Commercial Door Hardware: Key To Recurring Revenue

For most locksmiths, the majority of their work involves servicing locks on existing doors, and for many locksmiths, non-residential customers are their bread and butter.

Although there are plenty of residential doors out there, some say that residential locksmithing has lost its appeal. In my calculation, you are lucky if you hear from a residential customer more than once every seven years except to do a rekey after they fire a babysitter.

The residential customer is more likely to remember you for the wrong reasons rather than for doing a good lob. They’ll remember you were 15 minutes late to get there, and took too long to finish. You left some wood splinters on the carpet. You charged them too much for the lock you installed or charged too much for your labor. You didn’t supply enough keys (they requested and you provided three keys but later they lost them or realized they needed additional keys)

So apparently I have a bad attitude towards homeowners in the context of working in many residences.

Commercial (non-residential) customers are more my style. Most importantly, they are repeat customers, and they recognize and reward good service. Once you have been back to a building a few times, you earn a little trust and respect. They stop worrying about the price and focus on picking your brain and letting you do your thing.

Commercial (non-residential) premises are challenging and present multiple opportunities, especially if you offer multiple products and services. It is typical to replace a lock when there to do a rekey, or provide a standalone keypad to upgrade a keyed lock; or maybe install some cameras to cover an exit, or upgrade an exit device to a delayed egress to mitigate shoplifting.That is what we do.

Fire Doors

In the world of doors, the fire door is the most important because its role is probably both as a life safety as well as a security portal.

Fire doors are assemblies and the parts used and repairs made to them are regulated by building codes.

As a matter of fact, fire doors are supposed to be inspected at least annually in order to document that they are in proper working order.

It’s actually hard to imagine that a fire door could be permitted to remain in disrepair for that long, but not impossible. So many times I’ve gotten called to service a door after it has finally deteriorated to the point where it will no longer open, close or latch.

The other extreme is represented by one of my clients who was traumatized by the fire marshal a few years ago, and now performs a daily test of every door in their premises.

I do not mean to sound condescending. I am really impressed with this practice. First it means the occupants of the premises are pretty safe. I have installed locks and systems on dozens of doors in this place, and it is reassuring to know everything is functionally tested every day. Sure it might generate service calls when they find problems, but seriously, it also limits my liability in a practical sense. The probability of an injury and getting one of those panic emergency service calls at 5 p.m. are substantially reduced.

By code, fire doors are supposed to be inspected not less than annually and the results of the inspection be documented. So when I am working on door, even of it is to rekey it, I also inspect it while I am there.

Some of it is common sense and intuitive, but some of the items are best addressed by a professional (like me).

Actually, any door should always be kept in optimum condition, and most of the items on the fire door inspection list could also apply to non listed doors, especially if they are security doors. Of course the sections that refer to fire-rating do not apply to non-listed, non fire-rated doors.

There is a lot of fine print associated with Codes and Fire Door Inspection. As you should know, there are some things you cannot casually perform on a fire door that might negatively impact the fire rating on the opening.

Fire Door Inspection List

Swinging Doors with Builders Hardware will be inspected to verify the following:

1. No open holes or breaks exist in surfaces of either the door or frame.

Holes may be caused by any number of reasons, including bullet holes and removal of old hardware. If the door was attacked and it is warped, creased, or has gashes or is rusting out, it probably will not pass. BONDO is a no-no, but some other repairs are allowable.

2. Glazing, vision light frames, and glazing beads are intact and securely fastened in place, if so equipped. All replacement parts must be appropriately labeled and used for the purpose for which it was intended.

3. The door, frame, hinges, hardware and non-combustible threshold are secured, aligned, and in working order with no visible signs of damage.

Assembly components must be securely fastened, operational, and the door must swing freely. Most components of a fire door assembly are required to be listed or labeled. If labels are missing or damaged, the LAHJ may have to be consulted.

Hinges must conform to  ANSI/BHMA A156.1 – Standard for Butts and Hinges  Don’t use knockoff junk if you want to be treated like a professional security provider.

4. No parts are missing or broken.

Out-of-repair doors are what keeps the codes tightening. Out of repair doors are dangerous.

NFPA 80 states the repair of any deficiencies must be completed “without delay.”

5. Door clearances at the door edge to the frame, on the pull side of the door, may not exceed clearances listed in 4.8.4 and 6.3.1.

If the door is rubbing or binding, it warrants your attention. Something is going wrong if a door is sagging; either the frame or the hinges. If the door is no longer latching, you may have a larger problem going on.

The maximum clearance between the bottom of a fire door and the top of the finished floor or threshold is 3/4”.

Clearances at the perimeter and between the meeting stiles of pairs are measured on the pull side face of the door. Wood doors: must not exceed 1/8”. Hollow metal doors must be between 1/16”and 3/16”.

6. Self-closing doors shall swing easily and freely and shall be equipped with a closing device to cause the door to close and latch each time it is opened. (NFPA80-2010 6.1.4.2.1) Spring hinges are also permitted  (see sidebar for more details on NFPA 80 door operations.)

7. If a coordinator is installed, the inactive leaf closes before the active leaf.

The function of a coordinator is to ensure that the leaves of a pair close in the proper sequence. (IMO Self-explanatory)

8. Latching hardware operates and secures the door when the door is in the closed position.

Failing to latch is a common ailment, and is typically a sagging door or weak door closer

9. Auxiliary hardware items, which interfere or prohibit operation, are not installed on the door and frame.

Common “Auxiliary items” include door stops, and chains. Some items you encounter include kick down closers, and chains on or near the exit device. Both of these are not permitted on fire doors. Of course it is not uncommon to see multiple auxiliary locks on doors, (slide bolts, deadbolts, exit devices, all on a particular door).

10. No field modifications to the door assembly have been performed that void the label.

Locking devices may be fire rated, but it does not mean that they may be retrofitted on a fire-rated door and preserve the door’s fire rating. Retrofits and alterations to fire doors and frames are limited by NFPA 80

If an electric strike required cutting into the face of the frame in order to install it, it has probably breached this requirement, and the LAHJ may be consulted. The strike manufacturer can provide further support in this regard. Use this knowledge when you are specifying your own installations.

11. Gasketing and edge seals, where required, are inspected to verify their presence and integrity.

The second portion of our commercial door hardware focus addresses some of the new products available to commercial locksmiths.

Adams Rite Dual Force® 2190

The Dual Force 2190 Interconnected Deadbolt/Deadlatch provides access control and security for aluminum stile doors. It combines the access control capabilities of a latch with the security of a deadbolt. The key retracts and extends the deadbolt (and deadlatch) from either side. The exterior lever retracts the latch only, while the inside lever retracts the deadbolt and latch simultaneously for fast, easy, panic-proof exiting. It is intended for out-swinging doors.

Key or thumbturn retracts or extends deadbolt or deadlatch. The inside lever retracts both when configured with interconnect feature. Outside lever retracts latch only. Latch holdback feature is activated or deactivated by turning key to retract latch and sliding holdback button on faceplate down to hold and up to release.

Specifications:

Inter-Connection: Field-selectable inter-connection feature allows interior trim to retract deadbolt and deadlatch. Consult local building officials for guidance in code compliance. Retrofits to existing MS1850S Deadbolt or 4500 and 4900 Deadlatch of the same backset. 1-3/4” minimum door thickness required.

Cylinder Basket: 1-1/8” or 1-1/2” only.

Latchbolt/Deadbolt: Latchbolt: 5/8” throw, solid brass. Easily reversible using only a screwdriver. Deadbolt: 1” throw, stainless steel.

Auxiliary Deadlatch Pin: Stainless steel. Deadlocks latch bolt to prevent “loiding” or case-knife entry.

Faceplates: Measures 1” x 6-7/8”. Includes FaceStyle faceplate system that adapts to flat, radius, or beveled door edge. Radius with weatherseal faceplate available separately.

Strikes: Standard strike furnished is the 2101-01 for flat jamb where door closes flush or nearly flush. The 2101 covers MS® Deadlock strike preparation with modification, and the 4901 Deadlatch strike directly. Also available in radius version for opposite stile pairs of doors and with extended lip strikes for special jamb conditions.

Cylinder Cam: The Dual Force 2190 is operable by any standard 1-5/32” diameter mortise cylinder with MS® cam. Cylinders with MS® cams can be readily obtained from most cylinder manufacturers. See CYLINDERS section for cylinder make, thumbturn and trim ring information.

Options: Specify trim option, lever style, finish, and strike.  Also adapts to paddle operator 4591. See 2290 for wood or steel door version for stile and rail type door construction. Note that the low profile trim (trim option 3) is recommended for in-swing door applications. Please refer to 3080 (TRIM) for full offering of designer handle sets.

Electrified Trim Options: Order 2190 Electrification Kit EK-2190 for adding to the clutched exterior lever. Dual voltage 12/24 VDC rated for continuous duty operation. Energizing the lever allows exterior lever to be turned to retract latch only. The electrified option is not available for low profile trim (trim option 3).

Standard Package: Individually boxed with trim as specified, strike and machine screws for mounting. Cylinders available separately. Shipping weight: 2 lbs.

Electrification: The 2190 Interconnected Deadbolt/Deadlatch can be electrified in the field using the 2190 Electrification Kit (EK-2190) or it can be ordered with electrified trim (trim option 2)

Accessories: Extended lip  and 2190 thick door kits areavailable separately.

Adams Rite offers electrified options that are simple to install and result in vastly improved access control. Three important upgrades from Adams Rite are:

• Using the Dual Force® 2190 Interconnected Deadbolt/Deadlatch for a narrow stile aluminum entrance to satisfy single motion egress code requirements
• Installing the e-Force® 3090P/C (Prox/iClass) Keyless Entry, that features a contactless card reader that adds access control to a mechanical exit device, deadlock, or deadlatch by interfacing with any Wiegand-compatible access control system
• Electrifying a storefront opening (while using existing trim) in the easiest way possible – with the Steel Hawk® 4300 Electrified Deadlatch (eLatch). 

For more information, visit www.adamsrite.com

DORMA U1500 Door Closer

DORMA introduces its U1500 Door Closer, which offers the benefits of being both cost effective and versatile. Designed to be universally applicable as a direct replacement closer, the U1500 meets most storefront and other commercial door closer hole pattern applications. It makes an ideal closer for stocking distribution due to its affordability, retrofit capability, and ease of installation. It is backed by DORMA’s quality reputation, technical expertise, and responsive service.

The new U1500 is ideal for aluminum storefront applications, which are typical of retail shops, hotels, elder care facilities, service stations, convenience stores, and other small to mid-sized businesses.

Benefits of DORMA’s U1500 Door Closer include:

• Easy, hassle-free installation—Fits the most common grade 1 surface door closer hole pattern for quick and easy new or aftermarket installation. It’s designed to work with most commercial hardware door and frame types.
• Guaranteed DORMA quality—Independently tested and certified to ANSI Grade 1 requirements.
• Backed by DORMA experts and exceptional service— If you ever need additional technical or application support, our service teams are only a phone call away.

According to Jim Engelerdt, Area Sales Director, DORMA USA, “DORMA constantly looks to provide hassle-free solutions to simplify the installation process. The U1500 Commercial Door Closer is backed by DORMA guaranteed quality and a level of expert support customers won’t likely get with similar products on the market.”

Certifications:

• ANSI/BHMA A156.4 Grade 1 certified
• UL and CUL listed, meets UL 10C for positive pressure
• ICC A117.1 compliant
• CSFM (California State Fire Marshall) pending

Features/Specifications:

• Fluid: All weather
• Handing: Non handed
• Spring Size: Adjustable size 1–5
• Fasteners: Self tapping machine and wood screws
• Arms: Regular, parallel, or top jamb mounting
• Installation: Universal hole pattern; 3/4" (19 mm) × 9-1/16" (230 mm), provides easy installation and retrofit.
• Closing Control: Dual independent valve closing control for sweep and latch
• Backcheck: Adjustable strength
• Finishes: Aluminum, 689; Dark Bronze, 695

More Information: www.dorma.com

Camden AURA™ Push Plate Enclosures

Camden Door Controls has just added round and flush versions of its popular AURA™ illuminated push plate enclosures. AURA™ illuminated push plate enclosures offer enhanced switch visibility, visual and audible confirmation of switch operation, and combine switch activation and annunciation in a single device. Aura™ switches also provide notification of occupancy and door status in restroom and secure door applications.

AURA™ surface and flush mount models include:

• CM-54B Surface, 4 1/2" Square, BLUE only mount box
• CM-54GR Surface, 4 1/2" Square, GREEN/RED, c/w sounder, mount box CM-55B Flush, 4 1/2" Square, BLUE only, mounting box CM-55GR Flush, 4 1/2" Square, GREEN/RED, c/w sounder, mount box
• CM-57GR Flush, 4 1/2" Round, GREEN/RED, c/w sounder, mount box

AURA™ illuminated enclosures are also available with a complete range of English and French instructional signs. AURA™ surface/flush, square/round enclosures are now in stock and ready for distributor orders.

For more information, visit www.camdencontrols.com

EPlex and PowerPlex 2000 Locks

DORMA announces the availability of the DORMA/Kaba E-Plex 2000 and PowerPlex 2000 products to their architectural hardware customers.

The E-Plex 2000 is a battery powered standalone electronic cylindrical lockset and exit device trim. The PowerPlex 2000 is a self-powered cylindrical lockset which requires no batteries and generates power every time the lever is rotated to open the door.

For DORMA customers, these products will ship from Reamstown, PA with hardware orders, and can be master-keyed to match your other hardware, including patented SKC keyways. For Kaba customers, they remain available through Kaba’s locksmith distributors.

Product Features:

• 100 Users
• (3) AA Batteries Included - Up to 100,000 cycles (E-Plex)
• Lock data maintained if batteries fail
• Programmed directly on keypad - very simple
• No wires to pinch
• Easily field-handed
• Standard cylinder or SFIC (6 & 7 Pin)
• Passage Mode, Relock Mode, Lockout Mode
• Service codes - 1 time use codes for service personnel
• Anti-tamper lockout
• 3-year warranty from date of installation
• 3 hour fire-rated

The PowerPlex 2000 electronic pushbutton lock eliminates problems and costs associated with issuing, controlling, and collecting keys and cards. It provides exterior access by PIN code while allowing free egress. PowerPlex 2000 locks are self-powered electronic locks that do not require batteries or other power sources.

The E-Plex 2000 electronic pushbutton lock eliminates problems and costs associated with issuing, controlling and collecting keys and cards. It verifies exterior access while allowing free egress.

E-Plex 2000 locks are powered by three AA batteries that load into a slide-up battery tray in the outside housing, which eliminates wires through the door and allows for continuous operation up to 100,000 cycles

More Info: www.kaba-adsamericas.com

 SECURITECH ELECTRA & 2C Series

ELECTRA series lever trim provide the option of keyed release (any mortise cylinder) or electric release (integration with any access control system). ELECTRA can also provide signaling such as REX, door and latch position as well as key usage. ELECTRA is the only door lever series available which provides identical trim for use on doors with mortise locks, narrow stile locks and cylindrical latch sets.

Securitech’s 2C series provides a simple low-tech solution to lock-out entry via access control systems, while maintaining 100% code compliance. Instead of adding a second lock to a door (which may pose compliance issues for doors in the means of egress), Securitech’s MLY series mortice locks and EDD series exit devices deadbolt the door from within the mortise locks.

When the deadbolt is projected, the exterior lever (which is controlled by electric release with a mechanical key override) cannot open the door. A projected deadbolt (by its own cylinder) blocks the electric release trim.

More Info: www.securitech.com

ALLEGION NDE with ENGAGE™ technology

The Schlage® NDE Series wireless lock with ENGAGE™ technology is designed to be easy to install, connect, manage, and use. Developed specifically for facilities that want to upgrade to electronic credentials for improved security and efficiency, it is ideal for interior office doors, common area doors, and sensitive storage spaces with a cylindrical door prep.

NDE Series wireless locks simplify installation by combining the lock, credential reader, door position sensor and request-to-exit switch all in one unit. NDE Series wireless locks utilize the standard ND cylindrical door prep and can be installed in minutes with only a Phillips screwdriver; no need to install additional components, drill holes or run wires to each opening.

ENGAGE cloud-based web and mobile apps make it easy to configure lock settings, add users, and view audits and alerts from anywhere. For advanced capabilities including user schedules, auto unlocks & holidays, NDE Series wireless locks can be managed with software from our access control alliance partners. NDE Series wireless locks can be updated at the lock with the ENGAGE mobile app, automatically daily over Wi-Fi 2 or in real-time when connected to an ENGAGE gateway.

NDE Series wireless locks with ENGAGE technology are compatible with most proximity and smart cards including aptiQ™ and aptiQmobile.™

Features include:

• Lever handing is field reversible in seconds; no tools required
• Innovative integrated door position sensor requires no additional door prep
• Manage lock configuration and users from anywhere using the ENGAGE web and mobileapps.
• Send updates at the lock, with the ENGAGE mobile app automatically daily when connected to Wi-Fi,2 or in real time when linked to the new ENGAGE gateway and connected to one of our Access Control Alliance partner systems
• Up to 2 years of battery life with 4 AA batteries
• Compatible with major brands of key systems
• ANSI/BHMA A156.25, ANSI/BHMA Grade 1,UL 294, UL10C, FCC Part 15, ADA, RoHS, Industry Canada (IC)

More Info: www.allegion.us