Converting from Concealed Vertical Rods to Mullion and Rim Exit Hardware

The Hook

If you manage a commercial property, you’ve likely dealt with the headache of concealed vertical rod (CVR) exit devices. While these systems look sleek by hiding locking rods inside the door, they can be difficult to maintain. When an internal rod bends or slips out of alignment, your building’s security and fire code compliance are immediately at risk. For many business owners, the solution is to convert to Rim Exit hardware with a removable mullion.

Why the Conversion Makes Sense

In a conversion, we move from invisible internal components to accessible, surface-mounted hardware.

  • Concealed Vertical Rods (CVR): These latch at the top and bottom through internal mechanisms. They are prone to failure if the building shifts or the door sags even slightly.

  • Rim Exit & Removable Mullion: We install a heavy-duty panic bar on the door surface that latches into a mullion—a vertical post centered between double doors. This post can be keyed and removed in seconds when you need full-width access for moving large equipment.

The Benefits of Upgrading

Switching to a rim exit system provides immediate peace of mind and long-term savings:

  • Simplified Maintenance: Since all hardware is surface-mounted, repairs are faster and significantly less expensive than dismantling a door to reach internal rods.

  • Superior Reliability: Rim devices are built for high-traffic environments and stay functional even as doors age and settle.


Secure Your Property Today

Don’t wait for an internal rod failure to leave your facility vulnerable or trap your occupants. Upgrading to a Rim Exit and Mullion system is an investment in the safety and longevity of your building.

Contact our expert locksmith team today for a professional consultation. We’ll help you transition to a hardware system that is as reliable as it is secure.

Adam Kuipers