Door Bolt FAQs - Your Questions Answered

Door bolts come in a wide range of styles and sizes. While our blog "30 Types of Door Bolt" dives deep into the different options, this post offers quick, straightforward answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about door bolts.

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

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

Why? Bolts add extra security by providing additional locking points. They also help prevent warping or bowing by holding each door leaf more securely 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 secondary leaf while allowing the main one to open freely.

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

A: Regardless of the type, a door bolt typically has three main components:

1. The shoot – the moving part that extends into the frame.
2. The body or backplate – the fixed part 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 as a pair. One pair should be installed per door leaf. So, if you have a pair of outward-opening doors, you’ll need two pairs of hinge bolts to ensure full security.

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 type of fire door.

For final exit or fire exit doors that require single-action egress, panic bolts can be used. Panic hardware is essential for emergency exits and can be operated via panic bars or push pads.

For doors designated "Fire Door Keep Locked," fire-rated bolts like flush bolts can be installed on the second closing leaf of a pair and a half door setup, along with the correct intumescent kit. The primary leaf should remain non-locking and keep shut.

Single "Fire Door Keep Locked" doors can be equipped with CE/UKCA marked deadbolts, such as deadlock, sashlock, lever lock, cylinder lock, or specialist Fire Brigade Locks. Always make sure the appropriate intumescent ironmongery is included.

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—you cannot install a rack bolt on a fire door. These types are not CE/UKCA marked or tested for use on fire-rated doors.

However, other types of bolts can be used on fire doors that are kept locked, but not mortice security door bolts.

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

A: Drop bolts, such as garage drop bolts, are not suitable for fire-rated doors. They are not CE/UKCA marked or tested for use on fire-rated doors.

If you need to hold a fire door open, consider using products like Dorgard, Dorgard SmartSound, or UNION DoorSense fire door retainers instead of a drop bolt. These solutions allow the door to close properly in case of a fire.

For locking or keeping a fire door closed, compliant options like door closers or access control systems are available. Contact our team today to discuss your specific project or facility needs.

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

A: Yes, there are several specialist bolts designed specifically for UPVC doors. These include concealed shoot bolts and surface-mounted door bolts, which offer both security and aesthetic appeal without compromising the integrity of the door.