In our modern lives, it is necessary to elevate the security of our space. To fulfill this need, we have a plethora of devices at our disposal. However, these devices and gadgets offer different levels of security which is an important point of distinction between them. One such mechanism is door latches. Door latches and guards are locking hardware that is fitted to keep a door closed. The difference between door locks and latches is that latches do not require a key to open them. Therefore, door locks tend to offer a higher level of security than latches. With that said, door latches have become essential hardware in households and commercial spaces today. However, numerous types of door latches are available in the market, which can confuse you. Furthermore, different types of door latches are used for varying purposes. For instance, the sliding door latch is different from the latch used in normal doors.
In this article, we have discussed the different types of door latches and the materials used in manufacturing these essential hardware. In addition, we have provided a list of top-quality door latches available in the market.
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Godrej Latches
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Hettich SS D1 Right Prolock Infinity Lock
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Hafele Mortise Latch Lock
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Ozone Night Latch
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TAITON Latches
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Dormakaba Latches
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Assa Abloy Latches
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Dorset Sliding Door Latches
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Yale V18L US5 Security Door Guard
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Yale YDM 4109 (Roller Latch)
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Types of door latches
Internal door latches
Flat latches
Image Source: Raygrahams.com
Flat latches are installed on a heavy-duty door that doesn’t need a lock. These are controlled by a door handle which means that the latch will close or open when the handle or knob is engaged. Also, they come in different materials, sizes, and finishes.
Tubular latches
Image Source: Allgood.co.uk
They are one of the most popular types of door latches. They also work on the same mechanism as discussed above and are manipulated through handles. Furthermore, they are available in several types but the sturdiest ones are double-sprung and heavy-sprung tubular latches.
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Spring loaded latches
Image Source: Romak.com.au
These latches are sought after because they are very convenient to use. For that reason, these are commonly used in doors and windows. Moreover, these latches use a compressed spring mechanism to secure a door. The spring gets compressed and unlocks the bolt and when the spring is released, it snaps the lock back into a closed position.
Roller bolt latches
Image Source: Ironmongerydirect.co.uk
Roller bolt latches are not controlled by a handle or a knob. Unlike others, in a roller bolt latch, you can just pull your door into the open position. Also, when the door closes, the latch keeps the door securely shut. Therefore, sliding doors or wardrobes commonly use these variants.
External door latches
Sliding bolt latches
Image Source: Amazon.in
Sliding bolt latches are popular choices for bathroom doors. These have a relatively simple design, comprising two metal pieces and a metal bolt. Hence, the sliding movement of the metal bolt between the two pieces causes the door to lock or unlock.
Rim latches
Image Source: Broughtons.com
Generally, rim door latches consist of a latch and a deadbolt that can be operated by a sliding draw bolt found on the top of the box. Also, these latches can only be operated from one side of the door and are commonly seen in public bathrooms. These are generally used indoors because they are not considered secure enough to be installed outdoors.
Hook and eye latches
Image Source: Rensup.com
These kinds of latches are generally used for outdoor applications such as main gates. They are made up of two components – a hook and an eye; the hook is placed in the eye of the latch to keep the gate closed. While purchasing these latches, keep the proportions of the gate and the latch in mind.
Chain latches
Image Source: Amazon.com
Chain latches have a small chain attached to the door frame and are connected to a metal frame on the door. The sliding movement of the chain is what locks and unlocks the door. These types of latches are usually used in addition to other door locks for added security.
Swing bar latches
Image Source: Amazon.com
Swing bar latches provide an enhanced level of security in comparison to chain latches. For that reason, they have become a preferred option among homeowners. They too allow homeowners to open the door slightly without having to open it completely. These latches are also used in addition to other door locks.
Gravity latches
Image Source: Amazon.com
These latches are comparatively convenient to use because of their self-latching mechanism. When the door is closed, the latch will fall into place due to gravity and secure the door. Generally, these latches are used on fences. Also, they are usually manipulated by one side of the door. However, if you install them on a short fence, they can be manipulated by either side.
Ring latches
Image Source: Rinkit.com
These can be operated from either side of the door. For that reason, these latches are commonly used for backyard doors. When the ring of the latch is turned, the arm of the latch lifts out thereby opening the gate. Furthermore, some of its variants come with a door lock as well.
Thumb latches
Image Source: Tradedoorhandles.com
They can also be operated from either side of the door. However, it is worth mentioning that only in-swinging gates can use this mechanism. They use thumb depressors to open or close the door. On the outside of the door, a metal plate and thumb depressor will be installed and a securing lever will be fitted on the inside of the door. So, the door will open when you engage the thumb depressor.
Night latches
Image Source: Suffolklatchcompany.com
These are some of the most secure latches available in the market. They also provide additional security when used with other door locks. From the inside, the latch can be opened and closed with a knob but on the outside, a key will be used to lock or unlock the door.
Materials used for making door latches
Aluminium
Aluminium is an ideal choice because it can survive rust and daily wear and tear. Also, it is durable while being lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Therefore, aluminium latches can be installed in any environment or climatic condition.
Brass
Brass door latches effectively create a colonial or traditional look. However, they are the least common variants available in the market today. Also, this material requires high maintenance and is prone to tarnishing over time.
Iron
Another popularly used material is iron. These latches are available in a wide range of designs. While iron is durable and long-lasting, it is not suitable for properties on the seaside or other areas that receive a lot of rainfall.
Bronze
While bronze latches are comparatively more expensive, they are rust and chip-resistant. Therefore, they are highly durable and can also be moulded into any shape or design to give them an appealing appearance.
Chrome
Chrome latches tend to be appealing because their extra shiny surface looks aesthetically pleasing. However, it is worth mentioning that these are less durable as compared to stainless steel. Also, they are more prone to chipping and scratching.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is a sought-after material because of its pressure-resistant property which makes it highly durable. It gives a similar appearance to aluminium and its natural silver colour makes it ideal for a modernistic look.
Things to consider before purchasing door latches
Type of door
The most essential factor that must be taken into account before buying a latch is the type of door. If it is a regular door, a standard door latch would be the best fit. However, sliding door latches are different and one must choose accordingly.
Size of doors
The size of your door determines the size of the latch as well as its strength. While exterior doors are big, and thus, would require a more robust design, interior doors such as those for bathrooms can be installed with baby latches as well.
Finish
Latches are available in multiple finishes such as graphite, satin nickel, matte black, stainless steel, etc. and you can choose the type that best suits your door and interiors.
Budget
Door latches are available across multiple price ranges. High-end brands offer expensive products. However, they also offer longevity and an elegant look even after frequent usage. But you can choose a product that is best suited for your price range.
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Conclusion
While door latches do not offer a high level of security as locking hardware, they still serve an important function. Therefore, they become an essential part of any home. However, before buying it for yourself, it is helpful to know the different types of latches you can choose from. They can be distinguished based on material and installation. Some are integrated into the door while some are fitted externally. Also, keep in mind that certain materials such as iron do not perform well in high moisture environments. Therefore, opt for products made of rust-resistant materials for your bathroom doors. Now that you have read the article, you must understand what type of latch will suit your needs. So, use the shopping links above and buy your best fit now.
FAQs
How are door latches different from door locks?
Although both door latches and locks ensure security, the main difference between the two of them is that locks require a key to open the door, a latch does not. As the name suggests, locks ensure that your doors, cabinets, or wardrobes are locked, whereas, in the case of latches, the doors may be closed but certainly not locked.
Which is the most durable material for door latches?
Stainless steel is a very popular material that offers longevity and durability due to its corrosion resistance, and low maintenance properties. Its robust nature ensures protection from forced entries and rarely reveals traces of dents or scratches, even after years of installation. Materials like bronze and brass can also be considered if you want an antique look along with durability.
Are baby latches ideal for bathroom doors?
Baby latches are unique innovations in security that require no lock body or cylinder, and no lever action, with added safety features such as unscrewing the handle for emergency opening. Thus, they are ideal for bathroom doors. Brands offer them in a variety of styles and finishes making them suitable for bedroom or balcony doors as well.
How do sliding door latches differ from standard ones?
Sliding door latches have a sleek design that fits well within the sliding door frame whereas normal latches often have a protruding latch bolt that retracts when the door handle is turned. Sliding latches are used in patios, wardrobes or room dividers that do not swing open. Standard latches are versatile and can be used in your homes or offices.
How to choose the correct latch size for my doors?
To choose the correct latch size first measure the backset (distance from the door edge to the centre of the borehole) since you need a certain amount of clearance to avoid brushing your knuckles on the door frame. Usually, a casing of 64mm in depth and the distance to the middle of the square operating spindle is 44mm is used.
Which is the best kind of latch for main doors?
Tubular or mortise latches are the most commonly used hardware for main doors because they offer reliability and security. They can be paired with knobs, or lever handles and can even be used with privacy locks. They are installed inside the door, with a latch bolt and a deadbolt for added security.
Which are the top door latch brands?
Many brands are offering a vast collection of door latches in India. Godrej, Hettich, Ozone, TAITON, Ipsa, etc. are some of the top hardware brands to purchase stylish and high-quality latches for your doors. Their exquisite collection offers a variety of options for different kinds of doors. You can check out our website and have a look at the product collection of these brands.
The featured image used in this article is from Willowandstone.co.uk
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