What to Know about Commercial Locks and Hardware for Your Business
Choosing the Right Lever Sets & Knobs for Security and Accessibility
Your business’s security starts the moment someone reaches for your door handle. However, choosing the right commercial door locks and hardware requires striking a balance between security and accessibility to ensure you protect your investment while welcoming legitimate visitors.
At Greeley Lock & Key, we’ve been helping Northern Colorado businesses secure their properties since 1975. Whether you’re upgrading an existing facility or planning new construction, understanding the difference between commercial lever sets and knobs can save you money, ensure compliance, and give you peace of mind. Here’s what every business owner needs to know about selecting door hardware that works as hard as you do.
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Why Commercial Lever Sets & Knobs Matter
Most business owners don’t think much about door handles until something goes wrong. A broken lock during busy hours. An ADA compliance issue during an inspection. Commercial-grade lever sets and knobs solve these problems before they start. Grade 1 hardware, certified by ANSI and BHMA, can handle over 800,000 cycles—years of heavy use in high-traffic areas.
ADA compliance requires door hardware that allows one-handed operation without tight grasping or twisting. Lever handles meet this standard, while traditional round knobs don’t. Smart businesses also consider integration with access control systems, managing entry remotely while maintaining physical security.
Types of Commercial Lever Sets & Knobs
Understanding lock functions can prevent you from buying the wrong hardware. Passage function lever sets don’t lock—perfect for hallways and closets. Privacy function includes push-button locking for bathrooms and private offices. Entry function combines keyed exterior access with interior push-button control.
For maximum security, storeroom function stays locked and requires a key every time. Classroom function lets you lock or unlock the exterior lever with a key while keeping interior access free.
Beyond basic functions, you’ll choose between keyed systems with master key options or keyless integration. Modern lever sets work with card readers and smart access control. Mortise locks provide heavy-duty security for sensitive areas, while standard cylindrical locks handle most general applications.
Material and Finish Considerations
Your door hardware makes a first impression every day. Stainless steel lever sets offer superior durability in high-traffic areas while resisting wear and corrosion. For healthcare facilities, antimicrobial finishes reduce bacteria transmission. Exterior doors need weather-resistant materials that won’t deteriorate in Colorado’s climate.
Popular finishes include brushed stainless steel for modern offices, oil-rubbed bronze for traditional settings, and polished chrome for clean, professional looks. Consistency matters—matching hardware throughout your facility creates a cohesive, professional appearance that reflects well on your business.
Quality materials cost more upfront but save money in the long term. Cheap hardware fails quickly in commercial environments, leading to replacement costs and security vulnerabilities when locks malfunction.
Choose Hardware That Works for Your Business
The right door hardware protects your business while ensuring accessibility and projecting professionalism. Greeley Lock & Key works to provide commercial-grade solutions throughout Northern Colorado. Our showrooms let you see sample hardware before making decisions.
Ready to upgrade your commercial door hardware? Visit our showroom, contact us here, or call 970-353-7880 to schedule a consultation. Our team will assess your needs and recommend solutions that keep your business secure and accessible for years to come.