Door Latches & Bolts

Match the latch type (deadbolt, slide bolt, barrel bolt, surface bolt) to the door function (exterior security, interior privacy, gate), check door thickness and backset measurements, and pick materials and finishes that resist the environment (stainless or brass for outdoor use)

Measure door thickness, the backset (distance from edge to center of the lock), and the strike plate cutout location; confirm the latch is compatible with your door material (wood, metal, aluminum frame) and hand orientation if applicable

Products range from low-cost utility bolts and simple surface latches under $50 to heavier-duty deadbolts and specialty industrial latches that can cost more; many mainstream consumer and light-industrial items are priced in the middle of that range

Choose stainless steel, brass, or zinc alloy with corrosion-resistant plating for exterior or humid locations; painted or plated steels are acceptable for interior use but may corrode faster outdoors

Installation difficulty ranges from easy (surface-mounted bolts needing only a drill and screwdriver) to moderate (mortise or recessed deadbolts requiring chiseling and precise drilling); common tools are a tape measure, drill, wood chisel, screwdriver, and appropriate drill bits

Periodically clean moving parts, lubricate with a dry graphite or silicone-based lubricant (avoid heavy oils that attract dirt), tighten mounting screws, and replace worn strike plates or screws to maintain alignment

Look for features such as hardened steel bolts, anti-drill/anti-saw components, longer screws to secure strike plates into the door frame, and locks certified to recognized security standards if applicable for your use case