Cylindrical Locks: Cost-effective and Secure

Cylindrical locks are a cost-effective lock solution for many commercial facilities. Installation is less labor-intensive than installing a mortise lock. In addition, the locks are easily re-keyed or replaced when necessary, usually without needing to call a locksmith. Commercial cylindrical locks are available in a variety of finishes and in standard duty, medium duty and heavy duty construction.

Construction and reliability are the main considerations when choosing cylindrical locks. Schlage and Falcon are two of the best known lock manufacturers. Consumers can always expect to get the finest quality locks when purchasing from one of these companies. In fact, it was Walter Schlage who invented the cylindrical lock in 1909.

Look for the following specifications when shopping for cylindrical locks:

• ANSI and/or BHMA certifications
  
• UL listed
  
• 5-pin or 6-pin tumblers
  
• Concealed mounting screws
  
• Options for electrical locking and unlocking

Quality locks have been tested to last a long time. For example, the Schlage D-series and Falcon T-series meet or exceed the 800,000 cycle ANSI Grade 1 requirements. These locks are also constructed of either brass or cold formed steel and treated to withstand corrosion. Heavy duty steel springs in the mechanism add to the durability of the locks.

The different construction specifications meet varying commercial building needs. Standard duty commercial locks are suitable for heavy duty residential use or light to medium duty commercial use, such as interior office doors. Medium duty locks are designed for use in commercial exterior applications that don't require rigorous security and for interior doors of medical offices, hotels, retail stores, public facilities, churches and apartment buildings. Heavy duty cylindrical locks provide security in exterior and interior applications for industrial facilities, schools, hospitals, offices, retail stores, government/public office buildings and factories.

Cylindrical locks are usually available in both lever or knob designs. Lever locks should meet ADA requirements. Additional options include special finishes to help users identify by touch that the lock leads to a space containing hazardous materials. The best locks include a feature that allows the exterior knob or lever to move freely even when locked; this helps prevent intruders from breaking the lock. When purchasing locks for fire doors, make sure the lock is rated for use on a fire door.

For commercial installations, always purchase commercial cylindrical locks from well-known companies such as Schlage and Falcon. The light duty locks often available from home improvement super centers won't offer the security or durability required in commercial applications.