Padlock, hasp and staple

The oldest interface on this site and still the most common lock on outbuildings, gates and shutters. Retrofit here is not about the lock at all — it is about the hasp, the staple diameter and the weather.

✓ verified · Where you will meet this lock: Worldwide

Also called: Padlock · Hasp lock · Shed lock

Anatomy

  • Padlock body and shackle
  • Hasp plate hinged on one side
  • Staple (loop) that the shackle passes through
  • Often hidden-shroud padlocks for cutting resistance

Parameters to measure

Measure in this order: Hasp staple diameter → Fixing hole pattern / pitch

ParameterTypical valuesTolerance that still fitsHow to measure
Hasp staple diameterStaple inner diameter 8–12 mm; shackle 8–14 mmDecides which smart padlock fitsMeasure the inner width of the loop and the shackle diameter.
Fixing hole pattern / pitchHasp fixing screws 30–60 mm apartScrew hole to screw hole on the hasp.

Retrofit architectures that work

  • Motor on a rim (surface-mounted) lock — A motor unit is fixed to the surface-mounted rim lock case or to its knob, driving the latch or the deadbolt. Common on UK nightlatches and on Asian surface-mounted deadlocks.

The practical answer for a gate or a shed is usually a smart padlock, not a motor on the existing one. Check IP rating and how the battery is charged with the staple in place.

Related standards

AS 4174 (designation to be confirmed)

Questions

What is the weak point?

Almost always the hasp or its screws, not the padlock. Upgrading the lock while keeping a thin hasp gains nothing.

Sources

Engineer feedback