Oval Cylinder Keyed Both Sides

(11 products)

Oval Cylinder Keyed Both Sides – Secure Both Entry and Exit

Oval Cylinder Keyed Both Sides locks — also called double cylinder oval locks — offer two-way key access, making them ideal for retrofitting older commercial or aluminium doors. Designed to fit oval profile lock cases, these cylinders remain essential for legacy doors still in service across the UK.

These cylinders feature a keyhole on both the internal and external face of the door, providing secure locking from either side. They’re commonly used in commercial buildings, school facilities, and older residential doors where the lock case accepts an oval cylinder rather than a Euro cylinder.

Pros of Oval Cylinders Keyed Both Sides

Key access from both sides of the door
Compatible with older aluminium or timber door lock cases
Retrofit-friendly with minimal door modification
Available in keyed alike and master key systems

Any Drawbacks?

Oval cylinders are less common in modern doors. Most new builds now favour Euro profile cylinders for wider compatibility, increased security ratings, and TS007 compliance. However, if you’re replacing or upgrading an existing oval setup, these cylinders remain the best solution.

We supply across the UK with fast shipping to London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and more.

What You'll Need With an Oval Cylinder

Pair Your Cylinder with Compatible Hardware

When fitting an oval cylinder keyed both sides, it's important to pair it with correctly matched components to ensure optimal performance and long-term reliability. Start with an oval profile lock case, which is specifically shaped to house oval cylinders. These are most commonly found in older aluminium or commercial timber doors and are essential for ensuring the cylinder operates smoothly and securely.

To finish the door setup, you’ll need either oval profile escutcheons or oval cylinder pulls. These components protect the cylinder barrel, provide a clean aesthetic, and help prevent wear around the lock area — particularly useful in high-traffic environments like schools, offices, or shared residential entrances.

For a fully integrated solution, consider using door handles on oval lock backplates. These handles are pre-configured to accept oval cylinders and offer a professional finish without the need for complex custom fitting. This setup is ideal for tradespeople carrying out refurbishments, locksmiths replacing legacy lock systems, or commercial maintenance teams upgrading older doors with matching architectural hardware.

Every component plays a role in ensuring the cylinder remains aligned and secure, so it's always recommended to check compatibility before purchase. If you're unsure what accessories you need, our team can advise you based on door type, cylinder function (keyed both sides, half, or with thumbturn), and lock case dimensions.

How to Measure an Oval Cylinder

Correct Sizing and Euro Cylinder Alternatives

To correctly measure an oval cylinder, first remove it from the door by loosening the central fixing screw (typically visible on the edge of the door faceplate). With the cylinder out, measure from the centre of the fixing hole to each end — one measurement for the internal side and one for the external. These two numbers determine the cylinder size. For example:

A 35/35 cylinder = 70mm overall
A 40/30 cylinder = 70mm overall with offset lengths
A 45/45 cylinder = 90mm overall

This measuring method is the same as for Euro cylinders, but oval profile cylinders have a unique shape that only fits compatible oval profile lock cases. Be sure to also check which side of the door is internal versus external, especially if you're using a cylinder with a thumbturn or plan to upgrade to keyed-alike access.

While oval cylinders are still widely used for commercial retrofits and replacement jobs, Euro profile cylinders have become the preferred choice for new installations. They're more readily available in a range of sizes, materials, and finishes. They also support enhanced security features like:

TS007 3-star rated cylinders
Anti-snap, anti-drill, anti-drill, and anti-pick protection
Options for keyed alike systems or master keying

If you're working on HMOs, care facilities, schools, or commercial offices, fire safety and emergency escape are often a key requirement. In such cases, it’s worth considering an oval cylinder with a turn. These have a thumbturn on the inside, so occupants can exit quickly without needing a key — a safer and often regulation-compliant option.

In short, stick with oval cylinders when you're working with legacy or existing hardware — but if you're starting from scratch, Euro profile cylinders offer a more future-proof, secure, and versatile locking solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Oval Cylinder Keyed Both Sides?

It’s a double cylinder lock with a keyhole on both the inside and outside. Suitable for older commercial and timber doors using oval lock cases.

Can oval cylinders be keyed alike or master keyed?

Yes. Oval cylinders can be keyed alike to use one key across multiple doors or set up as part of a master key system for controlled access.

Are oval cylinders still used in the UK?

Yes, though less common, they are still used in legacy systems and retrofit projects where existing oval lock cases are in place.

Should I use Euro profile cylinders instead?

If installing new locks, Euro cylinders are often preferred due to wider availability and advanced security features. Oval cylinders are best suited to replacement jobs.

Trusted Nationwide Supplier

Architectural Ironmongery You Can Rely On

With over 30 years of experience in the ironmongery trade, we are proud to support locksmiths, joiners, contractors, and facilities managers across the UK. Whether you're replacing a single oval cylinder in a heritage building or specifying full hardware packs for commercial refurbishments, we offer expert support and reliable supply.

We stock and supply architectural hardware from the UK’s leading brands, including From The Anvil, Carlisle Brass, Heritage Brass, and Frelan Hardware. These manufacturers are known for their attention to detail, finish options, and reliability across commercial, residential, and trade projects.

Our range of architectural ironmongery includes everything from lock cylinders and escutcheons to door furniture and fixings, all backed by our expert guidance and UK-wide logistics. We deliver quickly and reliably to locations such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield, Bristol, and surrounding regions — helping to keep projects on track and sites secure.

Whether you're working on listed buildings, office refits, schools, or general maintenance, our range of oval profile hardware and door security solutions can help meet your specific requirements.

If you're unsure which oval cylinder, accessory, or handle type you need — or if you're working with a non-standard lock setup — contact us and we’ll help you find the right solution, first time.