Night lock vs Day lock, what to consider?
When choosing the right lock, there are two main options to consider, night locks and day locks. Both options have their advantages depending on where and when they are used. But what makes them different, and what should you consider? Here we go through the key factors to help you make the right decision for your home or business.
What is a night lock?
A 'night lock' is a more powerful lock that meets high security requirements. These locks offer extra security, usually during the night outside of business hours in a commercial property.
A night lock is actually another name for a lock that meets the security requirements set in SSF200, i.e. from lock class 3 according to the standard SSF 3522. To meet the requirements of lock class 3 and higher, a high mechanical performance is required through a hardened lock bolt - often a so-called hook bolt found in SAFETRON motor locks 6500 and 6600.
Night locks offer high protection against tampering and provide a high level of burglary protection, making them suitable for doors that sit in the shell of a property.
What is a day lock?
Day locks are a simpler solution. They are easy to install and are well suited to doors that are not exposed to as high security risks but have high operational reliability requirements. Good examples of this are interior doors or office doors to be fitted with access control. Day locks are also a good choice in buildings where accessibility is a priority, for example for people with reduced mobility.
Day locks do not offer the same level of protection as night locks, but they are still sufficient to keep doors secure during the day or where the risk of burglary is lower.
What to consider when choosing?
Security and safety
First, the formal requirements must be checked, which will dictate which locking solution is required. In doors without formal requirements, night locks may be the best option if the door is exposed to higher security risks, such as back doors, basement doors and other exposed door environments.
Opening frequency
Day locks are usually best suited for doors that are used frequently. Day locks are designed to withstand high mechanical wear in harsh environments.
Accessibility
Day locks are often more suited to buildings with accessibility requirements, such as offices or public buildings. If ease of use is a priority, day locks can be a good choice.
emergency exit
Both day locks and night locks can be fitted with emergency evacuation accessories to meet the requirements of EN 179, which regulates personal safety and emergency evacuation. Keep in mind that an emergency evacuation accessory on a so-called night lock or motor lock lowers the security level from lock class 3 and higher to lock class 2B, which often needs to be anchored with the requirement maker.
Cost
Daytime locks are generally a lower cost and easier to install solution than night-time locks. If security requirements are not high, daytime locks are a better and more cost-effective option.
So, which lock should you choose?
The choice between night locks and day locks depends on your specific needs. If security is your main priority, in doors with formal requirements, leading outwards into a shell shelter or to exposed areas, a night lock is the best option. For doors where you don't have as high security requirements, a day lock can be a good choice.
Need help choosing the right lock?
At SAFETRON, we offer reliable security solutions, including products such as motor locks and electric strikes. Whether you need proper locking for your security door or a simpler solution for interior doors, we can help you find the right one.
Contact us today for personalized advice and help choosing the right solution for your properties!