The Most Common Types of Commercial Locks

Published: Dec 2, 2022 | Updated: Mar 24, 2026

Security hazards are probably the last thing you want to deal with, whether you’re a residential or commercial owner. While professional locksmiths like us at Sure Lock & Key are ready to fix the problem, it’s always better to be proactive and prevent the issue from happening.

Today, there are many security devices on the market, from cameras to alarms and detectors, making it easier than ever to secure your property. However, all these measures are only as good as the lock you have in place. So, what kind of lock is best for a commercial building?

Sure Lock & Key knows everything about all kinds of locks, and we’re ready to share our knowledge with you.

Mortise Locks

The most popular type of commercial lock is the mortise. Business owners prioritize these mechanisms because of their strength and reliability. These key features make mortise locks durable and strong enough to withstand many opening and closing cycles, which is especially important for commercial buildings.

The main parts of a mortise lock are the lock body, cylinder, spindle, and strike plate. There may be some additional features that will add to the security of your mortise lock. These locks also require a pocket to be cut in the edge of the door for the lock case.

Last but not least, mortise locks can withstand forced entry. When choosing these mechanisms, the only thing to consider is that they require professional installation, so you’ll need to use a commercial locksmith for expert assistance.

Cylindrical Lever Locks

A cylindrical lever lock is another popular locking mechanism for commercial use. Its biggest asset is durability, especially in high-traffic areas where locks are used all day. These locks can be used constantly and still provide optimal security. This makes them one of the top choices for commercial doors.

Also, cylindrical lever locks are easy to use and can be installed on your own, either with a key or a combination of a key and a push button. The main components include the cylinder, levers, latch, and rose (the round plate that covers the internal mechanics of the lock).

Whether it’s a small office or a big facility, cylindrical lever locks are equally good and reliable for businesses of all sizes.

Keypad door locks

If you own a big industrial building, equipping it with a mechanical lock might not be the best idea. Many people enter the building every day, so the lock will get worn out faster. Plus, it’s really hard to keep all the keys in order when you have many employees. That’s why more and more business owners choose keypad locks for their buildings.

With proper maintenance, they usually last longer than regular mechanical locks. This type of lock can increase your building’s security, as you can control who can access it. You can also grant access to certain people and restrict it to others.

The only problem you might face with this lock type is a power outage. So, it’s better to come up with a plan of action in case something like that happens.

The only problem you might face with this lock is a power outage. So, it’s better to come up with a plan of action in case something like that happens.

Panic Bars

A fire safety plan is one of the main components of commercial building security. This also includes having an exit door equipped with features like panic or push bars that people can use in case of an emergency. The core features of these doors are ease of use and quick evacuation.

So, what’s the best lock for an exit door? Most business owners prioritize panic bars because of their universality and effectiveness. These locks are keyless; you just press the handle or push the bar, and it opens. Panic bars have handles on the sides, so when you press them, the latch retracts.

A big advantage of panic bars is their long lifespan. However, they still require regular maintenance to stay strong and perform optimally for years to come.

Smart Locks

Smart locks are becoming more and more common in commercial buildings. These systems take security to the next level by allowing users to control access remotely, see who’s coming and going on their property, and enjoy keyless entry.

Plus, you can integrate a smart lock with your mobile app, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth to lock and unlock doors from your phone or tablet. This gives you flexibility and real-time control over your building’s security.

Some smart locks also have an auto-lock feature, which locks the door after a certain period, and entry logs where you can see who has accessed the building and when.

You can also combine advanced locks with other security devices like cameras or alarms for even stronger protection.

To avoid security breaches and prolong the lifespan of your smart lock system, ensure its regular maintenance and professional check-ups.

How to Choose the Right Lock for Your Commercial Facility

With so many commercial locks on the market, selecting the suitable one may feel challenging. To avoid panic and make the most informed decision, Sure Lock & Key recommends focusing on your own needs and preferences. Also, factors like foot traffic, building type, and level of security required should be considered.

Here are a few more things to think about when choosing a commercial lock for your business:

Security Needs: High-traffic areas like offices or warehouses need cylindrical lever locks, while sensitive areas need mortise locks to prevent forced entry.
Ease of Access: Keypad locks are great for managing access without the hassle of physical keys, and panic bars are a must for quick and safe evacuations in emergencies.
Maintenance and Longevity: Mechanical locks need maintenance, and smart locks may need software updates. Choose a lock that matches your maintenance capabilities for reliability.
Professional Installation: Even the best lock won’t save your property if not installed properly. Get a licensed locksmith to install your security system to ensure its optimal operation and durability.

By carefully selecting the right lock and ensuring proper installation, you can enhance the security and safety of your business for the long term.

In conclusion, choosing the right lock is one of the most important steps in securing commercial property. By understanding your specific needs and the types of locks available, you can make an informed decision and ensure both the safety and convenience of your business.

Whether it’s a durable mortise lock, a high-tech smart lock, or the simplicity of a panic bar, each lock type has its strengths.

At Sure Lock & Key, we understand that your company’s security is a top priority. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to help with expert advice, installation, and maintenance of your commercial locks. Let us provide the solutions you need to protect what matters most.

Reach out to us today for reliable, professional service!

Need more information? Get a free quote

The Most Common Types of Commercial Locks

Mortise Locks

Cylindrical Lever Locks

Keypad door locks

Panic Bars

Smart Locks

How to Choose the Right Lock for Your Commercial Facility

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