Door Bolt FAQs - Your Questions Answered

Door bolts come in many shapes and sizes. While our blog "30 Types of Door Bolt" dives deep into the different styles, this post offers quick, clear answers to some of the most common questions we receive about door bolts.

Q: Do I need to use bolts on tall doors?

A: The word "need" is strong, but we definitely recommend using door bolts on the top and bottom of tall doors unless they already have a multipoint espagnolette lock or a cremone bolt installed.

Why? Bolts add extra security by providing additional locking points. They also help prevent warping or bowing by holding each door leaf more firmly in place. Cranked or straight bolts on single or French doors can improve sealing against drafts, weather, or for privacy. On tall double doors, bolts can secure the second leaf while keeping the main one free to open and close.

Q: What are the parts of a door bolt called?

A: Most door bolts have three basic components, regardless of type:

1. The shoot – the moving part that extends into the frame.
2. The body or backplate – the fixed part that’s mounted on the door.
3. The handle – the part you turn or push to operate the bolt.

Q: How many hinge bolts per door?

A: Security hinge bolts are sold in pairs. One pair should be installed per door leaf. So, if you have two outward-opening doors, you’ll need two pairs of hinge bolts total.

Q: Can you bolt a fire door?

A: Yes, you can install a bolt on a fire door, but it depends on the type of bolt and the specific fire door rating.

For emergency exit doors that require single-action egress, panic bolts or panic hardware can be used. These typically feature panic bars or push pads for easy operation during emergencies.

For doors labeled as "Fire Door Keep Locked," fire-rated bolts like flush bolts can be used on the second leaf of a pair of doors (with the correct intumescent kit). The primary leaf should remain non-locking and always closed.

Single fire doors that are kept locked can use CE/UKCA marked deadbolts, such as deadlock, sashlock, lever locks, or cylinder locks. Always ensure that appropriate intumescent ironmongery is installed for full compliance.

Q: Can you fit a security bolt on a fire door?

A: If you're referring to a mortice door bolt, the answer is no. Mortice bolts are not CE/UKCA marked or tested for use on fire-rated doors.

However, other types of bolts—like fire-rated deadbolts—can be used on certain fire doors that are kept locked. Just make sure the right intumescent protection is in place.

Q: Can you use a drop bolt on a fire door?

A: Drop bolts, such as those used for garages, cannot be used on fire-rated doors. They are not CE/UKCA certified or tested for this purpose.

If you need to hold a fire door open, consider using compliant alternatives like Dorgard, Dorgard SmartSound, or UNION DoorSense. These products allow the door to close automatically in case of a fire.

For locking or holding a fire door in the closed position, options like door closers or access control systems may be suitable. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and ensure full compliance with safety standards.

Q: Can you put a bolt on a UPVC door?

A: Yes, there are several specialized bolts available for UPVC doors, including concealed shoot bolts and surface-mounted options. These are designed to work effectively with the materials used in UPVC construction without compromising the door's integrity or performance.