Unlocking the Mystery of Door Lock Mechanisms

Do you ever wonder what's going on inside a door lock when you insert your key? From the backrest to the hole, from the impact plate to the spindle, let's explore the sometimes mysterious and sometimes confusing world of door hardware. It's actually easier than it seems. Once you get the hang of it, your knowledge of the parts of a door lock will help you tackle your home's hardware upgrades with ease. We'll also provide you with a practical understanding of the different types of door locks and the security options available to you.

Cylinder (lock body)

The cylinder, or lock body, is the part of the door lock where the key is inserted.

When locked, the cylinder is attached to a series of spring-actuated pins that prevent the cylinder from rotating. That said, many door knobs have a secondary locking mechanism integrated into the latch assembly called a locking latch or plunger.

Shaft

The shaft is the bar that connects the knobs or levers through the door to operate the locking mechanism.

Locking Plate

Like a front plate, the locking plate is a metal plate that is attached to the door frame and has a hole (or holes) to house the lock bolt. The closing plate protects the door frame and adds security to the opening.

Cylinder

The cylinder is the part of the lock that you interact with the most. This is the part that has the keyhole and the glass that contains the pins and leaves we talked about earlier. Now that you know more about what goes on inside a door lock, you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing one for your home.

With so many options available, it's important to understand how each type works and what security features they offer. Knowing more about door locks can help you make sure your home is secure and safe.