As a business owner, the safety of your staff, assets, and data is a top priority. But with criminals constantly finding new ways to break in, keeping up with the latest security advances matters big time.
In protecting your commercial premises, your locks are the first line of defence. Outdated or faulty locks can leave you vulnerable, making a lock upgrade one of the most effective ways to reinforce your security.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the key commercial lock upgrades to consider in 2024 to fully secure your business.
What are Commercial Door Locks?
Commercial door locks are designed to meet the demanding security needs of workplaces and public buildings. They are built to be more durable, secure and high-traffic than standard residential locks.
Commercial locks must withstand constant use by employees, customers and visitors day in and day out without fail. They also need to provide greater protection against lock picking, drilling, hacking and forced entry attempts.
Commercial lock types include deadbolts, mortise locks, cylinder locks, magnetic locks and electronic access control locks. These advanced locks offer features like fire codes compliance, ANSI Grade 1 heavy-duty construction, access control integration and high-security locking mechanisms.
Top Commercial Lock Upgrades for 2024
Choose among these top lock upgrades best suited for commercial premises this 2024:
Keyless Entry
Keyless entry systems can completely replace old-fashioned metal keys with digital keyless unlocking via keypad codes, proximity cards, smartphones or biometric verification.
Gone are the days of worrying about lost keys or unauthorised copies being made. The latest commercial keyless locks allow unprecedented control, security and convenience for busy workplaces.
Access codes can be changed anytime digits are compromised. Proximity cards enable touch-free entry while being deactivated if lost. Smartphone credentials use automated unlocking when in close range. And biometric verification via fingerprint or facial recognition offers a unique key that literally can't be copied.
Pros:
- Enhanced security - access codes prevent unauthorised copying of keys
- Manage access remotely by adding/revoking credentials
- No risk of lost, stolen or duplicated physical keys
- Track activity with audit trails
- Convenient, hands-free access
Cons:
- Potential for lockouts if systems fail with no backup
- Dependent on power source
- Upfront costs may be higher
Mortise locks
Mortise locks are built directly into the door itself for maximum strength and security. They combine internal locking mechanisms housed within a pocket (mortise) cut into the door's edge with external levers or knobs to operate the lock.
The intricate locking components embedded inside the door make properly installed mortise locks extremely resistant to forcing, bumping, picking and drilling attempts. It makes them the most inherently secure lock type available.
For buildings with high security needs, mortise locks are often the best choice over less robust options like deadbolts and cylindrical locks.
Pros:
- Highest security against forced entry
- Durable against heavy commercial use
- Wide selection of finishes to match décor
- Meet ANSI Grade 1 standards
- Cylinder housed inside door for security
Cons:
- More expensive materials and installation
- More complex installation process
- Rekeying more involved than other locks
Smart Locks
Smart locks are the latest innovation combining digital convenience and physical security. These advanced locks allow doors to be locked or unlocked using smartphones without the need for keys. They also integrate with broader IoT and home automation systems.
With built-in WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, smart locks can be monitored and controlled entirely through a mobile app. Users can view real-time notifications and a log of all access—knowing exactly who is entering and exiting.
Temporary virtual keys can also be sent to visitors or staff. It’s ideal for offices with flexible hours and remote workers. Smart locks even sync with sensors, cameras, lighting and other systems for total centralised control.
Pros:
- Ultimate convenience with handsfree unlocking via smartphone
- View real-time activity logs and get notifications
- Grant and revoke virtual keys remotely
- Integrate with other systems like alarms
Cons:
- Potential for hacking risks
- Dependence on power and internet connectivity
- Higher upfront costs
Master Key Systems
Master key systems enable one single master key to open multiple different locks. It allows easy access management for managers across large commercial facilities.
Individual specific keys can then open single locks, with each staff member or department getting dedicated keys for their designated access areas only.
From office buildings to universities to hospitality, master key systems are versatile and customisable across industries. Configurations can be set up and modified as needed, with the master key working on any locks it's programmed to.
Pros:
- Convenient access management with just one master key
- Reduce costs of duplicating keys for all staff
- Flexible system that can expand as needed
- Useful for managing multiple zones or departments
Cons:
- Security risks if master key is lost or stolen
- Rekeying can be more complex
Magnetic Locks
Magnetic door locks use electromagnetic force to securely hold doors closed. They contain magnetised plates that bond together via powerful magnetic attraction when activated.
Doors outfitted with maglocks can lock instantly with no need for the user to manually engage deadbolts or locking levers after closing. This makes them ideal for high traffic access points, and they are commonly paired with "tap to exit" sensors for efficient egress.
Their seamless electronic activation also makes magnetic locks easy to integrate with access control systems, card readers, keypads and other security and automation systems.
Pros:
- Lock/unlock seamlessly via electronic activation
- Integrate with other systems like fire alarms
- Flexible installation options
- Doors lock instantly to prevent tailgating
Cons:
- Vulnerable to power outages without backup
- Not ideal for exterior doors
- Complex installation if integrating systems
Cylindrical Lever Locks
Cylindrical locks have a lever handle and simple bolt mechanism, popular in commercial settings.
Pros:
- Grade 1 options highly pick/tamper resistant
- Easy retrofit into standard prep
- Variety of finishes available
Cons:
- Not as secure as mortise or high-security locks
- Limited access control capabilities
Using a Commercial Locksmith for Expert Installation
Upgrading your business locks is a technical process best left to the experts. A professional commercial locksmith will have the knowledge to recommend the ideal locks for your facility based on usage and security risks.
They can expertly handle the entire upgrade process including:
- Assessing your current security vulnerabilities and goals
- Selecting advanced commercial-grade locks like keyless entry and mortise locks
- Completing door preparation and complex installations
- Safely removing and replacing existing locks without damage
- Offering maintenance and rekeying services post-installation
Conclusion
Invest in premium security for your business this year and contact a licensed commercial locksmith for a lock upgrade. The team at Clockwork Locksmiths has the experience to tailor state-of-the-art office and commercial locks to make your workplace invulnerable to break-ins.
Our professional locksmiths can provide:
- Site evaluation and security recommendations
- Supply and installation of the latest keyless, smart and high security locks
- Integration with access control and alarm systems
- Maintenance, repairs and emergency unlocking
Don't leave the security of your workplace to uncertainty. Contact our commercial lock experts at Clockwork Locksmiths today to schedule your business lock upgrade. Your staff, property and assets will be protected 24/7 by the most robust locking solutions available.
