Choosing the right locks is crucial when installing a new access control system on your property. Mag lock vs electric strike are two popular options for securing properties, but they operate differently.
Read on to learn more about these two distinct types of locking systems. We'll explore their advantages and disadvantages so you can decide which is best for your property.
Cost
Electromagnetic locks (maglocks) secure doors in many buildings and commercial spaces. They are commonly installed in door frames and connected to access control systems using keypads, swipe cards, or fobs to provide users with entry and exit permissions.
While mag lock vs electric strike are expensive, they are also robust and durable. Unlike shear locks, they are hidden in the door frame and the frame itself, which makes them hard to see or tamper with. Moreover, they are powered only by electricity and don't require a backup battery.
Electric strikes are less expensive than maglocks and can be configured as fail-safe or fail-secure. They can be tied into fire alarm systems to allow for emergency egress. However, their installation requires modifying the door hardware and frame, making them more complex and costly than magnetic locks. Depending on your building's security needs and priorities, you should consider your options carefully. Stebilex's product experts and excellent sales team can help you determine which electromagnetic lock is best for your business or property.
Installation
Whether to install mag lock vs electric strike will depend on many factors, including your property's needs and security goals. It would help if you also considered safety regulations, such as the need for emergency egress. In addition, the type and position of the doors will influence your choice.
Compared to maglocks, electric strikes are less expensive and more adaptable. They can be used on new and existing doors and don't require a unique lock bolt. They also require less maintenance and are easier to install.
Electric strikes can also be configured as fail-secure, allowing them to remain locked during power outages. They also work well with panic bars, which can be pressed in an emergency to enable people to exit the building safely. These features make them an excellent solution for applications that need to comply with fire safety regulations. But before deciding on an electric strike, you must consult a reputable locksmith to ensure proper installation.
Security
Magnetic locks, also known as maglocks, provide high levels of security. They're often used on doors that require fail-safe locks, including IT server rooms, package rooms, and inventory closets. They also work well on exterior doors that people use to exit during emergencies. They offer a more significant hold force than other locks, making them ideal for securing less-frequented areas in your building. Maglocks are more expensive than electric strike systems and require a permit in Toronto, among other regulations and precautions.
Unlike magnetic locks, electric strikes aren't programmed as fail-safe. However, they can be reprogrammed to be fail-secure, keeping doors locked even during power outages. This is often a requirement of local fire codes and regulations set by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Electric strikes only secure one side of the door, so they're best for doors that control access in only one direction. This may be a drawback for some properties, but it can benefit businesses that only need to secure their entrances from the outside.
Maintenance
Electric strike locks use an electrically actuated device to replace the standard strike plate. The device holds the latch or lock bolt until a release system is activated, such as a passcode, fob key, or access card. They are compatible with existing mechanical locks and work well on doors with a panic bar installed.
They are simpler to install than magnetic locks and do not require extensive door frame modification. They also tend to cost less than mag lock vs electric strike. Additionally, they can be configured to stay locked even during a power outage, making them a more secure option for your building's interior doors.
When selecting the best electromagnetic locks for your property, consider the responsibilities and safety regulations you must meet. Ensure your chosen electromagnetic locking systems integrate with your current security measures and comply with egress requirements during emergencies. Consider also how easy it will be to perform daily maintenance and if the installation process is complex or requires a substantial investment in hardware.
https://www.southperthlocksmiths.com.au/electric-strikes-and-magnetic-locks-whats-the-difference/
