Brands and systems

Most people in Belgium use a standard cylinder. It provides basic burglary protection but is technically outdated. Standard cylinders can often be picked or drilled relatively easily. A basic cylinder is therefore not recommended with a security lock: its limited protection leaves the whole system vulnerable. It is suitable for low-risk internal rooms or as a temporary solution before an upgrade. A master key system can allow one key to open several doors. Familiar brands include ISEO, ABUS, CISA, DOM, WINKHAUS and EVVA.

A security cylinder provides a much higher level of protection and is often combined with a security lock, such as a multipoint lock. SKG ratings use stars, for example SKG***. A quality security cylinder offers protection against drilling, picking, cylinder pulling and key bumping. Some models also resist milling attacks. Protected keys require a security card for authorised duplication. Many models have an emergency function that allows the door to be unlocked even when a key is inserted on the inside. Recommended for external doors, apartments, homes and businesses with normal to higher security needs. Master key systems are also possible. Brands include BKS, ISEO, ABUS, EVVA, CISA, DOM and WINKHAUS.

Security escutcheons and door hardware protect the cylinder; they are more than decoration. Even a security cylinder remains vulnerable if it protrudes and can be gripped with pliers and snapped. Protective hardware shields the cylinder and makes forcing it more difficult. Some models also protect against cylinder pulling. Recommended for every external door, always combined with a suitable quality cylinder.

The lock case contains the latch bolt, operated by the handle, and the deadbolt, operated by a key or thumbturn. SKG-rated lock cases are available, but a single locking point provides less burglary resistance than a multipoint lock. They are mainly suitable for internal doors or lower-risk external doors. On an external door, combine the lock case with suitable security hardware, such as pull protection, and a good security cylinder.

A multipoint lock secures the door at three, four or five points using rollers, hooks or bolts, distributing force across the door and frame. It provides high burglary resistance and improves the seal, reducing draughts and noise. Recommended for external doors of homes and businesses requiring stronger security. Always combine it with a security cylinder, otherwise the cylinder remains the weak point. Correct adjustment and regular maintenance of hinges and alignment are essential for smooth operation and resistance. Brands include KFV, GU, Sobinco, Fuhr and ASSA ABLOY.

Eff-eff is a leading brand of electric strikes for doors unlocked remotely through an intercom or video intercom. The door is usually held by the latch bolt, providing less mechanical protection than a deadbolt or multipoint lock. For higher-risk external doors, combine suitable security hardware and a security cylinder. Electric strikes operate on AC or DC, commonly 12–24 V, and are available in fail-safe versions, which unlock on power loss, or fail-secure versions, which remain locked. The correct choice depends on the building’s escape-route and fire-safety requirements. They are convenient for shared apartment entrances and internal office doors with access control.

Window locks are usually integrated into the tilt-and-turn fittings and secure the window at multiple points. Modern systems use mushroom cams that engage firmly with the keeps and make prying more difficult. They are generally matched to the window type and profile during manufacture. Ideal for ground-floor and other easily accessible windows, preferably combined with burglary-resistant glazing and lockable window handles.

Electronic locks replace a traditional key with a keypad, badge, fingerprint, smartphone app or facial recognition. Offline and online systems are available, with event logging, access management and integrations. They suit homes, B&Bs and rental properties using temporary codes, and offices using time-based access. Choose the appropriate fail-safe or fail-secure operation for the situation. For external doors or higher-risk locations, combine suitable security hardware, a security cylinder and preferably a multipoint lock. A mechanical emergency cylinder is a useful backup where available. Read more on our access control page.