What Are ANSI Grades of Door Locks?

What This Blog Covers

In this blog, we will break down:

How the ANSI grading system works and why it is important.

The three ANSI lock grades (Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3)—their security levels, durability, and typical applications.

How to choose the right lock based on your specific security requirements.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of ANSI lock grades and be able to make a well-informed choice when selecting door locks for your home or business.

Understanding ANSI/BHMA Lock Grades

The Role of ANSI and BHMA in Lock Grading

In the United States, door locks are rigorously tested and classified based on performance standards established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA). ANSI is a private, non-profit organization that oversees voluntary standards across various industries, while BHMA is the trade association responsible for developing and maintaining performance and safety standards for builders’ hardware, including locks.

Locks that meet ANSI/BHMA certification must pass a series of mechanical and security tests that evaluate strength, durability, and overall performance. This grading system helps manufacturers produce high-quality locks while giving consumers and businesses a standardized way to compare security levels.

Why Lock Grading Matters

Understanding ANSI lock grades is essential for homeowners, property managers, and business owners because:

It ensures the right level of security—whether for a home’s front door or a high-traffic commercial facility.

It helps consumers make informed purchases, avoiding overspending on security they may not need or underestimating their security requirements.

It improves long-term durability and reliability, as locks with higher grades are built to withstand frequent use and physical force.

Breakdown of ANSI Lock Grades

Grade 1 – Highest Security

Overview:
Grade 1 locks provide the highest level of security and durability, making them ideal for commercial and high-security applications. They undergo the most stringent testing to ensure long-term performance under extreme conditions.

Key Performance Requirements:

Withstand 800,000 cycles of operation.

Endure 6 door strikes with a hammer.

Support a 360-pound weight test without failure.

Common Uses:

Government buildings.

Airports.

Heavy-duty commercial doors.

High-security residential properties.

Grade 2 – Medium Security

Overview:
Grade 2 locks offer a balance between security and affordability, making them suitable for residential entry doors and light commercial use. They are more durable than Grade 3 locks but not as robust as Grade 1.

Key Performance Requirements:

Withstand 400,000 cycles of operation.

Endure 4 door strikes with a hammer.

Support a 250-pound weight test without failure.

Common Uses:

Office buildings.

Hotels and hospitality spaces.

Storage rooms.

Residential front and back doors.

Grade 3 – Basic Security

Overview:
Grade 3 locks provide the lowest level of security and are primarily used for interior doors or residential entry doors in low-risk environments. While they meet minimum security standards, they are not recommended for high-security applications.

Key Performance Requirements:

Withstand 200,000 cycles of operation.

Endure 2 door strikes with a hammer.

Support a 150-pound weight test without failure.

Common Uses:

Interior doors in homes.

Low-risk residential entry doors.

Areas where minimal security is required.

Why ANSI Lock Grades Matter

Helping Consumers Make Informed Decisions

ANSI lock grades provide a clear, standardized benchmark for consumers to compare different locks based on security and durability. Without these ratings, buyers would have to rely solely on marketing claims, which may not always reflect a lock’s true performance. By understanding these grades, homeowners, businesses, and property managers can select the most appropriate lock for their specific needs.

Ensuring Compliance with Building Codes

In commercial and multi-family residential buildings, local and national building codes often require door hardware to meet specific ANSI/BHMA standards. Using the correct lock grade ensures compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential fines or legal issues.

For example, Grade 1 locks are frequently required for fire-rated doors, emergency exits, and commercial entry points, where security and durability are paramount. Residential buildings may also have minimum security standards, particularly for rental properties and multi-unit housing.

Impact on Insurance Requirements and Security Standards

Many home and business insurance policies consider lock security when determining coverage and premiums. Some insurers may require ANSI-certified locks on entry doors, particularly in commercial settings, to qualify for lower rates or even coverage eligibility.

A higher-grade lock can:

Reduce the risk of break-ins, potentially lowering insurance premiums.

Demonstrate due diligence in securing a property, which can be beneficial in liability claims.

Enhance overall security, giving property owners peace of mind.