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No matter if it’s in the home or at the office, door and window security are arguably two of today’s top physical security priorities. Mortice-style door locks in particular, reinforced by pry- and spread-proof jambs and strike plates are mainstays of modern entryway security, and it’s no coincidence why they’re so highly regarded.
Unlike standard knob-type and cylinder-type locks that utilise surface locking mechanisms, the bodies of mortice-style locks are installed in morticed recesses in the edges of doors. The result is a locking mechanism which, short of ripping a door out of its frame, is virtually impossible to force open. And because mortice-style locks can be paired with a nearly limitless array of lock cylinders, as well as latches and door furniture, they’re as stylish as they are strong.
Mortice Door Lock Sets Combine Strength and Compatibility

Whether it’s the result of their hard-wearing construction or their unequaled adaptability, it’s easy to understand why high-strength mortice door lock sets are the lock type of choice for security-conscious home owners and professional security officers. Their heavy-duty bodies and multi-feature internal locking components are designed and engineered to resist the most aggressive forced entry methods, while still accommodating the widest array of door profiles. This combination of qualities gives them unparalleled functionality when it comes to:
- Unmatched security. With their pick-resistant pin and tumbler mechanisms and up to four locking bolts, the placement and sheer displacement of modern mortice locks makes it possible for them to securely withstand almost any type of attack, even drilling.
- Unequaled versatility. Mortice-style locks offer the versatility to be outfitted with a nearly limitless range of lever, thumb turn and cylinder locking mechanisms, while also boasting key override and electronic locking features that allow for a completely bespoke level of security.
- Superior compatibility. The choice of sizes and finishes that are available with mortice-style locks gives them compatibility with all types of residential and business establishment doors, as well as with an equally wide selection of latches and latching furniture.
Mortice-style locks don’t just provide increased security. They provide the peace of mind people need to know that when a door is locked it’s going to stay locked. And starting with choosing between a sash lock or deadlock configuration, property owners and managers have the basis for a door security system that’s as smart as it is strong.
Recognising the Difference Between Sash Lock and Deadlock Mortice Locks
Premium grade mortice door latch assemblies are sold in two primary styles: sash lock and deadlock style. Both provide the advanced, long life security that’s needed to withstand decades of use and millions of engagement cycles. There’s a distinct difference in just how secure these mortice lock styles actually are though, and it’s significant enough that it can even be reflected when undergoing an insurance, or risk management assessment.
Sash lock mortice door latches are the first choice for communal, internal and main doors, and feature a combination latch/locking bolt mechanism that offers single-action opening and closing convenience. But while sash lock mortices offer a clear benefit when it comes to ingress and egress, especially during emergencies, it’s deadlock-style mortice locks that take the nod for security.
Robust, deadlock-style mortice door locks do away with handles and latches, and are focused exclusively on the premise of door security, especially on external doors. They are the stoutest types of mortice locks for sale, and are unsurpassed when it comes to:
- Uncompromising security. As deadlock mortice locks can only be opened with a key, they provide the highest level of security.
- Visual, as well as physical deterrence. Not only do deadlock mortice locks pose an intimidating sight for intruders without a mortice latch, but the actual absence of a latch makes forcing the lock open even more unlikely.
- Unassailable durability. With fewer moving parts and an added capacity for strengthening, deadlock mortices are inherently stronger and more durable than sash locks.
Deadlock-style door lock mortice assemblies also come in single and double cylinder locking configurations. The locking mechanism on single cylinder deadlocks feature keyed operation from one side and a thumb turn from the other, while double cylinder deadlocks require keys from both sides. A double cylinder deadlock’s keyed operation also means that losing a key can be a costly and time consuming problem to correct. When it comes to maintaining the maximum security advantage though, deadlocks are the mortice locks Australia trusts the most.
Door Ranges That Can Accommodate Any Size Mortice Lock
Arguably the most versatile aspect of mortice lock usage is attributable to the types of doors and even windows that they can be used with. Every type of entranceway serves a different purpose, and a few of the broader classifications of internal and external doors that mortice locks and latches are specifically designed to be used with include:
- Hinged doors with 23 mm, 28 mm, 30 mm, and 32 mm backsets;
- Hinged barrier screen doors with 30 mm and 40 mm backsets;
- Sliding screen doors with 30 mm, 36 mm, and 40 mm backsets;
- Kin Long hinged and french doors with 26 mm, 28 mm, and 32 mm backsets;
- Lift-to-lock multi-point and security doors with 30 mm backsets; and,
- Keyed, twin bolt, bifold doors with fully customised backsets.
Ideally, home and business owners can buy mortice lock assemblies for virtually any type of door or window. And with a wide range of metal and wooden handle sets to choose from, modern door mortice latch sets are as attractive as they are effective.
The Final Word
At the end of the day, although there’s no shortage of lock types on the market, only one offers the security and fully customisable aesthetic to complement both commercial and residential entranceways. And for property owners who need to satisfy predetermined insurance and risk assessment parameters, the choice is even clearer. High-strength mortice door sets of locks have all the durable qualities needed to prevent unwanted access beyond any door. They’re built to withstand even the most determined entry attempts and to look good while they’re doing it.