Keys Made for Antique Locks 

Remove the Entire Mortise from the Door

If you are going to attempt to make the key yourself, or want to take it to a locksmith, then the first step is to remove the Mortise lock. Be careful and patient with this process, as decades of wear and tear may have weakened the metal. You should be able to locate two screws on the side of the door. Remove the screws and the doorknobs, and then carefully take the spindle hub and faceplate off. Or, skip this step entirely by calling an experienced mobile locksmith in your area.

Get a Skeleton Key Blank

The next step is to find a skeleton key blank. Some hardware stores carry them, but they are a specialized item and many locations might not have them in stock. You can also order a few online, though you’ll have to consider whether the additional shipping and handling expenses make this option worth it. A professional locksmith will have some on hand already.

Cut and Grind to the Right Dimensions

Some people may be lucky enough for the skeleton key blank itself to work in the lock. If not, then you will probably have to shorten the bit or grind and cut the correct notch pattern in the blank for it to turn the lock correctly. This step is relatively simple if you are getting a key duplicated. If you are starting from scratch, then it will of course be more difficult and time consuming, particularly for individuals without a lot of experience. You could end up going through a lot of blanks and become frustrated. Hiring a locksmith will ensure that your project is successful from the beginning. 

Put the Lock Back in Place

After you’ve correctly cut the skeleton key, and have tested that it works well, you can put the lock back into the door. The good news is that most interior mortise locks found in older homes will all use the same key. So, if all goes well, you might only have to go through this process once. Test your new key in the other locks to determine if you’ll need more keys. It might be a good idea to make a few spares, as duplicating the key will be much easier if you ever lose the original. 

Alternative Option

As mentioned above, if you have multiple mortise locks in your home, there’s a good chance the same key will work in every door. However, some people prefer more privacy and security than the original locks can provide. If you want to keep the aesthetics of the antique mortise locks currently installed, or if you don’t want to replace your doors, there are other options. A locksmith can help you find a modern mortise with an antique design. These kinds of locks will have a new style cylinder that can be easily changed out and matched with a more common key, and you’ll still be able to preserve the antique décor of the house. 

Do You Need New Keys for Your Antique Door or Cabinet Locks? Call Top Atlanta Locksmith 

Are you an Atlanta area home or business owner looking for antique key replacements? Contact the team at Top Atlanta Locksmith. Our experienced professionals can have your mortise lock ready to work in no time at all, for a price that will keep you under budget. Call today to find out what we can do for you.