Introduction to Door Latch Terminology
When it comes to door latch terminology, there are a few key terms that you need to know in order to understand how door latches work. Here are some of the most important terms to know:
– Latch: A latch is the portion of the door hardware that actually engages with the strike plate to keep the door closed.
– Strike Plate: The strike plate is a metal plate that is mounted on the door frame and provides a surface for the latch to engage with when the door is closed.
– Deadbolt: A deadbolt is a type of locking mechanism that uses a bolt that cannot be opened unless the correct key is used. Deadbolts are often used in addition to a regular latch for added security.
– Jamb: The jamb is the vertical portion of the door frame against which the door closes.
– Faceplate: The faceplate is the portion of the door hardware that is visible on the face of the door. It usually covers the hole left by the bore, and can be decorative or functional in nature.
The Different Types of Door Latches
There are a few different types of door latches that you might encounter. The most common type is the spring latch, which is a simple mechanism that uses a spring to keep the latch in place. This type of latch is usually found on interior doors.
Another common type of door latch is the deadbolt. This is a more secure option that requires a key to lock and unlock it. Deadbolts are often used on exterior doors as an added security measure.
Finally, there are magnetic latches. These use magnets to keep the door closed and are often used on cabinets or other interior doors where security isn’t as much of a concern.
How to Select the Right Door Latch for Your needs
When selecting a door latch, it is important to consider the type of door and the function that the latch will serve. There are many different types of latches available, so it is important to select the one that best suits your needs.
The most common type of door latch is the spring latch. This type of latch is used on doors that do not require a key for entry. Spring latches are easy to install and operate, making them a good choice for interior doors. Deadbolt latches are another option for doors that do not require a key for entry. Deadbolts provide additional security by requiring a key to be turned in order to open the door.
If you are looking for a latch to use on an exterior door, you will want to choose one that is weather-resistant. Some examples of weather-resistant latches include those made from stainless steel or brass. You will also want to make sure that the latch you select can be operated from both inside and outside of the door.
There are also specialty latches available for specific applications. For example, there are child-proofing latches available that make it difficult for children to open doors. There are also pet-proofing latches that prevent pets from opening doors and escaping from the home. If you have special considerations when selecting a door latch, be sure to consult with a professional before making your final decision.If you think that you need more information follow Home Builders Hardware website where you can find the best door latch terminology guide.
How to Measure a Door Latch
There are a few different ways that you can measure a door latch. The first is to simply measure the width of the door latch itself. This is the most common way to measure a door latch, and will give you the overall size of the door latch. The second way to measure a door latch is to measure the distance from the centre of the knob to the centre of the deadbolt. This will give you a more accurate measurement of the door latch, and will help you determine which size door latch you need. Finally, you can also measure the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the knob. This will give you an accurate measurement
of how far away from the edge of the door your knob is, and will help you determine which size door latch you need.
How to Install a Door Latch
Installing a door latch is a relatively easy process that can be completed in a few minutes with minimal tools. The first step is to determine which type of latch you need for your door. The most common types are mortise latches, surface-mounted latches, and spring latches.
Mortise latches are typically used on doors with thicker frames, as they require a hole to be drilled into the frame in order to be installed. Surface-mounted latches are easier to install, as they simply mount onto the surface of the door frame with screws. Spring latches are also easy to install and do not require any screws or drilling, but they are not as secure as the other two types.
Once you have determined which type of latch you need, follow the instructions below to install it:
1. If you are installing a mortise latch, use a drill to create a hole in the door frame where the latch will go. The hole should be big enough for the body of the latch to fit through without being too loose.
2. Chisel out any rough edges around the hole so that the latch will fit snugly.
3. Insert the latch into the hole from one side of the door frame and secure it in place with screws on the other side. Be sure not to overtighten the screws, as this could strip them or damage the door frame.
