I’ve grown to love not only the world of blogging and digital media but the door and hardware industry as a whole – I never thought I would utter those words, but alas you guys have made an impression on me!

The relationships I’ve developed at LockNet have forever changed me and I’m eternally grateful for each and every one of my coworkers, plus all of you loyal readers out there in cyber-land.

I leave you with thank you.

Thank you for sticking it out with me during this uphill battle of the blogosphere.

Thank you for always warning me when my links were broken or my images were upside down.

Thank you for your patience and kind words of encouragement over the last two years.

The reason for my departure is a simple one-family. We’re relocating my little family to Northern Kentucky where I’ll jump into the blogging and social media worlds for a new company and I only hope to find a crowd as thought-provoking as you all have been.

That’s not all!

I’m honored to be the one to introduce you to the new voice of the Thursday blog posts and LockNet’s Newsletter – Whitney Fay.

I have a tremendous amount of faith in her abilities of carrying on what Katie and I have been building over the last couple of years.

I’ve had a blast training Whitney since she started in April and in LockNet marketing tradition, we locked ourselves in the conference room to hammer out her epic introduction to the LockBytes world.

The New (Thursday) Voice of LockBytes – Who is Whitney Fay?

She joins us from the University of Kentucky, where she was a critical member of the team in charge of marketing and recruitment for the Department of Psychiatry. She wrote a weekly series for The Examiner – Water Cooler Links and a local blog – Best of the 80’s.

During our conference room lock-in, I had a chance to laugh, argue the best movies and of course, quote said movies until we were both in tears.

I promise; you won’t be disappointed.

KW: What’s your favorite social media platform?

WF: Definitely Twitter. It moves quickly and allows 1:1 engagement that you just don’t find on the other social media platforms. I also love the opportunity it gives for reaching a larger audience with the use of hashtags. Who doesn’t love hashtags?

KW: Favorite move in all the land?

WF: I have a list of five that never changes:

1. Ghostbusters
2. Jaws
3. Back to the Future
4.  Anchorman
5. Dumb & Dumber

KW: What would it take to knock one of those out of the running?

WF: The first three can’t be topped; there will never be a greater movie than Ghostbusters.

KW: What’s the difference between a mortise and cylindrical lock?

WF: A ‘mortise’ was originally created by hobbits in Mordor; it’s really hot there. While a cylindrical lock is often used by bottlenose dolphins, you know, because their noses are cylinders.

To be fair, I knew Whitney had no previous experience in the door and hardware industry, but these opportunities rarely present themselves and when they do  you must take full advantage!

KW: You can have any superhero power your imagination can conjure – what would you choose?

WF: The power of persuasion. (Spoken like a true marketer!)

KW: Knowing that you haven’t had prior exposure to the world of doors and hardware, what intrigues you most about the industry?

WF: I had no idea there were so many facets involved in doors and hardware. I was initially surprised by the innovation and creativity within the industry. Now that I’ve had a chance to learn a bit about the industry and LockNet’s role within it, I’m excited to lend my creative efforts and see what we can come up with!

1. Identify Goals

This is usually one of the first things determined, possibly even before the actual “brainstorming session.” You’ll be able to stay motivated and keep the end-results in sight when you have a goal in mind throughout the session.

It’s hard to find a business person who hasn’t heard of SMART goals in their college days, or their own business ventures; they’re not unheard of around the LockNet offices either.

SMART Goals

• Specific
• Measurable
• Attainable
• Relevant
• Time-Bound

2. Set a Time Limit

You’ll have to end your brainstorming session at some point – it’s not unusual for these sessions to end when people simply run out of ideas. This isn’t necessarily the best approach. Setting a time limit can increase your sense of urgency and send your wheels spinning at a more accelerated pace.

3. Write Down/Sketch Everything

I have been known to sit at the “round table of brainstorming” with my box of every color Sharpie you can imagine and visually brainstorm a presentation, website page, graphic design, or sales collateral on many occasion. Once your creative juices start flowing the visual representation will facilitate the creative process and spark even more ideas.

4. Embrace the Crazy

Bear with me for a moment – no judging. Even the most outlandish of ideas can steer you in the direction of the perfect plan. The ideas that sometimes seem ridiculous or over the top can be stripped of their unrealistic aspects and arrive at something fresh and innovative.

5. Bring in an Outsider

When you bring in an outsider you’ll be forced to take a step back, explain the process of what you’re working on, and look at your process from another’s perspective. You’ll be able to avoid the dreaded “group-think mentality” by shaking things up with ideas that are off the wall and different.

6. Start General then Get Specific

You’ve already set your goals and hopefully have a target in sight for making them happen. Start your brainstorming session with a general idea of the topic you’re covering. Use the session to hone in on the goals in mind and think outside the box on how you’re going to get there.

7. Cat Pictures

Studies have shown that looking at pictures of cute animals can boost your productivity efforts and stoke creativity. Not to mention the fact that it will boost your mood and maybe give you a chuckle to get you through that 2:00 slump.

That’s it – now go do something amazing!
Google

The only problem with those four posts is I barely skimmed the surface! You’ll get a basic understanding of door and lock terminology with those  articles under your belt but for the more complex stuff… keep reading!

Door and Lock Terminology – Deadlock

A mortise deadlock does not have a latch, but a bolt which is only operated by key.

Door and Lock Terminology – Door Limiter

Also called a door chain. A fitment that restricts the door to being partially opened in order to identify callers prior to opening the door for access. Can be either an integral part of the lock mechanism or surface mounted on the inner face of the door.

Door and Lock Terminology – PVCu

The full name being – Poly Vinyl Chlorate Unplasticised – is a material used to manufacture a wide range of products including windows and doors. Most of us are more familiar with its cousin – PVC, especially in reference to pipes.

The difference between the two is that PVCu is a more durable material. This is used extensively in building products where strength is an important attribute. Standard PVC is more suitable for projects where a more flexible material is desired as it is softer than its PVCu counterpart.

Door and Lock Terminology – Flag Hinge (for doors)

Door Hinge system used on PVCu Doors which allows for easy installation and adjustment.

Door and Lock Terminology – Hookbolts

Hook shaped bolts used on a multi-point lock, designed to assist door compression and a high level of security against forced attack.

Door and Lock Terminology – Multi-Point Lock

Describes a type of lock mechanism that has more than one locking point.  It usually has a minimum of three locking points (plus latch) spread strategically over the length of the door.  Multi-point locks are typically used on PVCu or composite doors.

Door and Lock Terminology – Locking Point

The point where the multi-point lock enters the outer frame of the door, using either a hook or a rectangular shaped bar.

Door and Lock Terminology – Rim Lock

Nightlatches are still sometimes referred to by their traditional name of ’rimlock’ although a rimlock usually now refers to a basic security lock for use on internal doors, gates or outbuildings.

Door and Lock Terminology – Thumbturn Cylinder

A knob fitted to one end of a cylinder which allows the door to be unlocked without a key from one side only.

Do you feel like a pro now? This should have you well on your way to a door and hardware professional!

That being said, it’s no wonder that we get a lot of questions in regards to ADA code at our trade shows.  Recently, the biggest question on everyone’s mind has to do with the “grasping and turning” concept in regards to door locks.

Well, allow me to confuse you.  There are two current revisions of the ADA code – 2003 and 2010.  While 2010 is the most recent, your jurisdiction may still be operating under 2003.  That means that the 2003 code would override the 2010 code.

ADA Code Facts

The 2003 ADA code states:

ANSI 117.1-2003; 404.2.6

“Handles, pulls, latches, locks, and other operable parts on accessible doors shall have a shape that is easy to grasp with one hand and does not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist to operate…”

The 2010 code states:

ANSI 117.1-2010; 404.2.7

“…Advisory 404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware:  Door hardware that can be operated with a closed fist or loose grip accommodates the greatest range of users.  Hardware that requires simultaneous hand and finger movements require greater dexterity and coordination, and is not recommended.”

Breaking it Down

While it may not seem like it, this is a huge difference.  The 2003 ADA code essentially bans any lock that you couldn’t operate with a closed fist (such as a knob or deadbolt); whereas, the 2010 code strongly dissuades it but does not prohibit it.
What does this mean for you?  First off, you need to find out what code your jurisdiction is currently operating under.  You can do so by contacting your local AHJ.

If you are under the 2003 code, the use of keypad locks, knob sets, and deadbolts on accessible doors is prohibited.  To be fully code compliant, stick with regular lever sets and exit bars.

If you are under the 2010 code, you have a bit more leeway.  We recommend using lever sets, but should you need to use keypad locks you will still be code compliant.  While knob sets are still within the gray area of the 2010 code, we do not recommend using them.

Have you run into ADA issues with your locks?  What problems have you had?  We’d be happy to weigh in and answer your questions!

Google

I recently heard one that wasn’t completely new to me but unfamiliar enough that I had to Google it. Night latch function – do you know what it is?

I’m going to go with no; otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this right?

Night Latch Function – What is it?

The quick and easy definition of the term night latch function is a spring lock that can be opened from the inside by engaging the lever set or knob from the inside or from the outside by key.

Where is it applied?

The night latch is mounted onto the surface of the door as opposed to being mortised into the edge of it.

The night latch holds the door closed with a latch which can often be deadlocked into position.

The latch’s screw prevents the cam on the mortise cylinder from turning far enough to allow the key to be released from the core (or plug) while the handle is locked.

This screw doesn’t affect the lock actuator, only the cam on the mortise housing.

The primary latch in a night latch has a rounded leading edge and is spring loaded.

The latch is withdrawn into the casing as you turn the inside knob to allow you to open the door, but you can close the door by simply pushing the door into its frame.

These locks always need a key to unlock them from the outside.

Check out this video for a nice explanation:

Occasionally, you’ll hear night latches referred to by their original name of ‘rimlock;’ although, these days, a rimlock generally refers to a basic security lock for use on internal doors or other lower security openings.

Are you using night latches in your home or commercial buildings? What’s been your experience with them?
Google

Lena Thornton (on left), veteran Technical Service Representative, started Caps for Carlie with her friend Tonya Bruner in mid-February.  One of Tonya’s close friends is a sweet little eight-year-old girl who is battling bone cancer.

Seeing a loved one, especially one so young, battle cancer is enough to spur anyone into action.  Tonya saw the pain that Carlie was in and knew that she had to do something to help.

Caps for Carlie is Born

Many of the children have to undergo chemotherapy, which causes them to lose their hair.  Tonya quickly learned children generally prefer hats to wigs, so she set out on a mission to collect hats for Carlie and the other children in the cancer ward.  Thus the informal Caps for Carlie charity was born.

Lena and Tonya reached out to everyone they knew and were able to gather 180 caps and t-shirts for children ages 0-13+.

Before the drop-off at the hospital, they had the opportunity to go visit Carlie.  Lena braced herself for the worst, but when she walked through the door she was greeted by two happy little girls playing Legos.  Thankfully Carlie was having a good day.  Had it not been for Carlie’s appearance and some clues around the house (copious amounts of hand sanitizer and a hospital bed), you wouldn’t have known that Carlie was sick.

Like a child on Christmas morning, Carlie tore into her bag of gifts and admired each item she was given – her favorite was a video game that she had been wanting for quite some time.

They had the same rewarding experience two Saturdays ago when they loaded up all of the shirts and hats and delivered them to the UK Children’s Hospital.  They saw a bunch of faces light up as they selected their hats – Lena said she knew all the effort was worth it as soon as she saw the first little girl crack a big smile.

There were only 40 patients in the ward, meaning that they were able to leave the remaining hats and shirts with the hospital to brighten the day of future patients.

Lena said they are taking some time off, but to not be surprised if she’s soon starting up a new collection called Carlie’s Caps, Gently Used Toys, Art Supplies, and Craft Kits.

Hats off to you, Lena – you made a difference for a bunch of sweet kiddos.

Google

I think this is one of my favorite posts to write, especially when the spotlight is on an employee as fun as Ms. Whitney Perkins.

While we’ve all had a chance to get to know her over the last few months, it’s time to share her contagious happiness with the rest of you guys!

Whitney Perkins – Technical Service Representative

Whitney joined LockNet’s Nationwide Repair & Support Department in December of 2013.

Now that the initial “new-ness” has worn off and she has all the trusty training videos under her belt, you’re probably hearing her voice quite often if you call into either of the service teams.

As usual, the questions are generally the same but our TSR’s personalities really shine with their creative answers to these standard questions.

What was the last good book you read?

If you could have a beer with one person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Least favorite food?

In a perfect world, where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Any areas of your education you’re particularly proud of?

Ladies and gentleman, Whitney Perkins! She’s been a wonderful addition to our team, shoot her an email and say hi or ask her any of the burning questions I missed in this post.

Google

In my last post, we reviewed some questions to consider when switching key system vendors.

Today I want to dive into your options for switching between types of key systems.

Key Systems – Types of Cylinders

As discussed in our epic series on key system management, there are three main types of cylinders:

•  Standard Cylinders
• Interchangeable Cylinders (IC cylinder)
• eCylinders

Switching from a standard cylinder to an IC cylinder or eCylinder (or vice versa) will require you to purchase new hardware.

If you just need new mortise housings, you aren’t looking at a ton of money; but, the price tag will add up quickly if you have to start replacing other hardware such as lever sets.

If you are switching from an IC cylinder to an eCylinder, depending on the type of eCylinder you are using, you may run into the same hardware problem.  The Medeco NexGen is compatible with any small format IC cylinder (SFIC); however, the Medeco Logic is not.

Now, if you have IC cylinders it’s important to know if you have large format (LFIC) or small format (SFIC) cylinders.

How will you know the difference?  The LFIC cylinders look like a large figure eight, and the SFIC cylinders look like a small figure eight.

LFIC and SFIC cylinders are not interchangeable.  If you want to switch formats you will need new hardware, which can get pricey.

Key Systems – Types of Systems

There are three different types of systems:

• Unrestricted
• Restricted
• Proprietary

You can switch systems, but if you are on a master system, none of your master keys will work on the new system.

Likewise, if you need a new key or cylinder, you will have to rekey a location.

However, these downsides can be worth it for the increased level of security that comes with restricted and proprietary key systems.

Google

LEED v4 went into effect in November of 2013; while it hasn’t spread to the masses as of yet, widespread adaptation of this new version is expected before LEED 2009 expires in mid-2015.

LEED certification is quickly transforming from a pipe dream to an expectation within the realm of new buildings.

How can you, as architects, designers, specifiers, contractors, or corporate construction directors leverage the benefits of earning LEED credits within the category of doors and hardware?

In this recap of the Doors & Hardware article, Understanding LEED v4 and Opening the Door to Maximum Credit Qualification, we’ll unearth the various ways you can assist.

There are six areas where door systems can apply toward earning LEED credits in v4:

1. Product transparency
2. Raw materials sourcing
3. Material ingredients
4. Indoor air quality
5. Acoustic performance
6. Energy efficiency

Credits can be earned one of two ways – by selecting doors that meet a given criteria, or based on the impact doors have on the building’s performance.

The applicability of credit eligibility is determined based on the standards of the given criteria.  Allow me to explain:

LEED v4 – Product Transparency

LEED v4 outlines new credit criteria for product selection which will allow earning credits for having a hands-on understanding of the environmental impact of the products being used and/or specified.

Manufacturers that are transparent in their environmental impact will help earn credits within this Materials and Resources category.

Raw Materials Sourcing

Previous versions of LEED incorporated criteria for sustainably sourced products in a single-attribute manner – each type of attribute attained earned individual points.

However, LEED v4 has been revamped to offer up to two points by selecting products that achieve multiple attributes.

Option 2 of sourcing of raw materials offers one credit for Leadership Extraction Practices.

This option calls for 20 permanently installed products that meet at least one of the responsible extraction practices included.

Wood and metal doors meeting these criteria can apply toward earning the credit as well.

Material Ingredients

Also included in the Materials and Resources section, LEED v4 emphasizes the importance of transparency yet again. Up to two credits are offered for products that are transparent in their material ingredients.

Door manufacturers have an opportunity to help buildings achieve this credit – door systems can be included as one of the 20 permanently installed products towards earning this credit.

Acoustic Performance

This is a new credit opportunity within LEED v4 available to all building types, with the exception of schools. The intent is to produce professional buildings and environments conducive to occupant productivity and comfort.

There are numerous elements contributing to acoustic performance including how doors fit into and complement a wall system.

Energy Efficiency

Remember the 10 Ways to Winterize Your Door and Lock Hardware post from October?

You probably guffawed at that title, didn’t you?

We weren’t joking! Finally, it’s in print somewhere other than LockBytes – your doors and hardware can seriously affect the energy efficiency of your building!

Doors and Hardware Earning You LEED Points

It should come as no surprise that doors and hardware are deeply woven into the fabric of LEED v4 – they are, after all, an integral part of your building!

Don’t let your team overlook the door and hardware system of your new and improved green building, especially with all of the new credit opportunities available to them.

Do You Own Your Records?

This may sound like an obvious and simple question, but it’s actually the single largest “gotcha” that exists when trying to transfer key systems to a new vendor. If you do not own your records, you need to decide if you want to start over with a new key system. What does this mean for you?

• If you are on an unrestricted system you will still be able to make key copies.
• You won’t be able to get new keys mailed.
• If you are on a restricted system and need new keys, you will need to rekey the location.
• If you are on a master key system, any new system that is installed will be incompatible with the master system.
• The new systems can be set up on a new master, but you will end up with two master keys.

If you decide to make the leap and transfer your key system, make sure that you (not the vendor) are the owner of your records.

Are Your Key System Records Computerized or On Paper?

In this day and age, it’s a shock that some key system records are still on paper, but they are. What.  A.  Nightmare. Paper records present a unique hurdle when transferring records in that some of the pages will be lost, illegible, or misfiled. This translates to some annoyances for you. If a location calls for a new key or core, your new vendor may not be able to find the records for that location. This means that location would need to have a complete rekey. Again – if you decide to switch key system vendors, make sure your new records are computerized and backed up.

Google