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.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
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.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Cylindrical Lock Selection
Cylindrical locks are a cost-effective lock solution for many commercial applications. Installation is less labor-intensive than installing a mortise lock. In addition, the locks are easily re-keyed or replaced when necessary, usually without needing to call a locksmith. Commercial cylindrical locks are available in a variety of finishes and in standard duty, medium duty and heavy duty construction.
Construction and reliability are the main considerations when choosing cylindrical locks. Schlage is one of the best known lock manufacturers. In fact, it was Walter Schlage who invented the cylindrical lock in 1909.
Look for the following specifications when shopping for cylindrical locks:
ANSI and/or BHMA certifications
UL listed
5-pin or 6-pin tumblers
Concealed mounting screws
Options for electrical locking and unlocking
Quality locks have been tested to last a long time. For example, the Schlage D-series meets or exceeds the 800,000 cycle ANSI Grade 1 requirements. These locks are also constructed of either brass or cold formed steel and treated to withstand corrosion. Heavy duty steel springs in the mechanism add to the durability of the locks.
The different construction specifications meet varying commercial building needs. Standard duty commercial locks are suitable for heavy duty residential use or light to medium duty commercial use, such as interior office doors. Medium duty locks are designed for use in commercial exterior applications that don't require rigorous security and for interior doors of medical offices, hotels, retail stores, public facilities, churches and apartment buildings. Heavy duty cylindrical locks provide security in exterior and interior applications for industrial facilities, schools, hospitals, offices, retail stores, government/public office buildings and factories.
Cylindrical locks are usually available in both lever or knob designs. Lever locks should meet ADA requirements. Additional options include special finishes to help users identify by touch that the lock leads to a space containing hazardous materials. The best locks include a feature that allows the exterior knob or lever to move freely even when locked; this helps prevent intruders from breaking the lock. When purchasing locks for fire doors, make sure the lock is rated for use on a fire door.
Construction and reliability are the main considerations when choosing cylindrical locks. Schlage is one of the best known lock manufacturers. In fact, it was Walter Schlage who invented the cylindrical lock in 1909.
Look for the following specifications when shopping for cylindrical locks:
ANSI and/or BHMA certifications
UL listed
5-pin or 6-pin tumblers
Concealed mounting screws
Options for electrical locking and unlocking
Quality locks have been tested to last a long time. For example, the Schlage D-series meets or exceeds the 800,000 cycle ANSI Grade 1 requirements. These locks are also constructed of either brass or cold formed steel and treated to withstand corrosion. Heavy duty steel springs in the mechanism add to the durability of the locks.
The different construction specifications meet varying commercial building needs. Standard duty commercial locks are suitable for heavy duty residential use or light to medium duty commercial use, such as interior office doors. Medium duty locks are designed for use in commercial exterior applications that don't require rigorous security and for interior doors of medical offices, hotels, retail stores, public facilities, churches and apartment buildings. Heavy duty cylindrical locks provide security in exterior and interior applications for industrial facilities, schools, hospitals, offices, retail stores, government/public office buildings and factories.
Cylindrical locks are usually available in both lever or knob designs. Lever locks should meet ADA requirements. Additional options include special finishes to help users identify by touch that the lock leads to a space containing hazardous materials. The best locks include a feature that allows the exterior knob or lever to move freely even when locked; this helps prevent intruders from breaking the lock. When purchasing locks for fire doors, make sure the lock is rated for use on a fire door.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Schlage: A Name You Can Trust
The job's not done until the locks are on the door. A beautifully designed and quality built commercial building requires a variety of quality door locks like the ones from Schlage. Careful selection should be made to install the best locks for entryways, fire doors, office doors, restrooms, utility closets and any other location within the building where access and privacy need to be controlled. Contractors should take time to discuss with the client the variety of locks available to meet their security requirements.
The exterior entrances of the building can be secured with a range of deadbolt locks. Security needs will determine whether to use standard or heavy duty lock construction. Standard duty commercial deadbolts work well for office buildings. Heavy duty commercial deadbolts provide the best security. Consider Schlage locks that includes a concealed wood frame reinforcer that prevents kick-ins.
You'll probably want to pair a cylindrical lock with a deadbolt to allow ease of entry. Your choices include lever style locks and knob locks. A heavy duty lever lock is suitable for hospitals, factories and even schools. Buildings with less stringent security needs may opt for standard or medium duty lever locks. Some lever locks are also UL listed for use on 3-hour fire doors. Knobs are the traditional doorknob design. These are also available in medium and heavy duty designs. Knob locks are typically reserved for interior doors of commercial buildings
Interconnected locks are an attractive choice for exterior doors of offices, hotels and light-duty commercial buildings. These locks are called interconnected because the handicapped compliant handles unlatch both the handset and the deadbolt when it's depressed. The best interconnected locks have a reinforced deadbolt strike to prevent an intruder from kicking the door open.
Interior doors of the building can be secured with a mortise lock. These locks are both attractive and functional. Heavy duty mortise locks are dependable and designed to withstand high-usage and abuse. This makes them ideal for hospitals and schools. When choosing mortise locks, look for designs that include a free-wheeling lever that resists force when locked.
No matter what types of locks are required in a building, Schlage offers a variety of finishes that can be matched across all styles. This allows for a consistent aesthetic appeal throughout the building. Finishes typically include brass, bronze and stainless steel. Expect to pay from $25 for a simple cylindrical lock and up to $200 for the finest interconnected locks.
The exterior entrances of the building can be secured with a range of deadbolt locks. Security needs will determine whether to use standard or heavy duty lock construction. Standard duty commercial deadbolts work well for office buildings. Heavy duty commercial deadbolts provide the best security. Consider Schlage locks that includes a concealed wood frame reinforcer that prevents kick-ins.
You'll probably want to pair a cylindrical lock with a deadbolt to allow ease of entry. Your choices include lever style locks and knob locks. A heavy duty lever lock is suitable for hospitals, factories and even schools. Buildings with less stringent security needs may opt for standard or medium duty lever locks. Some lever locks are also UL listed for use on 3-hour fire doors. Knobs are the traditional doorknob design. These are also available in medium and heavy duty designs. Knob locks are typically reserved for interior doors of commercial buildings
Interconnected locks are an attractive choice for exterior doors of offices, hotels and light-duty commercial buildings. These locks are called interconnected because the handicapped compliant handles unlatch both the handset and the deadbolt when it's depressed. The best interconnected locks have a reinforced deadbolt strike to prevent an intruder from kicking the door open.
Interior doors of the building can be secured with a mortise lock. These locks are both attractive and functional. Heavy duty mortise locks are dependable and designed to withstand high-usage and abuse. This makes them ideal for hospitals and schools. When choosing mortise locks, look for designs that include a free-wheeling lever that resists force when locked.
No matter what types of locks are required in a building, Schlage offers a variety of finishes that can be matched across all styles. This allows for a consistent aesthetic appeal throughout the building. Finishes typically include brass, bronze and stainless steel. Expect to pay from $25 for a simple cylindrical lock and up to $200 for the finest interconnected locks.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
No Need to Panic
The panic bar was invented in the early 1900s to prevent people from being trapped inside a building during a fire. Panic bars are now a required safety feature in all commercial buildings. Von Duprin is a leader in modern panic bars that can be used on fire doors, time-delayed doors, and delayed exit systems. Mechanical and electric exit devices offer superb security and safety.
A basic, mechanical panic bar can be installed on fire exit doors or any door that needs the security of being locked on the outside but able to open from the inside. For example, back doors of offices, warehouses and retail business may opt for this type of locking mechanism. Von Duprin panic bars meet ANSI A156.3 – 2001 Grade 1 criteria. For the greatest security, choose panic bars that offer more than 2,000 pounds of static load force resistance. This prevents intruders from pulling or prying the door open from the outside.
Electric panic bars can be tied into a fire alarm system to automatically unlock when the alarm is tripped. In addition, some models can be programmed to trip the alarm system when they are pushed open from the inside. Typically, these types of panic bars are used on buildings with high occupancy levels that utilize a fully featured fire and security alarm system. Another function of electric panic bars is to control exit through a delayed exit system. These mechanisms allow security personnel to monitor access to and from the facility.
Expect to pay $600 and up for quality panic bars; electric options raise the cost to $1000 and up.
A basic, mechanical panic bar can be installed on fire exit doors or any door that needs the security of being locked on the outside but able to open from the inside. For example, back doors of offices, warehouses and retail business may opt for this type of locking mechanism. Von Duprin panic bars meet ANSI A156.3 – 2001 Grade 1 criteria. For the greatest security, choose panic bars that offer more than 2,000 pounds of static load force resistance. This prevents intruders from pulling or prying the door open from the outside.
Electric panic bars can be tied into a fire alarm system to automatically unlock when the alarm is tripped. In addition, some models can be programmed to trip the alarm system when they are pushed open from the inside. Typically, these types of panic bars are used on buildings with high occupancy levels that utilize a fully featured fire and security alarm system. Another function of electric panic bars is to control exit through a delayed exit system. These mechanisms allow security personnel to monitor access to and from the facility.
Expect to pay $600 and up for quality panic bars; electric options raise the cost to $1000 and up.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Selecting Exit Devices
Exit devices are commonly installed on aluminum and hollow metal doors in commercial buildings, including schools, retail stores, hospitals and office buildings. Most people are familiar with both types of equipment – the crossbar rim device and the pushpad rim device. The crossbar rim device has classic styling while the pushpad rim device has a more modern appearance. Regardless of which style is preferred, there are some design factors to consider when purchasing exit devices.
The first consideration is safety. When choosing an exit device, make sure it conforms to ANSI Grade 1 specifications. Also, look for hardened steel latches, adjustable strikes, concealed mounting screws and hex dogging. On pushpad rim devices, look for designs without openings for chains so you can reduce the risk of code violations. Pushpad devices should also be designed to resist tampering or forced entry, even if the intruder has a coat hanger or other tool. Dor-O-Matic, as an industry leaders, offers exit devices that meet these criteria.
Next, choose exit devices that are easy to install, maintain and adjust. Crossbar rim devices are the simplest and easiest to work with. Most can be installed on stiles as narrow as 1 3/4 inches and are easily converted for left-hand or right-hand operation. Choose the latest pushpad rim devices, such as the Dor-O-Matic 1790, which have fewer parts and thus require less maintenance. This is especially important on doors in high-traffic locations.
The best exit devices come with a variety of options. Crossbar rim devices like the Dor-O-Matic 1990 are popular since they are available in numerous painted and architectural finishes. This is a nice feature in upscale offices and retail establishments. In addition, crossbar styles should be field adjustable to fit the width of any door. Pushpad devices don't normally come in as many finishes as crossbars, but the best companies still offer variety in metal finishes. Pushpads are typically available in 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch and 48-inch lengths and may include electrical options for added security. Some pushpad rim devices are also designed for use on fire doors.
Finally, you'll need to decide on the exterior options for exit devices. If the door does not need to be opened from the outside, no trim is required. Otherwise, you can install a pull handle, pull handle and cylinder lock, or a cylinder lock only.
The first consideration is safety. When choosing an exit device, make sure it conforms to ANSI Grade 1 specifications. Also, look for hardened steel latches, adjustable strikes, concealed mounting screws and hex dogging. On pushpad rim devices, look for designs without openings for chains so you can reduce the risk of code violations. Pushpad devices should also be designed to resist tampering or forced entry, even if the intruder has a coat hanger or other tool. Dor-O-Matic, as an industry leaders, offers exit devices that meet these criteria.
Next, choose exit devices that are easy to install, maintain and adjust. Crossbar rim devices are the simplest and easiest to work with. Most can be installed on stiles as narrow as 1 3/4 inches and are easily converted for left-hand or right-hand operation. Choose the latest pushpad rim devices, such as the Dor-O-Matic 1790, which have fewer parts and thus require less maintenance. This is especially important on doors in high-traffic locations.
The best exit devices come with a variety of options. Crossbar rim devices like the Dor-O-Matic 1990 are popular since they are available in numerous painted and architectural finishes. This is a nice feature in upscale offices and retail establishments. In addition, crossbar styles should be field adjustable to fit the width of any door. Pushpad devices don't normally come in as many finishes as crossbars, but the best companies still offer variety in metal finishes. Pushpads are typically available in 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch and 48-inch lengths and may include electrical options for added security. Some pushpad rim devices are also designed for use on fire doors.
Finally, you'll need to decide on the exterior options for exit devices. If the door does not need to be opened from the outside, no trim is required. Otherwise, you can install a pull handle, pull handle and cylinder lock, or a cylinder lock only.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Commercial Door Lock Selection
A number of factors need to be taken into consideration when purchasing locks for commercial facilities: security requirements, ADA compliance, how often the lock will be used, and the type of room being secured. From the front door to the storage closets, each application requires careful consideration in lock selection.
Most commercial buildings, from warehouses to schools, rely on a mixture of lever locks, deadlocks and mortise locks. Falcon offers locks in standard, medium and heavy duty construction. Standard duty locks are suitable for privacy locks, patio locks, classrooms and storerooms. Medium duty locks are suitable for office doors, passageways and classrooms. Heavy duty locks are suitable for entry doors, apartments and offices. When choosing a lock, consider how secure the door needs to be--heavy duty locks provide more security than standard duty locks.
Study the lock construction to determine if it's going to do the job. For example, in choosing a heavy duty cylindrical lever lock, look for the following specifications: 1) Meets ANSI/BHMA A156.2, Series 4000, Grade 1 for key-in-lever locksets; 2) Allen-head screws are used on the inside levers to prevent vandalism; 3) Lever is free-wheeling when the outside lever is locked; 4) Meets requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991; and 5) Cylinder assemblies are removable in case the lock ever needs to be rekeyed.
Decide if you can use a mortise lock or need to install a deadlock paired with a cylindrical lock. A mortise lock provides ease of entry since the lever will open the door after the top locking mechanism is unlocked. A deadlock/cylindrical lock combination requires unlocking both the deadlock and the lever lock but provides more security.
Consider having a special coating added to lock levers installed on doors leading to rooms containing hazardous materials. The rough sensation of the abrasive coating alerts anyone opening the door to the potential dangers on the other side.
Added security can be found in electrified door locks. The best locks offer either a "fail safe" or "fail secure' option. A fail safe latch bolt can be operated by the lever from either side except when the outer lever is electrically locked, then neither lever opens the door. By contrast, on a fail secure lever the deadlock latch bolt can be operated by the inside lever at all times, only the outside lever is inoperable when the latch is electrically locked.
Most commercial buildings, from warehouses to schools, rely on a mixture of lever locks, deadlocks and mortise locks. Falcon offers locks in standard, medium and heavy duty construction. Standard duty locks are suitable for privacy locks, patio locks, classrooms and storerooms. Medium duty locks are suitable for office doors, passageways and classrooms. Heavy duty locks are suitable for entry doors, apartments and offices. When choosing a lock, consider how secure the door needs to be--heavy duty locks provide more security than standard duty locks.
Study the lock construction to determine if it's going to do the job. For example, in choosing a heavy duty cylindrical lever lock, look for the following specifications: 1) Meets ANSI/BHMA A156.2, Series 4000, Grade 1 for key-in-lever locksets; 2) Allen-head screws are used on the inside levers to prevent vandalism; 3) Lever is free-wheeling when the outside lever is locked; 4) Meets requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991; and 5) Cylinder assemblies are removable in case the lock ever needs to be rekeyed.
Decide if you can use a mortise lock or need to install a deadlock paired with a cylindrical lock. A mortise lock provides ease of entry since the lever will open the door after the top locking mechanism is unlocked. A deadlock/cylindrical lock combination requires unlocking both the deadlock and the lever lock but provides more security.
Consider having a special coating added to lock levers installed on doors leading to rooms containing hazardous materials. The rough sensation of the abrasive coating alerts anyone opening the door to the potential dangers on the other side.
Added security can be found in electrified door locks. The best locks offer either a "fail safe" or "fail secure' option. A fail safe latch bolt can be operated by the lever from either side except when the outer lever is electrically locked, then neither lever opens the door. By contrast, on a fail secure lever the deadlock latch bolt can be operated by the inside lever at all times, only the outside lever is inoperable when the latch is electrically locked.
Welcome!
Hardware Innovations welcomes you to the blog about commercial door hardware. Here you'll find continuous updates on the best names in commercial hardware: Schlage, Falcon, Von Duprin, LCN, Dor-O-Matic, Ives, Glynn-Johnson, Monarch and more.
Check back often for helpful door hardware tips and product reviews.
Check back often for helpful door hardware tips and product reviews.
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