
Locksmiths don’t only repair new locks and doors, some of us also work with those from years gone by. Restoration and repair of antique items is a very specialist area of locksmithing. If you need a old lock restoring to its original state, or an antique key replaced, a locksmith who is an expert at architectural ironmongery should be able to help.
What is architectural ironmongery? Architectural ironmongery is the term to describe the fashioning of items made from iron, steel, aluminium, brass or other metals. A more detailed meaning and history can be found here. Use of ironware in buildings has a long tradition, with local blacksmiths producing items for use in houses, churches and other buildings.
Antique Lock and Key Restoration
Ironmongery has a role to play in heritage conservation. I have had the privilege of being involved in restoration projects requiring traditional ironmongery skills to help preserve the history of the site. One of my first projects as an apprentice locksmith was creating, by hand, two keys for a traditional church lock. A task made more complex given that the church lock was worn. With old locks the problem is often with internal parts becoming worn out over time. Once the lock has been fully restored keys can also be produced using traditional methods.

I had to make the keys completely from scratch the old-fashioned way. It was all benchwork, cutting by hand and working by hand. With this type of ironwork, the intricacy of the items requires special attention to detail making it both a challenge and very fulfilling! I have handmade keys for churches in Thornton-le-Dale, Pontefract and Appleton among others.
Today I still work on everything from restoration and repair of antique locks to bespoke ornamental metal work and replacement parts. You may think having an old antique lock means you can't get a key cut, but you can! I specialise in hand cutting keys to fit all types of period locks and antique cabinet locks.
Cracking Antique Safes
Sometimes, an antique safe comes locked with no key. In these situations, understandably people are eager to see what lies behind the locked safe doors! As an experienced locksmith I can get inside to see that all is revealed. Along with picking old locks, I also restore and repair antique safes.
Whether you are a heritage site embarking on a restoration project, or someone looking for high quality ironmongery products for a period/vintage style property, I am always keen to provide the specialist ironmongery skills you require. Please do get in touch.
コメント