We recently received a call from a commercial client in Memphis, TN 38109. They were having serious issues with their commercial storefront door locks, and it was preventing them from operating smoothly. Their front door was completely stuck in the locked position, which meant the only way to enter the building was through a side door. This presented not only a logistical nightmare but a serious security concern for their business.
When they called us, they asked, “Can you handle a commercial door lock replacement and get us back inside?” We assured them, “Yes, GI Locksmith specializes in all types of commercial door locks, including unlocking, repairing, and replacing locks on metal front doors and commercial door closers.”
Once we arrived on-site, we quickly discovered the issue was more complex than just a faulty lock. The door was aligned incorrectly, causing the commercial door lock to seize up. Using our years of experience in commercial door closer repair and door control solutions, we diagnosed the source of the problem as a combination of a failing door closer and misaligned door hinges.
First, we got the door open by carefully disengaging the lock and inspecting the door closure mechanism. We found that the door closer arm was loose, and the door closer hinge was not functioning properly. The door was slamming shut too quickly, a common sign that the door closer was leaking oil, indicating wear. We explained this to the client, and they asked, “Do you provide door closer installation and maintenance?” We assured them that we handle everything from door closer repair to new door closer installation.
We began by fixing the door’s alignment. The pivot hinges were causing the door to sag, which in turn was preventing the lock from functioning smoothly. After adjusting the hinges and realigning the door, we moved on to the commercial door closer. We installed a brand-new LCN door closer by Allegion, which is known for its durability and smooth operation. You can see in the video how the door now closes softly and securely without slamming into the frame.
Once the door alignment and hydraulic door closer were sorted, we shifted our focus back to the lock. The Sargent commercial door lock was still sticky, so we removed the Sargent LA key cylinder, rekeyed it, and lubricated it for smoother operation. This commercial property hadn’t had proper lock maintenance in years, and the difference was noticeable after we rekeyed the lock and restored its functionality.
In the end, the client was thrilled that all their issues were addressed in one visit. They asked us, “How long does a door closer installation take?” and we explained, “It typically takes about 45 minutes for a standard commercial door closer installation, or an hour for more complex setups.” Our client was pleased with the transparency and efficiency of our service. We also provided them with some tips on door closer maintenance services, so they can keep everything in working order moving forward.
By the time we finished, their commercial storefront doors were back in business. The doors were aligned perfectly, the heavy-duty commercial door closer was functioning smoothly, and the commercial door locks were operating like new. We also had to install a new door sweep on door. The door sweeps keep bugs out, keeps the reveal of the door so light can get through, and no air drafts.
Check out the before and after images and video footage below, where we show how we corrected the door’s sagging issues, replaced the door closer, and rekeyed the commercial storefront door locks.
Tools we used:
- Pivot hinge adjustment tools
- Allen Keys
- Leveler
- LCN Door Closer
- Sargent Rekey Pinning Kit
- #10 and #12 Sheet Metal Screws
- Dremel with routing bits for strike plate adjustment
- Drill tap for new screw holes
📸 Check out the images and videos of this commercial storefront transformation. If you’re in Memphis, TN, 38103, or nearby areas like West Memphis, AR 72301, and Southaven, MS 38671, we can help with commercial door lock replacement, door closers, automatic door closers, Electronic door closers, hydraulic door closers, or any other commercial locksmith service your business needs. Contact us today!
