Statistics show that home invasion and burglary are alarmingly common in America, happening every 16 and 26 seconds. Statistics also show that the vast majority of burglaries occur through easily accessible entry points such as an open or unlocked external door or window. Installing a proper locking system is of paramount importance and is one way to increase home security and reduce the chances of home invasion, break-ins, or burglary.
One way to upgrade your home security is by installing mortise locks, one of the most common and popular locking systems in both commercial and residential properties. Mortise locks have a solid reputation and are even the lock of choice in the insurance industry. In fact, when getting home insurance, some companies will only insure your property if it is secured with a mortise lock.
What Are Mortise Locks
A mortise lock is a lock that is installed inside a door’s pocket. To install one, you must first create the pocket by cutting out a rectangular area from the surface of your door, after which you must fit the lock into it.
Depending on where you install this type of lock, drilling into your wood frame may be required to secure it. However, although installing a mortise lock can be a little complicated, it is worth the effort because they are more challenging to pick than conventional cylindrical locks, and installing one will significantly improve the overall security of your property.
Types of Mortise Locks
Learning about the different types of mortise locks is essential if you want to make an informed decision in buying one. Below are the types you can choose from:
Mortise Deadlock
Mortise deadlocks can be opened from the inside or outside using a key. Unlike mortise sash locks, this type of deadlock doesn’t have a latch that opens the lock.
For maximum strength and stability, mortise deadlocks come with a single bolt fastened inside the door frame’s material instead of the outside. Moreover, they are frequently installed on external front and back doors. Ideally, they can be integrated on wooden doors but not on uPVC types.
Mortise Sash Locks
The mortise sash lock combines a latch and a deadbolt. The deadbolt can be locked from the inside and outside using a key, while a door handle or doorknob controls the latch.
Mortise sash locks are suitable for both interior and exterior doors. Three-lever mortise sash locks are the most frequently used on an inside door, whereas five-lever mortise sash locks are typically used on exterior doors. Other varieties of mortise sash locks include:
- Horizontal mortise sash locks
- Mortise sash locks for sliding doors
- Mortise sash locks for bathrooms
List of Mortise Lock Components
Know the different parts or components of a mortise lock to make it easier to understand how it works.
- Cylinder – This is mounted in the door jamb and contains all the moving parts besides the deadbolt.
- Body – This contains everything else, including all electrical equipment, such as RFID main board connectivity, allowing you to unlock your doors using RFID key cards remotely.
- Faceplate – This is the visible portion of the lock. It has a cylinder and cam to open and close the door, among other components.
- Strike Plate – This is a metal plate attached to the door frame. The striking plate prevents the door from separating from its hinges when exposed to significant force or pressure, such as during storms with excessive wind pressure, earthquakes, or break-ins.
- Deadbolt – This is similar to a conventional deadbolt; however, it contains more moving components than cylindrical deadbolts. A mortise deadbolt consists of two locking components that slide into place when turned clockwise and can be retracted by rotating them counterclockwise until they click back into place.
- Latch Bolt – This component glides along tracks within the door frame until it reaches a “latching mechanism,” which prevents movement after reaching its maximum position.
- Handle – This is a device attached to the door frame. It consists of a lever and a locking bolt coupled with a spring. The locking bolt retracts into the door frame when the lever is turned.
The Benefits of Using a Mortise Lock
So what makes mortise locks an excellent investment for your home’s security? Read on to find out.
1. Durability
Commercial mortise locks are constructed from robust materials to ensure their resistance to wear and tear. Their sturdiness makes them ideal for high-traffic environments, such as schools and hospitals. Likewise, the durability of residential mortise locks cannot be disputed as it has proven its longevity through the years.
2. Security
Since mortise locks are built into the door frame rather than attached to the door, they provide exceptional resistance to tampering. Removing both components is a complicated and time-consuming process, which means it is more likely that a person will be spotted and reported when trying to break into a home with a mortise lock.
3. Aesthetics
Mortise locks are available in various styles, from conventional to innovative, allowing them to be readily incorporated into any design.
4. Adaptability
Another benefit of these types of strong locks for doors is their flexibility. You can use mortise locks for various types of doors throughout your homes and offices and modify sizes based on whatever size openings exist between frames and jambs.
5. Easy Installation
Mortise locks are simple to install and can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer in a short time. Typically, the lock is inserted through the door’s edge or frame and into the door stiles. This means that no home or office modifications are required before installation. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about causing damage to your home when installing this lock, as it does not involve difficult cutting or drilling procedures like other lock varieties.
6. Easy Maintenance
Suppose you’re looking for a lock that requires little maintenance after installation. Mortise locks are ideal. They are super convenient because they retain their aesthetic appeal even with smaller maintenance amounts. Once installed properly on both sides of a door frame, Mortise locks require minimum upkeep and continue to keep their aesthetic appeal for longer.
Conclusion
Every door in your home is a potential entry point for intruders. Your choice of locks is critical because they are your first line of defense against intruders. A robust lock system increases your home’s security and gives you peace of mind. Fortunately, mortise locks offer this level of security. Mortise locks offer guaranteed security and are perfect for your home. There is a vast array of mortise lock sizes, so there will always be a choice for all your home’s entry points.
Upgrade your home security with Alpine Door Hardware.
Keep in mind that the strength of any door is determined by its lock. You may compromise your home’s security if your locks are weak, easy to pick, and breakable. It is always a good idea to upgrade your door security with mortise locks from Alpine Door Hardware, the most trusted store that offers top-notch door hardware in Park City, UT. With our vast range of locks, you’ll find the right one for your needs. Visit us now and have the peace of mind you deserve.
