What Type of Door Lock is Best for Commercial Buildings?

2024-11-14

Choosing the right door lock for a commercial building is essential for ensuring security, convenience, and compliance with safety regulations. With various types of locks available, it can be challenging to determine which one best meets the specific needs of a business or office space. In this guide, we’ll explore the top types of door locks ideal for commercial buildings and discuss their benefits, helping you make an informed choice for optimal security.

Deadbolt Locks: Simple and Secure

Deadbolts are a popular choice for exterior doors in commercial buildings, especially when combined with other lock types. Unlike standard spring locks, deadbolts do not retract with pressure, making them harder to tamper with.

Types of Deadbolts:

  • Single Cylinder Deadbolt: Operates with a key on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside, commonly used for doors that do not have glass panels.
  • Double Cylinder Deadbolt: Requires a key for both sides of the door, providing additional security but may be less suitable for emergency exits.

Deadbolt locks are highly secure and easy to install, making them an affordable option for many commercial settings.

Keyless Entry Systems: Convenient and High-Tech

Keyless entry systems are an excellent choice for modern commercial buildings that require controlled access. These locks allow employees to enter using keycards, PIN codes, or even biometric scanning.

Advantages of Keyless Entry Systems:

  • Convenient for multiple users: Keyless systems are ideal for large teams, eliminating the need for physical keys.
  • Easy to track: Many systems record entry logs, enabling managers to monitor access and enhance security.
  • Flexible access control: Access codes or permissions can be adjusted for specific employees, making it easy to grant or revoke access.

Keyless entry locks are costlier but provide unmatched convenience and control, making them a preferred choice for large offices, healthcare facilities, and corporate spaces.

Smart Locks: Versatile and Integrative

Smart locks connect to mobile devices and smart security systems, allowing remote control and monitoring. With options for keypads, keycards, or app-based unlocking, these locks offer flexibility for commercial buildings that prioritize advanced security.

Benefits of Smart Locks:

  • Remote access control: Ideal for businesses with multiple locations, smart locks allow managers to control access from afar.
  • Compatibility with smart security systems: These locks can integrate with alarms, cameras, and other security components for a complete solution.
  • Automated access features: Smart locks can automatically lock and unlock at set times, adding a layer of security for offices with strict schedules.

While smart locks require a stable internet connection, they offer advanced security and easy integration, suitable for tech-driven businesses.

Mortise Locks: Durable and High-Security

Mortise locks are heavy-duty, making them a top choice for high-traffic commercial areas that need durable security solutions. Mortise locks feature a complex structure with a lock body installed within the door frame, providing added strength.

Features of Mortise Locks:

  • Increased durability: Mortise locks can withstand frequent use, making them ideal for doors in common areas or main entrances.
  • Variety of locking mechanisms: Mortise locks can be customized with deadbolts, latch bolts, or even lever handles.
  • High security: Due to their reinforced structure, mortise locks are resistant to break-ins, providing strong protection for businesses.

Mortise locks are common in office buildings, hotels, and retail spaces where secure, robust locks are essential.

Panic Bars and Crash Bars: Emergency and Exit Safety

Panic bars, also known as crash bars, are essential for exit doors in commercial buildings. These locks enable people to quickly exit in emergencies, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.

Benefits of Panic Bars:

  • Easy to use: Panic bars are operated by pushing the bar, allowing for fast exits in emergencies.
  • Fire and safety compliance: Panic bars meet regulatory requirements, making them mandatory for many commercial exits.
  • Durability: These bars are designed for high traffic and withstand frequent use without wear.

Panic bars are commonly found on emergency exits, fire doors, and other high-security exit points, making them essential for schools, hospitals, and larger office buildings.

Cylinder Locks: Simple and Customizable

Cylinder locks, often used with mortise and rim locks, provide flexibility and security for commercial doors. These locks use cylinders that can be easily replaced or rekeyed, making them adaptable and convenient.

Advantages of Cylinder Locks:

  • Rekeying flexibility: Cylinder locks can be easily rekeyed, ideal for businesses with changing staff or rotating contractors.
  • Compatibility: Cylinder locks can be used in combination with mortise or rim locks, enhancing security.
  • Cost-effective: These locks provide reliable security without the high cost of electronic locks.

Cylinder locks are best suited for offices that need reliable and adaptable security solutions.

Electric Strike Locks: Controlled Access with Added Security

Electric strike locks are commonly used in conjunction with intercom or buzzer systems, allowing controlled access through remote unlocking. These locks are ideal for commercial buildings that require secure, monitored entry points.

Why Choose Electric Strike Locks:

  • Remote access control: These locks can be controlled remotely, allowing security teams to monitor and control entry.
  • Compatibility with intercoms: Often paired with intercoms, electric strike locks are ideal for reception areas or gated facilities.
  • Enhanced security: Electric strike locks only allow access when activated, preventing unauthorized entry.

Electric strike locks are best suited for buildings with monitored entry points, such as apartment complexes, gated offices, and government buildings.

Choosing the Right Lock for Your Commercial Building

When selecting the best lock for a commercial building, consider factors such as the level of security required, budget, traffic levels, and ease of access for employees. While deadbolts and mortise locks provide excellent durability and security, keyless and smart locks offer the convenience and control needed in a modern workplace. For buildings that require monitored entry, electric strike locks paired with intercoms can enhance security.


Ultimately, choosing the right lock involves balancing security, functionality, and cost. With these options, you can secure your commercial space while maintaining accessibility for employees and compliance with safety standards. Whether you're upgrading or installing new locks, the right choice will strengthen security and ensure peace of mind for everyone who uses the building.