Electric Strike Essentials: The Building Blocks of Smarter Access

Understanding Electric Strike Compatibility

Electric strikes aren’t one-size-fits-all. The type of lockset —cylindrical, mortise, or exit device—as well as the frame material and condition, will determine the electric strike you need. Choosing the right strike ensures compatibility, reliable operation, and a clean install that holds up over time.

Match the Lockset First:

  • Cylindrical Locksets typically require electric strikes like the HES 5000 or 1006 series—compact options offering strength and flexibility.
  • Mortise Locks may require electric strikes with deeper cavities, deadbolt support, or preload capabilities depending on latch design and door pressure.
  • Exit Devices (rim style) often call for surface-mounted strikes like the HES 9400 or 9600, or more specialized models like the 9100 or 9200 Series for securing glass doors without cutting or modification.

Consider the Frame & Opening Conditions:

  • Is the frame hollow metal, aluminum, or wood? Is it prepped, filled, or slightly misaligned? The right electric strike — and mounting method — can reduce install time and avoid unnecessary rework.

Built for Compliance & Code Requirements

In access control, performance alone isn’t enough. Electric strikes must comply with fire, life safety, and building codes to be suitable for commercial and institutional environments. That’s why HES strikes are engineered and third-party tested to meet the standards that matter most.

HES strikes are tested and certified to perform in real-world environments:

  • Fire-Rated & Windstorm-Rated: Ensure compliance with NFPA, UL10C, and ICC 500 requirements for safe egress in emergencies.
  • Outdoor-Rated Models: Weather-resistant designs sealed and certified under UL1034 to withstand harsh conditions.
  • Strength & Durability Testing: Third-party verified for forced-entry resistance and millions of operation cycles.
  • Fail Safe or Fail Secure Options: Select the strike mode that aligns with your life-safety and security needs.

Want to dive deeper? Check out these resources: 

Key Features That Matter

Beyond certifications, the best electric strikes come equipped with features that make every installation smarter, faster, and more secure. Here are the key enhancements that help HES electric strikes stand apart:

  • Advanced Monitoring Options From latchbolt and strike status to door position sensing and REX support, our monitoring capabilities help ensure every opening is secure—and let you know when it's not.
  • Certified Strength & Durability Many HES strikes are third-party tested for endurance and strength. That means fewer callbacks, longer lifespans, and peace of mind across high-traffic and high-security environments.
  • Adjustable Installation & Templates Misaligned frames and inconsistent preps are no match for our install-friendly features—like adjustable keepers and included templates that help get it right the first time.
  • Architectural Finish Options Performance and appearance can go hand in hand. With a variety of finishes, including our popular Black Suede Powder (BSP), HES strikes meet project needs without compromising aesthetics.
  • Preload Capability Preload occurs when pressure is applied to the door, preventing traditional electric strikes from releasing properly. Select HES models are preload-capable—meaning they’ll operate reliably even when pressure builds.

Want to dig deeper? Check out these resources: 

Installation & Retrofit Flexibility

Electric strikes don’t just need to perform—they need to install smoothly. Whether you’re securing a new opening or upgrading from mechanical hardware, the right features can save time, reduce errors, and ensure long-term reliability.

HES strikes are built with the installer in mind:

  • Adjustable housings and faceplates simplify alignment and accommodate imperfect conditions in the field.
  • Pre-aligned installation templates and template kits provide more accurate prep and faster mounting.
  • Retrofit-ready designs match legacy footprints—like the 1500 and 1600, which align with older models for fast, seamless upgrades.
  • Surface-mounted strikes in the 9000 Series install without cutting—just align to the latchbolt, secure to the frame, and you're done.
  • Ideal for mechanical-to-electrified upgrades, electric strikes are the easiest way to introduce access control without overhauling your entire opening.

Pro tip! Use Complete Pac options for everything you need in one box - including the strike, faceplate, and mounting hardware. 

Pro tip! Need a cleaner, more accurate install? HES metal template kits like the 9000-MTK and HESCUT-MTK make it easy to prep and position both surface-mounted and mortise electric strikes with precision.

 

Choose with Confidence

Electric strikes may look similar on the surface, but the right choice depends on the lock type, application needs, certification requirements, and installation conditions. By understanding these variables—and the features that make a difference—you can ensure better performance, smoother installs, and long-term reliability.

Whether you're securing a new project or upgrading an existing opening, HES offers a strike for every scenario.

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