Panic Bars

 Exit Devices, Crash Bars, & Panic Hardware Installation

Fast. Reliable. Authoritative.

Guardian Safe & Lock provides professional modern locksmith and commercial exit device services for businesses across Houston and surrounding suburbs. Whether you require a hardware swap or a fresh installation of panic bars, crash bars, and push bars, our certified technicians deliver precise commercial security installations, code-aware guidance, and durable hardware solutions backed by license and years of real experience.

 

For inquiries or to schedule a site walkthrough and estimate, call 832-534-8687. Or, text us (including photographs) at 832-5493-5888.

panic hardware

Commercial Exit Device Types & Features We Handle

Guardian Safe & Lock installs and services commercial exit devices for offices, retail properties, warehouses, and multi-tenant buildings. Our scope for this page focuses exclusively on exit devices (panic bars, crash bars, push paddles, etc) and the hardware directly associated with proper egress function. Typical services include:

  • In-shop preparation and fabrication of device components when required.
  • On-site hardware swaps to replace worn or damaged exit devices with same-configuration units.
  • Fresh installations of new exit devices, specified to the opening, egress path, and code requirements.
  • Integration of exit devices with existing door hardware where required (trim, latches, strikes).
  • Testing, adjustment, and final walkthrough after installation.
  • Preventive maintenance, inspection, and rapid repair of panic hardware.

We emphasize secure installation practices, correct device selection, and verification so your egress hardware performs reliably when needed.

Commercial Exit Device Types & Features We Handle

  1. Standard Exit Devices (Panic Bars / Push Bars) are horizontal, surface-mounted devices that enable rapid egress by applying pressure along the bar; they are available in multiple lengths and finishes and are suitable for both single-door and paired-door applications as well as wood, metal, or commercial glass doors.
  2. Crash Bars / Crossbars are robust crossbar-style devices designed for wide openings and high-traffic conditions where a stronger mechanical interface is required to withstand frequent use.
  3. Multi-Point Panic Hardware describes panic-operated systems that secure multiple locking points—such as head, edge, and latch—with a single actuation, improving door security and ensuring consistent latching along the stile.
  4. Fire-rated exit Devices are listed and labeled devices selected and installed specifically for fire-rated openings to preserve the door’s fire rating and meet manufacturer listing requirements.
  5. Electrified Panic Hardware refers to exit devices with electrical release or monitoring features. These devices are specified, installed, and commissioned to the manufacturer’s tolerances to ensure reliable electrically assisted egress.
commercial push bar
commercial exit device installation

Performance Standards & ADA Considerations

Exit devices must meet recognized industry and regulatory performance standards. Two commonly referenced performance levels are:

  • ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 — medium-duty commercial rating suitable for light-to-moderate traffic areas.
  • ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 — highest commercial performance rating for severe-duty, high-traffic applications (recommended for main egress points and facilities with heavy use).

We advise on appropriate grading based on traffic patterns and building usage and install to ensure the device meets its intended duty cycle.

When it comes to accessibility guidelines and lever trim, ADA requirements are crucial for egress hardware. Lever trim used in conjunction with exit devices must comply with ADA operability standards: controls should be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.

We install compliant lever trim options and advise on trim selection and mounting to maintain accessibility while preserving secure egress.

How The Process Works — Clear, Code-Aware, Documented

  1. Request & assessment — Call 832-534-8687, text us images at 832-493-5888, or submit a service request with door location, device type (existing or desired), and whether the job is a swap or new installation. We assess onsite conditions, door swing, frame type, and any fire-rating or electric device requirements.

  2. Specification & proposal — We recommend the correct device family (including grade and fire-rated options) and provide a complete estimate covering hardware, labor, and any adjustments to latch/strike preparations.

  3. Scheduling & permitting coordination — When required, we coordinate installation timing to minimize operational disruption. If your project requires permit-level work, we document the installed device and provide testing records; permit submission is handled by the building owner or GC unless otherwise arranged.

  4. Installation & calibration — Our locksmith technicians perform the installation using factory instructions and best-practice templates, followed by careful calibration so the device latches, trips, and resets correctly. For electric exit devices, we perform functional testing with power applied.

  5. Verification & Testing— After installation, we perform functional tests before wrapping up with an explanation of the new device and services rendered either with you or your on-site staff.

Houston commercial exit device

Typical Turnaround & Scheduling

Turnaround depends on device availability, fire-rating needs, and job complexity. Replacement units and standard installations are commonly completed within 24–72 hours for local Houston requests when parts are in stock.

Electric or specially finished devices and fire-rated modifications may require additional lead time; we will provide a firm timeframe in the written proposal.

Exit Device Pricing & Estimation

Price is driven by device family, grade (Grade 1 vs. Grade 1 Fire Rated, vs. Grade 2), fire-rating requirements, electric functionality, and whether the job is a straightforward swap or a new installation requiring frame prep.

We provide transparent estimates and itemize hardware versus labor so you know exactly what you are paying for. For a precise quote, call 832-534-8687, text photos to 832-493-5888, or submit a service request with photos and door measurements.

Exit Device & Panic Hardware Brands Installed By Guardian Safe & Lock

Our Commercial Lock Repair Service Area

Based in Tomball, we serve the Greater Houston area, including (but not limited to) the surrounding suburbs:

Tomball  Bryan  College Station  Conroe  Cypress  Humble  Katy  Kingwood  Magnolia • Pasadena  Porter  Spring  Sugar Land  The Woodlands • & more!

If you are outside these areas, we may still be able to service you: Call 832-534-8687 to confirm availability.

panic bar repair
panic bar replacement Houston

What To Expect When You Book With Us

  • Professional technicians with calibrated tools and manufacturer templates.

  • A clean installation process with post-installation cleanup and testing.

  • Recommendations for maintenance intervals and spare-part considerations.

  • Clear communication about any additional door prep or ancillary hardware needed to meet security, code, or rating requirements.

When Is Panic/Exit Hardware Required On A Door?

Panic/exit hardware is required where the applicable building and life-safety codes trigger panic hardware—commonly in assembly occupancies, high-occupancy egress doors, and other locations defined by the model codes adopted by the jurisdiction.

Local code language and the Houston Fire Code also influence when a device is mandatory, so requirement checks are done per door and occupancy type.

Does An Exit Device Need To Be Fire-Rated?

If the door is part of a rated fire-door assembly, the exit device must be listed as fire exit hardware and matched to the door and frame rating. Fire-rated devices carry specific listings and installation instructions that must be followed to preserve the rated assembly.

Can Electrified (Monitored Or Released) Exit Devices Be Installed & Commisioned?

Yes. Electrified exit devices—devices with monitored contacts or electrified releases—are commonly installed and must be commissioned and function-tested at the device (release/monitoring contacts, dogging, and power).

Functional verification of the device is part of a standard installation; final integration with a building’s access control or alarm system is typically coordinated with the access control installer and/or facility team.

What Accessibility (ADA) Requirements Affect Lever Trim & Operable Hardware Used With Exit Devices?

Operable hardware used for egress must meet ADA operability rules: it must be usable with one hand, not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist, and must not require more than minimal force to operate.

Lever trim choices and mounting must preserve one-hand operation and appropriate clearance so the door remains accessible.

Do I Need A Permit Or Inspection To Install Or Replace An Exit Device In Houston?

Permit and inspection requirements vary by project scope and whether the work affects fire/egress systems or rated assemblies. The Houston Permitting Center and the Fire Marshal’s office are the local authorities; certain installations (especially on fire doors or where electrical modifications are involved) may require permit filing or notification to the AHJ.

Always confirm permit needs before scheduling work!

Other Locksmith & Security Services We Offer

Looking for more security options? You can also call, text, or email us about other options, including:

Ready To Start? Contact Guardian Safe & Lock Today

Guardian Safe & Lock delivers practical, code-aware panic bar (commercial exit device) installations that prioritize performance, accessibility, and long-term durability. We combine field experience, manufacturer awareness, and disciplined installation practice so your hardware operates reliably and is documented for facility teams.

To discuss a project, schedule an evaluation, or request a written installation estimate:

We’ll respond with clear next steps and a complete estimate tailored to your openings and operational needs.