On the other hand, I worry that the extra force being transmitted through the key may cause the keys and locks to wear out faster.

Abloy keys are pretty sturdy. Our dog knows how to open doors when they're unlocked, so we use our abloy locks dozens of times a day and after we re-keyed ours 5-6 years ago as one of our keys got lost it hasn't been any kind of issue. Only now when it's been a bit on the cold side for couple of weeks I've found out that we need to use better grease for our locks as the mechanism is way too stiff to work properly after it's been -30C for a week and a half.

It's of course possible to physically break the key, but unless really try to break something they'll just keep working. And newer models require that you use the handle. It's still single handed procedure, first turn the key and then open the door from the handle, take the key out and door will lock behind you once you close it.

The kitchen sink was awesome, though. It was welded seamlessly to the stainless steel counter, and the counter itself had a nice lip on it.

Fun fact: Most of them aren't welded. They form the whole thing out of a single sheet of stainless steel with humongous presses and forms. I'm not too familiar on how the manufacturing process really works, but welding isn't one of the steps they (usually) take.

For the iskelmä I'm afraid I can't help. Happy travels in Finland!

While they are quite prominent the mentioned brands are not actual monopolies and you do see quite often locks, elevators and faucets from other manufacturers.

Abloy doesn't play by the language rules because it is originally short for AB Lukko OY ([LTD in swedish] Lock [LTD in finnish]).

I have never had any problems with Abloy locks. The previous lock on my current building started jamming when people pulled the heavy front door open with one hand by the key, but it was made by some german company. The current locks on the outside doors are electronic so you can not pull it with the key, but can open with one hand by pulling the handle after showing the key. Aparment locks are still mechanic. The new locks neither are from Abloy.