Door Furniture - Fasteners

Fasteners

Most doors make use of one or more fasteners to hold the door closed. Typical or common fasteners include:

• Latch – A device that allows one to fasten a door, but doesn't necessarily require an external handle
• Bolt – A (nearly always) metal shaft usually internal to the door, attached by cleats or a specific form of bracket, that slides into the jamb to fasten a door.
  • Latchbolt – A bolt that has an angled surface which acts as a ramp to push the bolt in while the door is being closed. By the use of a latchbolt, a door can be closed without having to operate the handle.
  • Deadbolt – Deadbolts usually extend deeper into the frame and are not automatically retractable the way latchbolts are. They are typically manipulated with a lock on the outside and either a lock or a latch on the inside. Deadbolts are generally used for security purposes on external doors in case somebody tries to kick the door in or use a tool such as a crowbar or a hammer and screwdriver etc.
• Strike plate – A plate with a hole in the middle made to receive a bolt. If the strike is for a latchbolt, it typically also includes a small ramped area to help the bolt move inward while the door is being closed. (Also known as just "strike") It's also available as electric strike which allows you to open the door even though the mechanical lock is locked.