Yale Locks
Yale locks are often called a Nightlatch or a Rimlock. But did you know there were various types of Yale lock? They can come in various styles some are easier to use, some offer more security and consequently they can range in price. On these pages we will try to explain some of the different yale locks and their features. But remember to change the keys for any model of Yale lock you only need to change the cylinder on the outside of the door not the whole lock!
Yale 77 & Yale 88
These are undoubtedly the commonest type of Yale locks fitted, and probably the commonest form of any lock in the UK. They also feature in the commonest type of lock-out (as some of you may have experienced) as it only requires a slam of the door and you are locked out! Another disadvantage is the snib can drop so deadlocking the yale lock and so the key will not work from the outside.
The lock is unlocked from the inside by turning the handle and from the outside using a key. This lock can only be considered as offering a standard security level and so do not leave your property secured only by this type of Yale lock.
Yale 82
This is a Yale 82 lock. It has three main advantages over the standard Yale lock. You will notice it has no snib button to be accidentally activated. To lock the key is turned from the outside, so you can not be locked out as you need to use your key to lock the door. Instead of having a latch this lock has a square bolt that functions like the deadbolt on a mortice lock (see our other pages for information on mortice locks).
We would recommend this lock if you or a relative keeps locking themselves out. The cost of the lock upgrade may be saved by preventing you from being locked out. This yale lock should be used in conjunction with a mortice lock.
BIGGER & BETTER YALE LOCKS
Yale No.1
This Yale lock is a step up in security as it has a number of extra features over the standard Yale lock:
- the lock is manufactured from more robust materials and so is generally stronger than a 77
- there is a thrust bolt built-in that deadlocks the latch when the door closes.
- the snib button can not come on accidentally as two actions are required to activate this facility
However it can cause lock-outs by closing the door behind you with your keys inside. This lock should be used in conjunction with a mortice lock.
PBS1
This is the top of the range Yale lock, it is so highly thought of it has a Kitemark and so is approved by many insurance companies. Bigger and more robust than a basic yale lock, again two actions are required to activate the snib, there is a thrust bolt to deadlock the latch and the cylinder is also protected by an anti-drill disc. Your insurance company may accept this as the only lock on your door, but we would always recommend some form of mortice lock is fitted to provide locking at two points. Again can cause lock-outs by leaving your keys inside.
Megaclasp
This is a Megaclasp, popular in the USA. The locking pin moves up and down by the action of the key from the outside and the handle on the inside. This pin then goes through the eyelets of the keeper effectively hooking the door to the frame. This type of lock is especially suited to a pair of rebated doors. It requires the key to be used to lock the door in the same fashion as the 82 and so eliminates the typical type of lock-out. This lock should be used in conjunction with a mortice lock.
So if you would like to arrange to get your Yale lock upgraded and your home security improved call Capital Lock Services