Posted by DDH Staff on 10/8/2024 to
Tips
Schlage is a name you're probably familiar with if you've ever shopped for door hardware. This popular brand is known for its reliability and quality, so it’s a favorite in many households across the country. You can find Schlage residential door hardware in many places, including big-box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. These stores offer a more limited selection of designs and finishes, but they provide enough options for those who aren’t too picky about aesthetics. But the most important thing to know is the Schlage residential knobs and levers ANSI rating. We’ll get into that throughout this post.
How Versatile is Schlage Hardware?
Schlage isn’t just a go-to for residential properties; it’s also a solid choice for light commercial settings. Whether you’re securing your home or outfitting an office space, Schlage’s residential knobs and levers provide security with a style that complements any décor. Most Schlage residential hardware comes with an ANSI Grade 2 rating, which strikes a good balance between security and cost, making it great for a range of different uses.
Understanding ANSI Ratings
While the term "ANSI" might not mean much to the average homeowner, it’s an important thing to think about when choosing door hardware, especially for commercial uses. ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute, an organization that tests and sets standards across many industries, including door hardware. These standards make sure that the hardware you purchase meets specific benchmarks for durability and security.
How ANSI Ratings Work
When we talk about ANSI ratings, we’re referring to the grades assigned to hardware based on intense testing. ANSI grades range from 1 to 3, with each grade reflecting a different level of durability and security:
- Grade 1: Maximum Security for Commercial Spaces
This is the highest rating and is typically reserved for commercial hardware. This grade is designed for spaces with heavy traffic, like hospitals, schools, and other public buildings. If you need hardware that can hold up under frequent use and provide the highest level of security, Grade 1 is the way to go. - Grade 2: Great for Light Commercial and Residential Use
This is where most Schlage residential hardware falls. This rating is perfect for light commercial settings like office buildings or apartment complexes, where security is important but the doors aren’t subjected to as much wear and tear as in a public building. Schlage’s Grade 2 hardware offers a reliable solution that’s also budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for both homes and small businesses. - Grade 3: Practical for Everyday Residential Needs
This hardware is designed for residential use, where doors typically see less frequent use. While not as tough as Grades 1 and 2, Grade 3 hardware still provides enough security for the average home. If you’re familiar with brands like Kwikset, you’ll know that they offer a range of Grade 3 products, perfect for making sure your home is secure without the need for heavy-duty commercial-grade locks. Sure-Loc, another popular brand, would likely fall into this category if it were graded.
Why ANSI Ratings Should Influence Your Purchase
When choosing door hardware, it’s important to think about the ANSI rating that best meets your needs. For high-traffic commercial areas, Grade 1 is needed. For most residential properties, Grade 2 or 3 will provide the required security without the extra cost associated with higher-grade hardware. Understanding these ratings helps you make an informed decision, allowing you to choose the right hardware for your space.
Schlage: A Reliable Choice
Whether you're upgrading your home’s security or outfitting an office, Schlage offers a range of options that meet ANSI standards. With most Schlage residential knobs and levers ANSI rating is a Grade 2 rating, Schlage strikes the perfect balance between quality and affordability, making it a trusted choice for both homeowners and business owners. Shop our complete selection of Schlage locks and door hardware today. And check out our other post on ANSI rating for more information on the subject!