Locking Plates

Locking Plates

Locking Plates

Locking plates are essential security components designed to reinforce and protect locks, latches, and strike areas on doors and gates. They provide a secure mounting point for locking hardware, increase resistance to forced entry, and help maintain the structural integrity of the door or frame. At John Barnes Group, we supply a comprehensive range of locking plates suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Buy Locking Plates online today from the John Barnes online shop!

 

What Are Locking Plates?

A locking plate is a metal plate—often steel or stainless steel—fitted to a door or frame to provide a strong, stable surface for the latch or bolt to engage. They are typically used in conjunction with mortice locks, deadbolts, and latch sets, ensuring the lock mechanism remains firmly anchored and resistant to tampering.

Locking plates can be purely functional or designed with a decorative finish to match other door hardware.

 

Key Features and Specifications

  • Materials: Stainless steel, galvanised steel, brass, or zinc-plated steel

  • Thickness: Varies from light-duty (1–2mm) to heavy-duty (3mm+)

  • Finishes: Satin stainless, polished brass, powder-coated, or chrome-plated

  • Mounting: Screw-fixed or welded, depending on application

  • Compatibility: Available for a wide range of lock types and sizes

 

Australian Standards and Compliance

While locking plates themselves are not directly regulated, they form part of door assemblies that must meet relevant Australian Standards:

  • AS4145.2: Locksets and hardware performance requirements

  • AS1905.1: Fire-resistant doorsets (for fire-rated assemblies)

  • BCA/NCC: Building security, fire safety, and egress requirements

  • AS2311: Protective coatings for corrosion prevention

 

Material and Durability Considerations

Stainless Steel

Highly resistant to corrosion and tampering, ideal for external or coastal environments.

Galvanised Steel

Economical with good corrosion resistance, suitable for most general-purpose installations.

Brass

Offers decorative appeal while providing moderate security, commonly used in heritage or period-style buildings.

Zinc-Plated Steel

Provides light corrosion protection, ideal for indoor or sheltered applications.

 

Applications: Residential vs Commercial

Residential Applications

Locking plates are used for:

  • Reinforcing front and back door locks

  • Enhancing security on garage side doors

  • Improving lock performance on misaligned frames

Commercial and Industrial Applications

Locking plates serve to:

  • Reinforce access control doors

  • Protect high-traffic entry points

  • Provide additional security in warehouses or restricted zones

 

Product Selection Guidance

For Homeowners

  • Choose finishes to match existing hardware

  • Select heavy-duty plates for external entry doors

  • Use extended plates if door alignment is an issue

For Builders and Installers

  • Ensure compatibility with lockset dimensions

  • Select corrosion-resistant materials for external use

  • Use security screws to prevent plate removal

For Facility Managers

  • Standardise plate types across multiple doors for maintenance efficiency

  • Inspect regularly for signs of wear or loosening

  • Replace damaged plates promptly to maintain lock integrity

 

Installation Tips

  • Align plate precisely with lock latch or bolt for smooth operation

  • Use appropriate fixings for the door or frame material

  • For high-security applications, consider through-bolting or welded plates

 

Maintenance and Care

  • Keep plate surfaces clean to prevent corrosion buildup

  • Check screws or fixings periodically for tightness

  • Refinish or replace plates if protective coating wears away

 

Order from John Barnes Group

John Barnes Group offers a wide selection of locking plates to suit various door types, lock styles, and security requirements. Our team can assist with:

  • Matching locking plates to specific locks and frames

  • Selecting materials and finishes for optimal durability

  • Providing installation and maintenance guidance

Contact us today to strengthen your doors with high-quality locking plates: https://johnbarnesgroup.au/contact/