Different types of mortice lock

A mortice lock is a specific type of lock that has been designed to fit the inside edge of a door. 

Mortice locks are mostly used with front doors as they are incredibly difficult to force open. There are several different types of mortice locks, all of which can only be opened with a key.

These locks are extremely robust and durable. As a result, they are a popular choice amongst homeowners looking to optimise security in their home.

In fact, when purchasing home insurance, you will find that some companies will only insure your property if it has been secured with a mortice lock. 

What are the different types of mortis lock?

There are a number of different mortice lock latches available, which can be fitted into a door and frame to achieve optimum security.

Common types of mortice locks include: 

Mortice Deadlocks 

Mortice Deadlocks can only be operated with a key, from both the inside and outside. Unlike a mortice sash lock, mortice deadlocks don’t have a latch to open the lock.

They come complete with a single bolt, which is secured within the material of the door frame rather than on to the surface, for optimum strength and stability. 

Mortice deadlocks are commonly fitted to external front and back doors. They are fitted to wooden and timber doors but cannot be used on uPVC or composite doors. 

If you choose this type of mortice lock, you should ensure that it meets all relevant British Standards and that it is suitable for your door and property. Mortice locks conforming to BS3621 offer optimum security and are tested against common theft methods such as lock picking and drilling.  

Mortice Sash Locks

A mortice sash lock is a combination of a latch and a deadlock. The lock can be locked from both the inside and outside using a key, while the latch is operated with a door handle or door knob. 

Mortice sash locks are can be used on both internal and external doors. The most common types of mortice sash lock used on an internal door is a 3 lever mortice sash locks, compared to a 5 lever mortice sash locks which is usually used on exterior doors. Other types include horizontal mortice sash locks, sliding door mortice sash locks, and bathroom mortice sash locks. 

Again, when looking at mortice sash locks, you should ensure that they are British Standard approved if using on an external door. 

The five-lever mortice deadlock

Five-lever mortice deadlocks are a type of lock that is installed into the door material. This type of mortice deadlock is perfect for all doors, except for aluminium, UPVC, or composite doors. It can be locked and unlocked using a key, and features five different levers to optimise security. You can use this lock on both internal and external doors, making it incredibly versatile. 

The three-lever mortice deadlock 

A three-lever lock is also incredibly secure however, it lends itself more to low-level security such as internal doors.

Mortice Night Latches 

Mortice night latches lock as soon as a door is closed, meaning you don’t need to worry about using a key to lock the door. However, once the door is shut, you will need a key to open it from the outside again. From the inside, the door can be unlocked by turning the handle. 

These locks are fitted to the surface of the door. 

Are there different sized mortice locks?

It goes without saying that any door in your home is the first line of defence against intruders. With this in mind, it’s important that you get the correct size lock for your door. 

The vast majority of mortice locks are suitable for both left and right-hand opening doors, and are available in a range of different sizes. With this in mind, it’s important that you understand how to measure a mortis lock.

Smart Choice Security is one of the UK’s leading specialists in home security. We have a wealth of experience in the locksmith industry and offer home protection with friendly, reliable support. 

Browse our range of mortice locks here and, if you have any questions about our mortice locks get in touch by emailing info@smartchoicesecurity.co.uk or calling us on 0333 305 2967.