If you own a commercial property, such as an office space, it’s crucial to get and install high-quality door locks. A quality door lock brings forward a number of benefits like it guarantees the security of all your office valuables and employees.
Because door locks come in a wide variety, for instance, electronic or deadbolts, choosing the perfect office lock can be overwhelming. This is why you must first do exhaustive research before deciding on what you’d use for your office’s door lock. If you need help figuring this out, look no further, as this guide looks at things to consider when looking for an office lock.
Keep reading to learn more.
- Consider Your Budget
The price of office door locks varies depending on quality. In the American market, higher-quality door locks are usually more expensive than lower-quality locks. Knowing this, you must determine how much money you’re ready to spend before choosing an office lock.
With a set budget and help from experts at Locksmith Plus Inc. Vancouver WA, or where you’re from, it’ll be less of a hassle to decide the best office lock that satisfies your needs.
You shouldn’t prioritize the price of an office lock over quality. This is because taking the cheap route increases the risk of losing office valuables due to poor security. Because of this, you must research to find out which lock falls within your budget while providing excellent security.
- Select A Type Of Door Lock
The type of commercial door lock you get for your office space determines the security level. Here’s a look at the different commercial-grade locks that best suit your business:
- Smart Locks
These types of commercial door locks connect to the internet and allow you to open or close the door using your smartphone. The wireless and smart keyless locks are usually connected to the Wi-Fi network. So, you can control these locks over your phone either on a mobile app downloaded on your phone or using a remote.
But you must ensure your Wi-Fi door network is strong and reliable for the smart lock to work without a glitch. Other smart locks feature Bluetooth connectivity that lets you unlock your office door after getting to a specific range.
Smart locks can be installed on different types of doors, be they wooden or aluminum doors. But before installing them, first, confirm their specifications to see the compatible materials. You can install these locks on interior and exterior doors across your office.
- Mortice Locks
If your office foot traffic is high, mortice locks are the best choice to go for. This lock features several parts, and these include:
- A lock body with a locking mechanism that goes inside the mortice cut-out section in the door;
- A keyed cylinder where the key enters when locking and unlocking the door;
- A lock trim is also known as a knob or lever; and
- A strike plate to strengthen the holes inside the frame.
The position of the deadbolt part in a mortice lock is found inside its body. This unique design makes mortice locks very strong to combat forceful entry and, as a result, a popular choice in most office spaces.
When installing the mortice lock, you’ll need to drill the office door and chisel it out by hand. You can’t install mortice locks on certain door types like composite and uPVC doors. They’re ideal to use on wooden doors.
Mortice locks can either be a sash lock or a deadlock. The sash lock system features a latch and bolts together with a pair of handles. In contrast, the deadlock features a mortice lock with a bolt and key only.
Further, mortice locks come with varying levels of security. The level 5 lock delivers higher security standards and is a good choice if you want greater vigilance in your office. For mid-level security, consider getting the 3-lever lock.
- Cylindrical Locks
Cylindrical locks can come with a knob or lever handle, and the installation process is quick and simple. All you need to do is to drill two holes through the door, making them a perfect addition to your office. They’re available in different grade levels, functions, and styles. If you opt for this door lock, make sure to use it for the interior doors of your office.
- Electronic Locks
Are you concerned about unauthorized individuals picking up your office’s door locks? If yes, electronic door locks are the best choice to combat this. It has revolutionized office security. There’s a wide variety of these locks, including:
- Keypad locks
Also known as combination locks, unlocking this lock requires you to enter a personal identification number or PIN.
- Key cards/fobs
They’re smart locks that unlock the door using Bluetooth or radio frequency identification. You only need to place the card on the sensor to unlock the door. Key cards can be programmed to open several locks, meaning you only need one to open different doors in the office building.
- Biometric locks
These locks feature a fingerprint or eye scanner. They’re a great pick if you prefer to avoid carrying a key card and offer greater security because forging fingerprints is very hard as they’re unique.
- Take Into Consideration The Lock’s Durability
Commercial locks for your office premises are a form of property investment. This is why you must emphasize the durability of an office lock before getting one. You must do this regardless of whether you get a mechanical, electronic, or digital lock. It’s best if the lock is weather resistant, as this makes it robust to withstand damage either from rust or water.
- Check The Door And Door Lock Rating
The door lock rating is another thing to consider when looking for a door lock for your office. An office door lock that meets the minimum safety standards is a must-have. You can get these details by visiting the door lock company site to see the lock’s rating. Doing this will help you gauge if the lock can ensure the safety of your workplace premises.
In addition, you should only get locks tested by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) or American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Doing this helps you find out lock standards and ratings and to better examine criteria such as:
- The lock’s finish and fit;
- Strength and durability;
- The lockset’s operation;
- The lock’s mechanics;
- Material quality inspection;
- The lock’s security, and so on.
Besides the lock rating, don’t forget to check the rating of the door where you’re going to install the lick. A strong lock is of no use if the door is weak and can be taken down with ease.
Considering both the door and lock rating, you’re certain of a perfect match to boost your office’s security.
- Keep In Mind Then Aesthetics
Security should be a priority when looking for office door locks. With that said, you should also remember the quality of the finish when looking for locks to use in your office. But luckily, you can find office locks in a wide variety of finishes and styles. Thanks to this, you’re bound to find one that best matches your taste, and most of the finishes you’ll find include:
- Antique or satin brass;
- Distressed or satin nickel;
- Matte black;
- Aged or oil-rubbed bronze;
- Satin or bright chrome; and so on.
All these types of finishes are available on the deadbolt and handle locks.
- Never Let Convenience Slip Off Your Mind
Another thing to consider when deciding on the right office door lock is convenience.
First, you want to get an office door lock that installing on the doors is a breeze. This helps avoid any unwanted accidents during the installation process that lead to your employee’s injury. Besides easy installation, the door lock system should be easy to maintain. This is ideal as it means the locks are easy to change.
Additionally, you should get a door lock whose replacement parts are readily available. This will streamline the office door replacement process and not be time-consuming.
You also need to consider how simple it is to open the office door lock before getting one. Get an office door lock that’s easy to operate.
- Pick A Lock That Fits The Size Of Your Office Space
How big is your office space? You need to answer this question to determine the best office door lock for your commercial space.
If your office hosts a lot of workers that need to move freely within the confines of your workplace, it’s best to use an efficient and hassle-free keyless entry system. A keyless entry is ideal as it gives your staff a sense of independence and allows easy access. All that’s needed is keying in a code on the electronic lock to enter your office space.
For s smaller office space, the standard door lock with a mechanical key is a perfect choice.
Takeaway
Round-the-clock security is a primary aspect a business owner or company manager needs to uphold at all times. Business personnel need to work in a safe environment. Various office possessions need to be stored and kept properly. In order to have both, you need to buy a quality office door lock for your workplace security needs.
The guide above has detailed factors to consider when searching for an office door lock – they’re very helpful for your search. Have undeterred office space security and peace of mind by picking the right office door locks today.
