When selecting commercial door hardware for exterior doors, it’s essential to balance security, durability, accessibility, and compliance with local and national standards. Exterior commercial doors serve as the primary access points for businesses, institutions, and public buildings, making their functionality and security paramount.
What type of commercial door hardware is used for exterior doors?
Locksets and Deadbolts
Locksets and deadbolts are the first line of defense for any exterior commercial door. Commercial grade locksets are available in various security grades, with Grade 1 being the highest, offering maximum resistance to wear and force. Deadbolts provide additional security, with options including single-cylinder (operated with a key from outside and a turn button from inside) and double-cylinder (requiring a key for operation both outside and inside), which are ideal for doors with glass panels or near windows.
Panic Bars and Exit Devices
Panic bars (or crash bars) allow doors to be easily opened from the inside by applying body pressure, ensuring a quick exit during emergencies. These devices are a requirement on all emergency exit doors in many jurisdictions. They can be integrated with alarm systems to notify when the door is used, serving both safety and security functions. Exit devices come in various styles, including push-pad and touch-bar types, and can be outfitted with exterior trim options to allow entry from the outside.
Door Closers
Door closers ensure that doors automatically close after opening. This feature is crucial for maintaining security and environmental control (keeping out unwanted drafts, dust, and noise). There are several types of door closers, including surface-mounted, concealed in-frame, in-door, or in-floor models, each offering different aesthetics and functionality. Adjustable closing speed and force are key features, allowing customization based on door size, weight, and usage requirements.
Electronic Access Control Systems
Electronic access control systems have become increasingly popular for exterior commercial doors, offering enhanced security and convenience over traditional lock and key systems. These systems can include keypad entry, card readers, biometric scanners, or smartphone-based access, providing detailed control over who can enter and at what times. They also offer audit trails, showing who accessed the door and when, which can be crucial for security and operational management.
The Recommended RA-Lock Approach
Choosing the right hardware for commercial exterior doors involves a comprehensive understanding of the door’s usage, local regulations, and the specific security needs of the premises. The correct combination of locksets, exit devices, door closers, access control systems, and protective components not only ensures the security and functionality of the door but also its compliance with safety regulations and its durability over time. Consulting with a RA-Lock Security Specialist to carefully select each component, businesses, and institutions can ensure that their exterior doors provide a safe, secure, and welcoming entrance for employees, visitors, and customers.
At A Glance
1. Defining Door Hardware:
Door hardware encompasses the various mechanical and electronic components used to operate, secure, and enhance the functionality of a door, including locks, handles, hinges, and more.
2. What You Need To Know
When selecting door hardware, it’s crucial to consider the door’s specific requirements for security, functionality, and compliance with safety regulations. Understanding the differences in hardware types, materials, and grades can help ensure you choose the most appropriate and effective components for your door’s intended use and environment.
3. Product Recommendations
RA-Lock provides a wide variety of commercial exterior and interior door hardware including access control, door closers, lock cores with keys, and custom locksets.
