This page is a compatibility documentation workflow. For device catalogs, use commercial storefront hardware. For power and commissioning ownership, use access-control responsibility.
Scope boundary
This article does not explain lock bypass, picking, impressioning, decoding, forced entry, or credential cloning. It only describes how GCs and glazing contractors collect the paperwork needed to order cylinders and cores that match an owner's existing master-key system.
What to capture from the existing system
- Owner or property-manager locksmith of record
- Keyway family / restricted keyway status (name only; do not publish proprietary bitting)
- Core type (for example interchangeable core vs conventional) as confirmed in writing
- Finish and trim series on existing doors that must match
- Which openings must be keyed alike, master-keyed, or construction-keyed
- Whether construction cores will be swapped at turnover
Compatibility documentation matrix
TEMPLATE ONLY. Fill from owner locksmith / hardware consultant letters. Not a project keying schedule. Not security advice.
| Item | Document needed | Owner before release |
|---|---|---|
| Keyway / restricted system | Written confirmation from locksmith of record | Exact keyway family allowed on new doors |
| Core type | Core specification or sample core (controlled) | IC vs conventional; who supplies permanent cores |
| Cylinder / housing | Hardware schedule + manufacturer compatibility note | Housing accepts the approved core without field modification |
| Finish / trim | Finish schedule + sample if required | Match existing openings where specified |
| Keyed alike / master groups | Owner keying matrix (private) | Which marks share keys; who cuts permanent keys |
| Construction keying | Construction-core plan | Who installs temp cores and who swaps at turnover |
| Electrified openings | Hardware set + access matrix | Cylinder interaction with electrified trim / egress |
Pre-order workflow
- Identify the locksmith or hardware consultant authorized by the owner.
- Request a written compatibility letter for the proposed cylinder/core on the approved door hardware set.
- Do not order permanent keyed cylinders from a photo of a key bow alone.
- Coordinate construction cores if the building will be occupied during construction.
- Record who holds temporary keys and who performs the permanent core swap.
- Keep proprietary keying documents out of public submittals when the owner requires it; transmit under controlled distribution.
How to ask for a keyed package
Send door and hardware schedules, elevations, and the owner locksmith contact. State whether ACG furnishes cylinders only, full hardware, or material-only doors. Do not email proprietary bitting in unprotected channels if the owner forbids it. ACG: West Palm Beach, Naples, Tampa. (772) 486-7711. FL CGC #1531993.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you match new aluminum doors to an existing master-key system?
Obtain written keyway and core compatibility from the owner's locksmith or hardware consultant, then order cylinders/housings that accept that core per the approved hardware set. Do not guess from key photos alone.
Who usually supplies permanent cores?
Often the owner locksmith or the hardware supplier named in the keying specification. Confirm in writing before fabrication release.
Does this article explain how to bypass a lock?
No. It covers documentation and compatibility paperwork only. No bypass, picking, or credential instructions.
What should a GC send with a keyed door request?
Door/hardware schedules, elevations, owner locksmith contact, and any restricted-keyway authorization letters under controlled distribution.