Locking Down Commercial Security: Why 3-Point Locks Deserve a Spot in Your next build
What exactly is a 3-point lock?
A 3-point (often called “multi-point”) locking system secures a door at three separate positions—typically the latch in the middle plus rods or bolts that shoot into the header and the sill when the handle is thrown. One turn of the lever or key retracts or engages all three points simultaneously, distributing force along the entire door edge instead of relying on a single strike plate.
| Benefit | Why It’s Valuable to Owners & Facility Managers |
|---|---|
| Stronger Anti-pry Security | Spreads attack resistance across the full height of the door, making crowbar or “peel-back” attempts dramatically harder. |
| Code & Wind-load Compliance | Multipoint models like Schlage’s LM9300 are rated to withstand hurricane and tornado pressures—a growing spec in coastal and high-wind regions. |
| Door longevity & Smooth Operation | By pulling the slab tight to the frame at top and bottom, 3-point locks reduce warping, sagging, and hinge wear on tall storefront, warehouse, and hollow-metal doors. |
| Tighter Seal = Energy Savings | Full-height compressive contact helps eliminate daylight gaps that drive HVAC loss—an easy win for ESG targets. |
| Versatile Applications | Ideal for retail roll-outs, back-of-house egress, aluminum storefronts, high-bay swing doors, and secure millwork cabinets (IT closets, loss-prevention rooms). |
How RJB Contracting Makes Installation Painless:
Precise door prep or retrofit
For new slabs we factory-order pre-mortised doors, saving field labor.
For existing openings we route for top-and-bottom strikes and reinforce frames without removing the entire assembly—keeping your space open for business.
Hardware integration
We pair 3-point locks with exit devices, card access, or automatic operators so you don’t get stuck with mismatched hardware or extra subcontractors.Commissioning & client training
Our field techs cycle-test every locking point, then train store managers on daily operation and maintenance (e.g., seasonal rod adjustment).Nationwide roll-out scalability
Need to secure 200 stores before holiday peak? Our multi-site program management syncs schedules, ships hardware kits in batches, and delivers after-hours installs to avoid revenue disruption—one of the reasons national retailers like Target and Panera trust us.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can we add 3-point locking to an existing hollow-metal door?
Generally yes, as long as the frame is in good condition. Our team installs surface-applied vertical rod kits for a clean retrofit.Will this affect emergency egress?
Properly specified devices remain single-motion egress compliant—one push unlatches all three points.Does it integrate with my access-control system?
Electrified multipoint locks tie into 12/24 VDC systems and can report latch status to your security panel.
Ready to Upgrade?
Whether you’re planning a new flagship store or tightening security across an entire portfolio, 3-point locking delivers measurable ROI in loss prevention, durability, and energy performance. RJB Contracting can survey, spec, and install multipoint systems nationwide—on your schedule and without shutting down operations. Secure more. Stress less. That’s the RJB way.