Replacing multipoint PVC door locks

DocQuincy

I have a downstairs PVC window where the lock turns but won't unlock so I need it replacing and there is a really old one on the bathroom window that needs replacing too.



I also have multipoint PVC doors front and back. The locks on both at least 12 years old. The keys are worn and a friend of mine had a break-in due to snappable locks. This combined with the age prompted me to consider getting our locks replaced at the same time as getting the windows done. We are unlikely to get broken into where we are but I figure I may as well get the job done properly.



I got a quote from a locksmith who gave a discount to have 2 x windows and 2 x doors done at the same time. The quote is £245. He replied quickly and was super-helpful and I Googled him and he has a small number of good reviews.


He didn't mention what locks he would use on the windows but said he would use these on the doors: https://www.ultion-lock.co.uk



I have a few questions:

1. Does the price seem okay? It seems reasonable to me and I would rather replace them now than have them go and have to pay a call-out fee (the front door lock is started to feel a bit “off” so I worry that is on its way out)
2. Are those locks any good? They have TS007 2014 on them, which seems to indicate they are — and it says they have “the highest Kitemark star rating” so I am assuming these are more than enough for insurance purposes are are secure as locks go
3. How long would you expect the locks to last? Can you reasonably expect a decade out of them at say 5,000 turns a year?
4. When replacing a multipoint lock do you typically get just the locking mechanism changed or the actual five “hooks” that secure the door in too?
5. Is there anything else I need to check with regards to the locksmith to ensure it would be done the the standard expected by an insurer?

Thanks!

stator

If you've only asked for the locks to be changed he will just be changing the cylinder, not the multipoint system.
Replacing the cylinder is something that you can do yourself, it's just one screw.

jk0

I've yet to have a locksmith fit Eurocylinders the correct length for the door. Measure your own doors and fit your own IIWY. BTW, Ultion can be made with the same key for several different locks if you have a word with Marc at Barnet Lock Centre.

DocQuincy

jk0 wrote: »

I've yet to have a locksmith fit Eurocylinders the correct length for the door. Measure your own doors and fit your own IIWY.

Do you mean they leave them sticking out? Does that make an anti-snap lock snappable?

jk0 wrote: »

BTW, Ultion can be made with the same key for several different locks if you have a word with Marc at Barnet Lock Centre.

Are you saying so you can have the same key front and back — or that it's a security flaw?


Generally though, do you think those locks are good? Would you typically replace the whole multipoint system or just the lock given their age?

jk0

DocQuincy wrote: »

Do you mean they leave them sticking out? Does that make an anti-snap lock snappable?


Yes to both.




Are you saying so you can have the same key front and back — or that it's a security flaw?


So you have the same key.



Generally though, do you think those locks are good? Would you typically replace the whole multipoint system or just the lock given their age?

Just the locks, and keep the other bits oiled. I ordered some from the place I mentioned and they look good.

DocQuincy

Thanks.

That's a shame that they don't bother fitting them properly. Thanks for the heads up!

Why on earth would they not fit them flush if it negates the main selling point of the lock? Do you buy the lock in a certain size or are they adjustable? Either way, surely it's not loads more work to fit flush.

stator

Lock cylinders have two or three sizes. The distance from the center to the front and centre to the back. eg
45/55
or
40/10/50
are both the same.


The reason locksmiths fit badly fitting cylinders is because there are so many sizes, they don't keep them all in the van.


Usually they fit them flush on the outside and sometimes leave them sticking out on the inside, it would be a very incompetant locksmith who didn't fit it flush on the outside.

DocQuincy

Thanks to you both, it's really helpful to me. As you have probably guessed, I know nothing about the subject!

DocQuincy

Sorry one more question. If these locks are as good as they sound (non-snapable, non-drillable) how do locksmiths get in if you lose your keys? Do you need to call the army in?

jk0

You'll need a very good drill for Ultion.

stator

DocQuincy wrote: »

Sorry one more question. If these locks are as good as they sound (non-snapable, non-drillable) how do locksmiths get in if you lose your keys? Do you need to call the army in?

They don't, usually.
Leave a key with a neighbour or family member who lives nearby.


Or you just break in via a window or something. All houses are breakable if you use enough brute force