Why a Door Key Lock is Still Reliable for Small Businesses

When running a small business, it’s likely that you have considered your security setup. For the most part, businesses today are drawn to modern security setups such as smart locks, CCTV systems and advanced remote alarms. However, while all of these systems have their benefits, there is still a place for a standard door key lock. If you worry that your good old keyed lock isn’t good enough, read on!

To help you understand the simple effectiveness of a door key lock, we asked lock specialists Locksandhardware for some insight. They provided us with a simple piece of advice: not every small business needs to break the bank for high-end security. Sometimes, a cost-effective door key lock is just enough. With the right quality of lock, and when fitted by a locksmith, this can offer cost-effective, reliable security.

Why Do Small Businesses Stick To Using Door Locks & Keys?

We understand that most business owners want the best-in-class in everything. They want the best locks, the best security systems, and the most up-to-date cash registers. They want it all.

However, reality has to be appreciated. Not every business owner can afford to spend X on a new CCTV system or a remotely managed smart lock. And, frankly, many businesses do not even need to go this far. If you contact a locksmith to review your business’s security, they are unlikely to recommend a smart lock system as a necessity. There is still an appreciation for the classic.

After all, it is the quality of the door lock and key that matters as opposed to the function. You could spend hundreds of pounds on a remote smart lock that uses cheap electronics. That means a criminal can easily override it, or it is more likely to short out, run out of battery, or stop responding to your commands. With a standard door lock and key, that is not a problem you need to worry about.

So long as you maintain the lock and key and upgrade them from time to time, you can rely on the physical lock and key for the long term. Not every small business needs to go digital or ‘get smart’ with its security – many can get by just fine with a standard lock-and-key system!

The Strengths Of Traditional Key Locks For Small Businesses

There are four key reasons that experts at Locks & Hardware rose with us when we asked them about the benefits of using a door key lock. The main benefits of sticking with the tried and tested lock and key include:

Ease Of Access

First things first: what good is your business if your customers can’t even get in the door? You need to ensure you have an easily accessible place of business. Otherwise, customers go elsewhere!

With a digital lock or smart lock, there is always the need to have someone on standby. You need to keep a close eye on who is coming into your premises so that you can unlock the door, for example. Then there are the aforementioned concerns about smart locks failing, which could leave people unable to get into the building. That happens more often than you would think, especially if the Wi-Fi signal is poor.

With a standard door key lock, you can open the door for whoever comes to your shop. During opening hours, you can leave the door unlocked, making it easy for people to come and go.

Familarity

There is also something to be said for having a door type that simply operates as you expect. If you switch to a digital or smart lock, you might find yourself in a period of adaptation. That can take time.

As such, you might find yourself fumbling with remote access, which means customers cannot get into the building. Or, you might accidentally unlock your business’s door when you are at home, on holiday, or otherwise preoccupied. With a door key lock, you know that if you lock the door, it stays shut!

Affordability

There is also the question of cost. Not every small business has the funds to simply spend big on a new digital lock system. That can cost hundreds of pounds; thousands, even, if you go the extra mile and fit things like motion sensor alarms and remote two-way speakers.

If your business is looking to keep costs manageable, a standard door lock and key are enough. This is much cheaper – even the highest-grade door lock with a key will cost less than the cheapest smart lock system. If saving money is a priority, you can do so while still securing your business.

Simplicity

Lastly, there is the simple benefit of having a timeless lock design – sometimes, the classics just work!

Simplicity is often underrated, especially in business. Instead of having to train your staff to work a digital lock system, you don’t have to show them anything. It can be easy to always want the latest and greatest tech, but sometimes all you need is a door that opens and closes, locks and unlocks!

Balance Cost & Reliability With A Door Lock And Key

So, hopefully, you can now see that relying on a standard lock door is not quite as ridiculous as it sounds. Many business owners in the UK still use a standard door key lock, and with good reason.

Not only are they very cost-effective, but they are extremely easy to use. So long as you buy a high-quality lock – one which meets British Standards and comes recommended by a locksmith – you should have nothing to worry about. If your security budget is limited, you can have a brand-new door lock and key fitted for a few hundred pounds or less.

Remember, though, to always hire a locksmith. DIY door-key lock installation is not a good idea, especially for your business!