Commercial Access Control: How to Plan for Door Lock Replacement

Good door locks are essential for ensuring security in your commercial building. If these elements are unreliable, malicious people could pick the locks and gain illicit access. This could lead to the loss of property and the exposure of sensitive information. Also, keep in mind that commercial locks provide a means for controlling access to the business space by employees, contractors and customers. If you are interested in installing new locks and getting rid of the old ones, use the outlined planning tips for good results.

Evaluate Security Requirements

You should think about the level of security that you require for your business. In simple terms, different commercial buildings have different security needs. The optimal protection for your space will depend on multiple factors, including the type of operation, the location of the building and the availability of other security measures. If your business space is highly vulnerable, you should plan on acquiring high-level security locks. These should be resistant to picking and mechanical damage.

Plan for Access Convenience

When replacing your locks, you should determine the best approach to controlling the entry of authorised persons. In the past, access depended on the keys. However, there are currently numerous alternatives which are suitable for commercial use. The best match will depend on your preferences. For instance, a lot of businesses choose access cards for door locks. These are convenient and economical. You can also invest in a biometric door lock, which can be operated using fingerprints.

Think About the Climate

The environmental conditions should be taken into account during the purchase of a commercial lock. Simply speaking, door locks can become vulnerable due to gradual deterioration in adverse surroundings. For instance, if a simple steel lock is used in a highly humid area such as the coastal region, there will be accelerated corrosion or rusting. This will make it easier for intruders to cut or break the lock. Therefore, if your building is located in such an area, opt for locks made using corrosion-resistant materials.

Review Your Purchase Budget

Commercial door locks can be expensive in comparison to residential ones. However, this should not be an excuse to acquire the cheapest item on the market. Remember that the price of products is usually directly proportional to the quality. Therefore, you should avoid cheap items which will be susceptible to physical damage and chemical wear. It is not essential to buy the most expensive lock. Instead, choose the best lock possible for your budget. 

To learn more, contact a commercial locksmith.