Types of locks to consider for your business
The right commercial locks are essential for the safety and operations of your business! And if you’re wondering how to choose between different grades, models, and levels of tech, having a professional chime in can be invaluable! Our team here at Reliable Locksmith in Minneapolis-St. Paul want to help you find the locks that give you a sense of security around the clock.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of commercial locks and their uses.
Understanding lock grades
The first thing you’ll want to know about choosing the right lock for your business is what grade you need. A lock’s ANSI grade refers to how it has performed under testing to be durable, long-lasting with normal wear and tear, and resistant against brute force. Here’s the breakdown:
- ANSI Grade 3. This is the lowest level of security for locks on the market and is most appropriate for residential spaces, such as a master bedroom door. In general, this level of lock grade is not used in commercial settings unless on a storage closet or other low security spaces. ANSI Grade 3 locks are rated for up to 800,000 use cycles.
- ANSI Grade 2. Grade 2 is the middle-of the road option that is suitable for many commercial uses, including internal doors, storage rooms, offices, and some external doors. Like Grade 3 locks, Grade 2 locks are designed to withstand up to 800,000 cycles.
- ANSI Grade 1. This is the top-of-the-line lock for commercial settings, and will provide the highest level of protection. A lock with this grade should be able to withstand significant force and high usage (up to 1,000,000 cycles.) It is the most appropriate option for higher security doors, such as entry doors, or doors fitted to data storage, sensitive file storage rooms, or private offices.
As you decide between deadbolts, mortise locks, and other styles of locks, keep this grading system in mind so that you can be sure that whatever kind of lock you install, it will provide the appropriate level of protection.
Cylindrical lever and knob locks
When it comes to offices within a building, bathrooms, storage rooms (without highly sensitive material), hallways, and other internal doors, a cylindrical lever or knob with a locking latch is often the most appropriate choice. These are typically not highly rated for security but will provide a minimal layer of security.
Deadbolts
Deadbolts are a standard locking style for commercial spaces because of their simple, durable design. They are unlocked with a key instead of a lever or knob, and can be made for one-sided or two-sided locking capabilities based on your needs.
Mortise locks
Mortise locks are one of the most durable and strong styles of locks on the market in which the locking mechanism is housed within a hollowed out pocket in the door. This gives it superior strength and anti-tampering qualities, which is good for high traffic and high security doors.
A mortise lock can be outfitted with a single latch, a series of latches, a deadbolt, or a combination depending on the setting.
Exit devices
External doors in commercial settings must follow exit device requirements in the local building code. Choosing locks that comply with these building code requirements may require the installation of panic hardware or exit devices.
If you’re unsure of what your exit device requirements are, give us a call at Reliable Locksmith! We have experience installing panic hardware and other devices in Minneapolis-St. Paul and surrounding areas and can help you choose the right locking mechanism for code compliance.
Electrified Locks
Electrified locks, such as electric strikes, magnetic locks or remote access control systems (some exit devices are also electrified), may be appropriate or even required for your commercial space. And they can come in a range of different styles, including mortise, cylindrical lever and more.
Multi-Point Locks
If your business uses swinging doors, a multipoint lock will give you the security you need. These locks are designed to be fitted to doors that do not close to a door frame but rather a double door, with latches on the top or bottom of the frame. Despite the difference in design, this type of lock is no less secure than the other ones we’ve covered. In fact, many models are rated for hurricane force winds so that they can be used on storm shelters.
Smart technology
If you’re looking to upgrade your business’s security, installing a smart system is a wise move. Nowadays, smart technology can be applied to a range of different kinds of commercial locks, including deadbolts, mortise locks and electric strikes.
The kind of smart technology system you want to install will depend on your security needs, the specifics of your operation, and your budget. Some smart systems can make use of biometric technology while others will rely on a fob or passcode. Many smart systems allow you to remotely control access and keep a record of entry and exit.
Commercial lock installation
Being a business owner with DIY experience can be so beneficial to your operation, and you might be wondering if you should install your new commercial locks on your own.
We would say that for some of the locks we’ve covered in this article, such as grade 2 or 3 cylindrical latch locks or some basic deadbolts, you can probably go ahead and oversee the installation yourself.
But, when it comes to exterior doors, building code regulated doors, or doors to high security areas, leave it up to the pros! We’ll make sure that your commercial locks are installed properly to keep your property safe and in compliance.
Our team at Reliable Locksmith offers commercial lock ordering and installation for business owners all over the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Give us a call and let’s talk about the right commercial locks for your security needs!
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.