As experienced commercial door installers, we understand the importance of choosing the right door lockset mechanism for your door.
The lockset mechanism is an essential component of door hardware functions that can affect the security and functionality of your door.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of lockset mechanisms, how to choose the right one for your door, and how lockset functions affect door security.
We’ve also provided a FAQ section for this blog, in case you just need a quick answer.
Let’s get started.
Types of Door Lockset Functions
There are various types of door lockset mechanisms, each designed to serve a particular purpose. Let’s look at some of the most common lockset mechanisms.
Entry Lockset Mechanisms
Entry door lockset mechanisms are commonly used on exterior doors that require a high level of security.
They come with a key-operated deadbolt and a keyed knob or lever.
The deadbolt is activated when the key is turned, which helps prevent unauthorized entry.
These locksets provide a high level of security and are ideal for use on front doors or other exterior doors.
Store Lockset Mechanisms
Storeroom door lockset mechanisms are used in areas that require restricted access.
They are designed to lock automatically when the door is closed and can only be opened with a key.
They have a lever on the inside, even though it can’t lock from inside the room. These locksets are ideal for use in storage rooms, supply closets, or other restricted areas.
Classroom Lockset Mechanisms
Classroom door lockset mechanisms are designed for use in educational settings.
They have a key-operated function that locks and unlocks the outside lever, but the inside lever is always unlocked, allowing for easy exit in case of an emergency.
These locksets are ideal for use in classrooms, where quick and easy exit is essential.
Privacy Lockset Mechanisms
Privacy door lockset mechanisms are commonly used on bathroom and bedroom doors.
They have a push-button lock on the inside and a knob or lever on the outside.
The lock is released when the button is pushed or turned, allowing for easy access.
These locksets are ideal for use in areas where privacy is essential.
Passage Lockset Mechanisms
Passage door lockset mechanisms are used on doors that do not require locking, such as hallways or closets.
They have a knob or lever on both sides and can be opened by pushing or turning the handle.
These locksets are ideal for use in areas where locking is not necessary.
Exit Function Lockset Mechanisms
Exit function door lockset mechanisms are designed for use on emergency exit doors.
They have a lever or push bar on the inside that can be pushed to open the door, but they require a key to unlock from the outside.
These locksets are ideal for use in areas where quick and easy exit is essential, but security is still necessary.
Hotel Function Lockset Mechanisms
Hotel function door lockset mechanisms are designed for use in hotels and other lodging establishments.
They have a privacy lock on the inside and a keyed lock on the outside.
The privacy lock can be opened with a push-button, but the keyed lock must be used to gain entry from the outside.
These locksets provide privacy and security for guests.
Dummy Function Lockset Mechanisms
Dummy function door lockset mechanisms are designed for use on doors that do not require locking or latching.
They have a knob or lever on both sides but do not have any locking or latching mechanisms.
These locksets are ideal for use on closet or pantry doors.
How to Choose the Right Door Lockset Mechanism
When it comes to choosing the right lockset mechanism for your door, there are several factors to consider.
Security
One of the most important factors is your security needs.
If you’re looking for maximum security, then you’ll want to choose a lockset mechanism that is specifically designed for high-security applications.
For example, a mortise lockset with a deadbolt will provide better security than a cylindrical lockset with a simple latch.
Type of Door
Another important factor to consider is the type of door you have.
Exterior doors require a different type of lockset mechanism than interior doors due to exterior doors needing to be more secure to prevent unauthorized entry, while interior doors typically only need to provide privacy or easy access.
Aesthetics
Additionally, the aesthetic preferences of the door and surrounding area should be taken into consideration to ensure that the lockset matches the overall design of the space.
Other Key Considerations
Key considerations for exterior doors include the level of security required, the type of material the door is made of, and the location of the door.
For example, a door leading to a garage may not require the same level of security as a front door leading into your home.
When looking at indoor doors, key considerations include the level of privacy required and the ease of use.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best lockset mechanism for your door will depend on a variety of factors.
It’s important to consult with an experienced commercial door installer who can assess your needs and recommend the right lockset mechanism for your specific situation.
In conclusion, choosing the right lockset mechanism for your door is an important decision that should not be taken lightly.
With so many different types of lockset mechanisms to choose from, it can be overwhelming to try and navigate the options on your own.
By understanding the different types of lockset mechanisms, the factors to consider when choosing the right one, and the best practices for installation, you can ensure that your doors are properly secured and provide the level of security and privacy that you need.
Installing a door? Contact our team.
FAQ
What are the Different Door Lockset Functions?
There are several functions of door locksets, including entry, storeroom, classroom, privacy, passage, exit function, hotel function, and dummy function.
What is a Lockset?
A lockset is a complete lock that includes a lock mechanism, a strike plate, and a set of handles or knobs.
How Do Lockset Functions Affect Security?
Different lockset functions provide varying levels of security. For example, an entry lockset provides high security, while a passage lockset provides little to no security.
What’s the Difference Between a Lockset and a Deadbolt?
A lockset includes both a latch and a lock, while a deadbolt only includes a locking mechanism.
What is a Smart Lockset?
A smart lockset is a lockset that is connected to the internet and can be controlled remotely via a smartphone or other device. It can also be programmed to automatically unlock and lock at certain times.
Can a Lockset Easily be Changed or Re-Keyed?
Yes, a lockset can be easily changed or rekeyed by a professional locksmith.