Thermal expansion remains a major challenge across the door industry: elevated and prolonged heatwaves mean door systems are under more stress than ever, causing misalignment, compromised performance, increased service visits, higher maintenance costs, and frustration both for installers and end users.
With record high temperatures continuing, these conditions are not going away, and neither are the inefficiencies they create for fabricators and installers.
The release of the latest Keystone Summer 2025 Consumer Trends Report shows homeowners are placing a growing emphasis on the performance and reliability of their door and window hardware. While aesthetics still matter, functionality, security, and ease of use are leading the decision-making process for many buyers.
The Winkhaus autoLock AV4 is engineered for dependable performance in challenging conditions, across materials and usage environments.
A Lock That Works When Others Do not.
The autoLock AV4 delivers the reliability and install-friendliness both fabricators and installers need:
- Independent testing shows AV4 requires up to 70% less force to operate than many alternatives, significantly reducing wear and tear, making it easier to use, and extending product life.
- It locks automatically on door closure, engaging two anti-push-back hooks without needing to lift a handle or turn a key.
- PAS24 compliant and approved under the Police ‘Secured by Design’ initiative, delivering peace of mind for security as well as everyday practicality.
- With its wide tolerance hook-design, the AV4 is better able to cope with door movement from thermal expansion, settlement, or frame shift, meaning fewer adjustments and less wear-out risk.
Built for Efficiency in Fabrication & Installation
For fabricators and installers, AV4 simplifies life:
- The AV4 is non-handed, meaning one version fits left or right doors. This can reduce stockholding by up to 50% and simplify ordering and manufacturing.
- Share routing with other Winkhaus multi-point locks improves interchangeability and streamlines fabrication.
- Its robust performance under shifting door frames means fewer call-backs, fewer service visits, and more satisfied clients.
Proven in the Field, Backed by End Users
In independent user testing (field-simulation beyond standard industry tolerance levels), AV4 consistently out-performed competitor locks: users reported ease of operation, reliability, and long-term benefits.
- A landlord, Javaria, commented: “Over time, doors become inherently more difficult to open. AV4 will reduce callouts and be easier to use for tenants in the future.”
- A homeowner, Lee, said: “Even as the door gets older and is open to the elements and wear and tear, it works, it was absolutely excellent.”
Why This Matters Now
- With rising ambient temperatures and prolonged heatwaves, doors (especially those in large, glazed entrances or exposed façades) are more prone to warping and frame shift due to thermal expansion and contraction. A lock mechanism designed with tolerance and low operating force is increasingly important.
- End-users are more conscious of usability, they want doors that continue to function reliably year after year, with minimal adjustment.
- Fabricators and installers face increasing pressure to reduce call-backs and service costs. A high-tolerance, low-wear lock like the AV4 helps them protect margins and reputation.
- Security remains a major concern, the research showing 58.5% of consumers see room for improvement in current door locks underscores the demand.
Summary
In an environment where doors are under greater strain than ever, from thermal movement, material shifts, user demands and security concerns, the autoLock AV4 stands out as a smart solution. It offers low-force operation, wide tolerance design, automatic engagement, non-handed simplicity, and compatibility with smart and access-control upgrades.
For manufacturers, fabricators and installers looking to deliver better outcomes, fewer service visits, happier customers, and stronger value, AV4 is a compelling upgrade. And for end-users, it translates into doors that keep working, whatever the weather or the demands.
