What is the difference between a padbolt and a tower bolt?

Both slide a bolt across to fasten a gate or door. A padbolt is designed to accept a padlock through its staple or hasp, so you can lock the gate closed. A standard tower bolt holds the leaf shut at a fixed point without a locking option. Choose a padbolt where you need to lock and control access, and a tower bolt where you simply need to hold a door or gate shut.

What is a tower bolt used for?

A tower bolt holds a gate or door shut at a fixed point. It is commonly used on timber gates, side gates, shed doors and double gates, where the bolt slides into a keep on the frame, post or threshold. It can act as the main fastening or as a secondary point alongside an existing latch.

Which finish is best for external gate bolts exposed to the weather?

Galvanised steel offers the highest level of corrosion resistance, making it ideal for coastal areas and exposed external timber gates. Zinc-plated and outdoor-rated black powder-coated finishes also provide reliable weatherproofing for typical domestic gardens and sheds.

How do I stop my gate bolt from jamming during wet winter months?

Wooden outdoor gates naturally swell as they absorb atmospheric moisture, which can misalign the bolt shoot with the receiver plate. To help prevent jamming, mount the receiver staple with a slight 2mm–3mm vertical clearance, and lubricate the slide mechanism regularly with a water-displacing silicone or graphite spray rather than thick grease.

Pad & Tower Bolts | Travis Perkins

Learn more about pad & tower bolts

These types of locks are commonly used on timber gates, shed doors and anywhere needing a simple locking system. Padbolts have an additional feature that allows you to use them with a padlock for extra security.

Typical uses

Garden gates and side passages: Restraining timber lap or closeboard gates against high winds and unauthorised access.
Garden sheds and workshops: Securing shed doors with padlockable slide mechanisms to protect power tools and lawnmowers.
Agricultural and compound fencing: Fitting galvanised bolts across timber farm gates, animal pens, and perimeter enclosures.
Garage and outbuildings: Providing top-and-bottom secondary locks on side-hung wooden vehicle and storage doors.

How to choose pad & tower bolts

Straight vs necked bolt: Choose straight tower bolts when the door leaf and frame sit completely flush. Select necked bolts when the gate sits recessed inside a timber frame rebate.
Locking functionality: Padbolts are ideal if you need key-locking security via an external padlock. Opt for standard tower bolts when simple locking without a key is sufficient.
Protective weather finishes: For outdoor installations exposed to wet weather, always select hot-dipped galvanised finishes to prevent rust.

Before you order

Check the product specifications against the job in front of you, including size, fixing method, finish and compatibility with the existing keep or staple.
If you are replacing an existing fitting, make sure the new bolt reaches the same closing point and leaves enough room to operate freely.
Confirm the fixing method matches the material, whether timber or metal.
Check handedness and alignment so the bolt sits square to the keep.
Review suitability for exposed locations before you order.

Explore our range of pad & tower bolts

Browse the range to compare padbolt and tower bolt options by product specifications. Look for the fitting that suits your garden gate or door, then choose the size and fixing method that matches the job.

FAQs about pad & tower bolts

What is the difference between a padbolt and a tower bolt?
What is a tower bolt used for?
Which finish is best for external gate bolts exposed to the weather?
How do I stop my gate bolt from jamming during wet winter months?

Pad & Tower Bolts

Category

Brand

Sizes

Reviews

Material

Pack quantity

Type

Finish

Length

Diameter

£4.64

£4.26

£7.58

£6.96

£8.36

£7.69

£3.31

£3.04

£3.97

£3.65

£9.97

£9.16