Access Control Starts at the Door
Card, FOB and keypad systems get the attention, but the door hardware does the actual locking. A reader that sends the right signal to a misaligned strike still leaves the door locked. A mag lock without the right release devices can fail inspection or trap people. Getting access control right is mostly about getting the door right.
We install the door side of commercial access control across Toronto and the GTA: electric strikes, magnetic locks, electrified locks, power transfer, readers, request-to-exit devices and battery-backed power. Then we commission the doors with your security vendor. Because we also handle commercial door repair across Toronto, the strike, closer and hinges get checked before any electrified hardware goes on.
Locking Hardware Options
Electric strikes
Replace the standard strike in the frame with one that releases electrically. HES 5000 and 9600 series strikes are common on hollow metal and aluminum frames. They work with the existing lock or exit device and are usually the simplest option for code.
Magnetic locks
A magnet on the header holds an armature plate on the door. Mag locks suit glass and some aluminum doors where strikes are impractical. On exits, they need a request-to-exit sensor, a manual release and fire alarm tie-in.
Electrified mortise locks and exit devices
The lock body itself is electrified, powered through a power transfer hinge. Clean and secure, ideal for suite doors and lobby entrances.
Fail-Safe or Fail-Secure?
| Mode | On power loss | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Fail-safe | Unlocks | Stairwell re-entry doors, some mag-locked exits |
| Fail-secure | Stays locked from outside, free exit inside | Perimeter doors, storefronts, suites |
The right mode depends on the door’s role and fire code requirements. We choose per door, not per building.
Access Control Installation Cost Guide
| Door package | Typical range (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Electric strike and reader on hollow metal door | $1,500 - $2,800 |
| Mag lock with REX, release button and power | $2,500 - $4,000 |
| Electrified mortise lock with power transfer hinge | $3,500 - $5,500 |
| Aluminum or glass entrance with full integration | $4,500 - $6,500 |
Your written CAD scope confirms hardware, wiring and power per door.
Built to Pass Inspection
Magnetic locks on exits are a common fire inspection finding when release devices are missing. We install the request-to-exit sensors, manual release buttons and fire alarm interface the Ontario Fire Code requires for each mag-locked door. Exits must always allow free egress.
On one Markham tech office, the PM needed FOB access on six suites and a mag lock on the glass front entrance without failing the fire inspection. The crew chose fail-safe and fail-secure hardware door by door, added the required release devices and installed battery-backed power supplies. Everything was programmed and working by Friday.
Working With Your Security Vendor
We prep the doors and power so your vendor can program instead of troubleshoot: labelled wiring, correct voltage, tested hardware. Then we test together so readers unlock on the first try.
Related Work
Accessible operators can be tied into access control. See handicap door operator installation. For new lobby entrances built access-control-ready, see aluminum commercial door installation. For ongoing upkeep, electrified hardware can be added to a maintenance contract.
