Best Mortise Locks in 2022 – Reviews and Guide

What Are the Types of Mortise Locks?

Just now, I have mentioned there is a wide variety of mortise locks. It may raise a concern about the types of this lock. Well, though there is ample availability of this lock, they are specially designed for a specific door and purpose. However, based on the functionality, the mortise lock can be divided into two categories: sash lock and deadlock.

Sash lock

Sash locks also need to be installed in a mortise pocket. However, there is a slight difference in the design. This lock comes with a non-locking sprung latch. It means the lock work with the door handle only.

Deadlock

Similar to the sash lock, the deadlock also comes with a non-locking sprung latch. Also, the lock is connected to the pin tumbler rim. So, the difference between a deadlock and from sash lock is deadlock does not have any handle to operate. You need to open the lock using the key only.

What Is the Mechanism of the Mortise Lock?

The reason I want to discuss the mechanism of a mortise lock is not just for your understanding. Instead, it would also help you to qualify the strength and efficiency of the lock. You may also install it properly when you know how it works. Though it’s not possible to address every single detail in a paragraph or two, I will try to give an overall idea.

As you already know, the lock consists of two sections. One is the lock body, and another is the lock trim. The lock body part comes in a box that you need to install in the door mortise. Actually, this is the most important part. In the lock body, there are four main elements such as a mortise cylinder, deadbolt or sash lock, latch, latch bolt, trim, and a spindle.

Then the lock trim part is the handle, which has a key cylinder and a latch. The lock trim needs to be installed on both sides of the door. Now, you see that the lock body and the trim are two individual sections. For functioning them together to lock and unlock, the spindle of the lock body is connected to the trim.

Overall, this is the mechanism of the universal mortise lock. You may find locks with additional elements or features. However, these basic elements will exist no matter which locks you purchase.

The Difference Between the Cylindrical Lock Vs. Mortise Lock

A large number of users are fond of cylindrical locks. Thus, they think mortise and cylindrical locks are similar. In terms of the look, it may, but there is a huge difference in the mechanism, to be honest. You already know the mechanism of the mortise lock. Let me explain the mechanism of the cylindrical lock briefly.

The cylindrical lock has a knob or lever. This doorknob needs to be installed on both sides of the door. Though you need to create a hole in the door to install the doorknob, no lock needs to be installed inside the door.

And the most important benefit of this lock is you don’t need a professional’s help for installation. Using a drill, you need to create a 2 and a half inches hole. Then, you can easily set up a cylindrical lock in a few minutes. And, they are available at a low price too.

Cylindrical lock vs mortise lock

Here I will draw the difference between the cylindrical lock and mortise lock in different categories. I hope it will help you to differentiate the core differences.

Mechanism

In a cylindrical lock, the lock is inside the knob, whereas in a mortise lock, the lock is separate. Due to the simple mechanism, anyone can break the cylindrical lock. However, it would be difficult and time-consuming for a stranger to break the mortise lock, handle, or door. So, in terms of mechanism, the mortise ensures the strongest security.

Installation

Undoubtedly, installing the cylindrical lock is very easy due to the simple mechanism. If you have the right equipment, you can easily install the lock without seeking any professional help. You need a drill, drill bit, and lock. On the other hand, the mortise lock installation is too complicated. It’s highly recommended to get a professional’s help. Because even if you have the equipment, you may not install it correctly.

And it’s also risky because you may damage both the lock and door. By the way, you also need a strong door to install the mortise lock. Though the installation might be a bit challenging for an average user, the ultimate security and strength you will get from the mortise lock would be worth it.

Strength

So far, you can already assume how strong the mortise lock is. I would reiterate that each and every part of the mortise lock is made of durable material. Then, the complex functionality of the lock makes it even stronger and more trustworthy. Nevertheless, the quality of the parts of the cylindrical lock varies depending on the price. You may get strong and durable locks too. However, if I compare its strength of it with the mortise locksets, definitely the mortise lock is the winner.

Performance

For both mortise and cylindrical locks, the performance is easy, quick, and smooth. You can lock and unlock the lock by operating the knob or handle. However, if I talk about the long-term performance, after years, you may face a jam lock or breakage earlier than the mortise lock. Again, it’s due to the mechanism. However, I would say if you can ensure proper maintenance, you can increase the longevity of satisfactory performance.

Maintenance Tips

As I have said, maintenance can increase the lifetime of a lock. So, here, I will share some maintenance tips that can help your lock last long. I personally followed these tips and got a good result. Therefore, I’d like to share them with you!

What I do is monitor the screws that are firmly attached to the plate regularly. You can also follow this strategy once a month and tighten the loose screws. Then, to prevent jamming and break-free performance, you can oil the parts inside the lock body. Here, I would ask you to be very careful and refrain from opening the lock unless it’s necessary. Then, how do you oil the lock?

I try to pour oil using an oiling bottle with a thin nozzle. Then, from the different bolts, spindles, and joints, pour the drop of oil. Once you are done oiling the lock body, move on to the knob. Sometimes, I face a jammed handle or break it. So, to keep it properly in place, make sure you have the right tools. Then, secure the screws and parts where they belong.

This is the overall maintenance process I personally follow. However, if you find anything broken inside the lock, then you may need to follow the mortise lockset replacement process. I would recommend learning the replacement process before proceeding or seeking a professional’s help.

Quick Tips for Dealing with Lock Brake When the Door Is Closed

It’s not impossible to happen that you are locked inside, and the lock gets broken when the door remains closed. Don’t panic! If it has happened to you already, then you are experienced. If not, then time to learn a quick tip to save yourself.

So, firstly, you need to remove the hinge bolts. If it’s not possible, then grab a disk cutter to cut the bolts. Then, try to release the door from the hinges. If this process seems difficult for you, then it’s better to call the fire service or save a locksmith now.

Because this can happen to anyone. But if you can pick a high-quality lock, then you can reduce the risk of breaking or damaging the lock. So, choose wisely without prioritizing the budget only.

The Installation Process of the Mortise Lock

I cannot stretch it enough how important it is to install a mortise lock by professionals. Since such locks are much expensive and quite complicated, you may not be able to install them in the right way due to not having the expertise. Therefore, most users call a professional locksmith for installation purposes. However, the following are the equipment and steps that are needed for installation. You may keep track of the locksmith if he is doing it properly.

Preparation before installation:

First of all, you need to gather the right equipment in hand. So, the following are the elements that are usually needed for this purpose:

Equipment required: Chisel, Marker, Grit file, Mortise Lock, wooden piece/ door clamp, screwdriver, measuring scale, etc.

Once all the equipment is ready, make sure the door is open and stands steady. You can use a wooden piece to place below the door to stay in place. Also, make sure the door is strong and compatible with installing the lock.

Then, it’s essential to study how the mortise lock functions appropriately before installation. To do that, read the instruction that comes with the lock package and study the parts of the lock thoroughly.

Installation process:

First, you need to mark the position where the lock will be set. Usually, it’s 36 inches from the bottom. You can use the measuring scale and mark the position. As you mark the point, you need to create an outline of the lock body. To do that, place the lock faceplate on the door where you put a mark. Then, draw an outline as per the shape of the lock on the door. Now, mark the keyholes using the bradawl and mark the timber.

Then, drill the keyhole using a drill machine, and as you are done, chisel the keyhole.

The third step is to create the recess. Again, use the drill machine with the right bit and drill through the door. Here, you need to go a bit deeper than the actual depth of the lock. Now, once you are done recessing, chisel the recess to remove debris and timber.

Now, you are going to install the lock. While you are pushing the lock inside, make sure the faceplate shows up on the door edge. To do the job properly, you may need to chisel again.

Once the lock placement is done, secure the faceplate with the screws given. Here, you will need the screwdriver and make sure all the screws are properly tightened.

As you are done, insert the keyhole covers now. Then, test if the lock works properly using the key. Put the key inside and turn around the key back and forth.

Then, mark the position of the receiver. While you are trying the keyhole with the key in it, leave the door open. When the lock receiver is out, close the door. Where the receiver touches the door frame, you need to put a mark there.

Here, you need to cut and chisel the marked section so that the receiver part can be installed on the door frame. Now, place the receiver part and secure it with screws.

You are done with the lock installation so far. It’s time to set up the doorknob. As per the instruction given in the manual, insert the doorknob on both sides of the door. Make sure they are parallel, and secure them tightly.

So, that’s the overall installation process. If you want to install it yourself, I would suggest seeing the tutorials first and practising beforehand.

What Are the Must-have Features to Find the Best Mortise Locks?

Whether it’s a home or office interior, I tend to purchase the best elements within the budget. However, I always have a good budget to get a great quality door. Though I am often restricted in budget whenever I purchase anything, I can never compromise with security equipment, especially that is related to the door hardware.

Because, again, it’s a matter of security and privacy. And one of the key elements is “lock.” So, how do you know which one is the best-suited mortise lock for your door when there are hundreds of them out there?

I know that concern; thus, here I am going to discuss the features that will help you qualify any lock. When I was purchasing a lock for my store, these factors also helped me identify the right one for me. Let’s find them below!

Materials

The quality of the lock will mostly depend on the material used. So, when you are choosing a mortise, pay attention to the lock body and lock trim material. You can find such a lock made of stainless steel or brass. Both materials are great for durability and strength. If the lock comes with an added finish coating on top, that would be even better. Therefore, the first and foremost thing you should look for in a lock is the lock material and finish coating.

Door thickness

Just purchasing the best lock won’t be enough to ensure security. Why? Because you may purchase a strong lock, but how about the door quality where you are going to install it? Hence, before purchasing, you should measure the door thickness first. Then, check if your targeted lock is suitable for the door type. If both of them are not compatible with each other, you may break the door or damage the lock while installing.

Durability

Though the durability of a lock mostly depends on the material, how the parts are also set matters. Most of the time, I tend to look into the lock body for durability. However, since you are operating the lock with the knob, you should also check if the spindle, lock hatch, and the keyhole are strong and operate smoothly. If you face jamming, it may easily break. So check all parts and functions for durability.

Knob style

There is a wide variety of mortise locksets. Each comes with different knob types, designs, and styles. So, when you are choosing the lock, first, think about where you are going to set it. Because you can easily find mortise locks for the bathroom, closet, main door, cabinet, kitchen, shop, storage, etc., if you are too fascinated with the design, then you can also find some elegant-looking knobs. I like the knobs that are made of glass or diamond, though they are quite expensive. If you are looking for affordable locks, choose stainless steel or brass knob. They look elegant too.

What the packaging includes

When you are choosing a mortise lock, check out if there is all the necessary hardware included. Though such a lock is recommended to install with a professional locksmith’s help, some lock comes with all the door hardware and equipment that you can easily install on your own.

Included keys

When you are purchasing a lock, there will be keys. Here, you need to pay attention to how many keys are included. And, if you lose the key, is it possible to remake one or not? This is because locksmiths mostly know and do the rekeying job. However, some locks come with an easy process that users can just follow the DIY process to remake the key.

Type of door

Next, one of the most important facts you must not miss is the type of door the lock is compatible with installing. As earlier, I mentioned that, mortise locks have a wide variation and are made for different doors. Ask yourself if you are looking for the main door lock or mortise lockset for the sliding door or do you need a bathroom mortise lock, cabinet lock, kitchen or room door, etc. It will help you to set the budget wisely. Depending on where you need the strongest protection, you can easily set the budget. So, before your purchase, make sure you notice the type of door.

Mechanical or digital

Applicable door type: Not all mortise locks are used for entry doors. Some of them can be used for cabinet doors, closet doors, storage, and so on. Also, if you want to install a mortise lock for a full-fledged door, consider if the door will be an interior or exterior door so you can pick one that will shield against the elements.

Versatility

Locks with versatile features mean more facilities. As you are investing a good amount of money in a lock, it must come with extraordinary features. Most mortise locks come with advanced technology such as electrified, digital, and so on. Depending on where you need to put the lock, choose the feature accordingly.

What Might Happen If You Don’t Consider the Must-have Features

I can never compromise with security, ever! So, you have no option but to consider the must-have features if you want to make the wisest investment of your money. The reason I am prioritizing the features is that you focus on quality and review only. But, the features mentioned above include important and detailed factors that you might not think about before.

Also, mortise locks are available at cheap to high prices. To maintain your budget, you may miss the right lock for you. On the other hand, you may also find these features in an affordable lock. Hence, you can enjoy a smooth and trouble-free service for years.

Usually, I tend to purchase a lock and don’t think about maintenance and repair costs. I would say if you make the right decision to purchase the best and most suitable product, you won’t have to suffer the trouble. It is only possible when you consider the must-have features. Otherwise, who knows how many times you need to pay the price for the wrong lock you purchase!

FAQ

Q) What is a mortise lockset?

Answer: The mortise lock is a combination of a lockset that consists of a lock body and a lock trim. The lock body includes four essential components, such as faceplate, deadbolt or sash lock, latch, latch bolt, trim, and spindle. The lock trim is connected to the lock body through the spindle. This is the overall construction of a lockset. The package may include screws, nuts, and other necessary accessories to install this lock.

Q) What is a mortice door lock?

Answer: The mortice door lock is also a mortise lock. This particular lock is designed to install in a door. The reason for calling it a mortise door lock is because a mortice needs to be cut in the door to create a pocket where the lock body is going to be installed.

Q) What is the best mortise lock?

Answer: Actually, it’s difficult to name only one mortise lock as the best because it depends on many criteria. Depending on the type of door and purpose, it is not possible to suggest only one. However, since most users prefer mortise locks for interior doors, as per my research, I would say Wright Products VMT115PB, SERENADE Style MORTISE SET is a strong and durable one for interior doors like a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and so on.

Q) What are the types of mortise locks?

Answer: Since there is a wide variety of mortise locks available in the market, users easily get confused thinking of their types. However, considering the functionality of the lock, they can be categorized into two types. One is a sash lock, and the other is a deadlock. There is a slight difference in design between the two. But, the major difference is the sash lock can be operated using the door handle or knob, whereas the deadlock can be operated using the key only.