In years past, there weren’t many residential door lock options from which to choose. Today, from style to security, residential door lock manufacturers are frequently introducing innovative products. These new products not only sport on-trend looks, but they also provide advanced functionality.
Multipoint locks are one of those innovative products which are becoming more popular with homeowners.
As the name implies, multipoint locks don’t just have one area that locks as most standard door locks have, but rather, they have multiple areas that lock. Most standard door locks have a locking mechanism centered in the middle of the edge of the door.
How They Work
Generally multipoint locks have locking mechanism in the middle and at the top and bottom of the door. That makes them less vulnerable to break-in because not just the middle of the door is secured, but also the top and bottom.1
Those extra locking points also serve to make the door more energy efficient because the additional locks seal out air infiltration at the top and bottom of the door. Multipoint locks can also have more than three locking points depending on the type of lock purchased and the size of the door.
On most multipoint locks there is only one keyhole that controls all of the deadbolts so you each lock does not have to be engaged separately.2
How They Help
The trend in new home construction has been toward installing taller entry doors, with 8 to 10 foot doors becoming common. In the past, standard door height was 80 inches or roughly 6 foot 7inches.3 Multipoint locks are especially efficient for taller doors. Not only does weather-sealing become more difficult with these bigger doors, but because of their size they are also more likely to warp.4 A multipoint lock can help minimize warping as the multipoint system actually stabilizes the door.
Door and Lock Compatibility
Multipoint locks have been commonly used on French doors and on patio doors but are becoming more popular on entry doors. They are more expensive that a standard deadbolt door lock. Andersen, Milgard and ProVia are three manufacturers that offer doors with multipoint locks. Multipoint locking systems can also be installed on some existing doors, but doors that come fitted with a multipoint lock system will generally perform better.5
There are smart lock systems that work with multipoint doors.6 Smart locks provide convenient features such as keypad, key fob or smart phone app entry. With smart locks you can also lock your door from a remote location using your smart phone and you can often provide codes for dog sitters, cleaning services and other service professionals to enter and exit your home when you are not on-site. Logs of entry and exit can let you review who has gained access to your home. These are just some of the convenient features of smart locks.
Because multipoint locking systems still aren’t as common for residential homes, finding a multipoint locking system that works well with a smart lock system can be challenging. A locksmith can assist homeowners in selecting the multipoint locking system and a smart lock system that will work best for each individual situation.
Call an Established Locksmith
With Action Locksmith, your home security is in capable hands. Our trusted locksmith business, boasting years of experience and an impeccable reputation, is dedicated to safeguarding your residential property. We offer a wide array of services, including lock installations, rekeying, and state-of-the-art security system consultations.
Rest assured, our skilled technicians prioritize your safety and privacy, delivering prompt and reliable solutions to any locksmith challenges. Whether you require emergency lockout assistance or desire enhanced security measures, Action Locksmith is your reliable partner in protecting your home. Experience peace of mind and trust in the expertise of our Michigan based, family-owned locksmith business for all your residential locksmith needs.
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1 Multipoint Locking Systems Explained
Link https://brennancorp.com/blog/multipoint-locking-systems-explained/
2, 6 Multipoint Doors Can’t Have Smart Locks … Or Can They?! by James Beetie, 11/30/2021
Link: https://www.smarthomewinner.com/multipoint-doors-with-smart-locks/?expand_article=1
3 Standard Door Size 101: Important Measurements All Homeowners Should Know by Glenda Taylor and Tom Scalisi and Bob Vila, 9/30/2022
Link: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/standard-size-for-doors/
4 Multi-Point Locking Systems for the American Market by Stephani Miller, 1/30/2004
Link: https://www.remodeling.hw.net/products/house-systems/multi-point-locking-systems-for-the-american-market
5 How a Multipoint Lock Can Boost Home Security, 5/16/2022
Link: https://www.plastproinc.com/blog/ideas-and-inspiration/benefits-of-multipoint-locks