For Houston businesses, choosing the right commercial door locks is crucial for ensuring safety, security, and access control. But with so many options on the market, how do you determine what type of lock is best for your specific business needs? This article takes a deep dive into the top commercial lock types used in Houston.
Keypad Door Locks
Keypad door locks, also called push button or combination locks, are a popular electronic access control option. They require entering a numeric code on a panel to unlock the door.
Benefits:
- No keys or keycards are needed for access
- Easily program/delete codes as needed
- Provides entry log history
- More resistant to lock picking
Applications:
- Office doors
- Server rooms
- Retail shops
- Rental Properties
- Medical facilities
Magnetic Door Locks
Magnetic locks provide invisible, high-security locking using an electromagnetic panel and metal plate. When powered, strong magnetic force secures the door closed.
Benefits:
- Completely concealed for discreet security
- 1,200 to 2,000 lbs of shear-holding force
- Integration with access control systems
- Fail-safe design (unlocks in power loss)
Applications:
- Secure government facilities
- Banks and financial institutions
- High-tech companies
- Medical research labs
- Other buildings need strict access control
Storefront Deadbolt Locks
Deadbolt locks provide strong pick, drill, bump, and pry resistance for retail shops. They can be operated by key from outside and thumb turn/key from inside.
Benefits:
- Withstand brute force break-in attempts
- Allow egress from inside during business hours
- Lock automatically when the door closes
Applications:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants
- Liquor and convenience stores
- Salons and spas
- Other storefronts
Other Common Commercial Lock Types:
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks are heavy-duty locks that fit into a pocket carved into the edge of the door. They combine a deadbolt and door handle mechanism for complete lockout.
Benefits:
- Extremely durable and secure
- Available in a wide range of functions/styles
- Used on most commercial hollow metal doors
Applications:
- Office doors
- Hotel/dorm room doors
- Apartment unit doors
- High-security locations
Cylindrical/Tubular Locks
These locks fit into a simple, round hole drilled into the door edge. They contain a spring-loaded cylinder operated by a key from the outside and a turn knob on the inside.
Benefits:
- Affordable option
- Easy retrofit to existing cylindrical holes
- Simple keyed entry for low-traffic doors
Applications:
- Closet doors
- Storage rooms
- Branch circuit breaker panels
- Gates and sheds
Rim Locks
Rim locks mount on the door surface rather than being bored into the edge. The locking bolt extends into the door jamb when locked by key.
Benefits:
- Easy installation requiring only simple drilling
- Allow doors to be quickly retrofitted
- The surface-mount style blends nicely into the door
Applications:
- Bathroom doors
- Store back doors
- Residential garage entry doors
Panic Bar Devices
Panic bars allow emergency building egress per fire code. They feature a horizontal push bar that opens the door instantly.
Benefits:
- Allow emergency exit at any time
- Push bar operation requires no special knowledge
- Option for alarms to sound on use
Applications:
- Exits doors in schools, theaters, offices, etc.
- Doors in stairwells and corridors
- Assembly areas with large occupancies
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about commercial door locks:
What are some of the most secure commercial lock options?
For maximum security, we recommend commercial-grade mortise locks, high-strength magnetic locks, and pick/drill-resistant deadbolts.
What are ADA-compliant locks?
ADA-compliant locks have levers instead of knobs and other features to accommodate disabled users. We can recommend suitable ADA lock options.
How important is fire code compliance?
Any locking devices must allow free egress in emergencies. We only install locks compliant with fire codes.
Do I need smart locks for my business?
Smart/connected locks provide convenient access control and analytics. But standard commercial locks also get the job done in many cases.
How do I know which locks to install on which doors?
Our locksmiths conduct in-depth site evaluations to determine the right locks for each door based on usage, traffic, security needs, etc.
How often should commercial locks be serviced?
We recommend having a professional locksmith inspect/service your business’ locks at least once per year. Routine maintenance is key.
How do I order replacement keys or keycards?
Contact us anytime you need additional or replacement keys or access cards. We can provide new credentials tailored to your locks.
Let us know if you have any other commercial door lock questions! We’re happy to help you find the optimal locking solutions.
