By Jalynn Bugaj
Customer Relations & Communications intern

When it comes to keeping doors and locks in check, F&S locksmiths have the key to success, making sure everything from squeaky hinges to secure entry systems are working smoothly!

On campus, the locksmith shop makes new keys or copies, replaces locks and door hardware, changes or repairs combination locks, repairs locks, door closers, and door hardware, and works with departments to create master key systems.

A Simple Fix for a Big Problem

Allison Payne, manager of technology support and training at the Gies College of Business, claimed that the middle, west-facing, Sixth St. entrance doors of Wohlers Hall, where she works, had been extremely loud and squeaky for several semesters.

“Any time class was in session in 152 Wohlers and the auditorium directly across from the entrance, the noise from those doors was bound to be disruptive,” Payne said, “It was a very loud, echoing, grating squeal, and it lasted the duration of the doors being opened and closed both manually and automatically with the access kick plate, so 3 to 5 seconds each way, multiple times an hour.”

Greg Granadino, locksmith foreperson, explained that the shop was called out to maintain these particular doors, specifically to address issues with them not closing properly and squeaking.

“It’s a simple repair. We lubricate the door hinges with specialized lubricants. We don’t use the typical WD-40, which causes more harm than good, as it tends to gum up rather than lubricate,” said Granadino. The process only takes 5 to 10 minutes, as long as that’s the only issue. Granadino explains that they also check all other parts of the locks to ensure they are working correctly.

This process is commonly used for other doors across campus as well. Ensuring that doors and locks are working properly is part of the team’s routine maintenance regimen.

Payne explains that now, after the doors have received maintenance, she feels a sense of relief each time she goes through them, a common entry between Wohlers Hall and the Business Instructional Facility, knowing that she’s not disrupting anyone by using that entrance.

“I work over in Wohlers Hall, and I wanted to send a big thank you to anyone on your team who has been working on our middle west-facing Sixth St. entrance doors recently and in the past. These doors have been very loud and squeaky for several semesters, and I’ve seen F&S crews working on them periodically, so I know how much effort it takes to keep them happy!” wrote Payne in an appreciative email to F&S, expressing gratitude to the locksmith shop. “I noticed before winter break, and again today, that they are operating smoothly and quietly again, and I’m so grateful! There are classrooms and faculty offices right there, and having the doors fixed will result in a most less disruptive semester for everyone. Thank you for all you do!”

Receiving positive feedback on their work greatly impacts the shop’s motivation and dedication. “We always appreciate feedback, whether it’s good or bad. It helps keep our customers happy on campus,” said Granadino.

Locksmith Shop Versatility and Seasonal Adaptability

“We are a specialized shop in a way that there are so many different reasons why we get called out for repair or installation. We do focus on outside doors securing, as buildings must be secured each night. We typically get called out after hours 2 to 3 times a week regarding a door not latching and securing accordingly,” said Granadino.

Seasonal changes, such as extreme cold in the winter, also affect door maintenance and operation for the locksmith shop. “It could be the concrete rising at outside door entrances, not allowing doors to open or close, and in extreme heat, making doors swell and hit the frame. Aging can also prevent doors from opening or closing,” recalled Granadino.

Advancing Technology: Electronic and Smart Lock Systems

The locksmith shop also works with electronic and smart lock systems, in addition to traditional locks. Granadino explains that these locks provide departments with a trail of who’s entering the building or specific rooms. These locks can also be scheduled to automatically open and lock based on needs.

Recently, the Irwin Indoor Football Facility, along with the Ubben Basketball Complex, has had biometric systems installed. So, in order to enter, you must have fingerprint credentials.

The locksmith shop’s dedication to maintaining and securing doors across campus plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, functionality, and convenience of the university’s facilities, providing essential services that keep everything running smoothly for students, faculty, and staff.