Electric strike
Ready for an electric strike installation in your commercial space? There are a few things you should know about these devices, from how they’re used to what they cost and when to call in the pros to help with the installation.
Here at Reliable Locksmith in Minneapolis-St. Paul, we’ve helped business and property owners improve the safety of their space with the right electric strikes. And here’s everything we think you should know before getting started!
What is an electric strike?
Electric strikes are magnetic devices that allow a door to be unlocked remotely. You’ve probably seen them in apartment and office buildings, and they’re also widely used in secure settings like banks, hospitals, warehouses, and schools.
These devices work by replacing a fixed strike plate (which keeps the latch in place) with one that can be temporarily disengaged through a power source. Once the disengage function has been activated, the door can swing freely.
In terms of what disengages the strike plate, there are different options based on the requirements of the user. Some electric strikes can be disengaged with a simple button, such as in the case of an apartment building. Others can be connected to a more complex security system, with capabilities for fingerprints, badges, passcards, codes, eye scanning, and other forms of credentials.
Fail-secure and fail-safe requirements
Because electric strikes are often installed in commercial settings, the property owner must choose between fail-secure and fail-safe locks. The difference between the two is how they behave when the power source has been interrupted.
In a fail-secure setting, the door will remain locked in the case of a power outage. This is important in areas that require continued security even in an emergency, such as a bank or sensitive data center.
Fail-safe electric strikes, on the other hand, will disengage in the event of a power cut. This is essential on doors which will provide a safe exit in the case of an emergency.
Not sure whether your space needs a fail-secure or a fail-safe electric strike? Our locksmith experts can help you decide based on the local building code.
What does it mean for an electric strike to be fire rated?
Another specification you’ll see on electric strikes is whether they’re fire-rated. This is because electric strikes that are mounted on fire doors must also be fire rated and fail-secure. This means that the device will continue to be functional for a specific amount of time in the case of a fire, preventing the fire from spreading.
Grading for electric strikes
As with any kind of lock, electric strikes are available in different grades depending on the level of security and durability you need for your space.
A Grade 1 electric strike will provide the most longevity and strength. These locks are designed to withstand high traffic and remain secure in the case of attempted forced entry.
Grade 2 locks are the industry standard for most commercial settings and high security residential spaces such as apartment buildings.
Grade 1 electric strikes are the lowest rating, but could be the right option for spaces with low traffic. They may also be appropriate for spaces that utilize one or more additional security measures, as well.
What kind of doors are compatible with electric strikes?
Electric strikes can be used with a range of different door materials and door frames. But, one thing you’ll want to be sure of is that the specifications of the electric strike makes sense in the context of the strength of your door.
In other words, it’s not appropriate to install a grade 1, or high security, fire-rated electric strike on a standard residential wood door. We can assess whether the material of your door is right for the type of electric strike you need.
How are electric strikes installed?
Here’s a rundown of our process for electric strike installation:
- Assess the door frame. Our first consideration will be whether the door frame will require a recessed or a surface mounted electric strike. With a recessed electric strike, we will either use a housing that’s already been cut into the frame or cut a new housing. Surface mounted electric strikes are mounted on the surface of the door frame.
- Mount the device according to building code. Building codes are specific about exactly how exit devices and electric strikes are installed. We’ll be sure to measure according to the requirements for your commercial space so that your doors always pass inspection and keep your occupants safe.
- Connect the wiring to the power source. Electric strikes must be wired to a power source, so we’ll make sure that all connections are reliable and well-hidden from view.
Test the device. Once the electric strike has been mounted and wired, it’s time to run a few tests! We don’t leave a work site until we know that every device we install is in good working condition.
What’s the benefit of calling a locksmith for electric strike installation?
In this article, we’ve covered the basics of electric strikes, but the truth is, these devices can become quite complex. From wiring to compatibility with different kinds of credentials to navigating the building code for fire safety, most business owners would rather rely on the expertise of a locksmith to oversee ordering and installation.
As one of the leading locksmiths here in Minneapolis-St. Paul, we’re happy to take the stress and confusion out of electric strikes so that you can start to use this technology without issue or delay!
When you’re ready for electric strike installation or repair, give us a call at Reliable Locksmith! We service the entire Minneapolis-St. Paul area plus surrounding cities!
Our Services
We provide a comprehensive range of locksmith services in Minneapolis. Serving Hennepin County, we can help you combat broken locks, install new locks, access homes and business premises when you’re locked out, and even provide replacement car keys on the spot.
We care for every one of our clients, and we’ll always do what we can to put you at ease. We’re a friendly team and enjoy our work – nothing makes us happier than solving your problems.
Plus, we provide cost-effective quality solutions. Our low prices will certainly be a pleasant surprise.