What are multipoint door locks (and why are they more secure than traditional mortice locks)? 

Multipoint locks have several bolts that lock into different parts of the door frame simultaneously, usually at the top, middle, and bottom. This makes them much more secure than standard single-point traditional mortice door locks.

Multipoint locks perfectly match today’s uPVC, composite, aluminium and timber doors, offering big advantages over old-fashioned single-point locks. While traditional locks only secure at one spot, multipoint systems lock at several points along the door edge making them much more secure and better at keeping out drafts.

These modern locks are designed to work smoothly with high-performance doors. They spread the locking pressure evenly, which helps prevent doors from warping or sticking over time. The adjustable rollers and hooks also compensate for any slight movement in the frame. This feature is something the more traditional locks can’t do. 

Security Benefits of  Multiple Locking Points 

What truly sets multipoint locks apart is their ability to secure a door at multiple vulnerable positions by engaging hooks, rollers, deadbolt or pins with just one simple action. When you turn the key or lift the handle, the system simultaneously engages the following:

1. The Top bolt – Prevents the door from being lifted or forced downwards.
2. The Central deadbolt – The primary locking point that withstands direct force (Gearbox).
3. The Bottom bolt – Prevents the door from being kicked in or prised upwards.

The mechanical advantage of Multipoint locks helps in defeating burglars by having these three separate high-strength locking mechanisms simultaneously. This heightened security is difficult to overcome without causing obvious, time-consuming damage. This also explains why the UK Police Crime Prevention initiative (Secured by Design) recommends multipoint locks as standard for external doors, stating they “significantly improve resistance to physical attack”.

Many UK Household and Contents Insurance providers also recognise this superior protection, often offering reduced premiums for properties with certified multipoint systems. The three-point engagement also improves weather sealing, as the uniform pressure along the entire door edge eliminates gaps that single-point locks can leave vulnerable.

Faceplate and Locking Points

The faceplate is the long metal strip running vertically along the door edge. Its width and style can differ:

Flat Faceplate: Common on many UPVC door profiles.

Rounded/Radius Ends: Sometimes found on specific composite or timber configurations.

U-Track Faceplate: A channel-shaped design that fits into particular door profiles.

Within the mechanism of a Multipoint Lock, several types of locking points can be spaced out along the faceplate:

• Hooks: Offer excellent anti-separation strength.
• Rollers: Improve weather sealing and compression.
• Deadbolts: Deliver robust vertical or horizontal locking.
• Pins or Wedges: Additional features for advanced security.

The more locking points a multipoint lock has, the tougher it is to force the door open.

The faceplate of a multipoint lock offers several key benefits:

Enhanced Security: The faceplate provides a sturdy mounting surface for the locking points, ensuring they are securely fixed to the door. This makes it more difficult for intruders to tamper with or bypass the lock.

Uniform Pressure: By distributing the locking points along the entire length of the door edge, the faceplate helps apply uniform pressure. This minimises gaps and weak points, enhancing both security and weather sealing.

Durability: The faceplate protects the internal locking mechanisms from wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the lock. It also shields the door edge from damage, maintaining the integrity of the door structure.

Versatility: Different faceplate designs (flat, rounded, U-track) can be matched to various door profiles, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of door types and materials.

Improved Weather Sealing: The faceplate helps compress the door against the frame, reducing drafts and improving insulation. This can lead to better energy efficiency and comfort within the home.

Overall, the faceplate is a crucial component that enhances the performance, security, and longevity of multipoint locks.