The measurements you should collect
| Measurement | What it tells you | How to approach it |
|---|---|---|
| Door thickness | Whether lock bodies and fixing hardware suit the leaf | Measure the edge of the door in millimetres |
| Backset | Distance from door edge to spindle or cylinder centre | Follow the existing lock or template reference point |
| Stile width | Available width on an aluminium frame | Measure the usable flat section carefully |
| Cut-out / mortise case | Whether the new mechanism can replace the old one | Photograph and measure existing hardware |
| Door handing / swing | How handles, latch and opening direction align | Check from the manufacturer’s specified perspective |
| Strike and frame | Whether latch or bolt can engage safely | Check frame clearance and current alignment |
Will a smart lock fit a timber front door?
Many timber entry doors have enough room for common smart handle and deadbolt formats, but this should never be assumed. Existing holes may be offset from the new template, and the old lock may use a different backset. Replacing a mortise lock with a smart deadbolt is not necessarily a direct swap.
If a door is swollen, warped or frequently sticks, correct that problem before installing electronic hardware. A motorised lock should not be used to force an improperly aligned latch or bolt into a tight strike.
What about aluminium-framed doors?
Aluminium doors can present a narrower mounting area, so a full-width electronic handle may extend beyond the stile or interfere with the door frame. Slim smart locks and suitable mortise configurations are often the more relevant category to investigate.
AUSLOCK lists S31 series slim products for selected aluminium and sliding-door applications. The product category is not proof that every aluminium door is supported. Obtain the exact installation diagram and confirm spindle position, available width, latch, cylinder and necessary clearances.
Can a smart lock work on a sliding door?
Some sliding doors use hook bolts or hardware that differs significantly from swinging doors. A product sold for a standard hinged entry may be incompatible with a sliding mechanism, even if the face dimensions appear similar. Check whether the exact lock supports the existing mechanism and whether the door requires a specific mortise.
If an automatic sliding door is involved, electrical access control integration may be a different project from installing a residential smart lock. Ask a qualified access-control professional to assess the complete system.
Security screen doors and outdoor gates
A screen door may have limited thickness, multiple locking points or special clearance requirements. Gates may add rain exposure, temperature variation and unusual latch alignment. An outdoor-rated product should be chosen using documented specifications and installation conditions, not the marketing photo.
Double-sided locking may be relevant to some controlled entry points, but egress and emergency access obligations must be considered. Do not create a situation in which occupants cannot leave safely.
Fire-rated doors require special care
A fire-rated door is part of a tested assembly. Altering the lock, cutting new holes or changing hardware can affect its fire and smoke performance. Any replacement requires appropriate evidence and professional advice based on the particular door assembly and building obligations. A general product listing does not by itself establish approval for a specific rated door.