Access control door hardware is one of the most profitable and most often overlooked parts of a security installation. Too many dealers install the electronics but leave the hardware portion to someone else — giving up control, compatibility, and margin.
By supplying the hardware yourself and subcontracting only the labor when necessary, you protect your profits, ensure system integrity, and deliver a more complete, dependable solution to your customers.
Why Providing the Access Control Door Hardware Helps Dealers Win
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You control the spec and integration
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You retain markup on all hardware components
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You reduce system conflicts and customer complaints
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You position yourself as the full-solution expert
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You can still subcontract labor — but stay in control
Why Controlling the Access Control Door Hardware Helps Dealers Win
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You control hardware specifications and ensure compatibility
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You keep the markup on strikes, exit devices, and latch retraction kits
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You reduce integration issues and avoid finger-pointing between vendors
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You become the trusted, one-stop solution provider
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You can still subcontract installation labor when needed
5 Reasons Dealers Should Control the Hardware Portion of the Job
1. You Control the Product, Not Just the Labor
When someone else chooses the hardware, you lose control over a core part of the system. Decisions may be based on convenience or stock availability — not on what integrates best with your platform.
By supplying the access control door hardware yourself:
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You ensure full compatibility with the access control system
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You maintain code compliance and meet ADA and life safety requirements
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You prevent costly rework or callbacks due to mismatched components
2. You Capture the Profit Margin
Every piece of hardware — from an electric strike to a latch retraction kit — is a profit opportunity. When you’re not the one providing it, that profit goes elsewhere.
Taking control of the hardware supply lets you:
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Include it in your project quote
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Apply your markup just as you do with other system components
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Increase the value of every door in the project
3. You Reduce Callbacks and System Conflicts
If a door doesn’t operate properly, the customer calls you — no matter who provided the hardware. If you don’t know exactly what’s on the door, troubleshooting takes longer and costs more.
When you control the hardware, you also control:
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The spec and quality of each component
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How it integrates with readers, panels, and wiring
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The consistency of operation across all openings
4. You Can Still Subcontract Labor (Strategically)
You don’t have to perform every aspect of the mechanical install yourself. Many dealers bring in skilled trades for specific tasks — but keep control of the hardware supply to ensure standardization and compatibility.
This approach means:
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You eliminate variability in brand or model selection
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You maintain consistency across doors, buildings, and projects
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You avoid unexpected substitutions that can cause integration issues
5. You Build Long-Term Trust and Standardization
When you own the hardware portion of the system, you become the single point of accountability. That strengthens your position with the customer and makes future service easier.
Benefits include:
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Faster troubleshooting and repairs
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Easier upgrades and expansions
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More consistent, predictable system performance
Dealer Profit Tip: Use Tools That Simplify Hardware Selection
You don’t need to be a door hardware specialist to spec the right parts. Trusted manufacturers like SDC (Security Door Controls) make it easy for dealers to take ownership of this part of the install:
1. LR100 Electric Latch Retraction Kits retrofit easily to existing mechanical exit devices from top brands.
2. DoorSnap Mobile App — just take a picture of the door, and SDC tells you what kit you need.
3. Dedicated Dealer Support from SESP ensures you always quote the right solution — no guesswork needed.
With these tools, there’s no reason to give up profit and control to someone else.
Partner with SESP for Your SDC Door Hardware Installations
Southeast Security Products represents SDC (Security Door Controls) and other best-in-class manufacturers across the Southeast U.S., offering hands-on support, product expertise, and dealer-focused programs to help you grow your business. Whether you’re building your first access control system, retrofitting electrified exit devices, or expanding door hardware standardization across facilities, we can help you select the right solutions to power your installations. Contact us today for pricing, training, or to request a demo of the SDC door hardware solutions we represent.
Visit sesproducts.com or reach out to learn more about how we can support your next project.
