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.)

What is a Rim Lock

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Types of Rim Lock
• Why Choose a Rim Lock
• What do Rim Locks do
• How do Rim Locks Work
• Difference Between a Sash Lock & a Rim Lock
• Conclusion

Introduction

One distinctive feature of rim locks is their placement. They can only be fitted to either the left or right side of a door, depending on how it opens. To function properly and look authentic, the lock should always be positioned on the side that opens towards you.

When it comes to operation, rim locks differ from modern mechanisms. Instead of lever handles, they’re usually paired with door knobs, reinforcing their traditional character and adding a subtle period detail to your doors.

Rim locks are available in several types and configurations. You’ll find left- and right-handed versions, as well as reversible models that can be adjusted during installation. There are also bathroom and snib variants, ideal for adding privacy to bedrooms and bathrooms while maintaining a consistent vintage style.

Types of Rim Lock

In our exploration of rim locks, it's essential to understand the different types available. Each type has unique characteristics and uses, making them suitable for various applications. As we've mentioned, rim locks are surface mounted, setting them apart from the modern locking systems that are morticed into the side of the door. Now, let's delve into the various types of rim locks.

Handed Rim Locks

The first type we'll discuss is what's known as a 'handed' rim lock. These locks are designed to work specifically on either the left or right side of the door.

This means that when purchasing a handed rim lock, you must be careful to choose the correct one for your door's orientation. For more guidance on this, please refer to our HANDING GUIDE .

Reversible Latch Rim Locks

Next, we have reversible latch rim locks. These locks are designed with convenience in mind. The key will operate the lock in the normal orientation, regardless of which side the lock is mounted on.

Additionally, the built-in escutcheon has a round cut-out at the top and bottom, giving the appearance that the lock is mounted correctly, no matter the orientation.

Privacy Rim Locks

Privacy rim locks are another type to consider. These locks come with a built-in catch that can be slid across to secure the door. However, it's important to note that there is no mechanism to release the catch from the other side of the door.

This feature makes them ideal for rooms where privacy is paramount, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.

Deadlock Rim Locks

Finally, we have the deadlock rim locks. These are simple, key-operated systems typically used with a separate lever handle or door knob. They provide a level of security and are often used on external doors.

Understanding the different types of rim locks can help you choose the right one for your needs. Whether you're looking for privacy, convenience, or security, there's a rim lock designed to meet your requirements.

Why Choose a Rim Lock

Choosing the right door hardware is a personal decision — it’s about striking a balance between functionality, style, and authenticity. Among the many options available, rim locks stand out for their variety of styles, materials, and finishes, offering a distinctive way to introduce heritage character to your home.

The appeal of a rim lock lies in its unique construction. Unlike modern mortice locks that sit hidden within the door, a rim lock is surface-mounted, making its design and material part of the room’s overall aesthetic. Each lock carries a sense of history and craftsmanship, serving as both a practical fitting and a design feature.

That said, rim locks aren’t suited to every property. They’re most at home in period or character properties, where their traditional look enhances the building’s authenticity and charm. In these settings, they can be a real conversation piece, connecting modern living with historic design.

For more contemporary interiors, however, their surface-mounted design can appear out of place beside sleek lines and concealed hardware.

In the end, choosing a rim lock isn’t just about securing a door — it’s about celebrating heritage and design, bringing a piece of history into everyday use. For owners of traditional homes, they offer a classic way to preserve character while adding genuine architectural detail.

What do Rim Locks do

In our look at rim locks, we’ve covered their history and the different styles available. Now, let’s explore their purpose and how they function.

At the simplest level, a rim lock allows you to open, close, and secure a door. It uses a sprung catch to hold the door shut and can be locked with either a key or a sliding snib. Yet their value goes beyond function alone.

Rim locks have a long heritage and bring visual interest to traditional properties, especially period homes. Unlike modern sash locks or tubular latches, which are hidden within the door, rim locks are surface-mounted and therefore visible. This allows the lock’s design and material to become part of the door’s appearance.

Whether made from brass or iron, a rim lock can act as a decorative feature as well as a practical fitting. It highlights the mechanical simplicity and historical design of traditional door hardware — something that modern concealed locks often overlook.

In summary, rim locks do more than keep a door closed. They combine mechanical reliability with visual appeal, making them ideal for restoration projects or for anyone wanting to introduce period detail into their home.

How do Rim Locks Work

Having discussed the background and benefits of rim locks, it’s useful to understand how they operate.

Rim locks use a straightforward mechanism. Each one includes a retractable catch, which keeps the door closed, and may also include a key-operated deadbolt or a hand-operated snib for added security.

However, they’re not generally recommended for external doors, especially outward-opening ones, for two key reasons.

First, the locking system is typically based on a 3-lever mechanism. While this is sufficient for internal doors, most UK insurers require a 5-lever certified lock for external use, which provides a higher level of protection.

Second, because rim locks are mounted on the surface of the door rather than recessed within it, the mechanism is more exposed and therefore more vulnerable to attack.

In short, rim locks are best suited to internal doors where visual detail and tradition are valued. They add historical character and mechanical simplicity but should be supported by stronger security locks on exterior entrances.

Difference Between a Sash Lock & a Rim Lock

In the world of door locks, two types often come up for comparison: sash locks and rim locks. Both serve the same fundamental purpose of securing a door, but they differ significantly in design, installation, and application.

Rim Locks

As we've discussed throughout this blog, rim locks are an early type of door lock. They are surface mounted, meaning they are installed on the surface of the door. This design makes them visible on the side of the door that opens towards you.

Rim locks come in various configurations and are typically operated using door knobs. They add a touch of vintage charm to your doors and are ideal for use in period properties. However, their application is limited by the way a door is hung or opened.

Sash Locks

In contrast, sash locks and tubular latches are more modern developments. Unlike rim locks, they’re morticed into the edge of the door, leaving only the faceplate visible. This creates a discreet appearance and allows for a wider choice of hardware styles, including lever handles, door knobs, and lever-on-rose handles.

The key advantage of sash locks is their versatility. They can be fitted to almost any door, regardless of how it opens or which side it’s hung on, making them a practical choice for contemporary homes.

Ultimately, the decision between a sash lock and a rim lock depends on the property and the look you want to achieve. For a subtle, adaptable lock that integrates neatly with the door, a sash lock is a strong option. For those restoring or maintaining a traditional property, a rim lock provides a visible link to period design and architectural detail.

Conclusion

In conclusion, here are the key points we've covered about rim locks in this article:

• Rim locks are one of the earliest types of door locking systems, often used in period properties for their vintage charm.
• Unlike modern locks, rim locks are surface mounted, adding a distinctive aesthetic element to your door's design.
• They can only be used on either the left or right side of the door and to fully appreciate their beauty, they need to be on the side of the door that opens towards you.
• Door knobs are used instead of lever handles to operate the catch in rim locks.
• There are various types of rim locks, including handed, reversible, privacy, and deadlock rim locks.
• Rim locks serve to open and close a door, with the ability to keep a door closed with a sprung catch, and they can also lock a door using a key or a sliding snib.
• While rim locks add a unique aesthetic appeal, they may not be suitable for modern properties with minimalist designs.
• Rim locks operate on a simple mechanism and are not recommended for use on external doors due to security concerns.
• Sash locks and tubular latches are modern alternatives to rim locks, offering more flexibility and security, but lacking the vintage charm of rim locks.

Whether you're restoring a period property or simply want to add a unique design element to your doors, rim locks are a worthy consideration. However, it's important to consider your security needs and the style of your property when choosing the right lock.