Mortise locks are fitted in a rectangular recess carved into the door’s edge. The term mortise refers to a hole or recess carved to accommodate the lock.
Mortise lock bodies have a significantly different appearance than cylindrical lock bodies and include more functioning mechanisms. Mortise locks feature a greater variety of lever and trim styles than cylindrical locks, allowing for more versatile design options.
Durability: Mortise locks and cylinders are constructed from heavy-duty materials, such as brass. They are heavier than other lock types, making them flimsier and less durable.
They are designed to fit into a pre-carved hole in the door, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the door edge. Mortise locks are not suitable for doors that experience frequent use or abuse because of the impact on their durability. The locks can withstand at most two years of regular use, after which they need to be replaced.
Security: Mortise locks are secure due to being fitted into a recess carved into the edge of the door. The lock’s case is set below the door’s surface, allowing it to blend in with the surrounding area, making it difficult to identify.
The lock is also concealed from view from a standard setup position. A user unfamiliar with a mortise lock can easily get trapped in its mechanism because of its concealed nature.
Sturdiness: Mortise locks are incredibly sturdy and can withstand much force and abuse. They have sturdy casings that resist impact, keeping them secure when the door is shut.
This presents an advantage over other types of locks, which may break or snap off when hit with too much force. Mortise handle locks can be used in hostile environments without worrying about damage.
Design: Mortise locks are designed to match a wide variety of door styles, giving users freedom in design options. This is because the lock mechanism and handle or lever (“lever mortise lock”) mechanisms are not as visible as cylindrical locks and do not have to adapt to the door’s shape.
Unlike other types of locks, mortise locks may be used on interior and exterior doors. A mortise lock is often paired with a rectangular or trim plate (trim plate mortise lock) that completes the door’s design.
Functionality: Mortise locks can feature several functions that are not standard with other types of locks. The lock mechanisms can be fitted into various designs, allowing the lock to perform several functions.
Not all mortise locks have the same functions, and some have more than one option installed. These extra functions can be added or removed at will by the user.
Flexibility: Mortise locks are often fitted with an additional handle or lever in the lock, allowing the user to set a padlock or deadbolt. Mortise locks also work with an enhanced deadbolt lock, allowing the bolt and door to be locked together.
This makes them suitable for doors that need exterior protection. Using the door can be identified by looking at this extra lever or handle. It can be flush with the door edge, a raised surface that sticks up or even attached to the top of the door itself.
Accessibility: Mortise locks are easily accessible because they are fitted into a standard recess at the edge of doors. The lock can easily be removed for cleaning and maintenance.
The lock mechanism can also be replaced without removing the entire door. This makes them much easier to work on, allowing the user to get them repaired or replaced quickly and with little time out of service.
Conclusion
Mortise locks are very versatile and can fit a variety of door styles. The lock is fitted into a pre-carved hole, allowing the lock to blend with the door edge seamlessly. The lever or handle can be incorporated into the lock, making it suitable for interior and exterior applications due to its design.
Mortise locks are sturdy and can easily survive regular wear and tear, lasting up to two years before being replaced. They are easy to access and interchangeable with other functions without affecting their functionality.
Dorset offers a variety of mortise handle locks, including cylinder and cylinder with lever mortise locks, which are ideal for both residential and commercial use.
