The same tests are used for BHMA ratings because BHMA is the organization that tests ANSI grades for locks. They can start paying a regular fee to choose that certification after passing the ANSI testing, as long as the lock is a residential one.
Even after being awarded, BHMA certifications are subject to regular examinations. BHMA conducts the same tests on each individual lock it sells as it did when it issued its certification. The BHMA certification is revoked in the event that the lock no longer passes these tests. Locksmith near Sutton Coldfield
In other words, BHMA will find out if a company tried to be sneaky and offered BHMA an inferior lock at first.
The Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) has developed a rating system in addition to the ANSI grades for locks. Compared to the ANSI grades for locks, this one gets a little more specific. There are three distinct criteria based on which locks are graded. Because of this, this system is better able to accommodate whatever you specifically require from your lock.
BHMA grades
The BHMA grades use the letters A, B, and C rather than the numbers 1, 2, and 3. Although they follow the same fundamental principle, they grade based on three distinct criteria: Security, Sturdiness, and Finish. In summary: AAA is the highest rating, while CCC is the lowest.
The degree of safety of the door lock is referred to as “security.” If a lock has a high security rating, it means that you can put a lot of weight on it without it breaking. It does not specify whether the lock is simple to pick. It does inform you that you need this to be high if you are concerned about people kicking in your door or if you are Superman and are bad at opening doors without breaking them.
The lock’s functionality over time and at a variety of temperatures is referred to as its “durability.” It also tells you if the lock is easy to dent. This is better for people who want locks that last a long time. You will need this if the lock is on a door that is frequently locked and unlocked, like the door to the bathroom.
The “Finish” part is all about the lock’s resistance to salt and humidity, as well as whether or not it easily scratches. This will be crucial if you live in an area where there is a lot of water in the air.
Locks are graded at three different numbered levels
The highest possible grade is 1, while the lowest is 3. In essence, you should choose a number that is lower rather than higher. Positions on a podium are analogous: The best finish is first, and the worst finish is third, but it still beats everyone who didn’t make it.
It is essential to keep this in mind. Grade 3 products still have to meet certain standards. Since Grade 3 products still undergo ANSI-approved testing, a lock without an ANSI grade is worse than a lock with a Grade 3.
Having said that, a Grade 1 lock is still the best choice. Although a Grade 3 lock may be superior to an ungraded lock or no lock at all, you should generally avoid installing one on your door. You can only get so much security from these.
Grade 3 locks are not as bad as “piggy bank” locks, but they are as insecure as “old west steam train” locks: most arbitrary individuals will be puzzled by them, yet the normal lawbreaker presumably will not be. These locks are able to be broken if you know how to get around them.