Essential Commercial Hardware for Ann Arbor, MI Buildings

Choosing the right commercial hardware in Ann Arbor, MI is a decision that drives security, operations, and compliance in any facility. Whether you operate a retail storefront, office building, hospital, government office, or school, the quality, reliability, and code compliance of your door hardware influences everything, from daily functionality to emergency preparedness. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the most crucial commercial door hardware, underscore why each is an indispensable part of any commercial or institutional setting, and explain how Howlett Lock And Door stands out as the leading institutional hardware supplier in Ann Arbor, MI.

Knowing Your Objectives: Security, Accessibility, and Safety

• Before selecting your door hardware, it’s essential to define your top priorities:
  
• Security: Preventing unauthorized entry, by employees, visitors, or intruders.
  
• Safety & Egress: Facilitating rapid evacuation in emergencies.
  
• Accessibility & Usability: Providing easy, ADA-compliant access.

Proper commercial hardware isn’t optional, it meets legal standards, ensures occupant safety, and helps you avoid costly liability or citation. For these reasons, partnering with a qualified institutional hardware supplier in Ann Arbor, MI like Howlett Lock And Door ensures you not only get the right products but also expert guidance tailored for institutional environments.

2. Key Hardware Types for Commercial & Institutional Doors

Exit Devices (Panic Bars) 

Exit devices, commonly referred to as panic bars, are critical in buildings like schools, hospitals, hotels, and retail spaces. These devices allow users to exit quickly by pressing a bar, often without a key. They are mandated by most building and fire codes to ensure rapid evacuation in emergencies. Available in rim, surface vertical rod, and concealed vertical rod configurations, these devices can also include sensors or alarms for added security.

Explore commercial exit devices on commercial doors page.

Door Closers

These mechanical devices return doors to a closed position after use. 

This is essential for:

• Fire safety, preventing the spread of flames and smoke.

• Security, maintaining lock engagement.

• Energy efficiency, reducing HVAC loss.

Typically, closers are sized between 1 and 7 based on door weight and frequency. Heavy-duty ANSI Grade 1 closers are ideal for public and institutional buildings due to their long-term reliability.

Lever & Cylindrical Locks

Lever handle locks are preferred in institutional settings for their ergonomics and ADA-law compliance. Paired with cylindrical lock bodies, these systems are cost-effective and dependable for internal doors, offices, classrooms, and restrooms.

Electronic & Smart Lock Systems

Modern buildings are increasingly embracing electronic access control systems for enhanced security, audit capability, and user convenience. 

• Popular options include:

• Keypad entry locks – coded entry without keys.

• Proximity card/fob readers – contactless entry for employees and tenants.

• Smartphone/biometric systems – advanced integration and auditing.

These systems can be networked across multiple doors or buildings and offer time-based access, log tracking, and emergency lockdown features. Howlett Lock And Door can integrate these systems into your existing structure or advise on custom installations.

Hinges, Kick Plates, and Ancillary Components

Though often overlooked, accessories like ball-bearing hinges, kick plates, astragals, thresholds, and door stops protect doors from daily wear, especially within high-traffic areas. Investing in durable hardware prevents liable damage, prolongs door lifespan, and saves on long-term repair.

Code Compliance & Legal Requirements

Commercial and institutional settings must adhere to a broad array of legal standards, including but not limited to local building codes, ADA accessibility guidelines, NFPA fire codes, and OSHA safety standards. Failure to comply can result in penalties or legal liabilities, particularly for public buildings such as schools or healthcare facilities. Howlett Lock And Door specializes in ensuring hardware complies with all relevant standards:

• Fire-rated doors: tested and certified for fire resistance.

• ADA-compliant closers and handles: meeting force and reach requirements.

• Panic hardware: certified for emergency egress.

By sourcing hardware from trusted manufacturers and verifying documentation, Howlett ensures every product is certified and approved for your facility’s needs.

Howlett Lock And Door: Your Local Partner for Commercial Hardware

Expertise in Institutional Installations

Whether you're managing a K–12 campus, university, medical facility, or municipal building, Howlett Lock And Door brings decades of experience to ensure:

• Proper hardware specification

• Streamlined system integration

• Coordination with installers and contractors

• Adherence to timelines and budget constraints

Our team works closely with facility directors and project managers to mitigate risks and deliver seamless installations.

Inventory and Sourcing

Our well-stocked warehouse carries top-tier brands like Sargent, Von Duprin, Yale, and LCN for hardware that meets durability, aesthetic, and code requirements. Plus, our experience helps you navigate specialty or hard-to-find items, ensuring your project remains on track.

Local Responsiveness

A local supplier can mean the difference between delays and on-time project delivery. When deadlines are tight or an urgent repair is needed, Howlett Lock And Door offers prompt support, ensuring you have the tools and hardware when you need them.

Planning for Large-Scale Projects

Facility upgrades across multiple buildings or campuses require coordination, consistency, and proper documentation. 

Howlett Lock And Door offers:

• Initial consultations and site surveys

• OSHA & NFPA compliance checks

• Detailed hardware scheduling

• Dedicated account coordination

• Logistics support for phased installations

From preconstruction to final inspection, Howlett’s team is involved in every step—making long-term or large-scale projects more efficient and error-free.

Case Studies: Real Results in Ann Arbor

• Education Sector

University Building Access Update: A recent upgrade at a local university included lever locksets and classroom function locks on 50+ doors, along with electronic card readers for restricted wings. The project improved security while extending ADA accessibility.

• Healthcare Facility Retrofit

A hospital underwent phased installation of heavy-duty door closers and touchless hardware during COVID safety protocols, an efficient renovation with minimal disruption to operations.

• Retail Campus Security

A new retail development integrated electronic locks and panic hardware across multiple storefronts. Howlett provided consulting, hardware specification, and certification, ensuring all doors met safety and commercial codes.

The Bottom Line on Smart Investment

By investing in high-quality commercial hardware in Ann Arbor, MI, facility managers can:

• Enhance occupant safety

• Meet or exceed compliance standards

• Reduce maintenance costs over time

• Improve daily usage efficiency and aesthetics

• Increase property value and tenant satisfaction

If you’re evaluating options or planning a renovation, now is the time to consult with a trusted partner, especially one experienced in institutional hardware supplier in Ann Arbor, MI needs.

Expert Support Step-by-Step

• Initial consultation – Describe your facility and requirements.

• On-site assessment – Inspect existing hardware and building conditions.

• Custom proposal – Receive a tailored hardware schedule, scope, and quote.

• Product delivery & installation – Components arrive on time and ready for installers.

• Inspection & certification – We verify code compliance and provide documentation.

• Ongoing service – Maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrades.

You’ll work with a single team dedicated to ensuring your hardware works reliably and meets all code requirements.

Secure Your Facility With Expert Hardware Solutions

Selecting the right commercial hardware in Ann Arbor, MI isn't just about locking and closing doors, it’s about ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term value for your institution. As the trusted institutional hardware supplier in Ann Arbor, MI, Howlett Lock And Door combines unmatched expertise, a comprehensive product lineup, and dedicated service to deliver solutions tailored to your needs.

Ready to upgrade your hardware and ensure peace of mind? Contact us today to request a quote today. Let’s secure your facility, for now, for tomorrow, and for the future of Ann Arbor, MI.