Door Hardware FAQs

Q: How do I know if my door is right–handed or left–handed?

A:

Stand as though you were outside the room. If the hinges are on the left-hand side, you need a left-handed door set. If the hinges are on the right, you will need a right-handed door set. 

Q: I recently installed my deadbolt door lock, and it doesn't work. What should I do?

A:

Usually, if the deadbolt doesn't work there is a problem with the tailpiece. When installing, make sure the tailpiece is horizontal when inserting it into the retracted bolt. Additionally, the dimple on the thumb turn shaft must point down.

If these fixes do not resolve your problem, please contact our support team. You will need to include photos of your installation.

Q: Can I get a single key that opens all my doors?

A:

Yes. If you're installing new locks, you can buy door locks that are keyed alike. Keyed alike locks use the same key for convenience.

If your locks are already installed, your local locksmith may be able to update them to be keyed alike.

Q: What is the product warranty?

Q: I would like to replace my Master Lock handle set. Will your current handle sets fit the holes already in my door?

A:

They might. Master Lock produced a variety of handlesets in the past. Our current handlesets have an 8 13/32" distance between the handleset bore and the lower mounting screw. If your current handle set has a different dimension, you'll need to plug the current hole and re-drill.

Q: Can one key open all my door locks?

A:

Many retailers and most locksmiths can convert all of your door locks to operate from the same key.

Q: Which grade of door lock should I buy for my home?

A:

We recommend a Grade 2 lock with a 1-inch bolt. All entry doors, including front, rear, and side entrances should have deadbolts.

Q: Why can I open my locked front door with a credit card?

A:

Your strike plate is misaligned. To prevent your door from being carded, you'll need to realign your strike plate.

The strike plate has a lip that prevents the side pin from manipulation. If the strike plate doesn't block the side pin, a credit card or screwdriver can open the lock. When reinstalling your strike plate, make sure that the side pin is blocked.

Q: What is the difference between Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 door hardware?

A:

The ANSI grading system denotes the durability and security level of the lock.

  • Grade 1: These commercial-quality locks are recommended for heavily trafficked commercial buildings.
  • Grade 2: These locks are recommended for heavy residential and light commercial use.
  • Grade 3: These locks are recommended for standard residential security.

Q: Where can I find the operating and mounting instructions of my lock?

A:

View the operating instructions for Door Hardware products.

Q: If my lock is broken, should I repair or replace it?

A:

For personal safety and security, you should always replace your broken lock with a new one.

Q: How can I purchase replacement parts or file a warranty claim for my Master Lock door hardware?

A:

Master Lock sold off an older division of door hardware products in 1997. While we are still honoring the warranty for these products, please note that we don’t have any replacement parts for door hardware made before 1997.

Please call 1-800-308-9244 for more information or view our current offerings.

Q: How long does it take to install new door locks?

A:

Most people can replace their door locks in about 15 - 60 minutes. If you’re having trouble with installation, consider contacting a local locksmith.

Q: How do I remove the knob and rosette to access the door hardware mounting screws?

A:

To access the mounting screws:

  1. Insert the included tool into the hole in the rosette and press the pin at the base of the knob.
  2. Pull the knob off.
  3. Remove the rosette by unsnapping from the mounting plate. You can pull the tab or carefully pry.

Q: I have Master Lock door hardware that was purchased prior to 2004 that requires warranty services. What should I do?

A:

The phone number for warranty claims on door hardware produced prior to 2004 is 1-800-308-9244.

Q: Where can I find the instruction sheet of my Master Lock product?

A:

View the instruction sheets for Door Hardware products.