“When implementing the initial key system in a new facility, should I go with standard cores or interchangeable cores? What’s the difference?”

Deciding on what type of core to use in a new facility is like almost everything else in the construction industry and based on each individual facility’s needs. Before deciding which type of core to use, let’s go over the basics of what each core does.

Standard Cores

Standard cores have a key cylinder that is fixed or directly attached to a lock. As seen here, the core is the circular section within the cylinder. While the initial cost may be less expensive up front, the cost in the long run is going to run higher than interchangeable (IC) cores due to the fact that a technician must be called to rekey the locks. The lock has to be partially disassembled in order to change the core and typically can’t be done unless it’s by a professional. You’ll also need to consider hardware compatibility; not all cores are compatible with all hardware.

IC Cores

IC cores are the figure eight shaped piece housed within the cylinder. This core comes with the option of a do-it-yourself rekey. A control key is used to remove and install the core, and as long as your store personnel have the keys for the old and new cylinders, a lock change can be performed in under a minute. The facility key system vendor will typically have the keys for the cores and can be purchased from them.

There are two formats of interchangeable cores  – small figure eight core constitutes small format and a large figure eight core constitutes a large format. They function exactly the same; however, it needs to be noted that a small format IC core cannot be installed in large format compatible hardware and vice versa. In fact, compatibility is a large deciding factor in deciding which cores to install in your facility. An IC core system must be compatible with all the currently installed locking hardware. An interchangeable core can’t be used in a lever set that currently has a standard cylinder in it. This is largely the reason that switching to an interchangeable core system from a standard core system can be costly.

Cores – Which One Do You Choose?

With standard and IC cores, there isn’t one that’s better than the other. They both simply have different ways of rekeying them. A standard core system is going to give you higher security options so if security is a deciding factor, you may want to look into this type of system. However, with an IC core system, the cost of rekeying is going to be reduced because this can be done in-house without the help of a professional locksmith.  IC core systems also make managing your key system much easier. You, as the facility owner, have access to your control key and are basically completely in charge of your rekeying options.