Rim Locks

What Is a Rim Lock?

A rim lock is fitted to the surface of a door rather than recessed into the door edge. The lock case remains visible after installation, making it both a working mechanism and a decorative piece of traditional door furniture.

Rim locks are particularly useful on older or thinner timber doors that may not readily accommodate a mortice lock. They can also be selected simply to add period character to a newer internal door.

Types of Rim Lock

The right design depends on the room, door and locking function required:

• Classic rim locks provide a traditional surface-mounted design in a selection of familiar finishes. Reversible models can be configured for left- or right-opening doors.
• Bathroom rim locks provide internal privacy using a snib or thumb-operated mechanism. Check whether the selected design includes an external emergency-release function.
• Ornate rim locks feature decorative lock cases inspired by traditional Victorian ironmongery.
• Cast iron rim locks provide a substantial traditional appearance and are available in different case sizes and knob-set combinations.
• Solid brass rim locks offer a weighty construction and a natural finish that can gradually develop a patina through handling and exposure to the surrounding environment.

Rim Locks, Rim Latches and Deadbolts

A rim lock normally combines a sprung latch operated by a door knob with a separate key-operated or privacy locking function. A rim latch holds the door closed but does not include a key-operated locking bolt.

A rim deadlock contains a locking bolt without a sprung latch and may therefore be used separately from the door knob mechanism. Check the individual product description to understand exactly how the selected fitting operates.

Reversible and Handed Rim Locks

Some rim locks are reversible and can be adjusted for either left- or right-opening doors. Other designs are handed and must be ordered in the correct orientation.

When choosing a handed lock, consider which face of the door will carry the visible lock case, which side the hinges are on and the direction in which the door opens. Follow the handing guide supplied with the selected product rather than relying on “left” or “right” alone.

What to Measure Before Ordering

Rim locks are available in different sizes and are not universally interchangeable. Before ordering, check:

• The overall width, height and depth of the lock case
• The backset from the door edge to the centre of the knob spindle
• The position of the keyhole or privacy control
• The size and position of the keeper fitted to the door frame
• The door thickness and required spindle length
• The square spindle size required by the lock follower
• The available space between the lock case, door edge and surrounding mouldings
• The handing or reversible arrangement of the lock

If replacing an existing rim lock, compare the product drawing with the original case and keeper. Choosing a similarly sized replacement can help reduce the amount of visible marking or additional joinery work.

Choosing Rim Lock Door Knobs

Rim lock door knobs use a different fitting arrangement from many standard mortice knob sets. One knob normally sits against the visible lock case, while the knob on the opposite side is fitted to the timber with a rose plate.

Choose a dedicated rim lock door knob set with a suitable spindle and rose arrangement. A standard mortice door knob with two fixed roses may not fit correctly.

Individual Locks and Complete Knob Sets

Selected rim locks can be purchased individually or as part of a coordinated set containing door knobs and matching escutcheons. Product contents vary, so check whether the selected option includes:

• The rim lock case and keeper
• A pair of suitable rim lock door knobs
• A spindle or mortice bar
• Keyhole escutcheons
• Keys, where applicable
• Fixing screws

Do not assume every listing contains the complete set shown in lifestyle photography. Confirm the selected product option and supplied components before ordering.

Are Rim Locks Suitable for External Doors?

The rim locks in this collection are intended for internal privacy and traditional styling. They should not be relied upon as the primary security lock on an external entrance door.

If you require a lock for a front or external door, choose an appropriately tested and certified entrance lock that suits the door construction and any requirements set by your insurer. A mortice sash lock is not automatically a high-security lock; its certification and intended application must be checked.

Coordinating Traditional Door Furniture

Complete the door with suitable keyhole escutcheons and butt hinges. Matching or complementary finishes can help create a consistent traditional appearance throughout the room.

Rim Lock Installation Advice

Installation normally involves fixing the lock case to the door face, cutting openings for the spindle and key or privacy control, and positioning the keeper accurately on the frame. The latch should enter the keeper smoothly without the door needing to be forced or lifted.

For further help, read our How to Fit a Rim Lock guide or our comparison of rim locks and mortice latches.

Refer to each product listing for exact dimensions, handing, included components and fitting instructions.