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Replacing a Roto Single-Point Lock

This article will explain in detail the best options for replacing a single-point lock with a backset of 35mm or 45mm. (Note: For the purposes of this article, our photos are all of a lock with a backset of 45mm. When replacing a lock, the replacement lock must have the same backset.)

If you are attempting to replace a multipoint lock, try another of our articles that deal more specifically with that topic.

If you are attempting to replace a Roto single-point lock, please continue.

As with all single and multipoint locks, it is imperative to understand the important measurements of your particular lock.

Backset

One of the most important measurements is the backset. The backset is the distance from the front of the faceplate to the center of the key or lock cylinder

For example, the backset of the Roto single-point lock in the diagram below is 45mm (1 3/4 inch).

Note: When replacing a lock of any type, you must use the same backset. Failure to do so could result in the new lock not fitting into the door correctly and possibly not functioning correctly.


Faceplate Length, Width and Depth

A second important measurement would be the length and width of the lock's faceplate as well as its depth.

For example, the same Roto Single Point Lock used in the diagram above has a faceplate length of 13 3/8 inches (340mm) and a width of 5/8 of an inch (16mm). (See below)

Note: This measurement is especially important when the replacement lock has a longer or wider faceplate. This will require some additional mortising of the door.


Lock Body / Case Size

A third important measurement, is the size of the lock body or case.

Using the same Roto single point lock as in the first two diagrams, we can see that its lock body has a length of 8 11/16 inches and a depth of 2 3/4 inches. (See below)

Note: This measurement is especially important when the replacement lock has a lock body larger than the lock you are replacing. This will require some additional mortising of the door. A smaller lock body may result in additional problems of its own.


The most common problem you will run into when replacing your Roto single-point lock is finding an exact replacement.

That is because there is NO exact replacement.

There are two options for replacing your lock:

  1. Hoppe Single-Point Lock
  2. Roto New-Style Multipoint Lock

Replacing with a Hoppe Single-Point Lock

It is our belief at All About Doors and Windows that the BEST replacement option for a Roto single-point lock (below left) is a Hoppe single-point lock (below right).

The Hoppe single-point lock’s size and dimensions are slightly different than the Roto single-point lock, but we believe it to be the simplest and most cost-effective option.

The diagram below shows a comparison of the two locks' dimensions side by side, including the placement of the deadbolt and spring latch. While the deadbolts' alignments are virtually identical, notice that the spring latches are not in the same place.

This will require the spring latch's strike plate to be lowered by 3/4 of an inch (20mm). Also notice that when aligned properly, the faceplates are different lengths. The bottom of the Hoppe faceplate is 1/8 of an inch shorter, and its top is 2 3/8 inches shorter. This empty space can be filled if desired.

The biggest and most challenging difference between the Roto single-point lock and the Hoppe single-point lock is the lock body dimensions and size. Notice that the lock body of the Hoppe single-point lock is significantly shorter in length and depth than the Roto single-point lock. (See below) Because the lock body is smaller on the Hoppe single-point lock, the screw at the top of the faceplate may not hit wood. This will require filling in the opening made by the previous lock body or using a longer 3-inch screw.

Note: If you choose to use a 3-inch screw, make sure that the screw does not hit any glass you may have in your door. The 3-inch screw option may also require you to use some sort of faceplate support to prevent over tightening the screw and pulling the faceplate into the door.


Replacing with a Roto New-Style Multipoint Lock

A second option for replacing a Roto Single Point Lock (below left) is the new-style Roto multipoint lock with a 15 3/4 inch Faceplate (below right). This option is a bit more difficult and less cost-effective than using a Hoppe single-point as described above.

As with the Hoppe lock, the new-style Roto multipoint lock deadbolt position is virtually identical to the Roto single-point lock's deadbolt. However, the spring latches are different. (Below left) This will require the spring latch's strike plate to be lowered by 3/4 of an inch (20mm).

Also notice that the sizes of the lock bodies are also different. (Below right) This doesn't pose as big of a problem as the Hoppe lock body does. Because of the longer faceplate, the screws will have plenty of wood to attach the new-style Roto multipoint lock to the door firmly.

The most difficult obstacle to overcome with the new-style Roto multipoint lock, is removing a portion of the slide bars. (See below) The additional part of the sliding arm that extends beyond the 15-3/4 inch faceplate will need to be cut off. However, you will need to leave the support bracket attached to prevent putting the lock in a bind. This cut must be precise. Even the smallest miscalculation can result in the lock not functioning correctly.

In order to make the perfect cut, you must extend the deadlock of the the new-style Roto multipoint lock. With the deadbolt extended, make your first cut at the bottom of the faceplate. (See below left) After the first cut is complete, the deadbolt must be retracted. Make the second cut at the top of the faceplate. (See below right)

Notice that both cuts leave a small portion of the support bracket. This will require a deeper mortise in the door to prevent the support brackets from dragging and binding up the lock. (See below) In addition, because the length of the new-style Roto multipoint lock's faceplate is longer than the Roto single-point lock, the mortise in the door will also need to be extended on both ends. This is so that the faceplate will sit flush within the door and the door can close without difficulty.

Quick Step-by-Step for Replacing Your Roto Single-Point Lock

  1. Measure
    1. Measure the backset.
    2. Measure the length of the faceplate.
    3. Measure the width of the faceplate.
    4. Measure the depth of the faceplate.
    5. Measure the length of the lock body.
    6. Measure the depth of the lock body.
  2. Purchase the replacement lock of your choice
  3. Option One: Hoppe single-point lock
    1. Remove the existing lock.
    2. Fill in any unwanted spaces (existing screw holes and/or lock body mortise.)
    3. Secure the Hoppe single-point lock to the door (faceplate support may be needed).
    4. Adjust or relocate the strike plate for the spring latch.
  4. Option Two: new-style Roto multipoint lock
    1. Remove the existing single-point lock.
    2. Remove both ends of the slide bar as instructed above.
    3. Extend and deepen the mortise within the door.
    4. Secure the new-style Roto multipoint lock to the door.
    5. Adjust or relocate the strike plate for the spring latch.