FORMERLY MCKINNEY DOOR SOLUTIONS & AMERICAN DOOR PRODUCTS - NOW UNITED AS AMERICAN DOORS.

American Doors Logo

Latch

Home Glossary Latch

A spring-loaded mechanism that holds a door in the closed position, operated by turning a knob, lever, or thumb-turn. The latch bolt retracts into the lock body when the handle is turned, allowing the door to open, then extends automatically when released.

Commercial latches typically feature a 1/2″ throw (extension) and 2-3/4″ backset (distance from door edge to latch center). The angled face of a spring latch allows doors to close without turning the handle-the latch slides along the strike plate and snaps into position. Dead-latches include an anti-shim guard bolt that prevents credit-card attacks.

Latch functions include passage (no locking), privacy (inside thumb-turn), entry (keyed), storeroom (always locked), and classroom (locked from outside only). Commercial-grade latches are rated for 400,000+ cycles. Works with mortise locks, cylindrical locks, and tubular locks. Related: strike plate, deadbolt. View commercial latches.

Related Terms

Open the Door to Better Insights

Stay connected

Get the latest in door design, performance, and industry trends.
American Doors Logo
Since 1938, American Doors has supplied commercial doors, frames, and hardware across the U.S., growing from a Houston-based distributor into a multi-market platform serving contractors throughout Texas and Colorado. Family-owned for more than 85 years, we emphasize continuity and craftsmanship, with AHC-certified hardware specialists and experienced estimators delivering fully coordinated Division 8 and Division 10 solutions from specification through installation.
American Doors is part of Riverbend Industries, a family-owned industrial group focused on building durable, operating businesses.

Riverbend partners with management teams for the long term—investing in people, systems, and manufacturing capability while preserving the culture and accountability that make each business successful.

Our Brands

Copyright ©2026 American Doors