You might be familiar with three or four common lock types you have seen in many homes and offices in Harlow. But we bet you don’t know much about the specific common lock types installed. Locks have a special relationship with the doors they are installed on. Certain lock types are accustomed to specific doors.
There is also undoubtedly the sense of lock style and the lock’s technology at play, as well as a certain era-related lock we see them mounted on properties. But beyond anything, the primary function of a lock is to safeguard. People, for the most part, consider safety, insurance, and everyday convenience as important factors in selecting the right lock.
This guide provides information on seven of the most common types of locks used in Harlow, Essex. It explains where each can be found installed, why it could be beneficial, which security requirements are important, and the approximate cost of each component and installation.
Seven Most Common Lock Types You Find in Harlow
Here are the seven most commonly installed lock types. You would definitely be accustomed to these locks. By learning about these locks, you will understand why and where they are preferred.
In essence, this will help you decide whether to know each lock function and its best installation location.
1. Mortice Deadlock
The number one most common lock you will find is a mortice deadlock. Its widespread use stems from the fact that a mortise deadlock is one of the most traditional and trusted locks for wooden doors. It is fitted at the edge of the door and opens with a key from both sides. This is still a common feature on older timber front and back doors in Harlow.
This lock is another good option for wooden doors, as it provides a high level of security and is well-understood by insurance companies. The disadvantages are that it must be installed carefully, and the cheaper, non-standard versions are less secure.
The price in Harlow to fit this lock on the door is roughly £115- £165, depending on the quality of the lock and the work required.
2. Mortice Sash lock
The second most common lock is a mortice sash lock. It is like a deadlock, but also has a spring latch that operates with the door handle. This allows the door to open and close easily and can be secured with a deadbolt. It is frequently found on the front doors of wooden houses, internal wooden doors, and on some older business doors.
When convenience and security are desired, a sash lock may be a good option. Fitting is a little more involved than a basic deadlock, but it provides a neat all-in-one solution.
A fitted sash lock can typically be fitted for a similar cost to a mortice deadlock, approximately £115–£165.
3. Euro Profile Cylinder
One of the most widely used lock components in modern dwellings is the euro cylinder. It is the detachable cylinder found in uPVC, composite, and some timber lock sets. It is very common in Harlow for front and rear doors to be fitted with multipoint locks.
The principal benefit of the euro cylinder is that it is simple to change or update. If you already have a multipoint system on your door, you can easily upgrade the security by replacing the cylinder without replacing the entire system.
A typical replacement cylinder fitting is around £90 to £120. Anti-snap versions can be fitted for around £150.
4. Multipoint Door Lock
Modern uPVC and composite doors are likely to have a multipoint locking system. It holds the door at multiple points rather than just one, typically using hooks, bolts, or rollers. When you pull the handle and turn the key, several points are engaged with the frame.
Locks of this type are very common in newer Harlow homes. It is also used on patio doors and French doors. It is secured in multiple locations to deter forced entry.
The greatest disadvantage is that the system relies on the cylinder and proper door alignment. Dropped, warped, or abused doors can be difficult to lock. If any gears or strips have failed, the mechanism may need repair or replacement.
A multi-point lock repair/replace can cost from £150 to £300, depending on parts required and the amount of adjustment required.
5. Night Latch
A night latch (also known as a Yale lock or rim lock) is installed on the exterior of the door. It is commonly seen on old wooden back doors and front doors. Locks automatically when closed, making it easy to use.
Night latches are popular for their ease of use and simplicity. Regular versions, however, do not necessarily provide sufficient security for an external door. A BS-approved version should be installed alongside a mortice deadlock for extra protection.
The price of a night latch replacement is approximately £85- £95 for the replacement alone, with fitting an additional £100.
6. Padlocks
Sheds, gates, garages, storage units, bikes, and outbuildings all get padlocked. In Harlow, they are particularly found on garden sheds and side gates. Whereas locks built into the door are not portable and cannot be easily moved or replaced, a padlock can.
If the padlock is for a visible gate or shed, it is best to use a Sold Secure-rated padlock. Silver or Gold ratings are good options over that standard.
A good shrouded padlock will run anywhere from £20 to £50. The installation or replacement of the hasp or lock is typically quick and easy. Smart locks & electronic locks.
7. Smart Locks
In modern properties, flats and rental homes, smart locks are gaining popularity in Harlow. These locks can be unlocked via keypad, a smartphone app, Bluetooth, or a combination of these. Some are replacements for the existing cylinder, and some are complete electronic units.
The disadvantages are the price. Smart locks are typically battery-powered or electronic and cost more than standard locks. This implies that backup access is essential in the event of power outages or battery issues.
A smart lock box and installation can range from £150 to £300, or even higher, depending on the model and the installation.
Final Thoughts
So that was the list of the most prevalent lock styles found in Harlow. The levels of security, the costs, and the purposes of each are different. The kind of door influences the ideal option, the way the property is utilized, and the level of security required.
Emergency Local Locksmith in Harlow stocks these types of locks and can fit, repair, and replace them. They offer local service and are very helpful to homeowners looking for an easy, expedient way to get timber doors, uPVC doors, composite doors, sheds, garages, and more installed.
