Back doors are common entry points for break-ins at restaurants and retail stores. These areas are often hidden from street view and can be easier targets than front entrances. That’s why choosing the right lock for your back door is an important step in protecting your business, staff, and inventory.
At West Coast Locksmith, we work with businesses across Los Angeles to secure vulnerable entry points. Whether you run a small café or manage a high-traffic retail store, your back door should have strong, reliable locks designed for commercial use.
Why the Back Door Needs Special Attention
Many businesses focus on front-door security but overlook rear entrances. A back door might face an alley, parking lot, or side street, making it less visible and easier to target. This is especially common in restaurants that receive early deliveries or retail shops with back storage areas.
Back doors are also used by staff and delivery drivers throughout the day. If the lock is weak or outdated, it increases the risk of unauthorized access. Investing in a commercial-grade lock can help reduce that risk and give you more control over who comes and goes.
Recommended Lock Types for Back Doors
Choosing the right type of lock depends on your door material, how the door is used, and who needs access. Below are the best lock types we recommend and install for business back doors in Los Angeles.
1. Commercial Deadbolts
Deadbolts remain one of the strongest mechanical options for securing doors. For business use, we recommend grade 1 or grade 2 commercial deadbolts. These offer a higher level of protection than residential models and are built to withstand forced entry attempts.
We often install deadbolts from trusted brands like Schlage and Kwikset. These locks work well with solid-core or metal doors and can be combined with lever handles for added convenience.
2. Mortise Cylinder Locks
Mortise locks are ideal for high-use doors in older buildings or those with thick, solid frames. These locks are embedded inside the door and secured with heavy-duty hardware, making them more resistant to tampering.
Because of their durability, mortise cylinders are common on service doors and exit doors in restaurants and retail shops. Our mobile commercial locksmith team regularly installs and services mortise locks across Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.
3. Stand-Alone Keypad Locks
If you need to provide access to multiple employees without distributing keys, a keypad lock is a suitable option. These locks enable you to set and change access codes as needed, helping you avoid issues when staff members leave or lose their keys.
We recommend keypad locks from brands like Yale and Schlage for their reliability and ease of use. These stand-alone models do not require a network connection and can be programmed on-site. Many Los Angeles restaurants prefer this style for shift changes and after-hours access.
4. Panic Bars (Exit Devices)
If your back door also serves as an emergency exit, it must meet local fire and safety codes. Panic bars allow people to exit quickly by pushing the bar, while still keeping the door locked from the outside.
We install and repair panic bars for businesses of all sizes. Some models include alarms or delay features, which add another layer of security and help prevent unauthorized use. For high-traffic companies, we often pair panic devices with continuous hinges and latch guards for long-term durability.
Supporting Hardware for Stronger Security
In addition to locks, back door security benefits from extra hardware that strengthens the door and frame. Our locksmiths often recommend the following add-ons based on your setup:
- Latch Guards: Cover gaps between the door and frame to prevent prying.
- Door Closers: Make sure the door shuts completely after each use.
- Continuous Hinges: Support heavy doors and reduce wear over time.
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks
When keys are lost or employees leave, it’s important to change access. In many cases, lock rekeying is a cost-effective option. Rather than replacing the entire lock, we change the internal pins so that old keys no longer work. This provides fresh security without new hardware.
We rekey mortise locks, deadbolts, and panic bar cylinders. Our lock rekeying services are available throughout Los Angeles and can usually be completed on-site during a single visit. If a lock is damaged or outdated, our team can recommend and install a suitable replacement using high-quality commercial hardware.
Expert Locksmith Help in Los Angeles
Back door security is too important to ignore. Whether you need a new lock, panic bar repair, or rekeying service, West Coast Locksmith is here to help. Our commercial locksmith team serves restaurants, shops, and offices across Los Angeles with same-day service and reliable installation.
Stay Secure with the Right Lock Setup
Strong back door security helps prevent break-ins, protects employees, and limits access to sensitive areas. Whether you run a small shop or a busy restaurant, upgrading your back door lock is a smart move that adds long-term value.
For professional installation, rekeying, or emergency service, contact West Coast Locksmith today. We’re proud to serve Los Angeles and the surrounding areas with trusted lockout services and commercial locksmith solutions that work.
