Here at LockNet, we service customers across a wide range of industries. One of the busiest industries we work with is the convenience store industry. This is a fast-paced, high-demand industry that sees a great deal of wear and tear on their hardware. If the facility manager isn’t made aware of the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 hardware, he or she can unknowingly waste a lot of money on replacement pieces.

Recently, a facility manager who was frustrated with replacing yet another lever set called us for some advice. He asked, “What can I do to keep the lever sets in my convenience store from wearing out so fast? I’m using commercial grade hardware.”

Commercial Grade Hardware: The Difference

We hated to be the bearer of bad news for this gentleman, but there are two levels of commercial grade hardware. When we delved deeper into his issue, he had been under the impression that Grade 2 hardware was suitable for any commercial use.

Wrong.

Grade 1 Hardware – Heavy Duty Usage

Grade 1 hardware is specifically designed for the extreme use it would get in a high traffic facility such as a convenience store. They can withstand a very high number of life cycles and are much harder to break when it comes to thieves and vandals.

While these should be the obvious choice for anyone with a high traffic facility, many owners don’t spec their hardware and general contractors go for a less expensive option. If it says “commercial grade hardware” a Grade 2 might fit the bill by wording alone. Unfortunately, the facility managers quickly realize this will cost them more money in the long run as their door hardware begins to break in a matter of weeks.

Grade 1 hardware does have its drawbacks though, even if it is necessary in some situations. Proper installation is key in Grade 1 hardware performing the way it’s designed and intended. Performance issues throughout the entire lifetime of the door hardware are a possibility if there are underlying door issues or if the hardware isn’t installed properly. To achieve the best results, you should use a certified technician to install the properly graded hardware.

Grade 2 Hardware – Light Duty Usage

Both Grade 1 and Grade 2 hardware use the term “commercial grade” in their names which has the tendency to throw a lot of people off. Just because it says “commercial grade” doesn’t mean it can be used in any commercial building.

Small boutiques, offices with a small number of employees, any building that sees less than 100 patrons a day—these are all great examples of where a Grade 2 hardware piece could be used and could live up to its name.

However, all Grade 2 locks can’t be looked at the same. A basic set of standards set by ANSI/BHMA are only a minimum. Some will perform at the higher end of the cycle count while others will struggle to meet even the minimum threshold. Before installation, you should consult with the manufacturer or hardware specialist to determine the quality of the product in question.

In the end, you may decide a higher grade hardware would be a better fit for your facility after all.

Do you have any more questions about whether Grade 1 or Grade 2 hardware would work best in your facility? Give us a call. We have several people on hand who would be happy to answer you questions.