Magnetic Lock Installation for Glass Doors
Modern offices and retail spaces love the sleek look of frameless glass doors. At 305 Locksmith, we specialize in maglock installation and integration throughout Miami-Dade County, creating secure, buzz-in access systems that look professional and work flawlessly.
What Is a Magnetic Lock?
A magnetic lock uses electromagnetic force to secure a door. The system consists of two main components:
The Electromagnet
Mounted on the door frame (usually at the top), this powerful magnet energizes when activated.
The Armature Plate
Attached to the door itself, this metal plate is pulled tight against the electromagnet when the system is powered.
When energized, a properly installed maglock can provide holding force of 600 to 1,200 pounds—far more than someone can push through. When the magnet is de-energized (by pressing an exit button, entering a code, or using a key fob), the door releases instantly.
The beauty? No visible hardware on your beautiful glass door. No keyholes, no bulky mechanical locks, just clean lines and modern security.
Maglock Services
- Magnetic lock installation
- Buzz-in intercom systems
- Access control integration
- Fire code compliant installations
- Key fob & keypad systems
- Video intercom setup
- Emergency exit configuration
- Power supply & backup systems
- • Free consultation & site assessment
- • Code-compliant installations
- • Full system integration
- • Documentation provided
Why Businesses Choose Maglocks
Magnetic locks offer unique advantages for modern commercial spaces.
Perfect for Glass Doors
Traditional mortise locks require drilling through the door and installing hardware that disrupts the clean glass aesthetic. Maglocks mount to the frame and door with minimal visible hardware. For frameless glass doors, this is often the only practical security solution.
Buzz-In Capability
Maglocks integrate seamlessly with intercom and buzz-in systems. Your receptionist can see who's at the door via video intercom and release the lock with a button press. We've installed dozens of these systems in Coral Gables medical offices where controlling access during business hours is critical.
Multiple Access Methods
A single maglock system can be controlled by:
- • Key fob readers (RFID or proximity cards)
- • Keypad entry systems
- • Smartphone apps (for modern access control)
- • Push-button release from inside
- • Intercom buzz-in from reception desk
- • Automatic time schedules (unlock at 9am, lock at 6pm)
Fire Code Compliant
When properly installed with the right fail-safe configuration, maglocks meet fire code requirements for emergency egress. The system releases automatically during fire alarms, allowing free exit.
No Wear and Tear
Unlike mechanical locks with tumblers, springs, and moving parts that wear out, maglocks have no mechanical components to fail. The only wear point is the power supply, which we can easily replace.
How Buzz-In Systems Work
One of the most popular maglock applications is the buzz-in entry system. Here's how we typically set these up:
At the Door:
- Doorbell or call button for visitors
- Video intercom (optional but recommended)
- Maglock mounted at the door top
- Emergency exit button inside (required by code)
At the Reception Desk:
- Intercom station with speaker and screen
- Door release button
- Often integrated with access control panel
The Visitor Experience:
- Visitor presses call button at door
- Receptionist sees and hears them via intercom
- Receptionist presses release button
- Maglock de-energizes for 3-5 seconds
- Visitor pulls door open and enters
- Door closes and automatically re-locks
It's secure, professional, and gives you complete control over who enters your space. We've installed these systems in law offices, medical practices, financial services firms, and upscale retail throughout Miami.
Types of Magnetic Locks
We install various maglock configurations to meet your specific needs.
Standard Surface-Mount Maglocks
The electromagnet mounts visibly on top of the door frame. This is the most common and economical option, suitable for most commercial applications. Holding force typically ranges from 600-1,200 lbs.
Shear Locks
These mount on the side of the frame rather than the top, with the armature on the door edge. Good for doors where top-mounting isn't feasible or aesthetic concerns require side placement.
Electromagnetic Gate Locks
Designed specifically for swing gates, these outdoor-rated units handle the challenges of vehicular gates and perimeter access in South Florida's weather.
Critical Installation Requirements
Installing a maglock isn't just about mounting the hardware. Proper installation requires expertise in several areas:
Power Supply Selection
Maglocks require continuous power to remain locked. We size the power supply to match your maglock's requirements and include battery backup so the system continues functioning during power outages. For buildings in hurricane-prone areas, backup power is essential.
Fail-Safe vs. Fail-Secure
This is a crucial decision:
Fail-Safe (Recommended for Most):
Lock releases when power is cut. Required by fire code for most occupied spaces.
Fail-Secure:
Lock remains engaged when power is cut. Only appropriate for specific applications like data centers.
Fire Code Compliance
Maglocks on egress doors must integrate with the building's fire alarm system. When the alarm triggers, the maglock must release automatically. We coordinate with fire alarm contractors to ensure proper integration and can provide documentation for fire marshal inspections.
Request-to-Exit (REX) Devices
Every maglock door needs a way for people inside to exit without tripping alarms. We install:
- • Push-button exit switches
- • Motion sensors (no-touch exit)
- • Crash bars integrated with maglock release
Door Position Sensors
These monitor whether the door is open or closed, which is essential for access control systems and alarm integration. The sensor tells the system "door is open" even when the maglock has released, helping identify forced entry or doors left propped open.
Proper Alignment
The armature plate must be perfectly aligned with the electromagnet for maximum holding force. Even a small gap reduces security. We use specialized tools and techniques to ensure perfect alignment on every installation.
Common Maglock Applications in Miami
We've installed maglock systems across diverse Miami businesses and facilities.
Modern Office Suites
Glass doors with maglocks create secure, professional entries. Employees use key fobs for quick access while visitors use the intercom. Popular in Brickell and downtown high-rises.
Medical and Dental Offices
HIPAA compliance requires controlled access. Maglocks with buzz-in intercoms ensure only authorized individuals enter patient areas. Essential for practices in Kendall and throughout Miami-Dade.
Retail Stores
High-end boutiques use maglocks on their elegant glass entrances, unlocking during business hours and securing the space after close. Some integrate with smartphone notifications when the door opens.
Gyms and Fitness Centers
Members use key fobs for access during staffed hours, while the maglock secures the facility when closed. We've installed these systems at fitness centers throughout Miami.
Property Management Offices
HOAs and property managers control building access while maintaining an open feel during business hours. The receptionist buzzes in residents while keeping solicitors out.
Law Offices & Financial Services
Secure client areas with controlled access. Video intercom allows verification before granting entry, ensuring confidential client meetings remain private.
Integration with Access Control Systems
Maglocks truly shine when integrated with comprehensive access control systems. This allows:
Individual User Tracking
See who entered and when via detailed logs
Time-Based Access
Automatically unlock at opening time, lock at closing
User Permissions
Different staff members get access to different doors
Remote Management
Lock/unlock doors from your smartphone
Visitor Management
Temporary access codes for contractors or guests
Cloud-Based Administration
Manage multiple locations from a single dashboard
For businesses with multiple entry points or those requiring detailed security logs, this integration is invaluable. We design and install complete systems customized to your exact needs.
Troubleshooting Common Maglock Issues
We diagnose and repair maglock problems quickly and effectively.
Door Won't Lock
Usually a power supply problem or misalignment between the magnet and armature plate. Doors can shift slightly over time due to building settlement, especially in South Florida's soil conditions.
Lock Releases Randomly
Often caused by loose wiring connections or interference from nearby electrical equipment. We trace and repair wiring issues systematically.
Weak Holding Force
The armature plate may not be making full contact with the electromagnet, or the power supply voltage has dropped. We measure holding force with specialized equipment.
Exit Button Not Working
Wiring problems or failed relay. We carry common replacement components and can resolve most issues same visit.
Why Choose Professional Installation
We've seen numerous DIY maglock installations that created serious problems:
- ✗Non-code-compliant setups that failed fire inspections
- ✗Inadequate power supplies causing weak locks
- ✗Missing battery backup leaving doors unsecured during outages
- ✗No fire alarm integration (serious code violation)
- ✗Improper fail-safe/fail-secure configuration
Professional installation ensures your system is secure, legal, and reliable:
- Permitting handled if required
- Coordination with fire alarm contractors
- Complete documentation for your records
- Fire code compliance guaranteed
- Reliable, long-lasting installation
Service Areas Throughout Miami-Dade
We install magnetic lock systems across the entire county:
Complete Commercial Security Solutions
We offer comprehensive locksmith solutions for your business.
Get Your Maglock System Installed
Ready to upgrade your glass door security with a modern magnetic lock system? Whether you need a simple buzz-in setup or a comprehensive access control integration, 305 Locksmith has the expertise to design and install your perfect solution.
Free consultation • Professional installation • Fire code compliant • Access control integration