7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Door Locks

Are you interested in upgrading the security of your building through new door locks? Even just a simple lock can be the difference between your store or business being burgled or protected. According to a survey by Insureon, 8.8% of businesses in 2017 suffered a burglary or theft.

Avoiding burglaries and theft is all about setting up security precautions that deter burglars from even trying. An effective door lock can stop burglars in their tracks, but not all door locks are the same.

With this in mind, read on to learn the seven most common mistakes you need to avoid when it comes to buying door locks!

1. Purchasing the Cheapest Lock

We understand that not everyone will have a large door lock budget, especially when you’re looking to complete the job fast. However, a door lock is primarily for a business’s security.

Cheaper door locks are typically made of inexpensive materials that aren’t made to last years without rusting, tarnishing, and weakening. They’re also easier for burglars to break into either through force or by picking them.

For this reason, we recommend avoiding common hardware stores and investing more in high-quality door locks. Reputable door lock vendors will ensure that you’re purchasing a lock that provides a high level of security. If you opt to purchase locks at local chain stores, you may be sacrificing quality for minimal or moderate security.

2. Purchasing Complicated Locks

There are plenty of options for locks–some more complicated than others. Some business owners make the opposite mistake of purchasing locks that are simply too complicated for employees to use.

You may want to purchase a digital door locks that have smartphone connectivity, but it won’t be effective if not everyone understands its operation. Complicated locks may also come with a difficult installation process.

If you do choose a lock with a more difficult installation process, make sure you find a contractor who’s experienced. You’ll also need to take time to train your employees on how to use it.

3. Forgetting Weather Conditions

Do you live in an area that has scorching temperatures or high humidity? Purchasing a lock without considering the inclement weather in your area can spell disaster over time. Locks made of less expensive materials will degrade faster and need to be replaced sooner.

You may also need a lock that’s waterproof and doesn’t require batteries to work. Even if you’re encountering extreme weather, you won’t have to worry about your lock not working and keeping you from entering your building.

4. Forgetting Door Material

Even if you find a quality door lock, it’s important that it’s able to be installed properly on the material of your door. For instance, some locks are specially designed for glass doors versus solid core doors. Before you purchase a lock, make sure you read the fine details and ensure that it’s able to be installed on your fiberglass, wood, or metal door.

5. Protecting Only One Door

When it comes to installing door locks, we recommend installing quality locks on all doors that open to the exterior. The reason for this is because even if your front door is well-protected, burglars may opt to break into the back door, which is another common area for break-ins.

Along with having a properly lit exterior on all sides of a building, door locks that are able to withstand force on all doors are important to dissuade burglars.

6. Forgetting to Lock Your Door

Once you purchase a lock, the most difficult aspect of keeping your business protected is by forgetting to lock it up at night. This can be rectified by ensuring that you have training procedures in place so that all employees know to lock-up before they leave. Many burglaries are crimes of convenience and burglars will check locks to see if they’re unlocked as they pass by.

If you need help remembering to lock your doors, consider purchasing some kind of smart lock that will automatically lock at a scheduled time. Just be sure that you perform all the necessary maintenance and read the manual.

7. Ignoring Existing Accents

When you purchase a lock, how it looks on your door isn’t as important as its security. However, a lock that matches the accents and hardware of your door can help boost a customer’s first impression of the professionalism of your business. For instance, older doors with brass accents won’t look nearly as nice if you choose a stainless steel lock that has a modern design.

For inspiration, take a look at the design of your door as well as the existing hardware. There are many different lock designs that you’re able to choose from that have finishes that are able to withstand the weather of your area.

However, if you’ve experienced many break-ins in your area, it may be worth it to choose a lock that stands out from your door. This will ensure that burglars will see it and think twice.

Buying Door Locks: Staying Secure and Stylish

When it comes to buying door locks, it’s worth it to take your time and do some research. You want to work with a reputable door lock vendor that you can trust giving your address to and furnishing you with quality locks. You’ll also need to take into account how many locks you’ll need to replace.

If you have old, flimsy locks on both your front and back doors, we recommend replacing them all. Last but not least, consider your own lifestyle and struggles. If you find yourself struggling to remember to lock the doors, consider some kind of automated lock. You’ll also want to purchase locks made of high-quality materials that can withstand inclement weather for years without degrading.

Ready to purchase high-quality locks for your business? Take a look at the industrial door locks we have on sale today!