Unlike residential hardware, commercial-grade components are built to handle thousands of daily cycles while meeting strict safety codes. This guide covers the main types of commercial door hardware, the top brands to consider, how to choose the right hardware for your specific business type, and why professional installation matters for code compliance and long-term performance.
What Is Commercial Door Hardware
Commercial door hardware refers to all the locks, closers, hinges, exit devices, and access control components built specifically for business environments. If you've ever pushed open a heavy office door and felt that smooth, controlled swing—that's commercial hardware at work.
So what actually makes hardware "commercial grade"? It comes down to three things. First, durability—commercial hardware is engineered to handle thousands of cycles per day in busy offices, retail stores, and warehouses. Second, code compliance—every piece is designed to meet ADA accessibility standards, fire safety requirements, and local building codes. Third, security ratings—commercial products carry ANSI/BHMA grades, with Grade 1 being the highest level of protection.
The difference between commercial and residential hardware isn't just about strength. It's about meeting the legal and safety standards that businesses are held to.
Types of Commercial Door Hardware
Commercial Door Locks
Commercial locks generally fall into three categories, and the right choice depends on where the lock is going and how much security you want.
Cylindrical locks are the workhorses of interior office doors. They're affordable, easy to service, and handle moderate-security needs just fine. Mortise locks are a step up—they fit into a pocket cut into the door's edge and offer heavier-duty protection for main entry points. Then there are electronic locks, which use keypads or card readers instead of traditional keys.
- Cylindrical locks: Best for interior doors with moderate traffic
- Mortise locks: Heavy-duty option for main entrances and high-security areas
- Electronic locks: Keypad or card-access for controlled entry without physical keys
Brands like Schlage and Corbin Russwin are industry standards in commercial lock manufacturing.
Door Closers
A door closer is the hydraulic device mounted at the top of a door that controls how it swings shut. You've seen them on virtually every commercial door—they're the reason those doors don't slam.
Door closers do more than prevent noise, though. They maintain fire safety by ensuring fire-rated doors close completely after someone walks through. They also improve energy efficiency by keeping conditioned air from escaping every time the door opens. When door closers start leaking oil or failing to latch properly, these critical functions are compromised.
LCN is the go-to brand for commercial closers, with options ranging from light-duty interior units to heavy-duty exterior models.
Exit Devices and Panic Bars
Panic hardware—also called exit devices or crash bars—is the horizontal bar you push to unlatch a door during an emergency. Building codes require panic hardware on exit doors in most commercial buildings because it allows fast egress even when people are rushing or panicking.
| Type | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Rim exit device | Standard exits | Mounts on door surface |
| Mortise exit device | High-security exits | Integrates into door edge |
| Vertical rod device | Double doors | Latches at top and bottom |
One important distinction: fire-rated exit devices are tested specifically for fire doors, while non-fire-rated versions work for other applications. Von Duprin leads the market in exit device manufacturing.
Commercial Hinges and Pivots
Your doors are only as reliable as the hinges holding them up. Commercial doors are heavier than residential ones and see far more daily use, so the hinges take a beating.
Ball bearing hinges are the standard for most commercial applications—they handle weight well and operate smoothly over time. For high-traffic or heavy-use doors, continuous hinges (sometimes called piano hinges) run the full length of the door and distribute stress more evenly. Pivot hinges are a specialty option for large architectural doors where traditional hinges won't work.
Access Control Hardware
Access control hardware includes electronic components like keypads, card readers, and biometric scanners that manage who can enter and when—a market projected to reach $17.30 billion by 2030.
Instead of handing out physical keys, you're granting digital credentials that can be tracked, modified, or revoked instantly.
The real advantage here is visibility. You get audit trails showing exactly who entered and when, plus the ability to change access permissions without rekeying anything. For businesses dealing with employee turnover or contractor access, this simplifies everything.
Thresholds, Seals, and Auxiliary Hardware
Thresholds, weatherstripping, door sweeps, and kick plates often get overlooked, but they serve important functions. Thresholds and seals improve energy efficiency and keep out water and debris. Kick plates protect the bottom of doors from damage. Door stops prevent walls from getting dented.
Many of these components also affect ADA compliance—threshold height, for example, is regulated to ensure wheelchair accessibility.
Top Commercial Door Hardware Brands
Choosing a reputable brand matters for commercial applications. You'll have access to warranties, replacement parts, and products that are certified for code compliance. Here's a quick overview of the major players.
Schlage
Schlage is the industry standard for commercial locks. Their product lines are durable, widely available, and trusted in settings ranging from small offices to large retail chains.
Von Duprin
When it comes to exit devices, Von Duprin leads the market. Their panic bars and exit alarms are specified on projects nationwide because they perform reliably when it matters most.
LCN
LCN built its reputation on commercial door closers. Whether you're looking for a light-duty closer for an interior office or a heavy-duty unit for a high-traffic entrance, they cover the full range.
Falcon
Falcon offers solid commercial locks and exit devices at competitive price points. You'll often find their hardware in multi-tenant residential and commercial buildings.
Corbin Russwin
For high-security applications, Corbin Russwin excels—particularly with mortise locks. Healthcare facilities and hotels frequently specify their hardware because it combines security with long-term durability.
How to Choose Commercial Door Hardware for Your Business
Hardware requirements vary based on your business type, traffic volume, and security concerns. Here's what to consider for common commercial settings.
Retail Stores and Restaurants
High customer traffic means you'll want durable storefront locks and heavy-duty door closers that can handle constant use. Panic bars on customer exits are typically required by code. After-hours security is also a major consideration—many retail businesses benefit from high-security deadbolts or electronic access on back entrances.
Office Buildings
Multi-level access is the key challenge in office environments. Master key systems allow different employees to access different areas while giving management universal access. Electronic access control takes this further by letting you manage credentials digitally and track entry logs—helpful when dealing with employee turnover.
Healthcare and Medical Offices
ADA compliance is non-negotiable in healthcare settings. Beyond accessibility, you'll likely want specialized locking for medication storage and HIPAA-sensitive areas where patient information is stored.
Warehouses and Industrial Properties
Oversized doors require heavy-duty hardware that can handle the weight and frequent use. High-security locks protect valuable inventory, and loading dock areas often call for specialized hardware designed for industrial environments.
Hotels and Hospitality
Electronic key card locks are standard for guest rooms in the hospitality industry. Behind the scenes, comprehensive master key systems let housekeeping and maintenance access rooms while restricting guest access to assigned rooms only.
Commercial Door Hardware Compliance Requirements
Commercial hardware isn't just about security—it's about meeting codes. Non-compliance can result in fines, failed inspections, and serious safety hazards.
ADA Accessibility Standards
- Door handles: Operable with one hand, without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting
- Opening force: Interior doors have maximum force limits for pushing or pulling, not exceeding 5 lbs. according to ADA standards
- Thresholds: Height is restricted to ensure smooth passage for wheelchair users
Fire Code and Exit Hardware Requirements
Fire codes mandate specific hardware for fire-rated doors. Panic hardware is required on exit doors in buildings above certain occupancy thresholds. Inspectors check for compliance during routine inspections, with 60% of fire door violations involving improper clearances or damaged components.
Miami-Dade Building Codes
Local codes add another layer of requirements. In Miami-Dade County, coastal properties often require hurricane-rated hardware, and specific inspection protocols apply to commercial installations, with at least 60% of entrances required to be accessible in new construction.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Even the best commercial hardware can fail if it's installed incorrectly. Poor installation leads to code violations, security gaps, premature wear, and voided warranties.
- Code compliance: Professional installers ensure hardware meets ADA, fire, and local building codes
- Proper alignment: Incorrect installation causes premature wear on closers, locks, and hinges
- Warranty protection: Many manufacturers require professional installation to keep warranties valid
- Integrated systems: Access control and master keying require expert configuration to function correctly
Get Commercial Door Hardware Help in Miami
Selecting and installing the right hardware for your business can get complicated. 305 Locksmith provides commercial door hardware selection, installation, and service throughout Miami-Dade County. Our licensed and insured technicians work with all the major commercial-grade brands and understand local code requirements.
Need help selecting the right hardware for your business? Ready to upgrade your commercial door security?
Contact 305 Locksmith today! or call (305) 539-0439 for a free estimate.
FAQs about Commercial Door Hardware
How often should commercial door hardware be replaced?
Replacement frequency depends on traffic volume and daily wear. High-traffic entrances might benefit from closer adjustments or lock servicing annually, while lower-use doors can go longer between service. Regular inspections help identify failing components before they compromise security.
Can commercial locks be rekeyed without replacing the hardware?
Yes. Rekeying changes the internal pins so a new key operates the lock—the hardware itself stays in place. This is a cost-effective solution for managing employee turnover or responding to lost keys.
What is the difference between mortise and cylindrical commercial locks?
A mortise lock installs into a deep pocket cut into the door's edge, making it more secure but more complex to install. A cylindrical lock installs through a hole bored through the door face—simpler installation, but typically less heavy-duty.
How much does commercial door hardware installation cost?
Costs vary widely based on hardware type, number of doors, and installation complexity. A single door closer installation differs significantly from outfitting an entire building with access control. Request a quote for accurate pricing on your specific project.
Can commercial door hardware integrate with existing security systems?
Modern electronic access control hardware is designed to integrate with CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and building management software. Access events can trigger camera recording or alarm responses as part of a unified security setup.
What warranty should businesses expect on commercial door hardware?
Warranties vary by manufacturer and product line. Most reputable commercial-grade hardware offers multi-year coverage—typically 3 years to a limited lifetime warranty on mechanical components, with separate terms for electronic elements.