Door Chains, Bolts & Viewers

About Door Chains, Bolts & Viewers

Door chains, bolts and viewers are essential security products that provide an additional layer of protection for residential and commercial properties. These simple yet effective devices allow occupants to verify visitors before fully opening a door, control access to premises, and deter unwanted entry. From the convenience of a door chain that permits limited door opening to the robust security of a locking bolt, these products offer peace of mind for homeowners, landlords, and business owners across the UK.

Our range includes premium quality door chains from trusted brands like Yale, heavy-duty locking bolts from ABUS and Henry Squire, and combination security solutions that eliminate the need for keys. Whether you're a professional locksmith installing security hardware for clients, a property maintenance contractor upgrading rental properties, or a homeowner looking to enhance your front door security, you'll find reliable products designed to meet British security standards and withstand daily use in demanding environments.

Modern door security hardware combines traditional mechanical reliability with innovative features such as recodeable combination locks, corrosion-resistant finishes, and lever mechanisms that meet insurance requirements. From basic door chains for internal security to galvanised padbolts for external gates and outbuildings, these products serve diverse security needs whilst remaining straightforward to install and operate.

Jargon Buster

• Locking Bolt: A security device featuring a sliding bolt mechanism that can be locked in the closed position using a key or combination, preventing the bolt from being drawn back from the outside. Ideal for doors, gates, and storage areas requiring keyless external security.
• Door Chain: A short length of chain attached to both the door and door frame that allows the door to open partially whilst remaining secured. Enables safe visual verification of visitors before granting full access to the property.
• Padbolt: A hinged metal bar that swings across to secure a door or gate, featuring a loop or eye through which a padlock can be fitted for additional security. Hot dipped galvanised versions offer superior weather resistance for external applications.
• Recodeable Combination Lock: A mechanical lock mechanism where the combination can be changed by the user without requiring new keys or replacement parts. Particularly useful for rental properties or situations where access codes need regular updating.
• Lever Lock Mechanism: A locking system using a series of levers that must be lifted to precise heights by the correct key. A 4-lever lock provides good security, whilst 5-lever mechanisms meet insurance standards for external doors on many UK policies.
• Door Viewer (Peephole): An optical device fitted through a door that provides a wide-angle view of visitors outside, allowing safe identification without opening the door. Essential for properties without windows adjacent to entrance doors.

Who Uses Door Chains, Bolts & Viewers?

• Locksmiths and Security Specialists: Professional installers specifying and fitting door security hardware as part of comprehensive property security upgrades
• Property Maintenance Contractors: Tradespeople responsible for maintaining and upgrading security features across residential and commercial portfolios
• Landlords and Letting Agents: Property managers ensuring rental accommodation meets security standards and provides tenant safety features
• Carpenters and Joiners: Chippies fitting door furniture and security hardware during new installations or renovation projects
• Facilities Management Teams: Site maintenance personnel responsible for securing multiple access points in commercial buildings, schools, and public facilities
• Housing Associations and Social Landlords: Organisations maintaining security standards across large property portfolios
• Homeowners and DIY Enthusiasts: Individuals upgrading home security, particularly in properties occupied by elderly or vulnerable residents
• Shop Fitters and Commercial Installers: Contractors securing business premises, stockrooms, and restricted access areas

How to Choose the Right Door Chains, Bolts & Viewers

Application and Location: Consider whether the product will be used internally or externally. External applications require weather-resistant finishes such as hot dipped galvanised steel, brass, or marine-grade stainless steel. Internal door chains can utilise chrome or brass finishes that complement existing door furniture.

Security Level Required: Assess the level of security needed based on insurance requirements and risk assessment. Properties requiring higher security should specify 4-lever or 5-lever locking bolts, whilst basic access control may only need a standard door chain. ABUS and Henry Squire products offer tested security ratings suitable for insurance-compliant installations.

Key or Combination Operation: Decide whether keyed or combination locks best suit your needs. Keyed systems like the Henry Squire 4 Lever Keybolt provide traditional security, whilst recodeable combination bolts eliminate key management issues—ideal for rental properties, shared facilities, or situations where multiple users require access without distributing keys.

Installation Requirements: Evaluate the door construction and frame material. Solid timber doors and robust frames accommodate most security hardware, but composite or UPVC doors may require specialist fixings. Ensure sufficient clearance exists for bolt mechanisms and that the chosen product's dimensions suit the door thickness and available mounting space.

Brand Reputation and Quality: Select established security brands with proven track records. Yale offers reliable door chains with quality construction, whilst Henry Squire and ABUS provide professional-grade locking bolts trusted by locksmiths and security professionals across the UK. Quality products ensure longevity and consistent operation over thousands of uses.

Finish and Aesthetics: Match the finish to existing door furniture for a cohesive appearance. Chrome finishes suit modern properties, brass complements traditional settings, and galvanised steel provides industrial durability for utilitarian applications. Consider visible versus concealed mounting options based on aesthetic preferences.

Popular Accessories

• High-Security Padlocks: Essential companions for padbolts, available in weatherproof designs from brands including ABUS, Squire, and Yale to match the security level of the bolt mechanism
• Door Viewers and Peepholes: Wide-angle optical viewers that complement door chains by providing visual verification before partially opening the door
• Security Screws and Fixings: One-way or clutch-head screws that prevent removal from the exterior, plus heavy-duty Fischer or Rawlplug fixings for masonry installations
• Hinge Bolts: Additional security devices that prevent door removal even if hinge pins are attacked, working alongside chain and bolt systems
• Door Reinforcement Plates: Metal strike plates and reinforcement hardware that strengthen the door frame around lock and bolt mounting points
• Weather-Resistant Lubricants: Specialist maintenance products that keep mechanisms operating smoothly in external applications exposed to British weather conditions
• Key Safes and Combination Boxes: Secure key storage solutions for properties using keyed locking bolts where controlled access sharing is required

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fit a door chain to a UPVC door?

Yes, but it requires careful installation to avoid damaging the door structure. Use the correct fixings designed for UPVC profiles and ensure you drill through reinforced sections rather than hollow chambers. Many installers prefer surface-mounted options for UPVC doors or alternative security devices specifically designed for composite door construction.

What's the difference between a 3-wheel and 4-lever locking bolt?

A 3-wheel combination bolt uses a recodeable dial mechanism that can be changed without keys, whilst a 4-lever bolt uses a traditional key-operated lock with four internal levers providing the security. The 4-lever option typically offers higher security and may be required for insurance purposes, whereas combination locks eliminate key management issues for shared access situations.

Are galvanised padbolts suitable for coastal locations?

Hot dipped galvanised padbolts like the Heavy Brenton Padbolt offer good corrosion resistance for most UK locations, but coastal environments with salt spray may require marine-grade stainless steel for maximum longevity. Regular maintenance with appropriate lubricants extends service life in harsh conditions. For critical security applications near the coast, specify stainless steel throughout.

Do door chains provide adequate security on their own?

Door chains are designed as secondary security devices that work alongside primary locks. They allow safe visitor verification and controlled door opening but should not be relied upon as the sole security measure. Always use door chains in conjunction with quality deadlocks and nightlatches that meet British Standard BS 3621 for comprehensive door security.

How do I maintain locking bolts for long-term reliability?

Regular maintenance involves cleaning mechanisms to remove dirt and debris, applying light machine oil or specialist lock lubricant to moving parts, and checking fixing screws remain tight. External bolts benefit from twice-yearly maintenance, particularly before winter, whilst internal mechanisms typically need annual attention. Combination locks should be exercised regularly to prevent mechanism stiffness, and lever locks should never be forced if the key becomes stiff to turn.