Multipoint Locking Mechanisms Explained

Multipoint door locks are most commonly fitted to uPVC and composite doors and as the name suggests it has multiple locking points that run from the top of your door to the bottom. These multipoint locking mechanisms can also be fitted to patio sliding doors and wooden doors.

Most multipoint mechanisms are operated by lifting the handle upwards to engage the locking points and then rotating the key to lock it in place. Other locking operations are available:

Nightlatch locking – latch automatically engages upon closing, then lift handles and turn key
Key Wind – turn key two times to fully engage locking points
Fastlocking – lift the handle (no need to turn the key)
Automatic locking – on closing the door, the locking points will automatically engage and deadlock

The different types

The type and number of locking points on a mechanism can vary, although usually it will consist of a centre bolt, hooks and/or rollers.

Originally, these multipoint locking mechanisms used to consist of a bolt and rollers, but it was realised that this combination was not secure enough.

If your door does not have hook shaped bolts, then you should consider contacting a locksmith to upgrade your locking mechanism.

There are many types and variations of multipoint locking mechanisms and gearboxes. The first step in identifying a replacement is to identify the manufacturer. Manufacturers include GU, Lockmaster, ERA, Fuhr, Mila, Winkhaus and many others.

To identify the correct replacement part, you will need certain key dimensions:

Backset – distance from the front of the faceplate to the centre of the euro-shaped hole cut out
Centres – distance from the centre spindle(s) to the centre of the top part of the euro hole cut out
Faceplate width and shape
Locking point distances – the distance between the centre of the top spindle to the centre of each locking point

The multipoint gearbox is the device that controls the multipoint mechanism. It sits in the door in between the handles and also houses the lock. They contain a lot of small moving parts that work in combination to lock your external door securely. If one part breaks, the whole gearbox ceases to work fully or partially – in almost all instances if a gearbox has failed then it is always recommended that the whole gearbox is replaced and not just the faulty part.

Ensure correct alignment

Make sure that the door is correctly aligned. In the vast majority of failed multipoint locking mechanisms it is because of alignment issues causing excessive force being placed on the multipoint gearbox. In the majority of cases a replacement gearbox is sufficient and can be connected to your existing mechanism, so, if you are being quoted for a full multipoint mechanism, try to verify if this is really necessary.

These multipoint mechanisms offer a high security solution and will help to prevent break-ins (as long as it is fitted correctly with an appropriate lock cylinder barrel). Although failures can occur, they are relatively rare and these products are normally very durable and reliable – especially if they are well maintained and lubricated periodically.

Insurance companies may also specify multipoint locks on your external doors, so having them in place gives you a ‘green light’ from them.

Please contact Lock Guy for more information.

Lock Guy is an independent locksmith operating in Witham, Maldon and all the towns between Colchester and Chelmsford.

Got a question about a lock issue you may have? Why not have a look at the FAQ page or one of the helpful advice videos on the Media page.