The commercial lockset is a mechanism preventing unauthorized entry into restricted areas. Unlike residential locks, these sets are made of sturdier materials and have more complicated mechanism to deter lock picking. They also can have more high tech features such as key less entries systems.
There are three grades of locksets. There are grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3, and each has different specifications. Grade one is for commercial use and is the most secure. While grade 2 and grade 3 are for residential use and offer the least amount of security, grade 3 is the lowest acceptable grade of locks.
There are several manufacturers that produce commercial locksets, including Schlage, Yale, Best and Stanly. Schlage is by far the most common and has the most reliable cylinder lockset. Cylinder locksets are the most common for store fronts. These types of locks are hard to pick, yet easy to replace. You can usually find a set screw on the inside of the door. Remove that screw and twist the cylinder lock counter clockwise to remove the lock.
When having new commercial locks installed, you can have them re-keyed to fit all your old keys. This helps reduce the cost and time of replacing each employee’s keys, since they already have a key. Other lockset types common in commercial settings are combination latch types. This is commonly found in less expensive motel rooms. Higher-end hotels commonly use key card locksets using magnet strip cards that are similar to debit cards.
Locksets are very sturdy mechanisms. They rarely break. When they do, look for a locksmith who is licensed for commercial work. They should also have a comprehensive insurance plan in case anything goes wrong with the repair or installation. If in doubt about which company to hire, ask other business owners in the area if they have recommendations on a good locksmith.
When calling a Commercial Locksets installation company, make sure the technician they send out is an actual locksmith. There are a lot of companies that subcontract with sub-par personnel. Always check IDs and write down any numbers that may appear the locksmith’s vehicles. Before paying a locksmith, have them go over the work they just completed.
