What Locks Do You Have?

This is sometimes not as straightforward a question as it may seem. We like to give customers a price for the complete job the first time they phone but in order to do this we need to know what locks they have so we have published this little guide that may help.

NB:The images below are a guide only and your locks may not look exactly the same

EURO CYLINDERS

These are the most common locks in UPVC and composite doors and are used to lock the multi-point locking mechanism fitted on the side of the door. There are two types of these locks (although they come in a huge variety of lengths to suit a particular door). The most common is a double lock which uses a key on both ends.The other is what is known as a Thumbturn. Uses a key one end and a turn the other. It is important that the correct length is fitted to avoid the lock becoming vulnerable to attack.

NIGHTLATCHES AND RIM CYLINDERS

Commonly known as Yale locks, although that is just a brand name, these come in two parts. If you simply just want to change the keys used then a rim cylinder is all that is required. If you are having problems with the box part then that is the night latch. Generally fitted at shoulder height on front doors and will lock the door without the use of a key as it closes. Please note that this in itself would not be enough security to satisfy the majority of home insurance policies.

MORTICE LOCKS

Sometimes known as Chubb locks, again simply a brand name, these are what provide the best security to wooden doors. Locks to external doors should comply with British Standard BS3621:2007 to comply with most insurance requirements. The only difference between the two types are that the sash lock has a latch and uses a handle. Smaller 3 lever locks can be fitted to internal doors to provide security to a home office for example.

GARAGE DOOR LOCKS 1 2 3 4 5

Above are a variety of different garage door locks. No.4 is one that requires the whole handle to be changed. Yours may look slightly different but we carry most types. No.5 are additional security for up and over doors and can be fitted to most types of garage doors to protect contents.