What Are ANSI Lock Grades and Why Do They Matter for Phoenix Homes?
When shopping for new locks, you’ve probably come across terms like “Grade 1 deadbolt” or “ANSI certified.” But what does that really mean—and should you care?
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we help Phoenix homeowners choose locks that meet the right standards for strength, durability, and protection. Understanding ANSI grades helps you make smart, informed choices about the locks that secure your home.
Explore our residential locksmith services for lock upgrades and home security in Phoenix
What Is ANSI?
ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute, which partners with BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) to test and rate door locks for safety and performance. The result is a grading system that helps you understand how tough and reliable a lock really is.
The 3 ANSI Lock Grades Explained
Grade 1 – Highest Security
This is the most durable and secure grade. Grade 1 locks are tested to withstand 250,000+ cycles and 10 strikes of 75-pound force. These are typically used on commercial doors, but also ideal for residential use when you want maximum protection—especially for front doors or homes in high-traffic or high-risk areas.
Best for:
Main entry doors
Detached garages
Homes with increased security concerns
Grade 2 – Mid-Level Security
Grade 2 locks are commonly used in residential applications. They’re strong, affordable, and provide a good balance of security and durability, withstanding 400,000+ cycles and 5 strikes of 75 pounds.
Best for:
Most Phoenix home front doors
Interior garage access doors
Rental properties
Grade 3 – Basic Residential Security
Grade 3 locks meet the minimum standard for residential use. They are tested to 200,000 cycles and 2 strikes of 75 pounds. While they’re okay for interior doors or low-traffic areas, they’re not recommended for your main entry points.
Best for:
Closets
Bedrooms
Side sheds or storage
Why ANSI Grades Matter in Phoenix
The desert climate puts extra stress on locks due to heat expansion, dust, and sun exposure. A low-grade lock may fail faster or become misaligned, especially on exterior doors that face direct sunlight.
When you invest in ANSI-certified Grade 1 or Grade 2 locks, you’re not just getting better security—you’re getting hardware that holds up longer in Arizona’s extreme conditions.
Can You Upgrade an Existing Lock to a Higher Grade?
In many cases, yes. We can evaluate your current door and hardware setup and install higher-grade locks without major modifications. It’s one of the easiest ways to immediately increase your home’s safety.
We Upgrade Locks Across Phoenix
Whether you’re looking to improve security in:
Arcadia
Ahwatukee
Camelback East
Maryvale
Biltmore
Downtown Phoenix
South and North Phoenix
…our team will help you select and install the right ANSI-graded locks for your needs and budget.
Stronger Locks Mean Smarter Protection
Not all locks are created equal. By understanding ANSI lock grades, you can choose hardware that gives your home the level of protection it truly needs—without overspending or guessing.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
Call Today: (602) 854-2766
https://www.affordablesecurityphoenix.com
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