Types of lock
A lock is a mechanism used for security purposes, such as preventing a door from being opened. The provision of suitable locks can be an important prerequisite for being able to insure a property.
Types of lock mechanism include:
- Warded lock: A set of wards (obstructions) that cannot be opened unless a key with notches corresponding to the wards is inserted.
- Pin tumbler lock: A set of pins that prevent opening unless a key with the correct bittings (teeth and notches) is inserted.
- Wafer tumbler lock: A similar mechanism to a pin tumbler except each wafer is a single piece, unlike a pin which is two or more pieces.
- Disc tumbler lock: A particularly secure lock that consists of slotted rotating detainer discs.
- Lever tumbler lock: A set of levers that prevent a bolt from moving in the lock.
- Electronic lock: Uses an electric current and is typically connected to an access control system. Examples include a keycard lock (opened using a keycard) and a smart lock (opened using a cryptographic key and wireless protocol).
There are many different types of door lock, including:
- Mortice deadlocks: Typically found on external doors.
- Nightlatches: Also known as secondary locks, that can either be standard (locks automatically unless the latch is held back), or deadlocked (locks automatically and requires a key inside and outside).
- Multi-point locking systems: A minimum of three locking points that bolt the door into the frame.
- Knob locks: The lock cylinder is inside the knob rather than the door. Typically found on internal doors.
- Lever handle locks: The lock cylinder is inside the handle rather than the door. This is typically easier to open than a knob lock.
- Patio door locks: Can either be fitted to the central rail where patio doors overlap, or top and bottom, or rim-locks that bolt the door into the frame.
- Padlocks: These are locks which are detached from anything else, typically used for outbuildings, gates, etc. They can be either combination locked (with number dials) or key locked, and can be open or closed shackle.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Access control.
- CCTV.
- Commercial security systems.
- Digital door lock market.
- Doors.
- Entry control.
- External doors.
- Hinge.
- Home security solutions market.
- How door locks work.
- Mortice lock.
- Mortise vs mortice.
- Outbuildings security.
- Perimeter security.
- Security and the built environment.
- Security glazing.
- Sneck.
- Types of alarm.
- Types of door.
Featured articles and news
The green jobs delivery group.
CIAT commentary after the first meeting.
Liverpool's world heritage site status
Who is to blame?
Research recommends focussing on portfolio success rather than project success.
ICE and BSI launch revised PAS 128 standard.
The revised standard for mapping underground utilities.
Launching the UK net zero carbon buildings standard.
Cross-industry steering group seeks support in delivery.
How to write an inspection and test plan.
Help us update process pieces from your field.
APM report explores existing practice.
Previous reflections on mental health with CIAT.
COVID-19 and the importance of mental wellbeing.
IHBC accreditation recognised by CSCS
As Professionally Qualified Person (PQP).
The Queens speech; bill by bill for 2022.
In order of relevance and with industry responses.
Mental Health awareness week, May 9-15.
Raising awareness of the impacts of loneliness.
Rapidly renewable materials and construction.
The list is growing, and in more ways than one.
Personal experiences of infrastructure maintenance issues.
We shouldn’t build new, If we can’t maintain what's built.
Mass timber: challenges and potential solutions.
Timber Accelerator Hub phase 1 report