Commercial Lock Grades Explained: ANSI Grade 1 vs Grade 2
If you’re upgrading or installing new locks for your business, you’ll often see labels like “Grade 1” or “Grade 2” on commercial lock products. These grades aren’t just marketing—they’re certified performance standards developed by the ANSI/BHMA (American National Standards Institute / Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association).
So, what do they actually mean? And which one should you choose for your Phoenix business?
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we help business owners understand these standards so they can make informed decisions. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are ANSI Lock Grades?
ANSI grades are used to measure the strength, durability, and security of lock hardware. They determine how well a lock performs over time and how resistant it is to tampering, forced entry, and wear and tear.
There are three grades:
- Grade 1 – Highest performance
- Grade 2 – Mid-range, commercial-grade
- Grade 3 – Light-duty (not recommended for commercial use)
Grade 1 Locks: Maximum Security
ANSI Grade 1 locks are the most secure and durable available for commercial applications.
🔒 Key Features:
– Designed for high-traffic, exterior doors
– Tested to withstand 1 million cycles
– Withstand 10 strikes of 75 pounds of force
– Often used with deadbolts, panic bars, and mortise locks
Best For:
– Main entry doors
– Public entrances
– Medical buildings, schools, warehouses
– Buildings required to meet strict security/fire codes
Grade 2 Locks: Reliable for Interior Commercial Use
ANSI Grade 2 locks are durable enough for many business applications but slightly less secure than Grade 1. They’re typically used on interior doors or areas with medium traffic.
🔒 Key Features:
– Withstand 800,000+ cycles
– Pass impact and force resistance tests
– Compatible with lever handles and knob locks
– Often used in office buildings, retail stores, and shared spaces
Best For:
– Office interior doors
– Break rooms, bathrooms, storage rooms
– Residential buildings with commercial zoning
– Employee-only access areas
Grade 3 Locks: Not Suitable for Business Use
Grade 3 locks are considered the lowest acceptable grade for residential use. They’re not designed for commercial applications or heavy use and are easily bypassed or worn down.
We never recommend Grade 3 for any Phoenix commercial property.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Lock Grade?
Choosing a lock that’s not built for commercial use or foot traffic can lead to: – Premature wear and tear
– Frequent repairs or replacements
– Failed code inspections
– Greater risk of break-ins
– Reduced employee and customer safety
Upgrading to the correct grade can save you money long-term and improve building security.
How We Help Phoenix Businesses Choose the Right Grade
When we assess your location, we look at: – Foot traffic and daily door use
– Exterior vs interior placement
– Industry compliance needs
– Door material and size
– Desired level of access control
Then we recommend the right combination of Grade 1 and Grade 2 locks to protect every entry and access point.
Commercial Lock Services Across Phoenix
We’ve installed and upgraded ANSI-certified lock hardware for: Offices
Retail stores
Warehouses
Medical clinics
Restaurants
Schools
Apartments & multi-unit properties
Including properties in: Arcadia
Ahwatukee
Biltmore
Maryvale
Camelback East
Downtown Phoenix
And surrounding areas
Protect Your Property with the Right Lock Grade
Your business deserves more than a basic lock. Let us help you choose the right grade and hardware to secure your people, property, and peace of mind.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
📞 (602) 854-2766
🌐 affordablesecurityphoenix.com
Related Service Page
Not sure if you need Grade 1 or Grade 2 locks?
Let our Phoenix commercial locksmiths guide you to the right solution