🔐 OLD BUILDING VIRO LOCK PROBLEMS – WORN KEYWAYS, KEYS STUCK, JIGGLING KEYS, DOORS NOT CLOSING PROPERLY
Many older apartment buildings still use older lock systems such as Viro-style locks and similar older mortise cylinders. Over time, one common issue happens: the keyway becomes larger than normal due to years of wear and key copies.
Common problems tenants and owners may notice:
❌ Keys stop working properly
❌ Tenants must jiggle the key to unlock
❌ Pulling the key outward while turning just to make the lock open
❌ Half-turning the key then pulling it out to open the door
❌ Door not closing because the key comes out in the wrong position
❌ Locks working inconsistently between different tenant keys
Why does this happen?
In older locks, years of duplicate copies made from copies of copies create keys with cuts that become slightly “wave-shaped” instead of precise cuts. Eventually the lock wears to match these imperfect keys.
Clients often develop habits such as:
• Jiggling the key
• Pulling the key outward while turning
• Turning halfway then removing the key to operate the door
Over time, these habits and worn keys can damage the lock further and create security and operational issues.
OPTION 1 – REPAIR / RE-KEY EXISTING OLDER LOCK
If available, we may locate an older compatible lock (ex: older Viro-type lock) in good condition and perform a re-key service.
Re-key starts at $25.00 – $35.00
Example:
If a building has 8 tenants, usually we may need to work with approximately 3-5 different tenant keys and align the combination as best as possible so the greatest number of keys continue working.
Installation Process:
First, we cut the replacement keys.
The owner distributes the new keys to tenants.
Once tenants have their keys, we schedule installation a few days later.
OPTION 2 – NEW STANDARD MORTISE CYLINDER
Replace the old worn system with a new standard mortise cylinder.
New lock cylinder: $50.00
Additional keys: $4.00 each
✅ Standard lock
✅ Standard keys
✅ All keys precision-cut by key code
With correctly cut keys, it may take many years before problems caused by bad key copies return.
Installation Process:
Owner or janitor must be present onsite.
We install the new lock.
Because the door will be locked after installation, the owner or janitor must distribute keys door-to-door to tenants.
OPTION 3 – MINIMUM ECONOMIC PROTECTION – GMS SYSTEM
For owners looking for improved control and reduced unauthorized copying:
GMS Lock System — Starting at $139.00
✅ Controlled key system
✅ Tenants cannot simply go make copies themselves
✅ Keys must be cut through authorized owner control
Additional keys: $12.00 each
SERVICE RATES
📍 Appointment Service + 1 Hour Labor: $240.00 + taxes Add Extra below
⚡ Same-Day Emergency Service + 1 Hour Labor: $290.00 + taxes Add Extra below
🔑 Lock Options & Pricing
We offer different solutions depending on the condition of your existing lock and the level of security required:
- Re-key service (existing compatible locks): $25.00 – $35.00 (parts included depending on lock condition)
- Standard new lock (mortise cylinder): $50.00
- GMS restricted key system: $139.00
🔑 Additional Keys
- Standard keys: $4.00 each
- GMS restricted keys: $12.00 each
📧 info@serruriermontreal.com
📞 514-836-9097
Disclaimer:
We are not affiliated with any brand, manufacturer, or logo mentioned. All brand names are referenced strictly for educational and informational purposes only.