How to choose the right interior door lock?

Interior door lock: magnetic or mechanical lock?

The interior door lock is used to secure a specific space. It comes in different types of models that can be used depending on the design, the locking system or the type of installation required according to the expected level of security. Follow the guide to find the model that suits you.

What is a lock and what is it for?

A genuine security device, the interior door lock serves to secure an access point or door. It operates with mechanisms, such as cards, codes or keys that allow only authorised persons to access a protected space.

Interior door locks are used everywhere, whether at home, in the office, or in other public spaces. They ensure the security of property and people, also prevent unauthorised access to a location whilst preserving their privacy.

The different types of locks according to their design

When purchasing doors, you must take the time to carefully choose your interior door locks to ensure the security of your home. Depending on your preferences and needs, select appropriate models taking into account the type of construction offered.

For interior doors, there are four types of locks when considering the construction and operational specifics of the lock:

• The keyless lock is one of the most common types of locks for interior doors. Instead of being fitted with bolts that engage with a key, it has only a small latch (half-turn) that keeps the door closed in the frame. To open and close the door, you don't need a key. Simply use a handle or a turn button which makes the task easier.
• The 'L' key lock also called a 'bedroom key' features both a bolt and a handle. Thanks to these different elements, you can lock the door by inserting a key directly into the lock through a plate. There are also versions without a separate bolt, where the locking latch serves as the bolt. When you turn the key, the cam is locked in the frame and you can only open the door by pushing the handle. In this case, only the key can unlock it.
• The cylinder lock (also called cylindrical lock, insert lock, cylinder, Yale, 'i' key): with its mechanism featuring a space for a cylinder, to be purchased separately, this model is a more advanced option than the standard key lock. Even if this element represents an additional expense, it allows you to choose a cylinder that meets your needs. For example, its quality can be guaranteed through an appropriate certificate.
• The privacy lock is primarily designed for bathroom handles and toilets. This mortice lock features a special mechanism, with a 'turn button' located on the inside that allows the door to be locked from within. From the outside, the lock can also be unlocked using a flat object, such as cutlery or even a coin. This solution can be used in emergencies, particularly when someone faints inside the room concerned.

Locks according to their locking system

Beyond their construction method, interior door locks also differ in their locking system. Among the numerous models available on the market, mechanical and magnetic locks stand out not only in terms of the mechanism used but also in functional and aesthetic aspects.

The mechanical lock: mode of operation

Its strengths

Present on the market for years, the operation of the mechanical lock is simple and suited to low-traffic areas. It is fitted with a latch that is easy to see when the door is open. When you close the door, this part retracts into the lock after striking a part of the strike plate. Once the leaf is in the frame, the latch enters the locking pocket to close the door. To open it, simply press the handle.

Mechanical locks are part of the mortice locks. They have the advantage of being sturdy and resistant to incorrect use, such as excessive force or when children pull on the door handle. However, they have some disadvantages.

Its weaknesses

When the door closes, the latch striking the strike plate produces a metallic noise, especially if the door is closed abruptly. Moreover, from an aesthetic point of view, the strike plate covers part of the rebate edge, so that the latch touches the plate rather than the frame when closing. Please note that the mechanical lock is the only solution available for rebated doors.

The magnetic lock: mode of operation

Its strengths

Unlike the mechanical lock, the magnetic lock is used only on adjacent doors. Famous in Italy and popular in France for several years, this interior door lock appeals to lovers of aesthetic decor. Compared to a mechanical lock, it is flat and more discreet, as the strike plate is concealed in the rebate, which improves its visual appearance. The locking cam also remains hidden when the door is open.

The magnetic lock operates using a magnet. It engages when the leaf touches the door seal and the cam does not strike the plate, which avoids the door slamming effect. This model is therefore quieter and makes a real difference compared to traditional locks.

Its weaknesses

The main disadvantage of this magnetic lock lies in its sensitivity to incorrect handling. Although it should not be treated with excessive delicacy, it is preferable to avoid slamming the door or applying excessive force when closing. Care should also be taken to prevent children from pulling on the handle, as this could place undue stress on the structure. These magnetic locks are available in a variety of colours, thus offering the possibility of aesthetically harmonising their shade with that of the handles.

Through the image below, discover our range of magnetic lock colours offered on Millapoignées. You can easily harmonise their appearance with that of your door handles.

All the advantages at a glance:

• no lubrication or maintenance required;
• flush latch that provides an attractive appearance;
• Presence of a modern neodymium magnet that automatically activates the latch for smooth closure;
• reduced installation costs;
• the faceplate and lock chassis are manufactured from stainless steel;
• the locking elements are concealed and do not touch the frame, which provides silent operation.

Dimensions compliant with standards

The lock backset which measures 70 mm complies with the French standard, and that of 72 mm follows the European standard. As for the lock faceplate, if it equals 23 cm in length in the French standard, it is equal to 20 cm for Italian locks. For the French market, we recommend the magnetic lock designer Bonaiti B-France. In the illustration below, you'll find all the available finishes for this quality Italian lock:

On Millapoignées, we offer you a full range of Italian-style mechanical and magnetic locks. This concept aims to use a single locking latch and reduce the visible part of the lock in the leaf and frame.

To reduce noise when closing the door, the latches of our models are designed in ABS polymer. Our designer locks are compatible with all handle models available to you.

Summary - Is it worth it?

With current technological advances, the magnetic lock offers almost silent closure, avoiding the typical 'click' of mechanical locks even with more vigorous use.

Magnetic locks offer 5 key advantages, which particularly emphasise:

1. Discreet closure: Thanks to their flat design, magnetic locks eliminate the risk of damaging clothing and ensure closure without the metallic noise associated with mechanical locks.
2. Effortless closure: The attraction of the magnets allows for smoother closure without the need to press the handle. How does it work? Pull or push the door gently and it will close.
3. Exceptional durability: With a lifespan of nearly 400,000 cycles, magnetic locks surpass mechanical locks, with reliable long-term use.
4. Aesthetically homogeneous: The aesthetic design of magnetic locks integrates them perfectly with all interior doors, thus eliminating visual incompatibility issues.
5. Environmentally responsible: Manufactured with safe materials and complying with strict ecological standards, magnetic locks offer a modern solution whilst contributing to environmental preservation.

If you're looking for solutions that are modern, elegant and durable, magnetic locks for interior doors stand out as an exceptional choice. And for those committed to preserving our environment, here's excellent news: these locks are manufactured from safe materials, with a production process strictly governed by rigorous ecological standards.