Traditional Latch Accessories: Spare Parts, Privacy Conversions, and Installation Tips

Author: Carl Benson

Carl is the founder of Suffolk Latch Company, with a background in engineering and over 20 years’ experience in home hardware. He works closely with suppliers and designers alike to develop quality ironmongery that stands the test of time. Read my full bio.

Introduction

Latch accessories are a practical and sometimes overlooked part of traditional ironmongery. They include the keepers, staples, and locking fittings that allow Suffolk latches to function properly and look authentic on period doors. These accessories can be used to replace worn parts or adapt a latch for privacy use, such as in a bathroom or bedroom.

The fittings below apply only to Suffolk thumb latches and the Suffolk Latch Fine Handle, which use an external latch bar lifted by a thumb piece.

Explore our full collection of traditional hand-forged door hardware to find matching latches, bolts, and hinges for period homes and restoration projects.

Table of Contents

1. What are traditional latch accessories?
2. Replacement parts and their uses
3. How do you install traditional latch accessories?
4. Finish and Compatibility Guide
5. Can latch accessories be used outdoors?
6. Are locking pins compliant with building regulations?
7. Frequently Asked Questions
8. Conclusion
9. External Link

What are traditional latch accessories?

Traditional latch accessories are small metal fittings that complete the working mechanism of a Suffolk latch. These include:

• Staples — hold the latch bar on the door.
• Keepers — fixed to the door frame to receive the latch bar when the door is closed.
• Locking pins and privacy staples — optional parts that allow the latch to be secured from one side.

These components are usually made from mild steel or wrought iron and finished to match the latch itself. They are available in beeswax or pewter.

Hand forged arrow end screw on staple in pewter

Hand forged penny end staple in black beeswax

Replacement parts and their uses

Knock-in Staple

The most traditional type, the knock-in staple is a U-shaped fitting driven through the timber and clenched over on the reverse. It is authentic but requires careful alignment; once hammered in, it cannot be repositioned. A misaligned staple can look unsightly and may restrict the latch bar’s movement.

Screw-on Staple

A screw-on staple performs the same job but attaches with screws rather than spikes. Although less traditional, it allows precise positioning and easy replacement. Because it can be adjusted before final fixing, this option is ideal for new doors or those with delicate finishes.

Fine Keeper

A fine latch keeper has a tapered spike rather than a screw plate, giving a minimal appearance. To fit, drill a pilot hole in the jamb, roughen the spike with pliers for grip, add a drop of PVA glue, and tap into place. This ensures a firm hold and prevents the keeper from loosening over time.

Standard Keeper

The standard keeper has a half-loop shape and one screw fixing. To install, close the door so the latch bar rests against the jamb, mark the bar’s underside, drill a small pilot hole just below the mark, and tap the keeper into place. The latch bar should ride over the keeper’s curve and drop into the gap when closed. Tighten the screw to secure it — the iron will deform slightly to sit flush.

Locking Staple and Pin

A locking staple includes a hole for a removable pin attached to a leather lanyard. When the pin passes through both the staple and latch bar, it prevents the bar from lifting, securing the door. For safety, always drill the pin hole completely through the door so the pin can be pushed out in an emergency. Please note that if your project is a new build or an extension covered by building regulations, a turn-and-release system must be fitted instead, as locking staples are not compliant.

Hand forged pewter screw on staple locking

Hand forged arroe end screw on staple in black beeswax

How do you install traditional latch accessories?

Installation depends on the fitting type:

• Knock-in staples are hammered through the door and clenched over. Precision is crucial because there’s no second chance to realign.
• Screw-on staples are fixed with screws, allowing you to test movement before final tightening.
• Fine keepers require a pilot hole, light hammering, and a small amount of glue for a secure fit.
• Standard keepers are aligned by marking the latch bar’s underside and knocking into place before screwing down.
• Locking staples are installed like a screw-on staple; then the latch bar is drilled through to accept the locking pin.

Each accessory plays a part in achieving smooth, reliable movement and an authentic appearance.

Finish and Compatibility Guide

Can latch accessories be used outdoors?

Standard beeswax and pewter accessories are best kept indoors. Beeswax provides limited moisture protection and will oxidise if exposed to damp. Pewter resists rust slightly better but is still not suited to full weather exposure.

For exterior doors, gates, or garden buildings, select items finished in Armor Coat, a durable protective coating specifically designed for acidic timbers such as oak and Accoya.

Hand forged screw on staple for suffolk latc fine handle in pewter

Hand forged screw on staple with lock for suffolk latch fine handle

Are locking pins compliant with building regulations?

Locking pins are traditional but not compliant for bathrooms or WCs in new builds. UK building regulations require any bathroom to have a lock that can be released from outside in an emergency. A turn-and-release deadbolt or bathroom lock is the compliant alternative.

For heritage renovations without such restrictions, a locking pin offers authentic period charm but should never be used where emergency access might be required.

Hand forged knock in staple in black beeswax

Hand forged knock in staple with locking pin in black beeswax

Frequently Asked Questions

Hand forged standard keeper in pewter

Hand forged staple in black beeswax for suffolk latch fine handle

Conclusion

Latch accessories are the small details that  traditional joinery to life. For Suffolk latches, they provide the functionality and authenticity that define period ironmongery, while Cottage latches retain their own distinctive simplicity. Whether you’re replacing worn parts, converting a latch for privacy, or completing a heritage restoration, choosing the right fittings ensures both practicality and visual harmony.

Explore our complete Traditional Hand-Forged Door Hardware collection for matching hinges, bolts, and latches.

External Link

Historic England – Guidance on Local Authority Permission for Traditional Home Improvements