Have you ever wondered what secures every door in the UK? Then look no further than our introductory guide to over 25 types of common locks and locking mechanisms.
Whether you're new to the field or just keen to broaden your understanding, welcome to a guide that demystifies the everyday door locks found across the UK. From the simplest latch to digital and electronic locks, we cover the whole range.
Below, we take you through a clear, basic breakdown of each type of popular lock. Ideal for facility managers in training, budding building contractors, or anyone with an interest in construction and door hardware, this guide is your first step into a world where each lock is a piece of the puzzle in creating safe, functional spaces.
Form and Function
Before we delve into the types of door locks let us explain how we’ve broken them down.
Firstly, you’ll see locks by function - sashlocks for use with door handles, standard night latches used with a rim cylinder and cylinder pull, deadlocks for extra security, that kind of thing.
Secondly, we take you through locks by type - cylinder and lever, how they are fitted - morticed or rim mounting, and where you might fit them - doors, gates, and windows.
Lastly, you’ll find some details on accessories and secondary locking products to complement different types of locks. So what are you waiting for, let’s dive in.
Table of Contents - Door Lock Types
Lock Functions
Sashlocks
Deadlocks
Bathroom Locks
Door Latches
Nightlatches
Escape Locks & Panic Hardware
Lock Types
Cylinder Locks & Barrels
Lever Locks
Mortice Locks
Rim Locks
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Cupboard Locks
Digital Push Button Locks
Electric Locks
Smart Locks
Gate Locks
Window Locks
Padlocks
Rebate Kits
Additional Security Features
There will always be anomalies; specialist security locks installed on high security premises, bespoke lockcases on historic, period properties, or an obsolete lock that has no direct replacement. This introductory guide unlocks the basics, and there are a lot of them. Let’s discover the vast world of door locks – your comprehensive directory to understanding the essentials in UK lock types.
Lock Functions
Sashlocks
Two bolts - a deadbolt thrown by a key or turn, and a latch bolt retracted by door handles or door knobs
Lever lock mechanism or cylinder operation
8mm handle follower
Cut out for lever key or cylinder aperture
Latch bolt can be a beveled bolt or roller bolt
Upright and horizontal variants
Surface mounted or mortice options
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
Deadlocks
One bolt - straight shooting for side hung doors
Claw or hook dead bolt for sliding and pocket doors
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
Lockcases are mortised into the edge of the door
Surface mounted bathroom locks are uncommon but are available from some UK brassware manufacturers. Typically, a vacant/engaged indicator bolt, similar to a cubicle fitting, would be rim mounted to thin bathroom or WC doors.
Door Latches
One beveled latch bolt operated by lever handles or door knobs
Provides single action egress in the direction of escape
For escape locks fitted to the surface of the door, install panic hardware tested to either BS EN 1125 or BS EN 179. If you want to find out more about where panic hardware is required, head over to our blog.
Lock Types
Cylinder Locks & Barrels
Cylinder Locks
Common in timber, metal, and uPVC doors
Sashlock, deadlock, escape, and nightlatch models
Deadbolt operated by a replaceable cylinder barrel
Latch bolt (where applicable) operated by lever handles
Various cylinder profiles
Upright and horizontal variants
Surface or mortice options
Different backset and case sizes available
Cylinder Barrels
Replaceable without changing the entire lock mechanism
Different lengths to suit a variety of door thicknesses
Versatile locking solution - keyed alike and master keyed options
Standards
DHF TS007:2014 BSI Kitemarked 1-star or 3-star
Tested to BS EN 1303: 2015
Differing security platforms to suit all requirements
Patents for added protection
Keys - restricted profiles and sections
Features include: anti-pick, anti-drill, anti-bump, anti-twist, anti-screw, anti-snap
Euro cylinder locks are the most common but oval, rim, and threaded profiles are to be found in most facilities. Curious to know more? Watch our Toolbox Talk video below that explains the different types of cylinder profiles.
Replacing an existing cylinder barrel lock? You’ll need to know the overall size and whether it is an even split or asymmetric. Check out our handy cylinder measuring guide below, which can also be found in our product catalogue.
When calculating the length of cylinder required ensure you factor in the depth of the handle backplate or escutcheons being used. They can add up to 10mm on either face of the door.
Lever Locks
So called because of their internal mechanism, lever locks feature between 2 and 7 levers but the most common are 3 lever and 5 lever locks.
3 Lever Locks
Ideal for internal doors
Low security, more for privacy in bathrooms or bedrooms
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
5 Lever Locks
Suitable for external doors
Higher security
British Standard approved (BS 3621)
Sashlock and deadlock variants
Upright and horizontal options
Horizontal 5 lever locks are not BS 3621 insurance rated
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
Deadlocks installed with nightlatches to provide a second locking point
Available keyed alike
Additional keys and rim length keys available for thicker doors
Mortice Locks
Mortice door locks are recessed into a cut out or pocket within the body of the door. The minimum thickness required for a timber door to cut in a lock would be 35mm. Otherwise, the lockcase would be too close to the sides of the door and would be prone to attack.
Sashlock, deadlock, escape, latch, bathroom, and nightlatch models
Lever lock mechanism or cylinder operation
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
Upright
The case is taller than it is wide
Sashlocks have the handle follower above the keyway or cylinder aperture
Narrow profiles to suit aluminium and glazed doors
Horizontal
The lockcase is wider than it is tall
Horizontal sashlocks have the handle follower and keyway/aperture on the same horizontal plane
Typically used with door knobs in period properties on timber doors
These mortice door locks are classed as specialist as they’re not commonly used. This could be due to an unusual function that is required or an uncommon type of door.
If you’re ready to get more in depth, read our blog: What is a Mortice Lock and How to Measure One. The article will guide you through lockcase terminology, dimensions, and how to measure a door lock. This is a perfect, quick read if you’re replacing an existing lock and need to find a close or exact match for retrofitting.
Our Toolbox Talk video below: Lockcase Terminology Explained is also another great next step on your lockcase journey.
Rim Locks
Surface mounted to the face of the door
Often used for additional security in conjunction with a mortice lock
Sashlock, deadlock, latch, nightlatch, and bathroom lock variants
Typically horizontal with the keyway and follower in line
Installed to thinner doors that cannot accommodate a mortice lock or latch
Often lower security
Insurance rated rim nightlatches are available like the Yale PBS1
Lever lock mechanism or cylinder operation (sash and deadlocks)
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Multiple locking points secure the door
Commonly found in residential entrance doors
Suitable for timber, uPVC, and composite doors
Rim/surface and mortice options available
Lever lock mechanism or cylinder operation
Different backset, centre, and case sizes available
Most commonly lever handle operated
Locked by lifting the door handle or by cylinder
Bolts can be beveled, hook, or sliding ‘mushroom’ style protrusions
There is a huge variety of multipoint locks or espagnolettes on the market, with some suitable for windows. There are many measurements to check when replacing an existing multipoint door lock or suitable door handles, so contact our team today if you need advice or guidance on selecting the right product for your job.
Mortice multi-point door locks are higher security compared to rim mounted espagnolettes. Surface espag bolts are more for aesthetics in high end residential spaces and can be combined with insurance rated locks for additional security.
Cupboard Locks
Low-tech and traditional or modern electronic, cupboard locks come in all shapes and sizes.
Traditional brass - cut, mortice, rim mounting options
Models to suit panic hardware to provide outside access
Electric Locks
An essential part of any access control system, electronic door locks are available in many shapes and sizes with different functions and fitting applications. Electric lock types include:
Often installed in private residences or multi-occupancy buildings
WiFi or Bluetooth models
Controlled via smartphone, card or fob, biometrics, or keypad
Real-time alerts
Lower energy consumption
Includes nightlatches, cylinders, and padlocks
Gate Locks
Surface mounting and mortice options
Manually operated and electronic variants
Single and double throw models
Locks for timber and metal gates
Gate locks have as many, if not more options than electric locks. A gate can be secured with a simple surface mounted slide bolt, or a double sided digital keypad lock. To determine the right model for your facility you’d need to consider multiple factors, some of which include:
Location of the gate
Security level required
Material and construction
Exposure to weather conditions
Access rights
Window Locks
Models to suit top and side hung casements, fanlights, and sliding sashes
Locks to restrict opening as well as lock casements shut
Keyless and key operated options
Finish options to match existing window hardware
Locks can be integral within the casement stay or casement fastener
Models to suit timber, UPVc, composite, and metal windows
Window restrictors don’t always lock the window in addition to restricting opening. Take a look at the Jackloc range of products for simple yet effective ways of safeguarding your property and its users.
Padlocks
Padlocks are a versatile, transportable locking option for small personal items like luggage, up to external access gates, or even vehicles. Used to hold together a hasp and staple, or two ends of a security chain, padlocks have a number of features:
Weatherproof models
Insurance rated options
Apertures for replaceable cylinder cores (various profiles)
Keyed alike or master keyed
Key, code, or biometric operation
Different security ratings
A variety of shackle diameters and lengths
Light to heavy duty use
Materials from brass to stainless steel
Fixed or removable shackles
Key retaining function
The three most common types of padlock are:
Open Shackle Padlocks
Versatile but more prone to attack as the shackle is exposed
Rebates for sashlocks, deadlocks, and door latches
Additional Security Features
Whether you’re looking to bolster your security by adding an additional locking point to your external doors or providing easier access to your front door, there are a range of secondary security products available.
The most common additions to a residential entrance door are:
Door Bolts
Surface mounted sliding bolts
Mortice door bolts - key operated or manually thrown flush bolts
Often less obvious physical security solutions, not fixed to the door itself include:
Shutters
CCTV surveillance
Alarms
Early warning systems, barriers, and other safety measures all provide additional defense for your facility over and above a physical door lock but they still play a vital role in the protection of your built environment.
Final Considerations
This guide aims to provide you with an understanding of the various types of door locks commonly found in the UK. The right lock can significantly improve your property's security. So, make informed choices based on your unique requirements.
The type of door lock you choose will depend on various factors:
Type, material, and construction of your door
Security and access requirements
Functionality
Finish and appearance
Compatibility with existing door hardware and security systems
Users and their needs
If you want to continue on this journey or exploration remember you can check out our YouTube channel for more helpful Toolbox Talks videos and browse our online range of door locks and security products 24/7.
Our team is on hand to answer any and all of your questions and queries on locks, access control, and door hardware so get in touch today:
Sashlocks
Deadlocks
Bathroom Locks
Door Latches
Nightlatches
Escape Locks & Panic Hardware
Cylinder Locks
Cylinder Barrels
Lever Locks
3 Lever Locks
5 Lever Locks
Mortice Locks
Upright
Horizontal
Specialist Application
Rim Locks
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Cupboard Locks
Digital Push Button Locks
Electric Locks
Smart Locks
Gate Locks
Window Locks
Padlocks
Open Shackle Padlocks
Closed Shackle Padlocks
Combination Padlocks
Rebate Kits
Door Bolts
Door Chains
Door Viewers
Commercial Security
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