Case Study — Outward-Opening Door

Outward-Opening Front Door Lock

"Why wouldn't you want more room in your hallway?"

When Johanna designed her new front door, she had one clear requirement: a lock that would secure it automatically every time it closed.

Outward-opening front doors remain relatively uncommon in the UK — and most high-security lock brands simply don't offer a suitable solution.

"I wanted a lock that would suit an outward-opening door and deadlock automatically when closed. This is exactly that."

The Challenge

Finding a Lock for an Outward-Opening Door

Most locks simply won't work on an outward-opening door.

The Problem

Most locks won't work

Johanna had already fitted a BS3621-rated deadlock during construction. She needed a primary lock for everyday use that would engage automatically on every close.

The Technical Issue

The geometry is reversed

Most nightlatches are designed for inward-opening doors. On an outward-opening door the striker plate relationship is reversed — and many locks simply cannot engage.

The solution

Finfort Auto-Deadbolt Nightlatch in Satin Brass

Automatic deadlocking on every close.

Security

Deadlocks automatically

Every time the door closes, a 21mm steel deadbolt engages automatically. It is BS8621-rated security with thumbturn for easy exit.

Design

Compatible for outward-opening doors.

A standard nightlatch on an outward-opening door exposes the latch on the external face, leaving it vulnerable to attack. The Finfort deadbolt is fully morticed and not externally accessible.

Finfort Auto-Deadbolt Nightlatch in Satin Brass installed on outward-opening timber front door

internal view

The Installation

Because the lock is fully morticed, on the internal face all you see are the sleek escutcheon plates and Finfort door pull. No bulky surface-mounted hardware, just clean lines and more of the door itself.

Photographed following installation, prior to painting.

How it Works