Common Multipoint Door Lock Problems

A multipoint door lock is among the most popular types of locks used today because it provides a high level of security to your home. People choose multipoint locks because they have multiple locking points along the entire length of the door, which means forced entry is highly unlikely because all weak points of the door are covered.

If you’re thinking about installing this type of lock or already have one, you should be aware of the possible issues you may normally face over time. That’s why we’ll discuss every multipoint door lock problem and how you can easily deal with it.

How Does a Multipoint Door Lock Work?

To understand how a multipoint door lock operates, you should know that it consists of 3 main parts. These are a lock case located at the door’s edge, hooks found on the top and bottom of the door, and a deadbolt mounted in the middle. Once a knob is turned, all 3 parts of the lock engage together at the same time to lock into the strike plate.

A multipoint door lock can have up to seven points of engagement when it’s operational. The more they are, the more security you are adding to your door.

What Are the Most Common Multipoint Door Lock Problems?

Now that you know how it operates, check out this list of common issues you might face with prolonged usage:

Gearbox Misalignment

This is one of the most common front door lock problems locksmiths face with any lever lock, so it can easily happen in a multipoint door lock that has no adjustable hooks or rollers. Any misalignment affects the gearbox and doesn’t allow it to rotate freely when the lever is tapped.

What Can You Do? Use a dial indicator to make sure there is no misalignment by more than 0.1 mm.

Jamming or Sticking

If you feel the entire mechanism of the door is not running smoothly and there’s resistance in how it should operate, that’s a jamming or sticking issue. This happens from normal wear and tear of the lock or any damage that may have occurred to the lock’s cylinder itself.

What Can You Do? When you’re faced with this common issue, try to lubricate the locking system using a silicone-based lubricant to try to get it to unstick. In addition, you may need to use a screwdriver to very gently release jammed shoot bolts of the door.

Broken Gearbox

You can break your door’s gearbox by unknowingly applying too much strain on the gearbox whenever the latch is turned. To avoid this, you should always fully insert the key before turning it, then lift the handle and finally push or pull the door.

If you have a broken gearbox, you will notice a change in the handles on both sides of the door. They will be either loose and hanging a bit to the bottom or more stiff than usual. Additionally, if you hear any grinding or scraping sound while trying to turn your key, the gearbox is likely broken.

What Can You Do? Your only option if you discover a broken gearbox is replacing the gearbox only or the entire multipoint lock. The best way to go and guarantee the problem doesn’t occur again is replacing the entire lock; the difference in price between a new gearbox and an entire lock is quite small.

You will require the help of a professional locksmith to install a new gearbox or lock for your door. Moreover, if you weren’t able to resolve the issue with your multipoint lock and the door is not locking, contact a 24/7 emergency locksmith to assist you quickly.

A local locksmith in all areas of London will assist in any issues with any type of door you have. Furthermore, if you live in Islington, contact a reliable locksmith Islington specialist to expertly resolve the issue.

Being aware of the problems that may occur with your multipoint door lock is an important step to know if you can resolve it or if you require assistance. This simple guide has all the answers.