Buying a New Lock? Here’s What You Need to Know (From a Newcastle Locksmith)
Not sure what kind of lock you need? Wondering whether Screwfix or B&Q sell decent barrels? Or if “locks with keys” is even a thing you need to ask for?
You’re not alone. Every week, we get messages from homeowners, landlords and shop managers asking things like:
“Do locks come with keys?”
“Can I buy a lock for a uPVC door at Toolstation?”
“What’s the difference between a cheap lock and a proper one?”
So here’s a no-nonsense guide, written by a real local locksmith, on where to buy locks, what to avoid and when it’s better to pick up the phone than gamble with your security.
Toolstation – Sell Some Reasonable Priced Locks (But Not Always Clear)
Yes, Toolstation sell locks and they’re usually on the cheaper end of the scale. You’ll find euro cylinders, night latches and sometimes mortice lock cases.
But a word of warning:
• Info on the boxes can be vague
• It’s often hard to tell if a lock is snap-resistant or not
• And if you’re unsure what size you need, it’s a minefield
Good if you know what you’re buying. Not so good if you’re guessing.
B&Q & Wickes – Good for DIY, Easy to See in Person
One advantage of B&Q and Wickes is that you can go in, pick up the lock and see if it looks right.
They usually stock:
• Yale night latches
• ERA cylinders
• Sash locks and deadlocks
• Basic uPVC replacement handles
These are decent for light-use domestic doors and offer a middle ground for DIY upgrades.
Not trade quality, but ideal if you just want to “see it before you buy it.”
Screwfix – “Smith & Locke” Brand Locks
If you’ve searched “Screwfix sell locks”, you’ve likely come across Smith & Locke, their main in-house brand. These are mid-range in quality:
✅ Reasonable price
✅ Clear sizing labels
✅ Multiple key options (usually 3 per lock)
Great for:
• Rental properties
• Office internal doors
• Short-term upgrades
North East Lock & Key – Trade Centre Open to the Public
If you’re after a proper lock that lasts, this is your best shout.
North East Lock and Key are based in Washington and supply to trade, but you can walk in as a member of the public.
Their standard euro cylinders:
• Come with 5 keys as standard
• Include anti-snap features like a sacrificial line
• Are available in one star security rating
Their advice at the counter is solid, they’ll talk you through sizes, insurance requirements and even keyed-alike options.
Great for:
• Main entrance doors
• High-turnover rental properties
• Homeowners wanting security without the sales pitch
Common Lock Mistakes when buying
Before you grab whatever’s on the shelf, here are a few things we constantly see:
🔹 Wrong Size Cylinders
Euro locks come in different lengths, like 35/45 or 30/30. If you get it wrong, the lock will stick out (making it easy to snap) or not reach the mechanism.
🔹 Night Latches With No Deadlocking
The classic “Yale lock” isn’t enough on its own, burglars know how to bypass them. Always combine with a mortice or deadlock if used on a wooden door.
🔹 Locks With No Snap Protection
If the cylinder can be gripped and snapped in 10 seconds, it doesn’t matter how many keys it comes with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Locks Come With Keys? – Yes…
This one always makes us smile:
“Do you sell locks with keys?”
Yes we do.
Things to consider before you buy from a shop.
• Some locks come with 1 key
• Most mid-range come with 3
• Proper trade gear (like North East Lock & Key supply) usually come with 5 keys.
Always check the box or listing before you buy and make sure they’re cut correctly!
