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How to Achieve a Traditional Looking Door with Multi-Point Locking Security
24 September 2024
When it comes to upgrading your home’s front door, striking the perfect balance between a traditional aesthetic and top-tier security can be challenging. Whether you live in a period property or simply want to add a smart and seamless touch to your modern home, traditional doors are often admired for their timeless elegance. However, they don’t always meet today’s security standards.
Traditional Doors: Classic Style, But with Drawbacks
Historically, traditional front doors were often equipped with basic locking mechanisms such as a night latch and a deadlock. These are synonymous with period properties and provide an authentic, vintage feel. While this type of locking system preserves a classic look, it has limitations especially when it comes to security.
The Limitations of Traditional Locking Systems
The combination of a Night latch and a deadlock offers only basic protection, which pales in comparison to the more advanced multi-point locking systems available today. Typically, night latches secure the door with a simple latch mechanism and a key, while a deadlock requires a different key to fully lock the door. This setup is common on older homes, but it leaves the door vulnerable if the deadlock isn’t engaged every time. Additionally, the reliance on just two central locking points means that a determined intruder could potentially force entry by targeting the weaker areas of the door. The top and bottom sections, in particular, may become flex points, making them easier to breach, especially if the door material is weaker or has aged. Over time, warping or loosening around the frame can exacerbate this vulnerability, further reducing the effectiveness of the night latch and deadlock.
The main issue with these older systems is their reliance on manual locking, which increases the chances of human error. On top of this, two different keys are needed with one key to unlock / lock the night latch and the other to unlock / lock the deadlock. This can be time consuming so it can be tempting to just leave the door locked with just one of the locks. A door with only one locking point can be easily forced open by kicking or applying significant force to the area around the lock. This is because all the pressure is concentrated on a single point, making it easier to break.
Modern Locking Systems: Secure But Often Out of Place
Modern front door solutions offer enhanced security through the use of multipoint locking systems. These systems secure the door at multiple points along the frame, making it much harder to force entry. A combination of latch, deadbolt or hook bolt, and a lift lever handle provides superior protection over traditional locks. The bolts or hooks engage at various positions—typically at the top, middle, and bottom of the door—providing superior resistance against prying or kicking.
Most modern multi-point locking systems are also designed with the gear box in the centre which has a latch and deadbolt operated by a lever handle. As traditional doors do not require a lever handle these locks are not suitable.
So, how can the traditional look be achieved while benefiting from modern security features?
The GU Secury Classic: The Ideal Solution
The GU Secury classic is an innovative locking system designed to offer the best of both worlds. This modern multi-point door lock, manufactured by German company Gretsch-Unitas (GU), helps to provide the timeless aesthetic of a traditional door without compromising on security. It’s the perfect solution for homeowners who want a secure, stylish front door that maintains their property’s character and is in keeping with the period of the house.
Key Features of the G U Secury Classic:
1. Multi-point Locking: The GU Secury offers 3 auto lock latches and unlike many multipoint locking systems that use hook mechanisms, the GU Secury utilises deadbolts. This avoids common issues that can arise with hooks, especially if the door moves slightly over time. The deadbolt design helps prevent any operational issues and guarantees a secure fit.
2. Automatic Locking Mechanism: One of the standout features of the GU Secury is its automatic slam shut locking function. Simply close the door, and the locks engage automatically, offering instant security without the need to manually lock it with a key. This ensures your home is always secure, whether you’re inside or out.
3. Keyless Entry Compatibility: For added convenience, the GU Secury can be connected to an electronic keyless entry system. This modern feature allows you to unlock your door via a smartphone app, fob or biometrics (finger print recognition)—no more fumbling for keys or worrying about locking yourself out.
4. PAS 24 Tested: The GU Secury is tested to meet PAS 24 standards, a benchmark for door security in the UK. This means the system has passed rigorous testing to withstand forced entry attempts, making it an ideal choice for those prioritising home security.
5. Flush, Adjustable Keeps: The GU Secury also includes flush, fully adjustable keeps, which allow the locking system to work seamlessly even if your door expands or shrinks due to weather changes. This is particularly important for timber doors, which can be affected by seasonal shifts, ensuring the lock remains reliable all year round.
6. Euro Cylinder Compatible: In the UK, Euro cylinders are the modern standard and can be replaced without changing the entire lock system, simplifying upgrades and repairs. Plus, with the GU Secury, there is the benefit of requiring just one key for the entire door.
No Compromises
For homeowners who wish to maintain the traditional look of their period property while upgrading their security, we would advise utilising the GU Secury. This multi-point door lock delivers advanced security without compromising on the aesthetics that define traditional front doors. Now, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—secure in the knowledge that your home is well protected, while still retaining its timeless appeal.
The Secury is also available in a modern format for modern looking doors.