Why Lock Upgrades Aren’t One-Time Decisions
We don’t always think about the locks on our office doors until something goes wrong. However, keeping your locks up-to-date isn’t just about fixing problems. It’s about staying ahead of potential risks. That is to say, upgrading your locks can prevent unwanted access, reduce liability, and improve day-to-day security for your business.
We work in Calgary, where changing seasons and varying property types can affect the performance and lifespan of security hardware. Therefore, deciding how often to upgrade your office locks isn’t a simple timeline. It depends on usage, business type, employee turnover, and even the lock systems you’re currently using.
Key Factors That Influence Lock Upgrade Frequency
We’ve noticed that most business owners assume their locks will last forever once installed. However, commercial locks, like anything mechanical, have a shelf life. Some locks might last up to ten years, but others wear out in half that time, depending on how often they’re used.
For example, if you have a retail storefront with dozens of people coming and going all day, your locks will wear down faster than those in a quiet office space. In addition, keys can get copied without permission, and internal parts can degrade without showing visible damage. Consequently, upgrading becomes a matter of safety and efficiency, not just aesthetics.
You might want to review the state of your locks annually, even if everything appears to work fine. Likewise, take note of any locks that feel loose, stick during use, or require jiggling to turn. These subtle issues often lead to bigger problems over time. You can also consult a locksmith in Calgary to inspect all lock points and provide honest advice on replacements.
When Employee Turnover Demands a Lock Update
Even one former employee with an old key can become a liability. That is to say, it’s not just about trust, it’s about access control. Most businesses experience staff turnover throughout the year, and unless your locks are updated, ex-employees might still have keys that work.
For this reason, we usually recommend upgrading or rekeying your locks whenever a keyholder leaves under questionable circumstances. However, even with amicable departures, key duplication without your knowledge is possible. Rekeying is often a cost-effective solution in these cases, but if you’ve already rekeyed several times, it may be time to switch to a more advanced lock system entirely.
We’ve seen cases where offices delayed lock changes and suffered break-ins that could have been avoided. To clarify, a $100 lock rekey today can prevent a $10,000 loss tomorrow. If you want an added layer of protection, consider looking into commercial lock services that offer master key systems or keyless entry setups.
Upgrading for Insurance and Liability Reasons
Insurance companies in Calgary increasingly ask businesses about their lock systems during policy renewals. In other words, your lock grade can influence how much you pay for coverage. If your locks are outdated or easy to bypass, you might not meet the standard security requirements of your insurer.
We always encourage businesses to stay ahead of this issue by upgrading locks before a claim or audit occurs. Likewise, higher security locks often include documentation or certification that can be shared with your insurance provider as proof of compliance.
If your office has had a break-in or attempted burglary, your insurer might require a complete security system upgrade to continue coverage. Therefore, waiting for something bad to happen before taking action puts you at greater financial and legal risk. In addition, it sends a message to your staff and clients that their safety isn’t being prioritized.
We also recommend keeping a security log, noting each time your locks are replaced or upgraded. Above all, this builds a track record of responsible security management and can help when dealing with claims or inspections.
How Modern Lock Technologies Can Benefit Your Business
Old-fashioned locks still work, but they’re no match for the demands of a modern workplace. Many Calgary businesses are moving toward keyless entry systems, keypad locks, or electronic card readers. These solutions offer control, flexibility, and data tracking that traditional locks cannot.
For instance, you can program who has access and when, set automatic lock times, or disable access instantly when someone leaves the company. Most importantly, these systems eliminate the risks associated with lost or duplicated keys.
However, electronic locks also require upkeep. Batteries can die, software can glitch, and wear can still happen over time. That’s why we suggest checking your system settings and access logs regularly. Subsequently, make upgrades when performance or user reports show recurring issues.
If you’re unsure what system fits your needs, schedule a consultation with a local expert. We’ve helped companies choose locks that match their traffic, security goals, and budget. You can contact Super G&R – Locksmith Calgary to get tailored recommendations without the pressure to buy.
Seasonal Wear and Calgary’s Unique Climate
Calgary’s extreme temperature swings put strain on all parts of a building, including the locks. During the winter, moisture can freeze inside the mechanism, making keys harder to turn. In the summer, dry heat can warp doorframes, misaligning locks and handles. Consequently, what worked fine in spring might jam by fall.
We recommend inspecting all entry points with each seasonal change. That is to say, make a checklist for spring and fall to catch minor issues before they become emergencies. Pay attention to outdoor locks, storage area doors, and any locks exposed to frequent rain, snow, or direct sunlight.
You can extend the life of your locks with basic maintenance like lubricating with graphite (not oil) and tightening loose hardware. However, once the housing or cylinder wears down, a full replacement is often safer than a temporary fix.
If you’re unsure how climate has affected your locks, getting a quick inspection from a qualified locksmith in Calgary gives you clarity without guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my office locks?
We suggest evaluating your locks annually, and changing them every 3 to 5 years based on usage, employee turnover, and any security incidents.
Should I rekey or replace the locks entirely?
If the hardware is in good shape and you just want to restrict key access, rekeying may be enough. However, if the lock shows signs of wear or is outdated, replacing it is the better choice.
What are signs that my locks need an upgrade?
Watch for jamming, key sticking, loose knobs, or visible rust. Also, if you’ve lost control of how many keys exist, it’s time to act.
Are smart locks better than traditional ones?
They offer more control and flexibility, especially for businesses with changing access needs. Still, they require regular maintenance and updates.
Can weather affect my lock performance in Calgary?
Yes. Freezing temperatures, humidity, and heat can all interfere with lock function, especially for exterior doors. Seasonal checks can help prevent lockouts.