Rim Lock

Locks that are fitted to the inside surface of a door are known as rim locks, these are available in a few different styles and sizes.

When selecting a rim lock there are a number of factors to consider

1. Type of rim lock
2. Security level
3. Size
4. Handing
5. Colour

Type of rim lock

Three main types of rim locks are available these are, Night Latch, Rim Deadlock and Rim Sashlock.

Night Latch	Rim Deadlock	Rim Sashlock

A Night Latch uses a sprung latch bolt to hold the door closed and to lock the door, this bolt is withdrawn by handle from inside and key from outside.  Night latch rim locks come in various security levels to suite all locking requirements.

Rim Deadlocks operate with just a locking bolt which is withdrawn or retracted by key from either side, often found on sheds or gates

With a locking bolt and latch bolt we find the last type of rim lock, rim sashlocks use a key from either side to operate locking bolt and pair of knobs to operate the latch bolt.

Security Level

Nightlatch locks can be the most secure type of rim lock with some even boasting British Standard status. Rim dead and sashlocks have a much lower security level, designed for internal door use only.

Rim lock size

Night Latch A-Case width, B-Backet, C-Case height, D-Case depth, E-Handle projection	Rim Deadlock A-Case width, B-Backset, C-Case height, D-Case depth, E-Lip length	Rim Sashlock A-Case width, B-Backset follower, C-Backset key hole, D-Case height E-Case depth, F-Lip length

Handing

Applicable to only a few rim locks, lock handing determines which side of the door a lock is fitted either left or right hand

Colour

As more of the lock case is visible, lock colour becomes more important for rim locks.  Dead and sashlocks more often than not are black, this fits in with the style of door they are found on.  Night latches are much more modern and therefore have a much wider range of colours available including, gold, white, brass, chrome, green, grey and nickel