Aluminium door locks are built into the door profile, so the lock you get depends on the type of door. A hinged door uses a different lock from a sliding door or a pivot door. This guide explains which lock comes with each Coetz™ aluminium door range, what the cylinder options are, the testing the locks go through, and how to keep aluminium door locks working.
In this guide
Which lock comes with which door
Aluminium door locks are included with every standard door. The type depends on how the door opens:
| Door | Lock included |
|---|---|
| Hinged doors | Latch lock |
| Pivot doors | Roller lock |
| Swing doors (single and double action) | Deadlock |
| Sliding doors | Hook lock (25 mm on StormSeal) |
| Vista Duo and Vistafold folding doors | Hook lock or latch hook lock |
Why sliding doors use a hook lock
A sliding panel moves sideways, so a straight bolt cannot hold it. A hook lock throws a curved hook that catches the keep in the frame and pulls the panel tight against it. See aluminium sliding doors.
Why hinged doors use a latch lock
A hinged door swings, so a latch lock combines a spring latch that holds the door closed with a lock that secures it.
Cylinders
The lock body is included; the locking cylinder, the part your key turns, is chosen separately. Options include:
- Full cylinder: key on both sides.
- Half cylinder: key on one side only.
- Thumb-turn cylinder: a key outside and a thumb turn inside, so you can lock and unlock from inside without a key.
- Keyed alike: several doors opened by the same key.
Ask about cylinders when you order, so the right one arrives with the door.
Testing and certification
According to the manufacturer, the locks are certified to the European standard EN 12209:2003, and the cylinders to EN 1303:2005. The locks are tested to 200 000 cycles with a 120 N load on the latch bolt. A master key system is available on request.
Common lock problems
- The key turns but the door will not open: the latch or hook may be caught on the keep because the door has dropped or the frame has moved. Ease the door towards the frame while turning the key.
- The key is stiff: dust in the cylinder. Clean it and use a dry lubricant.
- The lock will not engage: the door is not fully closed or the keep is misaligned. Check the door closes flush.
Most faults with aluminium door locks come from alignment rather than the lock itself.
Handles
- Hinged and Vista folding doors: a powder-coated lever handle is included.
- Patio sliding doors: a handle kit is included.
- Pivot and swing doors: stainless steel pull handles are available in several styles.
- Folding doors: a flush pull handle sits flat so the panels can fold close together.
Looking after aluminium door locks
A little care keeps aluminium door locks working for years:
- Clean dust and grit out of the keep and lock face with a dry brush.
- Lubricate the cylinder a couple of times a year with a dry lubricant, not oil, which collects dust.
- Check alignment. If a door has dropped, the latch or hook can miss the keep; adjust the door rather than forcing the key.
- Never force a stiff key. A stiff cylinder usually needs cleaning or replacing, not more pressure.
For security more broadly, see are aluminium windows secure? and door hardware.
Automatic doors
Unlike manual aluminium door locks, automatic sliding doors lock differently, with an electric lock in the operator. See automatic door operating modes.
Ordering
Coetz™ supplies aluminium doors only, so your builder or installer fits them. We deliver across South Africa, or you can collect free from Laser Park. Glazed doors must meet SANS 10400-N, published by the South African Bureau of Standards.
Aluminium door locks: frequently asked questions
Do aluminium doors come with a lock?
Yes. Every standard door has its lock included; the cylinder is chosen separately.
What lock does an aluminium sliding door have?
A hook lock, which catches the frame and pulls the sliding panel tight.
What lock does a hinged aluminium door have?
A latch lock, combining a spring latch with a lock; the cylinder is chosen separately.
Can I lock the door from inside without a key?
Yes, with a thumb-turn cylinder.
Can several doors use the same key?
Yes. Keyed-alike cylinders are available.
Coetz™, Unit 2, 84 Ridge Road, Laser Park, Johannesburg. Call 010 412 0062, WhatsApp 076 613 4418 or use our contact page.
Pivot and swing door handles: see aluminium pivot door handles.
Sliding doors in detail: see aluminium sliding door lock.
Folding doors in detail: see aluminium bifold door locks.
Handles for every door type: see aluminium door handles.
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