Mortice Locks | Home Security | Home Improvement.

Submitted by: Richard C Lewis

Did you know that there are lots of different kinds of locks? Deadbolts, knob locks, lever handle locks, cam locks, mortice locks and euro profile locks are just the most popular. Different kinds of locks function for different purposes, and of course the purpose of all locks is the create security for homes and businesses.

Mortice locks are primarily used in residential properties. They are popular across Europe, though in most other parts of the world bored cylindrical locks have become the standard. This type of lock is secure and a long term, heavy duty option for homeowners. In fact many insurance companies require a lock that s similar to a mortice lock for home security, because in fact they are so secure. These locks are not easily tampered with, and are seemingly immovable without specialized equipment. They are often called sash locks because they involved a metal sash that covers the door. Mortice locks can either be handle driven or latch driven, and dead bolt locks are often this kind of lock. Sometimes more than one mortice lock, a keyed and a deadbolt, are used in combination for increased security.

What is a mortice? A mortice is the name for the hole that s cut into the door jam. Think of a mortar and pestal, the mortar is the bowl. A mortice lock consists of a strike plate, a hole cut into the door jam, the pin driven locking mechanism itself, and the knob where the key is inserted or handle for the deadbolt. One interesting point about this kind of lock is that it actually weakens the wood of the door. This is because door material must be removed in order to create a space to house the moving pins that form the locking mechanism. That s true for both the actual door itself as well as the door jam where the two sides of the lock meet. However the invasive nature of this kind of lock actually makes it one of the strongest types of door locks, despite its structural challenges.

Most of the time this kind of lock must be installed by a professional. It s difficult for a do it yourselfer to complete this complex project because the cutting of the hole for the pins must be so precise in order for the lock to function properly. In fact most locksmiths who install this kind of lock use a special kind of saw called a mortice jig in order to create the space for the locking mechanism. Cutting the pocket with this kind of equipment is a simple process, but someone who isn t an experienced locksmith could find themselves creating huge structural problems in the doorframe if they attempt to cut the pocket for the lock.

There are two different standard sizes for mortice locks in the British system, though many other countries only have one size of mortice lock available. These are large, for external doors, and small, for internal doors. Both kinds of locks provide a good level of security, however the larger size of the external lock means that it s much more difficult for forced entry to occur. The difference is fairly dramatic and the two kinds of locks are easily distinguishable, as the large standard lock has a faceplate which is a full inch longer than the faceplate of the smaller, interior version. Interior mortice locks are most often used on bathroom and bedroom doors, however this kind of lock for an interior door is labor intensive and difficult to install.

Here are the standards of measurement for British mortice locks, though if you find that your lock doesn t meet these standards, there is no need to worry. Older locks especially might not meet these newer standards, but rest assured that older sized locks are still widely available should you be in need of another size. Attempt to determine the manufacturer of the existing lock, and that along with the measurements you take will give you a solid place to start looking for a replacement. If you find yourself at a loss, remember that you can always consult a locksmith, who will likely be able to find the appropriate lock in the event that you re unable to.

Large British Standard (for external doors)

Backset – 57 mm (2.25 inches)

Length of Faceplate – 176 mm (7 inches)

C/C for lever lock – 57 mm (2.25 inches)

C/C for bathroom lock – 45 mm (1.75 inches)

Small British Standard (for internal doors)

Backset – 44.5 mm (1.75 inches)

Length of Faceplate – 152.5mm (6 inches)

C/C for lever lock – 57 mm (2.25 inches)

C/C for bathroom lock – 57 mm (2.25 inches)

If your current lock is worn out and in need of replacement then it s time to contact a local locksmith. Don t try to repair the lock pocket yourself, because attempting to do so could cause real structural damage to the door if you are inexperienced or attempting to use the wrong equipment. If it is the door locking mechanism itself that s worn out, in other words the hardware and not the hole in the door, then that s likely a project that you can tackle yourself.

In the event that you need to replace the lock yourself, you should complete the above measurements of the old lock, either while it is still in the door or after you have removed it. Once you have those measurements, then you can investigate purchasing the new locking mechanism. Don t concern yourself if you re worried about getting the correct measurement. Your lock hardware store will be familiar with measurements of these kinds of locks and will be able to help you ensure that you get the proper size. If you don t use the correct size when installing the new lock, then you run the risk of damaging the pocket and forcing yourself to have to call a professional. One thing that probably goes without saying is that you should never leave your house unattended should you remove the locking mechanism on an exterior door. It may sound like something that no one would ever do, but when someone gets focused on fixing the problem with that door, the can sometimes forget the purpose of the fix!

About the Author: Richard C. Lewis – London, UK – Locksmith Professional –

anytimelocksmiths.co.uk

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