How to choose the right front door lock

Most people only think about their front door lock when it's already failed. But if you're replacing one anyway, it's worth knowing what your options actually are.

Euro cylinder locks

The most common type on UK front doors, especially UPVC and composite doors. The cylinder sits inside a multipoint locking mechanism. Not all cylinders are equal — cheaper ones can be snapped in seconds with basic tools, so it's worth paying for a British Standard (BS EN 1303) or TS007 3-star rated anti-snap cylinder.

Mortice locks

Common on timber doors, a mortice lock sits inside the door itself rather than being surface-mounted. A 5-lever mortice deadlock meeting BS3621 is the standard most home insurers ask for on wooden front doors.

Multipoint locking systems

Used on most modern UPVC and composite doors, these throw several bolts into the frame at once when you turn the key, rather than relying on a single latch. The weak point is usually the euro cylinder that drives the mechanism, not the mechanism itself.

Smart locks

Keypad and app-controlled locks are increasingly common, particularly for rental properties and Airbnbs. They're convenient, but worth choosing one with a mechanical override and installing it alongside advice from a locksmith rather than a generic online guide.

So which one do you need?

If you already have a UPVC or composite door, you almost certainly need a euro cylinder upgrade rather than a whole new mechanism. Timber doors usually just need a BS3621 mortice deadlock alongside the existing latch. If you're not sure what you've currently got, send us a photo and we'll tell you.