Mortise locks - the strongest, most secure types of locks you can use - are available in a wide range of styles, finishes and mounts. Ideal for front and back doors at home, commercial applications and more, professionally installed mortise locks can provide you with the security you need.

Advantages of Mortise Locks

Mortise locks fit into a mortise, or pocket specifically cut for a lock, in a door. These locks have a chassis, two levers or knobs (one for each side of the door), and a cylinder. They're nearly impossible to pick, because the mechanisms that drive them are more complex than deadbolt locks are. Some of these locks come with integrated deadbolts that retract at the same time as the latch bolt does, providing an added measure of security.

Many mortise locks are also available with other helpful features, such as:

• Anti-vandalism technology

• Occupancy indicators

• Oversized, ADA-compliant thumbturns

• Stainless steel components that resist corrosion

You can use mortise locks on exterior or interior doors, and many are built to last for decades with proper care.

Before You Buy

Mortise lock mechanisms are encased in metal, and in order to use one, the hole in the door must be a perfect match. Mortise locks usually require professional installation, but once installed, most can accept cylinders and accessories made by several manufacturers.

When you buy a mortise lock, you'll have to choose handing. Your options are:

• Left

• Left hand reverse

• Reversible

• Right

• Right hand reverse

You can determine a door's handing by standing on the outside of the door. Look at where the hinges are. If the hinges are on the right, you need a right hand mortise lock. If they're on the left, you need a left hand mortise lock. When you open the door:

• If it swings toward you, it's a reverse door. You'll need a left hand reverse lock or a right hand reverse lock.

• If it swings away from you, it's a standard door and you can choose a left or right hand mortise lock, or you can opt for a reversible lock.

Types of Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are ideal for indoor and outdoor use, and they're available in these types to meet your needs:

• Keyed entry mortise locks

• Privacy locks

• Dummy sets

• Commercial-grade mortise locks

Keyed Entry Mortise Locks

Keyed entry mortise locks are the perfect way to secure your front and back door - or any other door in your home that leads directly outside. These locks come in several styles with grip handles, knob handles and lever handles that can make doors more accessible. Choose from a number of finishes, including bronze, nickel, brass and chrome to match your home.

Privacy Mortise Locks

Privacy mortise locks, designed for interior doors, feature a locking mechanism on one side and an emergency lock release on the other. Like their counterparts, mortise locks give you the option to choose handing, color or finish, and several other options for privacy mortise locks.

Dummy Mortise Lock Sets

Dummy mortise lock sets look like authentic mortise locks, but they don't require any special door preparation - they're surface-mounted. They don't offer the same protection that mortise locks do, though. These sets don't have a locking mechanism, so they're only designed to use as pulls.

Commercial Mortise Locks

Commercial mortise locks are heavy-duty enough to withstand significant use and strong enough to keep shops, restaurants, offices and other businesses safe. Most are ANSI Grade 1 door hardware, which means they're the toughest and most reliable you'll find.

Mortise Lock Parts

You don't have to purchase a mortise lock set. You can buy mortise lock parts separately, such as the locking mechanism and latch bolt for inside the door, based on your door's thickness and the backset you need.

Choosing the Right Mortise Lock

Mortise locks can provide you with extra security and peace of mind, so they're a smart choice for ingress and egress points in your home or commercial building. Choose your lock based on:

• The amount of security you need

• Your home or building's architectural style

• Whether you need ADA-compliant handles