Mortice Door Locks

Mortice door locks are fitted into the door’s edge. Once fitted, you will only see the front side of the lock. It is used to open and close your door using a door handle or door knob. There’s no locking mechanism required to use it.

The mortice locks are available in deadlock or sashlock variants. Therefore, it is crucial you know which one you need before buying one.

Deadlock or Sashlock?

Mortice Sashlock

A sashlock is a combination of a deadlock and a latch. A mortice sashlock is used to open and close doors. Besides, it can be locked from both sides with a key. It is operated by a door handle or knob.

The keyholes are covered with an Escutcheon. Besides, a sashlock can be used without a key therefore you won’t need it each time.

Mortice Deadlock

A mortice deadlock is operated by a key. It does not have a latch to open the lock. They are available in different types namely the 5 Lever and 3 Lever.

Size and Measurements

Measuring the centres

If you’re installing a sashlock to allow the lock to be operated in conjunction with a door handle, you’ll need to measure from the ‘follower’s centre’ – the hole where the handle spindle is located to the keyhole’s centre.

Measuring the backset

This is the measurement from your lock’s front plate to the back of the lock case.

When choosing a mortice deadlock, it is crucial that you get the right size for your door.

• When fitting knobs, it is recommended that you select a latch or lock that is at least 100 millimetres. This gives you a backset of 76 mm and prevents your hand from getting injured.
• For lever handles, go with a 76 mm or 64 mm lock.

You should also take into account where the mortice lock will be positioned.

• If you have a horizontal rail that allows you to position your lock, the lock size should not be a problem.
• If it is a vertical stile it is important to know the size of the lock.

Determining the size is also crucial if your door has decorative beading or glazed. Some stiles have a width of 100 millimetres and this means you cannot mortice the 100 millimetres required to have knobs.

The Security Level

Internal doors require less security than external doors.

• A deadlock is recommended for external doors as it can only be opened and closed using a key offering a higher level of security.
• On the other hand, a sashlock is recommended for internal doors. However, it is more convenient than a deadlock since it does not require a key to open.

Balancing convenience and security can be challenging, but it is highly recommended to choose convenience in the case of internal doors and security for external doors.

Finally, deciding on what type of mortice door lock to install may not seem like a vital decision, but most burglars gain entry through doors. Making sure you’ve optimum mortice door locks for your house can mean the difference between vulnerability and security.