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.