There are several different types of commercial door locks on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits. If you want to pick a commercial door lock, it’s important to know which one will best meet your needs depending on the nature of your business and the level of security you want.
What Is a Commercial Grade Lock?
A commercial-grade lock has a higher rating, as determined by the Builders Home Manufacturers Association, the official trade association for builders’ hardware manufacturers.
When it comes to picking a lock, there are three grades: 1, 2, and 3. The Association considers six factors while grading locks: operational (which assesses how easily the door will close when pushed hard), strength, cycles (the number of uses a lock can endure before it needs to be replaced), security, evaluation of material, and finish.
Grade 3 locks
A standard-level type of lock that is frequently utilized on residential doors. They’re also popular in areas with little traffic, such as supply closets and offices without expensive equipment.
Grade 2 locks
Locks in this category are suitable for residential areas with more foot traffic, such as a door into an apartment complex. Some businesses may also utilize Grade 2 locks to secure sensitive locations, such as offices or doors to storage rooms containing valuable goods, equipment, or other materials.
Grade 1 locks
These locks are the most secure type. Commercial door locks with this grade have the highest level of security and are installed in busy areas like schools, hospitals, and museums. Grade 1 locks are expected to last longer than lower-graded ones.
A grade one lock can endure about a million or more opens and closings. The second and third-level locks may be opened and closed 800,000 times each. A grade one lock can resist up to 10 knob strikes: each of 75 foot pounds of force. The door is described as being 1 inch from a degree one bolt. The latch of the one and three degrees is intended to be 1.2 inches away from the door. Five strikes can be endured by grade two shockproof doorknobs, while grade three locks may withstand two hits.
Different Types of Commercial Door Locks
Commercial door locks are made up of six distinct varieties: commercial strike, keyless entrance, magnetic locks, door closers, restricted key systems, and master key systems. Electric operation is used for commercial strike locks. It has an intercom system or a bell. Visitors must first ring the bell and then be let in. This sort is commonly utilized in doctor’s offices, law firms, and daycare centers. It’s a security device that businesses employ to keep their employees safe and to know who is coming and going into.
The term “keyless entry” is self-explanatory. There is no need for a key to get in, yet a passcode or security number will be required. When there are no functional levers or doorknobs, the magnetic lock is utilized. The magnet is located above the frame and operates via a sensor. This sort of lock is often installed in revolving doors. The restricted key systems are one of the most secure, since only a set number of times may be copied by an authorized individual. Commercial buildings generally utilize door closers. When someone walks through it, it automatically shuts. The master key system allows for limited access to specific areas within the facility. Individuals who have been given access to a certain area or door are recorded in this system.
Which Grade of Commercial Door Lock Is Best for You?
After you’ve chosen the grade of lock that’s appropriate for your business, the next step is to learn about the many sorts of locks available. The following are some examples of common commercial-grade locks: mortise locks, cylindrical lever locks, panic bars or crash bars, keypad door locks, and commercial electric strike locks.
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks are popular among businesses with a lot of foot traffic since they are said to be long-lasting and efficient. The cylinder, which takes the key, and the body, which contains the locking mechanism, are both parts of this system. Because it has a reputation for withstanding constant usage, this type of lock is widely used commercially.
Keypad Door Locks
Keypad door locks are ideal for allowing several people access to a secure space without having to give each one a key. Some more contemporary versions may improve security by automatically locking after a specified number of incorrect entries into the code. The Keypad door locks can frequently be installed on any typical door, although they are sometimes more expensive than traditional locks.
Commercial Panic Crash Bar
The panic or crash bar is frequently seen in commercial enterprises. To open a door with one of these, all you have to do is push it in. They’re also used for emergency situations. Panic bars have been known to be utilized in areas with specific fire requirements. They are also long-lasting, but they need significant care to ensure that they function if there is ever an emergency.
Cylindrical Lever Locks
The cylindrical lever lock moves through the entire door, and it’s a popular choice due to its ease of installation. The cylindrical lever is also popular since there are so many design choices, allowing people to blend the latch with the rest of the décor more easily. They may also be utilized with only a key or a combination of a key and a push button on the handle.
Electric Strike Locks
Electric strike locks are most often used in combination with a different sort of lock, typically a panic bar or keypad. Electric strikes function similarly to a buzzer that you’d use to get into an apartment complex or a bank when they’re closed. The door is still locked when the electric strike is activated, and authorized users can open it by pressing the buzzer. The electric strike might include a pad where you may use your key fob to open the door.
Commercial Door Lock Installation
Regardless of which type of lock you pick, the most critical thing is to make sure it’s installed correctly. Master Locksmith provides commercial door lock installation in New Orleans and its surrounding areas. Our team of experts is skilled in their craft and has the necessary expertise to install any type of commercial door lockset. We offer a wide range of services including, but not limited to, master key systems, panic hardware, night latches, and many more. We also provide emergency services for all types of situations that may arise.
