Providing the access control door hardware instead of outsourcing it to locksmiths is one of the smartest moves a security dealer can make. While many integrators focus on installing readers and panels, they often leave the door hardware to a locksmith — who then controls the spec, inflates the price, and ultimately owns more of the customer relationship. By providing the access control door hardware yourself, you gain margin, reduce callbacks, and deliver a more complete and dependable solution.
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
5 Reasons Dealers Should Supply the Hardware
1. You Control the Product, Not Just the Labor
Locksmiths may choose hardware based on what they stock or prefer — not what integrates best with your access control system. This often leads to:
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Compatibility problems
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Improper voltage matching
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Extra time spent troubleshooting
When you supply the access control door hardware, you ensure every component is specified to work seamlessly with your readers, panels, and system design.
2. You Capture the Profit Margin
Every lock, strike, closer, and latch retraction kit is a chance to add profit — and if you’re not supplying the hardware, you’re leaving that money on the table.
By providing the access control hardware yourself:
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You build margin into the parts
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You simplify the quoting process
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You own more of the total project value
Over time, this adds up to significant revenue per project — especially on multi-door or campus-wide systems.
3. You Reduce Callbacks and Finger-Pointing
When the system doesn’t work as expected, the customer doesn’t care who installed the door hardware — they call you. If the hardware came from a subcontractor:
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You may not know what was used
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You may not have access to documentation
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You may be held accountable for someone else’s product
Supplying the hardware yourself gives you full visibility and responsibility, so issues are fewer — and faster to resolve.
4. You Can Still Subcontract Labor (Strategically)
You don’t need to become a locksmith. Many dealers sub out the mechanical work only — like installing the exit device or drilling through a door — but they supply all the hardware.
This approach:
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Keeps BOM (bill of materials) control in your hands
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Eliminates surprises or markups from outside parties
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Ensures you’re installing products you know and support
5. You Build Long-Term Client Trust
Clients want a partner they can rely on — someone who knows the system inside and out. When you own the door hardware portion of the job:
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You reduce complexity for the customer
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You position yourself as the true system expert
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You increase client loyalty and repeat business
Don’t hand off your authority to another contractor — own the door, own the relationship.
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.
