Wondering whether high security locks are right for your home or business? While you understandably want the best security system for your property, it’s worth looking into whether high security locks are really the appropriate option for your needs.
Our security experts here at Red Key LLC have installed all kinds of locks for homeowners, renters, shop owners, and industrial businesses here in Buffalo NY and surrounding areas. And, here’s some general information we share with clients who are thinking of installing high security locks on their property.
How is “high security” defined?
Within the security industry, high security doesn’t just mean durable, strong, and reliable. There’s actually a grading system overseen by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) that is used to categorize a specific lock as “high security.” Within this grading system, you can know that a lock is up to par if it has an ANSI Grade 1 rating. And there are several tests that a lock has to pass in order to be categorized as such, including:
- The amount of cycles the lock can withstand. Grade 1 locks are tested to complete at least 1 million cycles without fail, making it appropriate for use in high traffic areas.
- The amount of force needed to break the lock. Grade 1 locks must be able to withstand a certain amount of blunt force that would come from something like a battering ram. In fact, high security locks must be able to resist up to 10 blows from 100 joules of force (that’s double what a Grade 2 lock can withstand.)
- The kind of material used in the lock trim. In order to be able to hold up under such harsh conditions, high security locks are built with heavy duty materials.
- How the lock stands up to environmental factors. Many property owners will need high security locks on external doors, which means that they need to withstand a range of environmental factors such as rain, snow, arid conditions, UV exposure and extreme temperature fluctuations.
High security deadbolts versus mortise locks
When it comes to the internal design of a Grade 1 lock, you’re mostly likely to have a choice between a mortise or a deadbolt lock.
A deadbolt, on the one hand, is a single-point locking mechanism that uses a strong bolt to keep the door in place. It’s a popular, simple design that holds up well in a number of settings.
On the other hand, a mortise lock features a larger lock that is housed within a pocket cut out of the door. Mortise locks usually feature both a latch and a bolt to offer multi-point security. And, because of its unique design within the door, a mortise lock is typically more resistant to picking and tampering.
Overall, both deadbolts and mortise locks can come with a Grade 1 rating. But, mortise locks are generally considered to be the more heavy-duty of the two. They also tend to come with a higher price tag and more involved installation, since the door needs modification to accommodate the lock.
When are high security locks advised?
As you can see, high security locks mean business! Which is why they’re the gold standard for many commercial uses. In fact, Grade1 locks are best suited for:
- Government buildings
- Banks and other financial institutions
- School and universities
- Hospitals and other care facilities
- Warehouses and storage facilities
- Entertainment venues
- High security residential properties
- Fire-rated doors
When are high security locks inappropriate?
Although high security locks are necessary for many settings, they’re not appropriate in all scenarios. After all, most residential areas don’t necessitate the use of such heavy duty security, especially in gated communities, individual apartments within a building, or in homes with a smart lock or alarm system.
High security locks are also not advised when:
- The structure of the door is not compatible with a high security lock. High security locks utilize heavy, strong materials in order to provide an extra level of durability. So, not all door materials will be able to accommodate this kind of lock. Furthermore, a responsible locksmith won’t install a high security lock on a door that can be easily broken.
- There is a nearby window that could grant access to the home. Similar to structural issues with the door itself, a locksmith may recommend alternative security measures in the case that the door is situated next to a window. After all, it doesn’t make sense to install a high security lock if it can easily be bypassed by another means of entry.
Another consideration to keep in mind before ordering a high security lock is safety. These types of locks are built to withstand a high amount of force, meaning that emergency response teams may need to rely on heavier force in urgent situations.
High security locks and access control systems
Looking for an extra layer of security in addition to Grade 1 hardware? These types of locks are well-suited for operations with access control systems, surveillance, or biometric entry systems.
Ask our security experts at Red Key LLC about creating a multi-factor security system that integrates well with your business operations!
High security for fire rated doors
When installing high security locks in commercial settings, an important consideration is making sure that your locks are code-compliant. For instance, all hardware mounted on fire-rated or emergency exit doors must meet certain requirements in order to allow for safe egress in emergencies.
A closer look at high security lock installation
Ready to move forward with high security lock installation at your Buffalo business or residence? Here are a few things to know about the installation process:
- Some lock manufacturers are well-known in the high security space. There are certain brands that the majority of businesses rely on because they offer high-quality, reliable locks. For example, some of the most popular manufacturers include Mul-T-Lock, Yale, Schlage, and Assay Abloy.
- You should always rely on a professional locksmith for high security lock installation. When dealing with business operations or residential spaces that require high security, it’s always advised to rely on a professional locksmith. We can be sure that your lock, as well as your door and other points of entry, are able to offer you the highest level of protection possible. We can also help with access control systems or smart technology integration.
Call Red Key LLC for more information about high security locks!
Whether you have a small business in an area that’s been targeted recently by break-ins or you run a large-scale operation with complex security needs, call Red Key LLC to improve your security system! We’ll help you find the right high security lock and oversee installation and ongoing maintenance.
We offer coverage for the entire Buffalo area, including Lackawanna, Cheektowaga, Williamsville and more!
