Why Should I Buy Locks by Grade Instead of Name Brand?
Door locks are tested for their construction and durability and separated into 3 different grades. It's important to understand the difference between these grades. Locks are tested and assigned to a grade by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association(BHMA). The BHMA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop and maintain performance standards for builders hardware.For most consumers, shopping for a new lock can be as basic as selecting the right color. A good rule of thumb is not to just look for a brand or design but to first look at the grading of the hardware. Most manufacturer’s of door hardware offer products in all 3 grades. Locks are tested in multiple areas 2 of which are strength and cycle.
- The Strength Test examines how much forcible turning a lock in the locked position can withstand. To be graded, a lock must stay locked after the minimum force has been applied.
- Grade 1 requires a key in knob must hold up to 300 lb-in and a lever lock must withstand 450 lb-in.
- Grade 2 requires a key in knob, must hold up to 150 lb-in and a lever must hold up to 225 lb-in.
- Grade 3 requires a key-in-knob to withstand at least 120 lb-in and a lever lock must withstand at least 180 lb-in. (See example images below for Key-in-Knob and Lever designs)
Key-in-KnobLever
- The Cycle Test examines how many times the lock can be operated before it fails.
- Grade 1 lock must complete 800,000 cycles.
- Grade 2 lock must complete 400,000 cycles.
- Grade 3 locks must complete at least 200,000 cycles.
Most commercial applications require either grade 1 or grade 2 locking hardware. Grade 1 not only meets commercial building requirements, it also provides the best security available against vandalism and heavy usage. Grade 2 meets light commercial requirements and exceeds residential building requirements. These locks are adequate for lighter duty doors where security is less of an issue. They will stop unauthorized personnel from walking through the door, but will have less of an effect on deliberate force than grade 1 products.When shopping by grade instead of name brand, often a consumer will find there is a small difference in the price between a well advertised brand name grade 3 and a less advertised grade 2 lock. Come by and visit our shop and look at the door hardware we have in stock next time you need a lock instead of going straight to the big box store. When you see and feel the difference between the grades of hardware; we feel sure you will also agree that grade is far more important than name brand.
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As an expert in the field of door hardware and locks, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you understand why choosing locks by grade instead of name brand is crucial for ensuring the security and durability of your doors. My expertise is grounded in a deep understanding of the standards set by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
The evidence supporting the importance of choosing locks by grade lies in the rigorous testing and standards established by the BHMA. This association is accredited by ANSI, a reputable organization known for its commitment to developing and maintaining performance standards. By relying on these industry standards, consumers can make informed decisions based on the construction and durability of door locks rather than simply being swayed by brand names or designs.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Grades of Locks:
- Grade 1: Meets commercial building requirements, offering the highest level of security against vandalism and heavy usage. For strength, a key-in-knob must withstand 300 lb-in, and a lever lock must withstand 450 lb-in. It must complete 800,000 cycles in the cycle test.
- Grade 2: Exceeds residential building requirements and meets light commercial requirements. Suitable for lighter duty doors where security is important but not as critical as in Grade 1 applications. For strength, a key-in-knob must withstand 150 lb-in, and a lever lock must withstand 225 lb-in. It must complete 400,000 cycles in the cycle test.
- Grade 3: Meets residential building requirements, providing basic security. For strength, a key-in-knob must withstand at least 120 lb-in, and a lever lock must withstand at least 180 lb-in. It must complete at least 200,000 cycles in the cycle test.
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Strength Test:
- This test assesses how much forcible turning a lock in the locked position can withstand. Each grade has specific requirements in terms of torque (lb-in) that the lock must endure to be graded. The lock must stay locked after the minimum force has been applied.
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Cycle Test:
- This test examines how many times the lock can be operated before it fails. The number of cycles required for each grade indicates the durability and longevity of the lock in real-world usage.
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Commercial Applications:
- Grade 1 locks are suitable for most commercial applications, offering the best security against heavy usage.
- Grade 2 locks meet light commercial requirements and exceed residential building requirements.
- Grade 3 locks are basic and meet residential building requirements.
By understanding these concepts, consumers can make informed choices when selecting door locks, prioritizing security, durability, and functionality over brand names or designs. This knowledge empowers individuals to choose the right grade of lock for their specific needs, whether for commercial or residential applications.
