7 Tips To Make The Most Out Of Your Hook Locks For Doors
Types of Deadlocks for Doors
Deadlocks with hook bolts are used on aluminum sliding narrow stile storefront doors to maximize lock strength and security. They have keys on both sides to allow for greater flexibility.
To accurately measure for a new lock, you must first determine the door's case thickness (or backset). This is the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the latch hole.
Tubular Latch
The tubular latch is by far the most popular door latch. It is easy to install and is popular with DIY enthusiasts as well as Joiners. It is available in various sizes shapes, shapes, and levels that can be used to match any door handle style.
A tubular latch is a rectangular steel casing fitted with an latch bolt and an encased latch follower that is spring-loaded (also called a striker). When you open the door, the latch retracts, allowing you to lock and close it. When you shut the door, the latch bolt springs back to catch on the frame's edge and hold the door shut.
If you're fitting a tubular latch, you'll have to decide on the height you want the latch to rest on the door. Many people believe that a latch and handle should be positioned at a height of a millimetre above the floor. This is not always the case. The latch on the door knob should be placed in the middle of the rail. This is where most of the weight is carried by the door when it is opened and closed.
Once you've determined where the latch should be then mark the location of the hole on the door and strike plate with the help of a pencil. Drill pilot holes to secure the plate. After drilling the pilot holes, you can use a countersink to ensure the back of your plate will be flush with the door after it's been screwed.
If you're looking for a stronger-duty option than the standard tubular latch, think about opting for a double-sprung model. The door will shut more smoothly when you use this type of latch, since it comes with a separate spring that moves the tongue. It also has a heavy-action spring-loaded spindle tracker that ensures that doorknobs and levers are returned to their horizontal position after every use.
After you have put the latch on the door, you'll have to install a strike plate in the frame. The strike plate is the part that is placed in the gap left by the latch when it is closed. To do this, mark where you would like the strike plate to be placed on the frame section that is surrounding it. Use your knife to cut an appropriate square for the plate, and then remove it.
Cylindrical Latch
Interior doors are usually fitted with cylindrical locks. They are located in offices and homes, and are very versatile in terms of their applications. They are similar to mortise locks however, they are much easier and quicker to install. They don't require an "mortise" or pocket be cut into the frame of the door like mortise locks. They are simply installed into an opening or bore that is cut into the door face. These locks are available in a variety of types and can be used with knobs or levers to open and close the door.
The main distinction between mortise and cylinder locks is that only a particular key is needed to unlock these kinds of locks. The pins are fixed by springs and pins with different sizes. Once hook lock has been inserted, the pins will align, and allow the cylinder to turn. This allows the latch bolts to retract and allow the door to be opened.
When the wrong key has been put in, the pins aren't aligned correctly, which stops the cylinder from moving. It is crucial to use the correct key to gain access to your home or office.
The cylinder is situated within the body of the door and is connected to the operating trim using an oval or half-round extension. The cylinder also has small notch on its sides that are designed to be aligned with the key notches once the correct key is inserted. When the cylinder is moved, the latch bolt will follow.
A strike plate is an attached metal plate that catches the bolt that is projected to lock. The strike plate is usually constructed of steel that is heavy-gauge and attached to the door frame using screws. It also has an opening for the latch bolt to engage into.
When replacing a cylindrical lock ensure that you make use of the appropriate tools to remove the handle of the old lock or knob and latch bolt. Mark the position of the new latch bolt and strike on the door and frame after taking off the old hardware. It's a great idea to test the operation of your lock by pressing it against the latch bolt or strike plate using your finger. If the latch bolt or strike plate is damaged or fails to operate correctly, you should consider replacing them.
Key-Locked Latch
This kind of lock can be controlled with the key on the outside and a lever or knob on the inside. This kind of lock is used for doors that aren't at risk of being tampered with, for instance in offices. This type of lock permits the outside lever to be in locked or unlocked and the inside knob is always free for immediate exit. The key is needed only to retract the latchbolt after the door has been shut.
The pins of a key-lock are oriented and lined up on a line called the shear line. The pins are aligned with the shearline when the correct key is inserted into the lock. The plug can then be turned to release the latchbolt. If you've ever encountered a key that was perfectly fitted into a lock but still isn't able to open it could be because one of the pins isn't aligned to the shear line.
Face plates are also used on a few locks. They can be decorative or add strength and protection to the locking mechanism. These plates are commonly found on mortice locks, rim locks, and locks with reversed springs.
There is also a strike plate, which is usually connected to the jamb and door frame and has a hole that guides the bolt from the cylinder into the lock. It is usually used in conjunction with deadbolts for added security.
Then, there's the cylinder, which holds a series of pins that align with the key's axis to stop it from turning. It is difficult to pick a cylinder of good quality without the right tools and the right knowledge. To lock a door the key has to be turned in the same direction that the door is opened. For instance, if the door opens right-handedly the key needs to be turned clockwise to secure it. To unlock, turn the key counterclockwise. This is different from other locks, such as Chubb locks, which require you to turn your key in the opposite direction of opening the door.
Keyless Latch
A keyless latch lets you to lock and unlock your door without the use of the traditional key. These locks can be operated via a smartphone app or an access code. Some models include a hidden security camera. When choosing a keyless latch be sure to consider your security requirements and compatibility with your doors and hardware. Review the manufacturer's instructions and specifications prior to installing. Certain keyless locks could require special door modifications or preparations.
Many companies are working on smart locks that replace traditional keyed locks with additional security features. These devices can be unlocked using a code, fingerprint, or facial recognition, and are usually more durable than traditional locks. Some smart locks have tamper proof features and can detect if a door is opened with an unauthorised key or force.
One company, named Latch has created an elegant high-tech lock that operates like other smart locks. Its primary target market is real estate firms that manage apartments. The lock can be opened by tenants using a passcode, key or mobile device. They are also able to let in dog walkers, cleaners or guests from out of town using temporary codes. The company claims that this will eliminate the need for tenants to lose their keys, and reduces maintenance costs because there is no need to replace locks if tenants move out.
Although the Latch lock isn't available to consumers yet but it is likely to find a place in large apartments and condos. It's being tested in a handful of places and the company is planning to launch more units this year. The cost is similar to the cost of a standard lock. The company also offers low prices for software and competitive pricing.
You can alter the shortcuts at any point by using the Latch App. Launch the app and select the menu located in the upper left corner of the screen. Select 'Widgets' and select the doors that you would like to show as shortcuts. You can check the history of access to your doors through the Latch App once you have configured them.