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Understanding the Parts of a Door Lock

Understanding the basic components of your home’s door locks is essential to ensuring its security. The components of your door locks are vital to keeping you and your family safe. From the intricate cylinders and sturdy bolts to the precise strike plate and latch mechanisms.

You can troubleshoot small issues by understanding how they work together. This will also help you make informed decisions when upgrading the security of your home.

If you have a stuck door, knob, or handle, the locksmiths at Keypad Locksmith can help.

What Are the Parts of a Door Lock and Handle Called?

Understanding the parts of a lock and handle is essential to both security and functionality. Knowing the name and function of each component can be extremely useful, whether you are upgrading your home’s security, performing maintenance, or just curious.

Door handles and locks consist of many parts. From the visible knobs and handles to the internal mechanisms that secure the door, many components work together. We’ll explain the roles of each component and how they interact in this guide. This guide will help you to select, install, and troubleshoot your door locks.

We have listed the parts of a lock and handle with their labels below.

Door Handle Parts

Handle/Lever/Knob

  • Handle: You typically push or lift a lever handle to operate the latch. They are common in commercial and modern settings because they are easy to use, particularly for people with disabilities.
  • Lever: A handle with a straight or slightly curvy shape that provides better grip and leverage.
  • Knob: You must turn a round or spherical knob to operate a latch. Levers are more ergonomic but not as common in residential settings.

Rosette

It is a circular or oval plate which surrounds the base or knob. The design hides the internal mechanism and any mounting screws. Rosettes are available in a variety of designs and finishes that match your decor.

Escutcheon Plate

A larger plate that can cover privacy locks or keyholes. Used in traditional or decorative designs. It has both aesthetic and protection functions.

Lock Mechanism Parts

Cylinder

The lock body is the core of the lock, where you insert the key. The lock body or cylinder is the core part of the lock that you insert your key into. When you lock the cylinder, it engages spring-loaded pins that prevent it from rotating.

The uneven edge of the key pushes up the pins to match the height of the key in the lock’s body. It recognizes a key by moving the pins into the right places. This “opens up” the cylinder and allows the bolt to move. You can then open the door.

Plug

The central piece of the cylinder rotates when you insert and turn the key correctly. The central part of the cylinder houses the keyway and interacts with the pins.

Pins and Springs

  • Pins: Small metal pieces within the cylinder. You can divide the pins into two types: key pins and driver pins. The cuts in the key line up with the key pins while springs push the driver pins.
  • Springs: Tiny coils that push the pins in place. The correct key perfectly aligns the pins, allowing you to turn the plug.

Strike Plate

The frame of the door has a metal plate attached to it. The cylinder extends the bolt into a square-shaped hole. This “box” is what you see. The design of the box secures the bolt in the doorframe once you engage the lock.

The strike plate is the metal plate that attaches to the frame of the door. Its purpose is to guide bolts from the cylinder to the box in the frame and to reinforce the locking mechanism.

The strike plate has holes or slots that are aligned with the deadbolt or latch, which allows them to be engaged securely. The strike plate reinforces and protects the frame from damage. It also helps to prevent the latches or deadbolts from being forced open.

Latch

A movable bolt extends into the strike plate to keep the door closed. The lock engages the bolt in the door. This metal piece extends out from the door and into the frame to hold it closed. There are two types of latches (or bolts): a spring bolt or a deadbolt.

  • Spring Bolt: A spring latch, also known as a spring bolt or spring clip, is a bolt that a spring clip holds in place. When you compress the spring, it unlocks the bolt. Once released, however, it snaps back into its locked position. The door locks automatically with this type.
  • Deadbolt: A deadlatch is a deadbolt without the spring-loaded mechanism. The deadlatch can be unlocked or locked at any time with a key, or by using the knob on one side. The deadbolt is generally considered the safer option between the two bolt types, especially if the lock features a deadbolt tumbler. The guardbolt (or deadbolt plunger) is smaller and is located directly next to a deadbolt. Its job is to stop the lock being picked open or ‘jimmied.’

Additional Components

  1. Faceplate. The strike plate protects the edge of the door from damage and helps guide the bolt or latch into the strike plate.
  2. Thumb Turn. A small lever or knob is located on the inside of a door, which allows the user to lock or unlock it without using a key. Often used in conjunction with deadbolts to provide convenience.
  3. Keyhole. The keyhole is the opening in a door handle or lock where you insert the key. The design of the keyhole matches the key profile of the lock.
  4. Backplate. It is decorative and offers additional support and protection to the lock mechanism.
  5. Spindle. The spindle rotates when the handle or knob turns.
  6. Housing. The casing protects the internal components against damage and tampering.
Best Locks for Every Type of Door

What Are the Most Common Types of Door Locks?

There are many types of door locks, each with a different level of security. These types will help you select the right door lock to suit your needs.

Each type of lock, from simple barrel bolts to sophisticated smart locks offers its unique benefits and features. This article will explain the advantages and uses of some of the most popular types of door locks. These options can enhance your convenience and security.

1. Deadbolts

  • Single Cylinder deadbolt Operated by a key on the outside, and a thumb-turn from the inside. Commonly used for residential purposes.
  • Double Cylinder deadbolt requires a key on both sides for extra security. It is often used in situations where the risk of a break-in through adjacent windows to the door exists.

2. Knob locks

  • Usually used on interior doors. These locks offer basic security and are usually paired with deadbolts for exterior doors.

3. Lever Handle locks

  • Interior doors are often used in commercial buildings. It is easier to use than knob locks for those with disabilities.

4. Mortise Locks

  • Installed in a pocket that is cut into the edge of the door. They are known for their durability and strength and can be found in older commercial buildings and residential homes. These can be fitted with a variety of locking mechanisms.

5. Rim Locks

  • A surface-mounted lock is installed inside the door. Use for extra security on external doors, or to add vintage appeal.

6. Keyless entry locks

  • Electronic Locks: Enable entry by entering a code on a keypad. This is useful for eliminating the requirement for physical keys.
  • Smart locks: Operated by smartphone apps, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Features like remote access, integration of smart home systems, and temporary codes can be included.

7. Cam locks

  • Often used in cabinets, furniture, and mailboxes. The cam (a rotating metal plate) is operated by a key.

8. Barrel Bolt

  • Simple latch that slides in a catch at the frame of the door. For internal security such as bathroom or bedroom doors.

9. Padlocks

  • These portable locks can be used in conjunction with chains or hasps. Available in a variety of sizes and security levels. Often used for gates and sheds.

10. Sliding Door Locks

  • There are special locks for sliding doors. These locks can be simple latches or feature more secure mechanisms that prevent the door from lifting off its track.

11. Chain locks

  • The door can be opened to allow for ventilation or viewing while still maintaining security.

12. Window locks

  • These smaller locks are designed for use on windows to prevent unauthorized entry. There are many types of locks including sliding window locks, latch locks, and keyed locks.

Each lock type has a purpose and offers varying degrees of security and convenience. The lock you choose depends on your door’s requirements and desired level of safety.

Keypad Locksmith is a specialist in all types of locks. Our team of experts can provide you with valuable insights. We will also do the work for you. We offer our services in Maryland. Contact us now.

The Latest Trends for Door Locks

Technology has vastly improved home security. Businesses are more interested in upgrading their locks and installing security systems to protect their property. Electronic lock is just one of the many new options available.

Electronic locks differ from traditional deadbolt or spring-style locks. A set of magnets and tiny motors power the electronic locks. The electronic locks require a keypad combo or keyfob to open.

You can control smart electronic locks remotely via a smartphone app. A business owner is able to monitor the traffic, limit access through specific doors, lock the doors, and activate the security system without ever being near the building. Smart electronic locks usually have a mechanical key-cylinder that allows access using a traditional key.

Locksmiths Can Install All Parts of a Door Lock Assembly for You

Locksmiths can install the entire assembly of a door lock for you. They receive thorough training and have extensive experience installing and maintaining various locks and security systems.

They are also able to troubleshoot and ensure that your locks work smoothly and securely. Locksmiths are able to fix your door locks. Locksmiths can help you with your security needs, whether it’s upgrading your home or installing a new locking system.

Get expert advice if you want to increase the security of your home or business. Contact our team at Keypad Locksmith. We serve customers in Maryland.

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