Top 10 best Door Latches & Bolts products

Good morning my readers! I’m James Wilson from best2buy.reviews. Doors are the most important part of any building, and door hardware and locks are an integral part of the overall security system. Today, I will share you some information and give you some tips for choosing Door Latches & Bolts. Let’s check it now!

What are Door Latches & Bolts?

Door latches and bolts are fundamental components of door locking systems used to secure doors in both residential and commercial settings. They serve the purpose of keeping doors closed and providing privacy and security. Here's a more detailed explanation of what door latches and bolts are:

Door Latches:

• Door latches are mechanisms that keep a door closed and secure when it's not in use.
• They consist of a latch bolt, which extends from the edge of the door into the door jamb or strike plate on the door frame when the door is closed.
• Latch bolts can be operated by turning a doorknob, lever handle, or thumbturn, depending on the specific type of latch.
• There are various types of door latches, including mortise latches, tubular latches, and cylindrical latches. Each type has its own installation method and use cases.

Door Bolts:

• Door bolts, often referred to as door locks or deadbolts, provide an additional layer of security beyond latches.
• Deadbolts are typically used on exterior doors, as they offer superior resistance to forced entry compared to standard latches.
• Deadbolts extend deep into the door frame, making them much harder to tamper with or force open.
• They come in different varieties, including single-cylinder deadbolts (which have a key on one side and a thumbturn on the other) and double-cylinder deadbolts (which require a key on both sides)

Types of Door Latches & Bolts?

There are several types of door latches and bolts available, each designed for specific purposes and levels of security. Here are some common types of door latches and bolts:

Door Latches:

Mortise Latch:

• Mortise latches are often used in wooden or metal doors and are known for their durability and security.
• They are installed within a pocket (mortise) cut into the door, offering a flush finish.
• Mortise latches are commonly used in residential and commercial applications.

Tubular Latch:

• Tubular latches are prevalent in residential interior doors.
• They are easier to install than mortise latches and are available in various functions, including passage, privacy, and entry functions.

Cylindrical Latch:

• Cylindrical latches are commonly used in residential and commercial door locks.
• They are straightforward to install and come in various forms, including knob latches and lever handle latches.

Deadlatch:

• A deadlatch combines the features of a latch and a deadbolt.
• It is often used in conjunction with a standard latch to provide an extra level of security, especially in commercial applications.

Nightlatch:

• Nightlatches are typically used as a secondary locking mechanism on exterior doors.
• They are surface-mounted and have a spring-loaded latch bolt.

Door Bolts:

Deadbolt:

• Deadbolts are one of the most secure types of door bolts.
• They extend deep into the door frame, making it challenging for intruders to force the door open.
• Deadbolts are commonly used on exterior doors and come in various forms, including single-cylinder (keyed on one side) and double-cylinder (keyed on both sides) options.

Rim Bolt:

• Rim bolts are surface-mounted and often used on garage doors and gates.
• They provide an additional layer of security, typically by sliding a bolt into a strike plate or receiver.

Flush Bolt:

• Flush bolts are used on double doors or French doors to secure the inactive door leaf.
• They are mounted flush with the edge of the door and extend into the door frame or floor.

Surface Bolt:

• Surface bolts are typically used on interior or decorative doors.
• They are surface-mounted and provide a manual means of securing a door.

Drop Bolt:

• Drop bolts are used in sliding doors, often in combination with other locking mechanisms.
• They consist of a bolt that can be dropped into a hole in the floor or the threshold to secure the door.

Purposes of Door Latches & Bolts

Door latches and bolts serve several important purposes related to the security, privacy, and functionality of doors:

Purposes of Door Latches:

Security

Latches are the most basic form of door security. They keep doors closed and prevent them from swinging open freely, enhancing the safety and security of a space. While not as secure as deadbolts, they still provide a basic level of protection against unauthorized entry.

Privacy

Latches on interior doors, such as bedroom or bathroom doors, offer privacy to occupants. They allow individuals to close the door without locking it, ensuring no one can enter without permission.

Ease of Use

Latches make it easy to open and close doors by turning a knob, lever, or thumbturn. This convenience is especially valuable in homes, offices, and other places where people frequently move between rooms.

Child Safety

Latches on doors within homes can help prevent young children from accessing areas that may be dangerous or off-limits, providing a basic child safety measure.

Purposes of Door Bolts:

Enhanced Security

Deadbolts, in particular, are used to enhance the security of exterior doors. They provide a high level of resistance to forced entry and are essential for keeping intruders out.

Securing Double Doors

Bolts, such as flush bolts, rim bolts, and surface bolts, are often used on double doors, such as French doors. They secure the inactive door leaf, preventing it from being opened when not in use.

Added Layer of Protection

Deadbolts and other bolts serve as an additional layer of protection when used in conjunction with standard latches. This two-step locking process can deter burglars and provide greater security.

Security During Absence

Deadbolts and other secure bolts are particularly useful when occupants are away from the property, as they offer a high level of security to prevent unauthorized access.

Deterrence

Visible deadbolts and other prominent bolts can act as a deterrent to potential intruders, discouraging them from attempting to break in.

Controlled Access

Some bolts, like drop bolts or surface bolts, provide a means of controlling access to specific areas, such as closets or storage spaces.

How to install Door Latches & Bolts?

Installing door latches and bolts can vary based on the type of latch or bolt, the door material, and the specific hardware you're using. Below are general steps for installing common types of door latches and bolts:

Installation of Door Latches:

Gather Materials:

• Door latch
• Screwdriver or drill
• Screws
• Chisel (if necessary)
• Pencil
• Tape measure

Prepare the Door:

• Measure and mark the correct height for the latch on the edge of the door, typically about 36 inches from the floor for interior doors. For exterior doors, check local building codes for specific requirements.
• Use a square to ensure that the marks are perpendicular to the edge of the door.

Chisel the Mortise (if using a mortise latch):

• If you're installing a mortise latch, use a chisel to create a shallow recess (mortise) for the latch to sit flush with the door edge.
• Make sure the mortise is deep enough for the latch to fit snugly.

Install the Latch:

• Position the latch in the mortise or on the door edge, aligning it with the marks.
• Secure it with screws provided with the latch.
• Test the latch to ensure it operates smoothly.

Install the Strike Plate:

• Install the strike plate on the door jamb or frame opposite the latch.
• Ensure the latch aligns with the hole in the strike plate.
• Secure the strike plate with screws provided.

Installation of Deadbolts:

Gather Materials:

• Deadbolt assembly
• Screwdriver or drill
• Screws
• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Hole saw or spade bit
• Chisel (if necessary)

Prepare the Door:

• Measure and mark the appropriate height for the deadbolt, typically about 40-44 inches from the floor for exterior doors.
• Use a square to ensure the marks are perpendicular to the edge of the door.

Drill Holes:

• Use a hole saw or spade bit to drill a hole through the door at the marked height for the deadbolt.
• If your deadbolt has a separate latch bolt and deadbolt, you may need to drill a smaller hole for the latch bolt on the edge of the door.

Chisel (if necessary):

• If your deadbolt assembly requires a recess (mortise) in the door edge, use a chisel to create it to the correct depth.

Install the Deadbolt:

• Insert the deadbolt assembly through the hole in the door.
• Secure it with screws provided.
• Test the operation of the deadbolt to ensure it extends and retracts smoothly.

Install the Strike Plate:

• Position the strike plate on the door frame or jamb so that it aligns with the deadbolt.
• Secure it with screws.
• Verify that the deadbolt extends smoothly into the strike plate.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with the specific latch or deadbolt you're installing, as the installation process may vary depending on the brand and model. If you are unsure about the installation, consider consulting a professional locksmith or carpenter to ensure the job is done correctly and securely.

How to choose Door Latches & Bolts?

Kindly check some  key factors when selecting door Door Latches & Bolts:

1. Type of Door:

Consider whether the door is an interior or exterior door. Exterior doors typically require more robust and secure latching and bolting mechanisms.

2. Level of Security:

Determine the desired level of security. For exterior doors, especially those in areas with higher crime rates, it's important to use high-security deadbolts in addition to latches for added protection. Look for locks with security ratings.

3. Building Codes and Regulations:

Check local building codes and regulations, as they may specify certain requirements for the type and installation of door latches and bolts, especially on exterior doors.

4. Type of Lock:

Decide whether you need a latch, a deadbolt, or both. Deadbolts are more secure than latches and are typically used on exterior doors.

5. Ease of Use:

Consider the type of occupants and the door's function. For interior doors, choose latches and bolts that are easy to use, while ensuring they provide adequate privacy.

6. Material and Finish:

Choose latches and bolts that match the aesthetic of your door and overall decor. They come in various materials and finishes, including brass, chrome, stainless steel, and more.

7. Function:

Determine the specific function you need. Some doors require passage (non-locking) latches, while others need privacy (lockable from the inside) or entry (lockable from both sides) latches.

8. Brand and Quality:

Purchase door latches and bolts from reputable brands known for quality and security. Look for certification from organizations like ANSI/BHMA for reliability.

9. Size and Fit:

Measure the dimensions of your door and the existing holes or cutouts to ensure the latch or bolt you select fits correctly.

10. Compatibility:

Ensure that the latch or bolt you choose is compatible with your door type and the type of handles or knobs you plan to use.

11. Additional Features:

Some latches and bolts come with additional features, such as keyless entry, smart technology, and monitoring capabilities. Consider these options if they fit your needs and budget.

12. Consult a Professional:

If you are unsure about the best type of latch or bolt for your specific application, consider consulting a professional locksmith or contractor who can provide expert advice.

In conclusion

Door latches and bolts are essential components of a door's locking mechanism. If you are finding where to buy Door Latches & Bolts, check out Amazon now. Amazon has many products and provides you various selections. In our website, we evaluate products basing on user’s and expert’s evaluations. We hope that it’s useful for you when giving decision. Good luck!

If you need any further information, kindly comment below. I’m James Wilson, editor at best2buy.reviews. I’m very happy to answer your questions.