install a single deadbolt. That system-level knowledge matters especially when a business needs consistent security across multiple entry points.

Master key systems scale to fit businesses of almost any size, from a two-suite office to a multi-department facility. Even a small business with just a handful of doors can benefit if different employees legitimately need access to different areas, since the system removes the need to carry or manage separate keys for every lock.