Hotel Door Locks

Hotel door locks might seem like a trivial part of your guests’ stay, but they can actually play a major role in both the guest experience and the safety of your property. Learn about the different options available for your hotel and what features to look out for when choosing new locks.

Magstripe Locks

Magnetic stripe key cards are an economical option that allows hotels to lock rooms without a hotel key. Invented in 1975 by Tor Sornes, these plastic cards have 32 holes that are encoded with polarized magnetic bars. Each card is coded with a different set of instructions that can only open the lock when inserted correctly. Until recently, punch cards had to be discarded upon check-out as they couldn’t be reused, but Sornes’ invention allowed them to be recoded.

However, magstripe locks are prone to becoming demagnetized and can have issues with the security of guests’ personal information. They also require the keycard to be swiping or inserted into the reader to open the lock, which can cause wear and tear. These issues led many hotels to upgrade their door lock systems to RFID. These smart hotel locks allow for mobile access, a more streamlined guest experience, less work for staff, and secure guest privacy. They take up little space on the door, work with multiple handle options, and are fully ADA compliant. They can also be programmed to limit access for specific users and timeframes.

Keyless Entry Systems

Using electronic hardware like proximity card readers or sensors to verify authorized credentials—such as a PIN code, digital key, or mobile app—keyless entry systems replace traditional locks and keys. They can work with a variety of locking devices, including cylindrical and mortise locks.

Keyless entry system benefits include improved security. Manual keys are easy to lose or duplicate, and keyless systems require each user have a hotel door locks unique credential. These systems also use end-to-end encryption to protect access data, reducing the risk of hacking and other threats.

Another benefit is efficiency. The onboarding process is quicker, and remote management capabilities allow property owners to add, revoke, or edit access for users from any device with a web browser. Some systems offer additional features such as multilingual voice guidance for programming and state-of-the-art touchscreen technology.

Many keyless entry systems use cloud connectivity to store and back up access data, protecting the system against on-site hardware failures or natural disasters. They also let you create custom access schedules to limit when individual users can enter. You can also choose to integrate keyless entry systems with existing building systems.

Keypads

Keypads are similar to the pin pads found on calculators and allow users to enter a number or code that grants access. They’re often paired with biometrics or other systems to reduce the risk of PIN codes being discovered by intruders.

These types of locks are a useful addition to residential or commercial security systems. They’re a great option for people who want to keep track of their security without the hassle of keys and cards. In addition, keypads are easy to install, and they can be used in place of traditional locks.

Unlike regular locks, which can be susceptible to weather or vandalism, electronic keypads are more durable and can withstand a lot of wear hotel door locks and tear. These systems can also be connected to a larger security system, like CCTV or central station monitoring, for extra protection. They’re a popular choice for multifamily buildings, since residents can give guests and delivery personnel temporary PIN codes. They’re also a good choice for business owners who may not want to grant all employees access to areas that contain sensitive materials or technology.

Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are a much heavier and more durable option than cylindrical lock sets. They are designed for the commercial applications that require robust hardware that can stand up to heavy usage and frequent re-locking cycles.

Their durability is thanks to their construction, which includes a strong metal body and the fact that the latch bolt is recessed in the doorjamb. They are also difficult to force open with brute strength.

The main components of a mortise lock are the lock body installed in the thickness of your door and the latch bolt, which is a sprung lever attached to the frame. You can also choose to electrify your mortise lock with a solenoid that keeps the latch bolt from retracting on the inside (while allowing for keyless entry).

Due to the unique rectangular hole that needs to be chiseled out of a door for Mortise locks, professional installation is usually needed. They are also more expensive than cylindrical locks, though some brands offer a range of standard and custom functions including integrated deadbolts. Many come with a variety of trim design options and finishes, too.

Cylindrical Locks

Cylindrical locks feature rounded lever or knob handles for users to firmly grip and operate a lock. They can be keyed or unkeyed, and they are available in different finishes and backset dimensions to fit any type of door. They also come in a variety of door thickness options and mortise- and surface-mount strikes for more security features.

The hardware in a cylindrical lockset includes a lock chassis, separate latch bolt and operable trim (either levers or knobs), with roses behind the trim. For keyed functions, the cylinder is within the lever or knob itself, making them easier to repair and more durable than conventional cylinders that require the entire lock to be removed for re-keying.

Aesthetics are another factor in the popularity of this lock style, which offers a more traditional look to the door they’re installed on. However, since they aren’t fitted into the door itself, they aren’t as strong against forceful break-in attempts such as crowbars or wrenches as mortise locks. This makes them best for lighter use and low-abuse areas.