Mortise locks dominated the markets years ago before cylindrical locks arrived on the scene, and they are still popular in many custom and premium doors today. The body of a mortise lock isn’t round like a cylindrical lock but rectangular. They are commonly referred to as a box and sit in a pocket in the door.
Mortise locks can be used for exterior or interior doors with an appropriate stile width. They are available with either a lever handle or a knob to open and close the door. The most important advantage is added security.
The box itself is heavy-duty and the bolt is rectangular, offering more stopping power. Some mortise locks feature bolts that are reinforced with hardened steel inserts for maximum protection and security. The box itself is complex with a series of notches and levers, and it’s totally concealed when the door is closed.
Mortise locks also include a feature which prevents the ability to retract the latch with a credit card. Lastly, they’re more aesthetically pleasing because of their clean look and old antique charm.
