A Complete Door Bolt Guide

Door locking bolts are ideal for adding an extra security measure. Door bolts with key-only access can help to restrict movement and prevent unauthorised personnel from entering sensitive or private areas. Additionally, door bolt locks are strong and sturdy, built with longevity in mind.

This heavy-duty design is intended for doors in particularly sensitive locations. Often made from galvanised steel with a barrel bolt-style strike plate, the attachable padlock provides a robust barrier to protect against unauthorised entry. A door bolt lock is a firm investment commonly used across industry and commercial properties.

These lockable door bolts can also be used as deadbolt locks for doors. Whether intended for internal or external use, a sliding door bolt lock is well-placed to provide a quick and easy solution.

There are many different kinds of bolts. Each has subtle variations in terms of its design and appearance, yet the different types are also best suited to certain applications.

Some of the most common door bolt types include:

Highly secure and reliable, a heavy-duty door bolt is often preferred for peace of mind. Available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and finishes, they are manufactured with sturdiness in mind. A heavy-duty door bolt can be used in a range of locations with varying door types. However, due to their hard-wearing, robust properties, they are often found in industrial areas.

Barrel bolts work on a similar principle to slide bolts but feature a catch plate on the opposite door frame. When the bolt slides into the catch plate, the door is locked. Typically, the bolt is cylindrical but it may also be tubular or have square edges, depending on the specific type. Barrel bolts for doors function both horizontally and vertically, making them a good choice for sheds, stables, and storage units.

A straight door bolt is essentially a longer and thinner variation of the barrel bolt, offering versatile protection at a lower cost. Also known as surface door bolts or straight barrel bolts, they are straightforward and often used. Commonly used alongside other types of door furniture, they add an extra level of protection rather than relying solely on handles, latches, or a door knob.

These common models feature a cylinder into which the bolt slides. This is then attached to the door using screws. They are easy to install and feature various locking options, including padlocks and combinations.

Concealed door bolts are installed within the door itself and are not visible from outside. Like other door ironmongery, they provide reassuring security and are a popular choice for wooden doors and back doors. They are usually installed in pairs using a mortice (insertion joint). These types usually include a door lock which is only accessible from the inside.

Necked door bolts are a variation of the basic barrel design with a curved or angled bolt head to reinforce a larger area. They will function both horizontally and vertically.

Flush bolts are designed for use on double doors, especially those where one side is typically unused for long periods. These bolts are fitted within the edge of each door and work by locking the doors in the middle by moving up or down into the door jamb.

These fixings are usually available in a wide range of different materials, finishes and platings. They can be manufactured with durability and sturdiness in mind, or alternatively, specific finishes can be applied for aesthetic purposes. Ultimately, this will depend on factors including your requirements, the install location, and available options for the specific type of bolt you need.

Popular options include:

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It is versatile, inexpensive and relatively easy to manufacture. A brass door bolt will be highly resistant to corrosion and rust, but will not offer the strength of other metals.

Door bolts in brass are often preferred for aesthetic reasons - polished brass is a popular choice. However, they can also be highly useful for exterior use due to their corrosion-resistant properties. Brass also offers a degree of water resistance, again making this option ideal for outdoor applications.

Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon. It offers good strength at low cost and is highly durable and pressure-resistant. Stainless options are usually preferred and steel bolts are widely available for a variety of general-purpose applications.

Steel is also strong, sturdy, and weather-resistant. These properties mean that stainless steel performs equally well in internal and external environments. This material is also suitable for more heavy-duty models.