When GI Locksmith got a call from a condo complex in the heart of downtown Memphis, TN, The owner of the condominium, located in the 38103 area, needed several services to ensure both security and functionality for the complex’s commercial doors and gate locks.

Upon arrival, the first thing we encountered was the gated garage door—a common setup for downtown condominiums. Past the garage, a set of stairs led up to the main entry. At the top was a large commercial glass front door, fitted with an Adams Rite latch and mortise lock. It had seen better days, and the door hardware itself was sagging due to worn-out pivot hinges, causing it to scrape slightly every time it opened or closed. The owner mentioned that locking it was always tricky, especially from the inside. That told us right away that the door hardware needed some serious attention.

Rekeying and Thumb Turn Installation

For starters, the owner requested rekeying services for a few condos that had recently been sold. The process involved replacing the existing keys for added security, especially important for new residents. In one unit, we found an Adams Rite commercial door latch with a mortise lock setup. However, it had a keyed cylinder on the inside—definitely a fire hazard. For commercial buildings like these, we always recommend a thumb turn latch on the interior side to ensure safe and swift egress in case of an emergency. We swapped out the interior keyed cylinder for a thumb turn mortise cylinder and rekeyed the exterior cylinder to fit the new setup.

Tackling a Sagging and rubbing Commercial Door

Next, we turned our focus to the main entry door itself. The door’s alignment was way off due to sagging pivot hinges, which caused the latch on the Adams Rite to struggle with catching onto the strike plate. We could feel the resistance each time we tried to lock it. A few adjustments to the commercial door hardware and pivot hinges were in order. Using our hinge adjustment tools, we lifted the door just enough to bring it back into alignment. With a bit of work, we had it swinging smoothly, and the latch now caught perfectly with each close.

Servicing the Gate Lock for Double-Sided Door Knob

As we made our way back down, the owner showed us the gate lock leading into the complex, which was outfitted with double-sided door knobs and a sturdy gate latch. This setup required a key to unlock from both sides, adding a layer of security for the gated area. However, it hadn’t been rekeyed in years. We took care of that and installed a fresh gate latch to make sure it locked seamlessly. A properly functioning gate lock is crucial, especially for buildings in downtown Memphis, where security is always a priority.

Throughout the job, we were glad to see the owner’s reaction as the various issues were addressed one by one. Each latch, pivot hinge, and rekeyed lock brought the property closer to optimal security and ease of use. With each adjustment and rekey, we ensured that the condo complex was safer, more secure, and more convenient for residents and visitors alike.

Below, you’ll find before and after photos showing the results of our adjustments and the new thumb turn latch on the unit’s commercial glass door. Plus, we’ve included a video capturing the smooth, aligned swing of the reconditioned main entry door and the fully functional gate lock.

For all your commercial locksmith needs in Memphis, GI Locksmith is just a call away. From commercial door closers to rekeying and gate lock installations, we bring reliability, expertise, and security to your business or property. Contact us for all your professional locksmith needs! We are guaranteed to be the most affordable locksmith in the Memphis, TN and surrounding areas! If you are looking for an emergency commercial locksmith near you, look no further!

Tools Used:

• Pivot Hinge Adjustment Tools
• Hinge Adjustment Tools
• Adams Rite Latch Tools
• Allen Keys
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Wrenches