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Mortise Locks

WHAT IS A MORTISE LOCK?

Mortise locks are a type of lock that requires a mortise (a deep pocket) to be cut into the door where it will be installed. The bolt of the lock is then placed into the mortise. Because it is drilled into the door itself, it relies on the strength of the frame, and is therefore more secure than locks that are simply attached to the outside of the door frame.

WHERE ARE MORTISE LOCKS USED?

A mortise lock is a great way to secure your door, though it’s typically used on older doors and construction. They were used less with the advent of bored cylindrical locks, but have recently enjoyed a comeback in commercial and residential construction because of the additional durability and security they offer over bored cylindrical locks. Mortise can endure several decades of use when properly used and maintained.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF MORTISE LOCKS?

Strength & Durability

As mentioned above, mortise lock is more durable and secure than cylindrical locks, due to the fact that they are placed deep into the door frame.  

Extra Features

Mortise locks can come with a variety of extra features for your lock, such as:  
  • Steel components (for corrosion resistance)
  • Occupancy indicators
  • Extra large ADA thumb turns
 

Added Deadbolts

Some mortise locks are available with an integrated deadbolt that retracts at the same time as the latch bolt. This extra deadbolt is stronger than the double bore prep set ups that are common on residential doors.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF MORTISE LOCKS?

Price

Because of the extra security that this lock provides, they are more costly than your typical cylindrical residential door lock.  

Weakens the Door Frame

Because it’s necessary to remove more wood from the door, the door frame itself becomes weaker. However, with such a strong and durable lock, the weakening of the door frame is mostly irrelevant.  

Installation Requires Expertise

A mortise is harder to fit into a door because of the necessity of precisely removing wood from the door to make room for the lock. Additionally, fitting the trim of the lock to the door requires precision and experience of with special equipment, making it a job for a professional. Fortunately, You can easily schedule our commercial locksmith services! We have the knowledge, tools, and experience required to fit your doors with mortise.    
Call Capital Locksmith on (206) 208-6786 to inquire about getting your doors fitted with mortise locks. Our services of locksmith in Seattle WA are fully mobile and we provide a free estimate!