How to Make a Primitive Door Latch

Primitive is the keyword here. Primitive door latches only lock on one side of the door and do not require any type of inner workings inside the door. Primitive door latches are usually sliding bolts or hooks. A door latch that will latch no matter the side of the door you on is fairly elaborate. However, if you are looking to latch a shed door, an inside door, or a door that has only one way to go through, then the primitive door latch will be perfect for you.

Things You'll Need

• 4-inch barrel bolt latch
• Phillips screwdriver
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Determine how far up from the floor you want your door latch to sit. Generally, a primitive latch will sit about eye level off the floor, but the height is entirely at your discretion. Once you have decided how high you want the latch, mark the spot on the door with the pencil.

2. Set up the latch against the door. Align the latch just so it is on the edge of the door facing to the left. Screw in the four screws that are provided.

3. Put the opposing piece of the latch on the other side of the door. Make sure again to have it right on the edge facing the door this time.

4. Finish installing the latch. Screw in the four screws for the opposing piece. Slide your barrel bolt through the opposing hole to make sure it lines up. If it does, you are all done.

References

• Sliding Door Latch Options