The Schlage Lock Company has been manufacturing door hardware for decades. It is one of the oldest lock manufacturers in the U.S. Over time, Schlage locks have taken on many different forms as units were updated to reflect changing technology. It can be helpful to understand how to identify a Schlage lock, particularly if you are looking to repair or replace your existing unit. To identify these locks, look for features that are commonly found on Schlage products.
- The Schlage Lock Company has been manufacturing door hardware for decades.
- It can be helpful to understand how to identify a Schlage lock, particularly if you are looking to repair or replace your existing unit.
Check the face of the deadbolt. Most Schlage locks have the company name stamped into the exterior face of the deadbolt. Check the exterior side of your door to see if the name is stamped on the lock. If it is stamped with "Schlage," you know that you're lock was made by this company.
Open the door and examine the latchplates. These are the metal plates on the edge of your door that surround the latch or bolt. Schlage locks often have the company name stamped into these latchplates.
- Open the door and examine the latchplates.
- These are the metal plates on the edge of your door that surround the latch or bolt.
Examine the face of the lock cylinder. This is the area where you would insert your key to unlock the door. Some Schlage units will have the company name stamped above the keyway on the cylinder. This stamp will be relatively small, so check carefully to see if it's there.
Remove the lock from the door. Remove any screws you see that are holding the lock in place. From here, look for screws that are holding the cylinder into the lock. Once you are able to remove the cylinder, check around its outside diameter for any identifying marks. Some will have the company name or a specific lock model name either stamped on the cylinder body or marked on a label that is fastened to the side of the cylinder.
- Remove the lock from the door.
- From here, look for screws that are holding the cylinder into the lock.
Look at the key for the lock. Each lock brand has its own unique key shape, known as a "key blank." Check the resources section to see what Schlage keys look like, then compare your key to this unit. If your key matches along the top (rounded) portion, or bow, it is likely a Schlage lock.
Check for stamps on the key. Many keys are stamped with identifying numbers or letters that can be used to identify the manufacturer. Schlage locks are often stamped with "SC," which may be followed by a number. The "S" stands for Schlage, while the "C" stands for "C-keyway," which is Schlage's most popular keyway configuration.
- Check for stamps on the key.
- Schlage locks are often stamped with "SC," which may be followed by a number.
Compare the trim on your lock to those offered by Schlage. The trim of a lock consists of handles, levers, knobs and surrounding components that are visible on the outside of the door. Check Schlage's website (see Resources) to see if your trim matches any of those offered by the company. While many lock manufacturers offer similar trim, there may be some small identifying features, especially if your trim is unusual or elaborate.
Take the lock to a locksmith. Most locksmiths can identify lock brands simply by seeing the lock. If the brand is not obvious, the locksmith can determine the manufacturer using the keyway design or other identifying features that are not obvious to most installers.