If you’re planning a renovation, installing new doors, or simply replacing hardware, there’s one detail that’s often overlooked—yet it’s essential to every door in your property: the door latch.

At first glance, door latches might not seem like a big deal. But in reality, they’re the unsung heroes that allow your doors to function smoothly, close securely, and perform day after day without fail. Whether you’re fitting internal doors in a family home or specifying hardware for a commercial space, the quality and type of door latches you choose can make all the difference.

At WebIronmongery.com, we offer more than just products—we provide knowledge, durability, and dependable service. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn what door latches do, the different types available, how to choose the right latch for your project, and why investing in quality matters.

What Is a Door Latch, and Why Is It So Important?

Let’s start with the basics. A door latch is a mechanical fastener that allows a door to stay closed by catching into a strike plate on the frame. Unlike locks, latches don’t necessarily secure a door with a key—they simply hold it shut. When you turn the door handle or knob, you retract the latch bolt, allowing the door to open.

Simple enough, right?

But not all door latches are created equal. Their design, materials, size, and function vary widely depending on where and how you’ll use them.

Poor-quality door latches can:

• Jam over time

• Make doors misalign

• Cause handles to feel loose or unresponsive

• Eventually fail altogether

That’s why at WebIronmongery.com, we stock only high-grade, tested and proven  latches suitable for homes, offices, hotels, and industrial settings.

Types of Door Latches (and When to Use Them)

There are several types of door latches to consider, each with its own purpose and benefits. Let’s break them down:

1. Tubular Latches

The most common latch for internal doors. Compact, easy to install, and typically used with lever or knob handles.

Use them for:

• Living rooms

• Bedrooms

• Kitchens

• Any internal door that doesn’t require locking

Pro tip: Choose a heavy-duty tubular latch with a strong spring and solid brass or steel construction to ensure longevity and smooth action.

2. Mortice Latches

Similar to tubular latches but usually larger and more robust. Fitted into a mortice (cut-out) in the door edge, they’re often used in conjunction with decorative handles or knobs.

Use them for:

• High-use internal doors

• Traditional properties with period handles

• Where a more substantial feel is desired

At WebIronmongery.com, we offer mortice door latches in a range of finishes to match both modern and traditional settings.

3. Sash Locks

While technically a combination of a latch and lock, sash locks are worth mentioning here. They have a latch operated by a handle and a deadbolt operated by a key.

Use them for:

• Front doors

• Back doors

• Bathroom doors (when paired with thumb turn)

Think of these as latches with built-in security.

4. Bathroom Latches

A privacy latch for bathroom doors, often combined with a turn-and-release lock.

Use them for:

• Any bathroom or WC where privacy is essential

• Doors requiring emergency access from outside

Our bathroom door latches at WebIronmongery.com come with matching turns and finishes to create a unified, professional look.

5. Magnetic Latches

Modern, silent, and incredibly sleek. These door latches use magnets to hold the door shut without mechanical friction.

Use them for:

• High-end interiors

• Flush doors

• Contemporary design projects

They’re less common but offer an elegant solution where aesthetics and sound reduction matter.

What to Consider When Choosing Door Latches

Choosing the right door latches involves more than picking the first item off the shelf. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

1. Backset Size

This is the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the spindle hole. Common backsets are 45mm and 57mm.

Why it matters:
It affects where your handle or knob will sit on the door. A mismatch could mean awkward spacing or even drilling errors.

2. Door Thickness

Most latches are made for standard 35mm doors, but thicker doors (like fire doors) need latches with longer spindles and bolts.

3. Handle Compatibility

Not all handles work with all door latches. For example, knobs require a smooth-turning latch with a light spring, while lever handles can manage heavier springs.

4. Finish Matching

Don’t ruin a beautiful satin chrome handle with a brass latch faceplate. At WebIronmongery.com, we stock door latches in multiple finishes—so your hardware feels consistent and considered.

5. Usage Frequency

Heavy-use doors (like main entrances or corridor doors in offices) need latches that can handle constant action. For these, we recommend heavy-duty door latches with high cycle ratings.

Real-World Case Study: A London Renovation That Got the Details Right

A property developer working on a Georgian conversion in central London approached us for high-performance internal door latches. They had installed expensive lever handles, but the original latches were sticking, noisy, and inconsistent.

We supplied them with a full suite of heavy-duty tubular latches in satin brass—perfectly matched to their handles.

“We didn’t realise how much difference the right latch could make. Every door now closes with a smooth click. Even the feel of the handle has improved. The tenants noticed.”

This is the kind of performance and attention to detail that separates ordinary from outstanding.

Why Buy Door Latches from WebIronmongery.com?

We understand that door latches are not glamorous—but they are essential. When you shop with us, you get:

• High-quality, tested components

• Multiple sizes and finishes

• Fast delivery across the UK

•  Expert customer service

• Competitive prices with no compromise on durability

Whether you’re outfitting a single door or placing a bulk order for a building project, we’ll help you get it right.

FAQs About Door Latches

Q1: What’s the difference between a tubular latch and a mortice latch?
A tubular latch is smaller and quicker to install, while a mortice latch is usually larger and more traditional. Both are types of door latches, and your choice depends on handle type and door style.

Q2: How do I measure the backset for my door latch?
Measure from the edge of the door to the centre of the spindle hole. This tells you what backset your door latch should have—typically 45mm or 57mm.

Q3: Do I need different door latches for knobs and handles?
Yes. Knobs often need light-sprung latches that turn easily, while lever handles can use heavier-sprung latches. It ensures smooth operation without excessive force.

Q4: Can I replace just the latch without changing the handle?
Absolutely. Just make sure the new door latch matches your existing handle’s specifications and finish. We can help you find a compatible option.

Q5: Are magnetic door latches reliable for everyday use?
Yes—especially in residential and light commercial settings. They’re sleek, quiet, and perfect for modern interiors. At WebIronmongery.com, we stock magnetic door latches designed for long-term performance.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook the Latch

It might be small, but the door latch plays a massive role in how your doors feel, sound, and function.

Choosing the right door latches means smoother doors, quieter operation, and hardware that lasts for years—not months.

At WebIronmongery.com, we’ve done the hard work of sourcing only the best latches in the UK market. From simple internal doors to heavy-use commercial ones, we have the right solution, finish, and spec to meet your needs.

Ready to upgrade your doors?
Explore our full range of door latches now at webironmongery.com— and let the quality click into place.