12/20/2023
***WARNING***
Don't cut corners on security hardware.
Contractor grade is O.K. for your cabinets, carpet, flooring, and doors, but NOT your locks.
Here's why:
We have a client that had a NICE multi million dollar facility built. His contractor used the locks some architect specked out. The locks are total crap.
They had problems with the electronic locks from day 1.
Now here we are 2 to 3 years into this building and we have already had to replace most of the electronic locks with quality products. This is an expense the building owner shouldn't have to incur.
But wait... it gets worse:
The client recently had to fire an employee. Oddly enough the employee was the one who controlled their electronic locks. (Not our idea. Never a good idea! We warned against that) as he was leaving he eraced all codes from the lock.
Heres where things get messy. Unlike the tried and true locks we sell and install, the "contractor grade" lock has virtually no programming information. After contacting the manufacturer / importer, the lock apparently was so big of a flop, it's being discontinued. NO software, literature, or support is or will be available for this lock.
Friends, please don't blindly except the security hardware your architect or your builder is pushing.
We see so many "back room" deals where the architect pushes for the use of a certain contractor for all hardware and the end user gets screwed.
Sadly, we see this on the residential side as well. Cookie Cutter homes get thrown up in these large subdivisions in just a few months, and the hardware is often cheap Contractor grade locks installed by some undersigned worker.
At Empire Lock and Safe LLC we will gladly review your building plans and offer advice or suggestions.
We have a security hardware consultant and a Certified Fire Door Inspector on staff to help you.
Our new owner Ronica Wolbert is one of just a few FEMALE Fire Door Inspectors across the Nation. Her attention to detail is truly second to none.
As we approach 2024 we want you to know we are here to help you.