Latches & Locks

What Is the Difference Between a Door Latch and a Lock?

A door latch holds a door in the closed position and is usually operated by a door handle or knob. Standard tubular latches are commonly fitted to internal passage doors where no locking function is required.

A door lock includes a locking mechanism. Depending on the design, it may be operated by a traditional key, bathroom thumbturn or Euro profile cylinder. Locks intended for internal privacy do not necessarily provide the level of security required for an external entrance door.

Types of Door Locks and Latches

• Tubular latches and deadbolts are morticed into the edge of a door. Tubular latches work with lever handles or door knobs, while bathroom deadbolts can be paired with a compatible turn and release.
• Sash locks combine a sprung latch with a locking bolt. They are normally operated by a lever handle and key.
• Deadlocks contain a locking bolt without a latch. They are often installed alongside separate door furniture, depending on the door and security requirements.
• Rim locks are surface-mounted to one face of the door. Their visible lock cases make them a popular choice for cottages, period properties and traditional internal doors.
• Euro profile locks and cylinders offer a replaceable cylinder system and are commonly used with contemporary entrance hardware. Cylinder length and lock compatibility should be checked before ordering.
• Bathroom locks and turn releases provide internal privacy and can usually be released from outside in an emergency. They should be paired with the correct bathroom lock or deadbolt.
• Cabinet latches hold cupboard and furniture doors closed. They are decorative furniture fittings and should not be treated as security locks.
• Door bolts provide an additional closing point for doors and can also be useful on cupboards or other joinery, depending on the design.
• Cabin hooks hold a door or gate open or closed but do not provide a security locking function.

Choosing the Right Lock or Latch

Start by deciding what the door needs to do. A passage door may only require a tubular latch, while a bathroom normally needs a privacy lock or deadbolt. Bedrooms and home offices may require a keyed internal lock, whereas an external entrance needs a suitably tested lock chosen according to the door, insurance requirements and level of security needed.

Three-lever locks are generally intended for internal privacy or lower-security applications. For an external door, check whether the selected lock carries the appropriate current certification rather than relying on the number of levers alone.

Important Measurements

Before ordering, compare the new fitting with your door and any existing cut-outs. Important measurements can include:

• The lock case depth and height
• The backset from the edge of the door to the spindle, keyhole or cylinder centre
• The size of the faceplate or forend
• The distance between the handle spindle and keyhole or cylinder
• The door thickness and required cylinder length
• The handing or orientation of the lock, where applicable

Product listings include the relevant dimensions and compatibility information. If you are replacing an existing lock, measuring the original mechanism is often the simplest way to identify a suitable replacement.

Traditional Latches for Doors and Gates

For ledge-and-brace doors and traditional garden gates, explore our traditional Suffolk latches and garden gate furniture. Thumb latches hold a door or gate closed but should not be considered security locks unless used with a separate suitable locking device.

For outdoor installations, check that the chosen material, finish and fixings are recommended for exterior use. Coastal and highly exposed locations may require additional maintenance or a specialist corrosion-resistant finish.

Fire Doors and External Security

Hardware fitted to a fire door must be compatible with the door assembly and its certification. Always follow the fire-door manufacturer’s instructions and use appropriately tested locks, latches, hinges and fixings.

For an external entrance door, confirm that the lock is suitable for the door construction and meets any requirements set by your insurer. Internal rim locks, bathroom locks, cabinet latches and cabin hooks should not be used as substitutes for a properly rated entrance lock.