Take a close look at your door locks. Are there obvious signs of wear, such as rust, scratches, or dents? Even sturdy commercial locks begin to weaken after years of exposure to daily use, weather conditions, or dirt. In particular, rust has the ability to compromise the lock’s ability to function. 

Aside from the obvious cosmetic issues, worn-out locks create weak points in your building’s security, making it easier for someone to pick or force them open. Additionally, if employees struggle to unlock doors using worn keys, it’s high time for a new set of locks. 

Replace rusted or damaged locks with newer, corrosion-resistant heavy-duty door locks. Consider high-grade materials such as stainless steel or brass for better durability.

If you’ve dealt with frequent lock malfunctions, this is a red flag. Faulty locks can trap employees inside or prevent them from accessing areas at critical moments. Slow-to-open locks or those that jam regularly disrupt workflows and put off potential clients or tenants from entering your building.

Repeated malfunctions are highly inconvenient and can risk your compliance with safety regulations, especially if these issues affect emergency doors. 

To prevent further disruptions, upgrade malfunctioning locks immediately. Keyless entry or electronic locks could be a practical, long-lasting solution for reducing wear and tear caused by constant manual use.

Have you lost track of who has a copy of your office keys? If past employees, contractors, or tenants still have access to your premises, your current locks could be a liability. You could simply rekey your building, but if you’re in a situation where trust has been broken or keys have been shared, replacing your locks entirely is the only viable option. 

Install new locks after any major staffing or tenancy changes, and consider implementing keyless systems to simplify granting and revoking access for your team.

Experiencing a break-in is one of the clearest indicators it’s time to replace your commercial locks. Even if your doors weren’t completely breached, external damage weakens the reliability of your current security system. Most experienced burglars test locks for vulnerabilities, so if a breach occurs, it’s best to assume your existing locks have been compromised. 

Invest in high-security locks with hardened features such as anti-drill plates or anti-pick technology. Adding secondary measures, like access control systems, can further safeguard your building.

By relying on traditional locks and keys, you’re missing out on the efficiency and convenience of modern innovations. Many businesses now adopt smart locks or electronic access controls, which allow for remote management, better tracking, and simple scalability. For example, if your building has multiple entry points, upgrading to a keyless system guarantees authorized personnel have access without needing physical keys. 

Replace outdated locking systems with smart locks that integrate into your business’s larger security ecosystem. They’re more effective, user-friendly, and adaptable to future needs.

Even if they haven’t suffered damage, you may need to change your locks to comply with safety regulations. In many jurisdictions, there are specific requirements for commercial locks, especially for emergency exits or escapes. If your current locks don’t meet these safety standards, you risk fines and liability in case of accidents. As your business grows and changes, new entry points or merged departments may require updated access solutions.

Consult local regulations to comply with current regulations, then upgrade older systems to fit your security and legal obligations. 

Employees, visitors, vendors, or contractors can duplicate your keys without you noticing. Copying keys magnifies safety risks, so switch to locks with better access control to avoid unauthorized access. 

Replace locks with electronic or smart key systems that restrict duplication. Opt for a system that provides audit trails so you can track who enters and exits the premises. 

While commercial locks are built to withstand heavy use, you still need to maintain them so they can function properly. Lack of upkeep can cause locks to degrade faster, which can lead to issues like sticking, jamming, or outright failure. When you neglect maintenance, you shorten the lifespan of your locks and put your building’s security at risk. 

Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in the internal mechanisms of your locks over time, causing the locks to work less smoothly or even fail entirely. Without proper lubrication, parts of your lock will grind against each other and cause wear and tear. By simply taking steps to maintain your locks, you can avoid these problems and potentially save on costly replacements.

Set up a maintenance schedule and follow it as required. You can also hire a professional locksmith for periodic inspections and servicing. 

Beyond enhancing security, upgrading your locks offers several advantages. Electronic locks or smart key systems allow for convenient and flexible access management, enabling you to assign or revoke access remotely. Plus, these systems reduce the risks associated with stolen keys by eliminating the need for physical keys entirely. 

Further, the audit trail feature promotes accountability among employees and visitors by providing valuable insights into building traffic. Investing in these advanced systems protects your business while improving overall operational efficiency.

Ignoring the signs it’s time to replace your commercial door locks can lead to pricey consequences, whether it’s a break-in, lost productivity, or a reduced sense of safety for your employees. Prioritizing proactive lock replacement protects your company’s assets while reinforcing trust. 

Interested in upgrading your locks? Explore the many options available at DoorHub to find the best commercial door lock for your business. Remember, acting now will save you headaches down the line.