A mortise lock is a strong, specialized locking system installed on the inside of a door. Only use a mortise lock if your door is thick enough to accommodate it. The narrowest door width is 45mm (1.75 inch). If you want to improve the security of your door, know that this type of lock protects against intruders far better than standard cylinder locks.

1. What are the benefits of using a mortise lock? Here are four primary reasons why you should choose a mortise lock over other types of locks:
   1. Because burglars prefer to enter through doors, improved door security is critical.
   2. Mortise locks are dependable and strong, providing adequate door security.
   3. They are more appealing than cylinder locks due to their classic appearance.
   4. They are adaptable, you can use them with a wide range of door furniture and cylinders.

2. How Do Mortise Locks Operate? The mortise lock must fit neatly into the mortise cut-out, also known as a pocket, made in the door. The lock is made up of four essential parts:
   1. The lock trimming (door lever, doorknob or door handle)
   2. The strike plate is made of steel (metal lining for the hole within the door frame)
   3. The keyed cylinder (this is where the lock and unlock functions take place)
   4. The ‘lock body’ is the housing for the bolt.

3. The mechanical components that engage and disengage the actual lock are located here. These elements are as follows:
   1. Cylinder mortise
   2. Deadbolt (only the bolt), or…
   3. Sashlocks are a type of lock (a door catch plus a locking bolt)
   4. The auxiliary latch
   5. Bolt latch

When the door is unlocked, the door handles or knobs are turned to release the latch. There’s also the ‘through-spindle.’ Simply put, this is the long rod that connects the mortise lock body to the door handle or knob. You can unlock the door by inserting the key into a threaded ‘lock cylinder.’ The ‘cam’ component is a rectangular piece of metal that rotates to retract the door latch. Mortise locks can withstand a lot of use due to their size and weight because there is so much going on inside a mortise lock, simple maintenance is required on a regular basis.

When Is a Mortise Lock Appropriate?

A mortise lock should be used on any door that isn’t kick-proof or pick-proof. If you are unsure, have a security expert inspect the security of your doors. Door frames are also essential. If the frame is flimsy, having a high-quality, solid door with a strong lock is pointless.

Candidates for Mortise Locks

People obviously live in high-crime areas and those who live in low-crime areas. When it comes to home security, however, it is critical to never become complacent. Don’t let yourself be fooled into thinking you’re completely safe in an apartment building, especially if it’s large. Burglars can and do break into these businesses, looking for easy access through weak entrance doors. As a result, anyone with insecure doors is a good candidate for mortise locks and other door security measures.