There is some misconception about nightlatches and how they function or operate. Read more to get a better understanding of how a nightlatch works. Learn how to operate them correctly and which type of nightlatch fits the security level you want.

What is a Nightlatch?

A nightlatch is a type of lock fitted to the surface of the internal side of a door. The lock or rim cylinder sits on the surface of the external side of the door. When the door is on closed position the bolt or latch sits in. It is what keeps the lock fixed to the door frame. The bolt has a round leading edge which is spring loaded. The bolt is withdrawn into the casing of the nightlatch using the internal lever from inside or using a key from the outside. A  button located on the casing of the night latch can also be used to hold the latch back. Nightlatches come mainly in two different sizes. This being 60mm backset or for glass paneled doors 40mm backset.

British Standard BS:3621 High-Security Nightlatches

A British Standard Nightlatch gives the maximum security for a nightlatch and conforms to Insurance approval BS Standard 3621.  They have anti drill features to protect the cylinder against drill attack. These are auto deadlocking when closing the door. They are operated from the inside by using a key and by using the lever handle. Operation from the outside is by key only. The internal handle can also be locked using a key from the inside. Again double locking the mechanism. In most cases, there is also a snub or button that can be used to hold back the bolt. These nightlatches can only be used on inward opening doors.

None Deadlocking NightLatch

It is a type of standard nightlatch, it can be deadlocked by using the snub, this is a small button that can be found on the nightlatch. This means the nightlatch can only be deadlocked http://www.americansleepmedicine.com/ambien-insomnia-treatment/ from the inside. This is why they are referred to as “none deadlocking nightlatch” as they cannot be deadlocked from the outside. Once the nib is operated and the bolt is deadlocked, the bolt cannot be slipped using a card from the outside. It is a good practice to have these as a form of security for your doors but it will be better to have another one just to be safer. Locksmith Newcastle suggests that they should be combined with a British Standard 5 lever Dead Lock.

Key Deadlocking Yale Nightlatch

These operate in the same way as the standard nightlatch, except you can deadlock the bolt from outside by using a key into the cylinder. This will mean that the latch cannot be slipped using the common method known as “card slipping”. Locksmith Newcastle suggests that these should be used in conjunction with a British Standard 5 lever Dead Lock.

Automatic Deadlocking Nightlatch

Automatic deadlocking nightlatch has a deadlocking pin just above or below the bolt. When the door is closed, the pin is depressed into the casing and in doing so the nightlatch is automatically deadlocked. Which again will prevent the popular means of entry know as “slipping the latch”. These are ideal for fitting to glass paneled doors, as they prevent anyone from reaching through the glass and operating the handle.

There are nightlatches on the market that can still meet BS: 3621 high security but the internal handle cannot be locked, therefore anyone inside can operate the internal handle to open the door. These are used where a high level of security is required on communal or shared properties. This is known as “Egress Function”. These can also be fitted with an electric keep, known as an electric door release.

If you want to know more about nightlatches and what is the best one for you. Give Newcastle Locksmith a call and we can help you decide. Contact us now!