locksets

A lockset is a door hardware assembly that provides both a locking mechanism and a door handle or knob. It typically includes a latch or deadbolt, a door knob or lever, a spindle or latch bar, a strike plate, and mounting screws. Locksets are selected to fit the door type, security needs, and preferred operation.

Common configurations include passage sets, which are non-locking and used on interior doors where locking is not needed; privacy sets, which allow locking from one side with a turn button or thumbturn and are common for bedrooms and bathrooms; and entry sets or lock sets, which provide a keyed exterior mechanism and an interior turning knob or thumbturn for exterior doors. Dummy sets are non-functional trim used for decorative purposes on inactive doors.

Lock mechanisms vary by use. Single-cylinder sets have a keyed exterior and an interior turn or push button, while double-cylinder sets provide a key on both sides, offering higher security but potential safety concerns in emergencies. Some locksets incorporate a separate deadbolt for added security.

Key hardware terms include backset, the distance from the door edge to the latch bore, with common backsets of 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches. Bore size, typically 2 1/8 inches for knob or lever assemblies, and strike plates are important for proper fit and security. Finishes range from brass and nickel to bronze and other plated options.

Standards and quality are often indicated by ANSI/BHMA grades, with grade 1 being the highest, followed by grades 2 and 3. Installation and maintenance involve compatible door prep, periodic lubrication, and checks of locking function and integrity.