Types of Locks and Handles

Door locks and door handles are two components often overlooked when it comes to residential or commercial security. However, they both play an essential role in keeping your property safe from intruders, lending an aesthetic appeal to your space and adding a touch of comfort, convenience, and functionality to your daily life. There are different types of door locks available, so it's best to evaluate which one will work best for you.

The best way to do this is to understand the different door functions so you can easily determine an appropriate lock for each door in your residential or commercial property.

1. Passage Door Function

Passage door lock types are used on doors that don't need to be locked. They allow passage through unlocked doors in any property. For example, interior doors in homes and even busy commercial building doors need this kind of lock as they must be left unlocked for people to come in and out. These types of door locks have latches that can be operated from either side with a lever or knob but with no locking mechanism.

Passage function locksets are types of door handles or locks usually installed on the inside of a frame and don't have keyholes, which is why they're called passage locks - there's no need for a key with these types of locks. They're mostly used in bedroom doors, hall closets, supply rooms, pantries, and other rooms where a keyless lock is needed.

2. Entry Door Function

Entry locks are used on doors that need to be locked and unlocked with a key or an electronic code. This is the most common door lock function in residential or commercial settings. Keyed or electronic entry door locks allow for added security, as they can only be accessed by those who have the key or code. They're perfect for front and back doors and doors that require enhanced security.

Entry function door locks are open with a key or code on the outside and have a thumb turn on the inside for locking and unlocking the door. They come in different types of locks, specifically single-cylinder and double-cylinder deadbolts, for enhanced protection against forceful entry and theft.

3. Privacy Door Function

Privacy function locksets are types of door locks used in bathrooms, bedrooms, dressing rooms, and other areas you want to keep private. These door lock types are used on interior doors and come in various styles, such as privacy levers and privacy knob locksets. They're perfect for locking the entryway from the inside with a thumb turn while providing exterior entry with a key for emergencies.

Privacy locks are commonplace in homes and public places such as restrooms, locker rooms, dressing rooms, and suites. They are often used in commercial spaces to separate areas for customers from work-only zones.

4. Half-Dummy Door Function

Half-dummy function locksets are another type of type of door lock that is commonly used. This type of lock has a single door lever or knob on the outside of the door that does not turn or function in any way when being used. The main purpose of this type of lock is to provide an opening and closing mechanism for hallways, linen closets, cabinets, and other closet applications.

Transform Your Doors With Stylish Door Locks

With a clear understanding of the different types of door functions, you can match the types of door locks to your individual needs. Whether you want to make sure your doors are secure, add a personalized touch to your door's look, or need an innovative solution for tricky types of locks, Door Locks Direct has unique types of handles and locks for you.

Handlesets

Handlesets easily stand out as one of the more popular types of door locks. They're ideal for installation on doors that get the most attention and interaction, like entry doors, and tend to be the most decorative. Handlesets typically come with a keyed cylinder lock on the outside and a handle on both sides of the door. These door lock types can be used for keyed entry, passage, and half-dummy door functions.

Door Knobs

Door knobs can be found in interior and exterior doors, but they are different types depending on their intended use. They simply set the tone for any room's design. Whether you want to complement your existing hardware or prefer to start fresh, knobs are a simple way to add personality. Door knobs can be used for entry, privacy, storeroom, and half-dummy door functions.

Combo Packs

Combo packs are a type of door lock designed to improve security while providing stylish looks and superior functionality. They're generally used in front and back doors that need extra protection. Combo packs usually include a deadbolt lock to secure the door from being opened by force or tampered with and a knob or lever for easy access. Combo packs are ideal for entry functions.

Call Us to Learn More

Door Locks Direct brings you different door lock types and handles in various door functions and styles. Shop from top brands like Kwikset, Schlage, and Cal-Royal and know that you're getting the best quality products on the market. Our experts are available to help you choose the perfect lock for your needs, whether it's an entry combo pack, privacy knobs, or passage handleset collection for your home.

Call us at 866.755.5625 to learn more about the many types of door locks.