What Door Locks Do I Need?

By Larnec

September 21, 2017

3 minute read

Everything you need to know about selecting the correct locks for your personal access door

Safety, security, privacy and peace of mind… door locks are an essential component of a door. But it’s not always as straightforward as a simple lock.

With over 300,000 break-ins recorded annually, it is vital to understand the different types of locks and their advantages to help make a decision on what locks you may want to consider for your building or facility.

There are many different types of locks available for industrial metal clad doors, which all work in different ways and have their own benefits. Let’s take a look at three popular options:

Deadbolt

Generally used on external doors, Deadbolts come in three main varieties; single, double and lockable thumbturn. Single locks are most popular in residences and offices and the least secure of the three, as they are unlockable from one side without a key. That being said, these locks provide a simple and safe solution to keeping your door locked and secure.

Double cylinder deadbolts feature a key lock on both sides. Although this is more secure when locked, this can pose problems during fires as the door needs to be unlocked even if the person is inside.

A lockable thumbturn is a hybrid between the two above and are becoming increasingly popular. These locks feature a thumbturn on the inside; however these can be locked using a key. This means the door can be locked from the inside while access is still possible from inside to outside and not outside to inside. This type of lock provides the most security and flexibility. Stay updated on the latest innovations in door security from Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia.

Deadbolt lock for enhanced security on commercial and industrial doors.

Mortice

Mortice locks tend to be found on older buildings, however, are recently frequently seen on commercial constructions. These locks are used on a wide range of doors including entry, internal and external. Although installation of mortice locks can weaken the general structure of timbre doors, they have solid mechanisms and are more versatile than cylindrical locks.

A high-security mortise lock set, designed for durability and commercial use.

Panic Bar

Panic bars (also known as crash bars or push bars) are a type of locking and opening mechanism that allows the door to be opened by pushing a bar. Used in many commercial or apartment buildings, these were originally designed to prevent stampedes and are now commonly used on fire doors and are sometimes alarmed. When used on fire doors, these mechanisms usually have to meet health and safety standards.

The bar is installed horizontally, and when pushed, this unlocks the door and allows it to be opened. Due to its design, this makes it simple and swift to use from one side, while still being secure from the outside. This door locking mechanism is also made more versatile by being able to be ‘dogged’, which means retracting with a key to free the door to be used without locking or latching. This is commonly used in commercial buildings during high traffic business hours.

A panic bar door lock system, ensuring quick and safe emergency exits.

Some other lock types

Knob locks
Lever
Jimmy Proof Deadbolts
Latch Locks
Padlocks
Cam Locks
Wall Mounted Locks

Explore additional door hardware and accessories to enhance your door security.

Frequently asked questions

What type of door lock is best for an industrial or commercial door in Australia?

A commercial-grade lockset, such as a heavy-duty lever or mortice lock, is best for most industrial and commercial doors. These locks are designed to support frequent use, higher security demands, and compatibility with steel door systems. For higher-risk sites, locks can be configured with restricted key systems or integrated with access control for added security.

When should I choose a mortice lock over a standard cylindrical lockset?

Choose a mortice lock when higher security, durability, and long-term performance are required. Mortice locks are installed inside the door and offer stronger resistance to forced entry compared to cylindrical locksets. They are commonly suitable for security doors, warehouses, and industrial facilities where protection and longevity are critical.

What door locks are suitable for sheds, garages, and outdoor structures?

Weather-resistant locksets with corrosion protection are most suitable for sheds and external applications. These locks are designed to handle exposure to moisture, dust, and temperature changes while maintaining reliable operation. For higher-value storage, pairing the lock with a reinforced steel door or security door setup can improve overall protection.

Do I need a specific lock for fire-rated or compliant doors?

Yes, fire-rated doors require compliant lock hardware that does not compromise the door’s fire rating. Locks used on fire doors must be tested as part of the complete door system to ensure they maintain integrity during a fire event. When selecting fire door hardware, it’s important to ensure compatibility with certified fire door assemblies and relevant Australian Standards.

What locking options are best for high-security or anti-burglary applications?

High-security applications typically require mortice locks, restricted key systems, or multi-point locking configurations. These options are designed to reduce unauthorised access and improve resistance to tampering or forced entry. For critical infrastructure or high-risk sites, locks can also be configured alongside reinforced door frames and security door systems for a more complete solution.