Understanding the Different Types of Locking Mechanisms on Interior Doors

When filling out your Fortify Form after purchasing your Fortify Plan, it’s important to take note of the various interior door locking mechanisms in your home. Whether you have no lock on certain doors or more secure options like mortise locks or deadbolts, knowing the types of locks used on your interior doors is essential for assessing your home’s privacy and security. Here's a guide to the most common types of interior door locks to help you complete your Fortify Form with accuracy.

1. No Lock

In some homes, especially in communal spaces like living rooms or dining rooms, there may be no lock on the door. These doors are often used to separate spaces without restricting access or privacy.

Characteristics of No Lock on Interior Doors:

  • No mechanism to secure the door; the door may have a handle or knob, but no locking system.
  • Common in areas that don’t require privacy, such as hallways, living rooms, or dining areas.
  • Typically used in open-concept spaces where locking isn’t necessary.

Considerations for No Lock:

  • While no lock is suitable for shared or high-traffic areas, it’s not recommended for rooms that require privacy, such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
  • If you need more security or privacy, consider adding a privacy lock or passage lock.

If some of your interior doors have no lock, be sure to include this in your Fortify Form to ensure your home’s privacy needs are accurately addressed.

2. Dummy Lock

A dummy lock is a non-functional lock, often used for decorative purposes or on doors that don’t need to be locked. These are typically found on closet doors or cabinets.

Characteristics of Dummy Locks:

  • Non-operational; used purely for decorative purposes or to match the appearance of functional locks in other rooms.
  • No internal locking mechanism, only a fixed knob or handle.
  • Typically found on closet doors, pantry doors, or other doors where privacy or security is not needed.

Dummy Lock Considerations:

  • Dummy locks provide aesthetic continuity but offer no functional security. They’re ideal for spaces where locking isn’t needed.
  • If privacy or security becomes necessary, consider upgrading to a functional lock.

If your home has dummy locks, make sure to include this in your Fortify Form.

3. Passage Lock

A passage lock is a simple lock used on interior doors that don’t need privacy, such as hallways or closets. This type of lock allows the door to latch but doesn’t offer a locking function.

Characteristics of Passage Locks:

  • No locking mechanism; the knob or lever allows the door to latch shut but can’t be locked.
  • Commonly used in areas like hallways, closets, and rooms where locking is unnecessary.
  • Available in a variety of styles to match home decor.

Where Passage Locks Are Used:

  • Passage locks are ideal for areas that need a functioning door but don’t require the privacy or security provided by locks.
  • If privacy becomes necessary, consider adding a privacy lock or keyed entry lock.

If your home has passage locks, be sure to note this in your Fortify Form to receive accurate security recommendations.

4. Privacy Lock

A privacy lock is commonly used on doors that require a basic level of privacy, such as bedrooms or bathrooms. These locks are typically operated by a thumb turn from the inside and can be opened with an emergency key from the outside.

Characteristics of Privacy Locks:

  • Operated with a thumb turn or button on the inside; no key required for locking or unlocking.
  • Provides privacy for rooms like bedrooms and bathrooms.
  • Can be unlocked from the outside with a small tool or emergency key in case of accidental lockouts.

Privacy Lock Benefits:

  • Privacy locks offer convenience for rooms that don’t need full security but require some level of privacy, like bathrooms or guest rooms.
  • These locks are easy to use and provide quick access in emergencies.

If your home has privacy locks on bedroom or bathroom doors, include this in your Fortify Form.

5. Sliding Door Lock

Sliding door locks are used specifically on sliding doors, commonly found on closets, bathrooms, or patio entryways. These locks come in various styles, from basic latches to more secure locking mechanisms.

Characteristics of Sliding Door Locks:

  • Designed for doors that slide rather than swing open.
  • Commonly used on patio doors, closets, or room dividers.
  • Available in a variety of styles, including simple latches or more secure deadbolt options.

Sliding Door Security Considerations:

  • Sliding door locks provide basic security for interior sliding doors, but if the door leads to an exterior area, such as a patio, a more secure deadbolt or keyed lock may be needed.
  • For interior use, sliding door locks are perfect for closets or spaces that don’t require high security.

If your home has sliding doors with locks, be sure to include this in your Fortify Form to ensure proper recommendations for security.

6. Keyed Entry Lock

A keyed entry lock provides a higher level of security for interior doors. This type of lock requires a key for entry from the outside, making it ideal for securing home offices, private rooms, or areas with sensitive materials.

Characteristics of Keyed Entry Locks:

  • Requires a key to unlock from the outside; may have a thumb turn or button for locking from the inside.
  • Provides security for rooms that require restricted access, such as home offices, storage rooms, or master bedrooms.
  • Can be installed on any standard interior door for added security.

Advantages of Keyed Entry Locks:

  • Keyed locks offer a high level of security and privacy for interior spaces that need restricted access.
  • They are commonly used in home offices, master bedrooms, and other private areas where sensitive information or valuables are stored.

If your home features keyed entry locks, be sure to note this in your Fortify Form.

7. Mortise Lock

A mortise lock is a more secure and durable option, often found in older homes or higher-end residences. This lock is set into the door itself, providing a stronger and more complex mechanism than standard locks.

Characteristics of Mortise Locks:

  • Installed inside a pocket, or mortise, cut into the door, providing a more secure fit.
  • Often includes both a latch and a deadbolt, offering a higher level of security.
  • Commonly used in front doors, but can also be installed on interior doors that require added protection.

Benefits of Mortise Locks for Interior Doors:

  • Mortise locks are highly durable and secure, making them a great choice for rooms that need more protection, such as home offices or master bedrooms.
  • While more expensive and complex to install, they offer superior security and longevity compared to standard locks.

If your home has mortise locks, include this in your Fortify Form to reflect the added security provided by this advanced locking mechanism.

8. Deadbolt Lock

A deadbolt lock is the most secure locking option for interior doors. Deadbolts are commonly used on exterior doors, but they can also be installed on interior doors that need a high level of security, such as home offices or master bedrooms.

Characteristics of Deadbolt Locks:

  • Operated by turning a key or thumb turn to engage a solid metal bolt that locks the door into place.
  • Offers high resistance to forced entry, making it a great option for securing private or sensitive areas.
  • Available in single-cylinder (keyed on the outside) or double-cylinder (keyed on both sides) options.

Advantages of Deadbolt Locks for Interior Security:

  • Deadbolt locks provide the highest level of security for interior doors, making them ideal for areas that house valuables, sensitive information, or personal items.
  • Deadbolts are more difficult to bypass than standard locks, offering added peace of mind.

If your home has deadbolt locks installed on interior doors, be sure to note this in your Fortify Form.