Real noon question, could somebody explain the function of a multi point lock please?

[perky416]

Hi guys.
My french doors have an ERA multi point locking system installed.
There are shoot bolts on the top and bottom edges of the doors.
On the master, there is a bolt where the lock is, then then above and below there are hook bolts.

Questions:
Whats is the purpose of the hook bolts? Looking at the keeps there isnt any space for them to rotate out of the lock and hook under the keeps. The screw of the keep will be in the way. If they just rotate into the hole what is the point of it being a hook?


What pulls the doors tight to the weather seal and stops them from rattling backwards and forwards? There arent any rollers like you get with locks on upvc doors that pull them tight. You have fair bit of space either side of every bolt between the bolt edge and the keep, space for the doors to rattle if not secured. Is it simply the shootbolts top and bottom that hold the door in place?


Thanks

 

[Swwils]

1. Hook Bolts:
   • Purpose: Hook bolts are designed to prevent doors from being easily lifted out of their frames, which is a potential vulnerability in some doors. When engaged, hook bolts slide into their keeps, and the hooked shape ensures that even if an intruder attempts to lift the door, it won't easily come out.
   • Operational Aspect: Even if there seems to be no space for them to rotate out of the lock due to the screw of the keep being in the way, the hook should still engage. The keeps should be specifically designed for the hook bolts to engage properly. If it seems like the hook bolts aren't functioning as they should, it might be worth considering having a locksmith or door specialist inspect them.
2. Tightness and Weather Sealing:
   • Pulling Doors Tight: Many multipoint locking systems, including ones without rollers, pull the door tight against the weather seal when engaged. This is often achieved through the various locking points pressing against their respective keeps. The exact mechanism for ensuring tightness can vary depending on the design and model.
   • Preventing Rattles: The shoot bolts at the top and bottom, as well as the central bolt and the hook bolts, are usually designed to enter their keeps closely enough to prevent the door from moving or rattling. If there's a significant gap between the bolts and the keeps, or if the door rattles, it's possible that the door isn't properly aligned, the keeps might need adjusting, or there might be an issue with the locking mechanism.