Buying Guides - Door Locks & Home Security

Dealing with privacy locks first, these have a lock case which combines the latch function with a lock (deadbolt) function, more commonly known as a bathroom lock. The locking function is performed by turning an oval knob or similar turn, which in turn throws the deadbolt and locks the door. The UK standard for the square spindle which operates the locking function is 5mm. The depth of the bathroom lock case usually matches any latches used in the same area. Once again, this is 63mm or 75mm for levers on backplates or levers on roses, and 100mm, 125 or 150mm for knob sets.

Security locks are generally known as 3 levers or 5 levers in reference to the number of levers within the lock that the key operates to open or close the deadbolt (deadlock) part of the lock. If the lock contains a latch function then it is commonly referred to as a Sashlock. If the lock is simply a deadbolt operation then the lock will usually be known as a Deadlock.

Each lever within the lock can have 6 or 7 variations which multiply the variations. 3 lever locks typically only have 200 different key options, whereas 5 lever locks have around 15,000 key options. Hence, 3 lever locks are used on internal doors for a low level of security and 5 lever locks are used for external doors. Generally, household insurance companies require you to have insurance rated locks on your external doors. This can be seen in the form of a kite mark on the visible part of the lock in the door edge. The specific British Standard to which the locks are Kite marked is BS3621.

Again should you have any concerns about choosing the correct locks, please call one of our technical sales advisors on 01252 786510.

There are also rim locks, nightlatches, and multipoint locks. As the name suggests Rim Locks are found on the outside of the door and may also serve as a decorative feature. These are generally operated by knobs, commonly known as a rim knob set. Rim locks are extremely low security, mainly because they can be quickly removed from the door with a simple screwdriver and secondly, because the average rim lock has as little as 12 different key options.

Generically known as Yale locks, nightlatches are fitted to household front doors in conjunction with a deadlock. Their main purpose is to operate as a slam lock and provide instant security to anyone using the door. In summary this means that once you come through your front door and close it behind you, no one can gain entry through the door without a key.

This type of lock is becoming more common in household situations. Multipoint locks are commonly used on patio and conservatory doors, as well as uPVC front and back doors. As the name suggests, instead of one locking point they have several - typically 5 points. They are frequently identified by their lift to lock operation and the use of a cylinder lock. The types of lever handles to fit these locks are many and varied and we suggest you contact one of our technical sales advisors to determine the handle set you require.