Understanding Mortice and Sashlocks

Please 'click' on the image to expand it.

The Period Ironmonger now stocks a wide range of Architectural 3 lever mortice locks, Mortice Bathroom locks and Mortice latches so we have decided to explain the terminology and describe the parts of the mortice lock to give you an idea of the things you need to consider when purchasing one. 

Most of us do this type of work along with house building or house renovation so there may well be a builder involved in the project to offer some advice. If you are in any doubt as to what you require please give us a ring and we will be glad to advise you.

 

A mortice lock or latch is fitted inside your door so the only visible part is the 'outer forend' with the latchbolt and deadbolt protruding from it, the other type of lock is a rim-lock or latch (shown left) which is attached to the outside of the door frame. 

The image above shows a Sashlock, these locks have two bolts, the latchbolt and deadbolt, the latchbolt is operated by a lever mechanism using either a door knob or lever handle and the deadbolt is operated using a key which in turn again operates a lever mechanism.

The main consideration when purchasing a mortice lock is do you want to use  lever handles or door knobs when the lock is fitted, this will normally determine the Backset (B) which will ultimately let you know the size of the aperture required in the door to house the Lockcase (A). The reason you need to decide before buying the mortice lock is, if you use door knobs and the Backset is on the smaller side you may end up catching your hand on the door frame when you open the door as it will bring the knob closer to the edge of the door. 

If on the other hand you decide to use lever handles a smaller Backset would be preferable as you wouldn't want the handles too far in from the edge of the door (if in doubt please don't hesitate to ask us)

We now also supply a selection of mortice bathroom locks, (shown right) these work on the same principle as the Sashlock except that the deadbolt is now operated by a small knob on the inside of the door called a 'turn and release', this replaces the need for a key.

We sell a range of door knobs and lever handles both period or contemporary that would complement the mortice and rim locks we sell and a beautiful range of reproduction door furniture which includes Bell Pulls, Letter plates and Door Knockers  are all based on original Victorian and Edwardian designs.