Mechanical locking systems
These systems work with classic keys and locking cylinders. They are easy to handle and offer a proven solution for most security requirements. Mechanical locking systems can be used for single-family houses, usually in the form of keyed-alike cylinders, so that all external doors, bicycle sheds, garden houses, garden gates, etc. can be opened with a single key. Locking systems are predestined for multi-family houses, public or commercial properties. Modern and mechanical types of systems can even be used in large and complex locking systems with a large number of multiple locking codes, as a large number of technical differentiation is possible.
Electronic locking systems
Electronic systems allow flexible access administration by using electronic keys as an identification medium. They offer high security standards and allow the digital and real-time administration of access rights. Electronic locking systems are particularly in demand in industrial companies, the healthcare industry, and public buildings. They have also been used successfully in the hotel sector for many years. In addition, electronic locking systems offer the option of standard-compliant equipment for critical infrastructure (KRITIS) and thus specifically support compliance with legal security requirements.
Which system is suitable for which types of buildings?
Private households
Mechanical locking systems are often installed in single-family houses, as they are very inexpensive and maintenance-free with the exception of annual maintenance with a shot of cylinder spray. However, if several people need access to different areas of the house and modern technology and flexibility are important, an electronic locking system may also make sense. This is where electronic locking systems come in. They offer additional convenience by allowing access rights to be assigned and removed flexibly, for instance with our Winkhaus blueCompact system, simply by using an app.
Multi-family houses
For multi-family houses, a central locking system is usually suitable. With this convenient solution, the entrance door and apartment door, and often the basement, mailbox or garden gate, can be locked with just one key.
Industrial companies, healthcare industry and public buildings
Plan, calculate and sustainably administer locking systems
How do you plan a locking system?
Planning access to your building? The following questions can help you. If you are planning a larger project, it is advisable to consult a planner and/or specialist dealer. They plan the system according to your needs in cooperation with the respective manufacturer. Key considerations include:
- Which areas should be accessible?
- Should the areas be demarcated from each other?
- Who needs access where and how many people need access?
- What security levels are required?
It is important to find the right balance between security, cost and convenience. Planning should take into account the technical implementation and subsequent maintenance and free resources for expanding the locking system with additional locking codes. Winkhaus’ own technical project planning department helps you with this in particular.
Costs of a locking system – what can be expected?
The costs for a locking system vary depending on the type and size of the system. Initially, a mechanical locking system is significantly cheaper to purchase than an electronic locking system, which also requires additional hardware and software. An electronic locking system often pays for itself after only half the planned service life. Cost-relevant factors are also:
- The number of locking cylinders and keys
- Safety equipment with necessary test reports or certificates
- The type of locking technology (mechanical or electronic)
- Additionally required components
- Additional functions or integration of third-party systems
- Frequency of restructuring and expansion
- Frequency of key losses and degree of audit security required for safe system use
- Installation and setup of the locking system
The exact costs can be determined by individual consultation and planning of your locking system.
Other aspects – maintenance, extension and reordering of parts
A locking system is a long-term investment. In the case of electronic systems, possible updates and replacement of batteries in offline door components are particularly important every 6 years, depending on the type and frequency of use. It is also possible to expand the locking system, e.g. with new locking cylinders or additional keys.
In the event that parts need to be reordered or an extension is necessary, many dealers as well as manufacturers, including Winkhaus, offer extensive service options. However, an extension of the system, in particular the duplication of keys, should not be made on your own. This would imply that revision security is no longer guaranteed, i.e. the documented view of the entire locking plan of a system. We therefore advise against working with key blanks or finished keys (all Winkhaus keyTec systems) that have not been circulated by the manufacturer itself. Before that, there are a few questions that must be clarified by the system operator, the building management or the specialist dealer. In addition to the legal, organisational and security-related issues, there are also tangible hurdles that prevent keys from being duplicated. e.g. the so-called security card or technical key copying protection.
A decision for the future
Locking systems and master key systems are crucial for the security and organisation of access to buildings. Depending on needs and requirements, there are different solutions including both mechanical and electronic systems. A well-planned locking system not only offers security, but also convenience in the organisation and management of access rights. If you like to find out more about the products and systems suitable for you, please contact your Winkhaus direct contact partner or one of our authorised specialist dealers.