Schlage locks offer many advantages and innovations that discount brands don't. Because of this, Schlage is preferred by many builders, locksmiths and security specialists. The security features alone make these locks a top seller. However, innovation with electronic locks, including remote access and control via the Web make Schlage the industry leader in door security.
Schlage offers superior security
The tubular design of Schlage locks makes them almost impossible to pick. The forged brass construction also makes them resistant to kick-ins and other types of tampering. The solid, one piece design of the deadbolts makes them resistant to attacks with hammers or crow bars. The Grade 1 security also prevents the key cylinder from being knocked out with a screwdriver or chisel.
Schlage offers electronic locks for all applications
These allow for keyless entry, multiple user codes, and auto-locking after the door recloses. Schlage pre-programs the electronic locks with random codes so no two locks are the same from the factory, thus adding another layer of security.
Schlage locks last
All Schlage products are rigorously tested to meet ANSI standards. The locks are long-lasting and easily re-keyed or repaired by a locksmith. While discount brands may malfunction after heavy use, Schlage offers a 3-year warranty on commercial locks and a limited lifetime warranty on residential locks.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
ADA Compliance
Every facility open to the public needs to meet accessibility requirements set out in the Americans with Disability Act. One way to make your facility ADA compliant is to use low-energy power operators on exterior and interior doors. For example, the LCN 4640 is both energy efficient and provides easy access for people with disabilities. These openers can be operated manually or, when needed, automatically. LCN now includes a digital control suite with this product. In addition, this is a 10 million cycle heavy duty door closer.
One benefit of this particular model is than no door mats or safety rails are required for operation. The device is ADA compliant in its power mode.
The LCN 4640 can be installed either with a flush ceiling mount or a standard mount. The cylinder is non-handed, non-sized (interior doors to 4’6” and exterior doors to 3’6”) and includes a hold open feature. It meets ANSI Standards A117.1 and A156.19.
Other LCN power door openers include the 9130 and 9140 Series.
One benefit of this particular model is than no door mats or safety rails are required for operation. The device is ADA compliant in its power mode.
The LCN 4640 can be installed either with a flush ceiling mount or a standard mount. The cylinder is non-handed, non-sized (interior doors to 4’6” and exterior doors to 3’6”) and includes a hold open feature. It meets ANSI Standards A117.1 and A156.19.
Other LCN power door openers include the 9130 and 9140 Series.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Finish the Job
Doors in commercial facilities require a minimum of finish hardware, including hinges, flush bolts and pivots. Doors can also be outfitted with a variety of decorative hardware, including kick plates and door pulls. Which hardware is installed is determined by door use, architectural style and safety concerns.
A hinge may just seem like a hinge, but each hinge is designed for use in a particular situation. For example, a basic five-knuckle plain bearing full mortise hinge is designed for use on a standard weight door that gets little use. It also cannot be used with a door closer. On the other hand, a three-knuckle spring hinge can be used with a door closer. When choosing hinges, tell your supplier the weight of the door, the expected traffic level and the details of any other devices that will be installed on the door. This way you can get the correct hinge for the job and not find the door literally coming unhinged in the future.
Doors can also be fitted with pivot sets. These are typically floor-mounted, although some are jam-mounted. Pocket pivots are also available. These allow the door to open flush to the corridor and are commonly found in hospitals or other settings where the door needs to be completely out of the way when open. Just like hinges, pivot sets need to be selected based on the weight and expected usage of the door. Pivots are available for doors from 200 to 500 pounds. Some pocket pivots are also rated for use on fire doors.
Flush bolts and strikes are designed to work either on metal or wood doors. Options for this hardware include manual flush bolts, automatic flush bolts, constant latching flush bolts, auxiliary fire latches and dust proof strikes. The finest flush bolts, such as the ones from Ives, share some common features: meet ANSI A156.3 Type 25 or Type 27, are non-handed, offer optional dust proof strikes, and have low actuation forces. You'll need to know how the door frame is prepared when ordering flush bolts.
Put the finishing touches on a door with decorative, yet functional hardware. Kick plates and push plates protect the door from damage. Pulls can be coordinated with the decor of the building. These items are available in a variety of finishes. Floor stops, wall stops and door silencers all improve the function of the door. Even these hardworking items are available in design styles to complement the building design or to blend unobtrusively into the background.
Finish hardware should be chosen carefully to ensure a door works properly and safely for many years. Although home supply stores may carry some basic hardware, it's best to rely on an experienced commercial hardware supplier to get the proper hardware for each installation.
A hinge may just seem like a hinge, but each hinge is designed for use in a particular situation. For example, a basic five-knuckle plain bearing full mortise hinge is designed for use on a standard weight door that gets little use. It also cannot be used with a door closer. On the other hand, a three-knuckle spring hinge can be used with a door closer. When choosing hinges, tell your supplier the weight of the door, the expected traffic level and the details of any other devices that will be installed on the door. This way you can get the correct hinge for the job and not find the door literally coming unhinged in the future.
Doors can also be fitted with pivot sets. These are typically floor-mounted, although some are jam-mounted. Pocket pivots are also available. These allow the door to open flush to the corridor and are commonly found in hospitals or other settings where the door needs to be completely out of the way when open. Just like hinges, pivot sets need to be selected based on the weight and expected usage of the door. Pivots are available for doors from 200 to 500 pounds. Some pocket pivots are also rated for use on fire doors.
Flush bolts and strikes are designed to work either on metal or wood doors. Options for this hardware include manual flush bolts, automatic flush bolts, constant latching flush bolts, auxiliary fire latches and dust proof strikes. The finest flush bolts, such as the ones from Ives, share some common features: meet ANSI A156.3 Type 25 or Type 27, are non-handed, offer optional dust proof strikes, and have low actuation forces. You'll need to know how the door frame is prepared when ordering flush bolts.
Put the finishing touches on a door with decorative, yet functional hardware. Kick plates and push plates protect the door from damage. Pulls can be coordinated with the decor of the building. These items are available in a variety of finishes. Floor stops, wall stops and door silencers all improve the function of the door. Even these hardworking items are available in design styles to complement the building design or to blend unobtrusively into the background.
Finish hardware should be chosen carefully to ensure a door works properly and safely for many years. Although home supply stores may carry some basic hardware, it's best to rely on an experienced commercial hardware supplier to get the proper hardware for each installation.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Hold that door!
Doors are designed to open and close in order to control traffic and building environment. Sometimes a door needs to be held open for an extended period of time. The best solution in commercial applications is to invest in an overhead door holder or stop. These devices are designed to lock a door open securely until the locking mechanism is released. When choosing overhead holders and stops, take note of door design and how frequently it will be locked open.
Holders and stops can be designed as interior/exterior or as only one or the other. Exterior applications or installations in any environment where corrosion may be a factor require holders/stops constructed of stainless steel or brass. Steel is acceptable in interior installations, although many users consider brass designs more attractive. Make sure you choose the appropriate mechanism for your application.
The most functional holders and stops are surface-mounted. These allow the user to easily and quickly lock the door open and then release it through the use of a thumbturn. The best designs allow the hold-open feature to be turned on and off. The user can preset the mechanism to act only as a door stop or as a hold opener when the door is fully open. In addition, look for overhead holders that allow dead-stop templating; this feature allows the holder to be set to stop opening once it reaches a particular point. For example, the user could set the door to never open beyond 110 degrees. This prevents the door from swinging open wildly and banging into a wall or another door installed back-to-back.
Surface-mounted overhead door holders/stops should be chosen to match the door size and usage. Most models will use specifications such as industrial use, heavy-duty, high-traffic, medium- or light-duty. Work closely with the supplier to make sure you get the right product for your application. Also, be sure to specify whether you need a stop only or a hold-and-stop mechanism.
Finish may not be a concern in industrial applications, but retail buildings, hospitals, schools, and entertainment venues may want to use door holders and stops that complement the architecture of the building. Luckily, the finest holders and stops come in a variety of finishes, including satin stainless steel, polished stainless steel, chrome coating, polished brass, satin brass, satin bronze and oil-rubbed bronze.
Finally, if your holders/stops will be installed on fire doors, you must be sure to select models, such as the Glynn-Johnson 90 series, that are UL labeled as “miscellaneous fire door accessories.” This ensures that the hardware does not in any way adversely impact the fire rating of the door.
Holders and stops can be designed as interior/exterior or as only one or the other. Exterior applications or installations in any environment where corrosion may be a factor require holders/stops constructed of stainless steel or brass. Steel is acceptable in interior installations, although many users consider brass designs more attractive. Make sure you choose the appropriate mechanism for your application.
The most functional holders and stops are surface-mounted. These allow the user to easily and quickly lock the door open and then release it through the use of a thumbturn. The best designs allow the hold-open feature to be turned on and off. The user can preset the mechanism to act only as a door stop or as a hold opener when the door is fully open. In addition, look for overhead holders that allow dead-stop templating; this feature allows the holder to be set to stop opening once it reaches a particular point. For example, the user could set the door to never open beyond 110 degrees. This prevents the door from swinging open wildly and banging into a wall or another door installed back-to-back.
Surface-mounted overhead door holders/stops should be chosen to match the door size and usage. Most models will use specifications such as industrial use, heavy-duty, high-traffic, medium- or light-duty. Work closely with the supplier to make sure you get the right product for your application. Also, be sure to specify whether you need a stop only or a hold-and-stop mechanism.
Finish may not be a concern in industrial applications, but retail buildings, hospitals, schools, and entertainment venues may want to use door holders and stops that complement the architecture of the building. Luckily, the finest holders and stops come in a variety of finishes, including satin stainless steel, polished stainless steel, chrome coating, polished brass, satin brass, satin bronze and oil-rubbed bronze.
Finally, if your holders/stops will be installed on fire doors, you must be sure to select models, such as the Glynn-Johnson 90 series, that are UL labeled as “miscellaneous fire door accessories.” This ensures that the hardware does not in any way adversely impact the fire rating of the door.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Secure the Doors
Entrance and exit doors of commercial facilities, whether an office building, retail store, or manufacturing facility, require security features that stand up to normal usage and forced entry. Security can be enhanced with the proper commercial door locks whether or not the door will be wired into an alarm system.
When purchasing locks and other door hardware, building owners should look for security features that include tamper resistant locks, reinforcers that prevent kick-ins, push-pad devices that resist prying, and concealed mounting screws.
Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies offers several lines of commercial door hardware for the security-conscious building manager, including Schlage, Falcon, Glynn-Johnson, Ives, Dor-O-Matic, Monarch, Von Duprin and LCN. The hardware selections include locks, deadlocks, trim, exit devices and door closers. A commercial door outfitted with products from any of these product lines is a more secure door than one utilizing inferior generic products purchased at do-it-yourself home improvement stores.
Buyers may be particularly interested in products such as the Von Duprin GUARD-X Exit Device. This product is designed for use on secondary emergency exit doors and is already clearly marked as "exit only." It is also alarm code compliant to interface with the building alarm system. This is an excellent product for retail establishments such as restaurants, grocery stores and discount stores.
Facilities that require monitored access may want to install electromagnetic door holders such as the LCN SEM7800 Series Magnet. The magnets hold the door closed until the current is interrupted. These devices can be used on doors monitored by personnel or by 24-hour keypad access. This product is a good choice for hospitals and limited access facilities. Another option for doors leading into limited access areas is door hardware designed with delayed access features. Von Duprin's patented "Chexit" hardware provides a self-contained system for controlling access.
Even with modern security practices, deadlocks play an important role in securing a building. The finest deadlocks are constructed with solid brass cylinders and include a metal dust box reinforcer with three-inch screws. When shopping for deadlocks for an exterior door, look for locks specified for heavy-duty applications and carrying the ANSI A156.5, 2001, Grade 1 certification, such as the Schlage B600-Series.
When purchasing locks and other door hardware, building owners should look for security features that include tamper resistant locks, reinforcers that prevent kick-ins, push-pad devices that resist prying, and concealed mounting screws.
Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies offers several lines of commercial door hardware for the security-conscious building manager, including Schlage, Falcon, Glynn-Johnson, Ives, Dor-O-Matic, Monarch, Von Duprin and LCN. The hardware selections include locks, deadlocks, trim, exit devices and door closers. A commercial door outfitted with products from any of these product lines is a more secure door than one utilizing inferior generic products purchased at do-it-yourself home improvement stores.
Buyers may be particularly interested in products such as the Von Duprin GUARD-X Exit Device. This product is designed for use on secondary emergency exit doors and is already clearly marked as "exit only." It is also alarm code compliant to interface with the building alarm system. This is an excellent product for retail establishments such as restaurants, grocery stores and discount stores.
Facilities that require monitored access may want to install electromagnetic door holders such as the LCN SEM7800 Series Magnet. The magnets hold the door closed until the current is interrupted. These devices can be used on doors monitored by personnel or by 24-hour keypad access. This product is a good choice for hospitals and limited access facilities. Another option for doors leading into limited access areas is door hardware designed with delayed access features. Von Duprin's patented "Chexit" hardware provides a self-contained system for controlling access.
Even with modern security practices, deadlocks play an important role in securing a building. The finest deadlocks are constructed with solid brass cylinders and include a metal dust box reinforcer with three-inch screws. When shopping for deadlocks for an exterior door, look for locks specified for heavy-duty applications and carrying the ANSI A156.5, 2001, Grade 1 certification, such as the Schlage B600-Series.
Always Use Commercial Grade Door Hardware
Small business owners may be tempted to save some money by purchasing and installing the residential or standard-duty grade door knobs and locks available at their local hardware store. However, what seems like money saved could actually end up being money wasted. Residential/standard door hardware is not designed to withstand the usage of commercial applications. In addition, the construction of the hardware is not robust enough to withstand a would-be burglar's attempts to kick in or pry open a door.
Door knobs are tested to withstand a certain level of usage or number of cycles. Standard duty locks typically are rated for 400,000 cycles. Heavy duty commercial knobs are rated at 800,000 cycles. That means it should last twice as long as the standard knob. In essence, a business owner would need to budget for two standard locks for every one commercial lock. In addition to monetary expense, a broken knob means an unsecured door and time wasted in replacing the lock.
Commercial hardware is also constructed of solid metals, including brass, bronze and cold-forged steel, that make them stronger than residential locks. Mounting screws typically are hidden and the knobs or levers are designed to resist tampering. In addition, commercial locks are available to meet fire codes and emergency exit door specifications to help keep the business owner in compliance with local laws.
Finally, business owners would be wise to read the warranty on any lock labeled as residential or standard duty. Normally, the warranty is void if the lock is installed in a commercial facility. That means that if the lock malfunctions the business owner cannot file a warranty claim with the manufacturer since the warranty was void the minute the residential lock was installed in the business.
For a variety of reasons, including durability, security, safety and warranty considerations, every commercial building, including the smallest of businesses, should install quality commercial door hardware. What may seem like an upfront higher cost is actually money (and peace of mind) saved in the long run.
Door knobs are tested to withstand a certain level of usage or number of cycles. Standard duty locks typically are rated for 400,000 cycles. Heavy duty commercial knobs are rated at 800,000 cycles. That means it should last twice as long as the standard knob. In essence, a business owner would need to budget for two standard locks for every one commercial lock. In addition to monetary expense, a broken knob means an unsecured door and time wasted in replacing the lock.
Commercial hardware is also constructed of solid metals, including brass, bronze and cold-forged steel, that make them stronger than residential locks. Mounting screws typically are hidden and the knobs or levers are designed to resist tampering. In addition, commercial locks are available to meet fire codes and emergency exit door specifications to help keep the business owner in compliance with local laws.
Finally, business owners would be wise to read the warranty on any lock labeled as residential or standard duty. Normally, the warranty is void if the lock is installed in a commercial facility. That means that if the lock malfunctions the business owner cannot file a warranty claim with the manufacturer since the warranty was void the minute the residential lock was installed in the business.
For a variety of reasons, including durability, security, safety and warranty considerations, every commercial building, including the smallest of businesses, should install quality commercial door hardware. What may seem like an upfront higher cost is actually money (and peace of mind) saved in the long run.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Closing the Door
Although most people going in and out of commercial buildings won't pay much attention to the door closer installed above their heads, the device ensures that the door closes securely behind each person. Door closers are most commonly found on entrance/exit doors, fire doors, kitchen and service doors, and restroom doors. In addition to providing security for your facility, door closers also keep out vermin and help maintain interior climate control. Several factors need to be considered when choosing door closers: size of the door, function of the door, level of usage, and whether it's an internal or external door.
Doors that don't get much traffic can use lightweight door closers. LCN manufactures the 4030 Series Door Closer for moderate traffic applications. These types of door closers can be used in both interior and exterior applications. These overhead door closers normally are adjustable for interior doors to 5 feet and exterior doors to 4 feet. These openers are ideal for restrooms.
Doors at busy entrances or restaurant kitchens should be fitted with heavy-duty door closers. When shopping for a heavy-duty closer, pay close attention to the size door the closer works with. Moderately heavy-duty devices usually accommodate doors from 36 inches to 48 inches. Many heavy-duty closers work on interior doors to 4 feet 6 inches and exterior doors to 3 feet 6 inches. Look for heavy-duty door closers that have been tested and certified under ANSI Standard A156.4, grade one. The LCN 4010 Door Closer is a heavy duty closer designed for rugged applications.
Heavy-duty closers are also necessary for fire doors. You want a door closer that closes securely and can withstand sudden, constant use in case of fire. The best closers for fire doors are UL and cUL listed. You may also want to consider special, electric sensor fire door closers that hold the door open until current interruption releases the holding mechanism and the door closes. These types of fire door closers should always conform to life safety code, NFPA 101.
In order to comply with ADA requirements, businesses should look for door closers that meet ADA guidelines. Auto-equalizer door closers are specifically designed for this purpose. These doors use low-energy power to assist the disabled, frail or elderly in opening the door. Some designs even allow for automatic opening when necessary. Look for low-energy door closers that are UL 325 compliant and meet the provisions of ANSI A156.19.
In addition to function, door closers can be selected based on aesthetics. Closers often come in a variety of finishes including aluminum, brass and bronze. Concealed door closers are also available for use in both low traffic and high traffic situations. Expect to pay from $140 for a basic door opener to well over $2,000 for powered openers.
Doors that don't get much traffic can use lightweight door closers. LCN manufactures the 4030 Series Door Closer for moderate traffic applications. These types of door closers can be used in both interior and exterior applications. These overhead door closers normally are adjustable for interior doors to 5 feet and exterior doors to 4 feet. These openers are ideal for restrooms.
Doors at busy entrances or restaurant kitchens should be fitted with heavy-duty door closers. When shopping for a heavy-duty closer, pay close attention to the size door the closer works with. Moderately heavy-duty devices usually accommodate doors from 36 inches to 48 inches. Many heavy-duty closers work on interior doors to 4 feet 6 inches and exterior doors to 3 feet 6 inches. Look for heavy-duty door closers that have been tested and certified under ANSI Standard A156.4, grade one. The LCN 4010 Door Closer is a heavy duty closer designed for rugged applications.
Heavy-duty closers are also necessary for fire doors. You want a door closer that closes securely and can withstand sudden, constant use in case of fire. The best closers for fire doors are UL and cUL listed. You may also want to consider special, electric sensor fire door closers that hold the door open until current interruption releases the holding mechanism and the door closes. These types of fire door closers should always conform to life safety code, NFPA 101.
In order to comply with ADA requirements, businesses should look for door closers that meet ADA guidelines. Auto-equalizer door closers are specifically designed for this purpose. These doors use low-energy power to assist the disabled, frail or elderly in opening the door. Some designs even allow for automatic opening when necessary. Look for low-energy door closers that are UL 325 compliant and meet the provisions of ANSI A156.19.
In addition to function, door closers can be selected based on aesthetics. Closers often come in a variety of finishes including aluminum, brass and bronze. Concealed door closers are also available for use in both low traffic and high traffic situations. Expect to pay from $140 for a basic door opener to well over $2,000 for powered openers.
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