door and window locks that will keep you safe

A door is only as secure as the lock that protects it, and there are so many different types of locks out there to choose from. While many property owners will simply call up a locksmith and state they need a new lock, many will never stop to consider all the options available. The mortise lock is a prime example of a type of lock that many property owners know little about even though they have likely encountered several in their lifetime. Most commonly found in commercial properties but still popular in residences, the mortise lock has a lot to offer. Unfortunately, this lock also has its unfair share of associated myths. 

Myth: Mortise locks weaken the structure of the door. 

The mortise lock installation process requires the installer to cut away an internal pocket in the door itself to house all the mechanical pieces. This leads to the assumption that the mortise lock must compromise the stability of the door itself, which is not the case in the majority of applications. The only instance that this myth would be true is if you were working with a very low-quality door that was made with low-quality materials to start with. 

Myth: Mortise locks are easy enough for anyone to install on their own. 

Mortise lock installation is not for the novice with a few hand tools and some general knowledge. These locks have a lot of internal parts that have to be perfectly connected and installed together. Plus, the whole process of creating a pocket for the locking mechanisms can be tedious, which makes it really easy to damage the door. It is always better to call on a pro for help. 

Myth: The mortise lock is a relatively new type of lock. 

Mortise locks are definitely not new. These locks have been around for quite some time. In fact, some of the oldest types of mortise-style locks actually worked with skeleton keys, which are keys that have grown to be relatively obsolete over the last several decades. 

Myth: Installing a mortise lock in a residential property is not logical. 

Mortise locks are actually pretty great for certain residential doors. The locking mechanisms can differ, which makes them harder to penetrate by the average lockpicker if you were to ever encounter one. The nice structure of the lock itself also makes it a good fit on any door that is frequently opened, closed, or locked. 

To learn more, contact a resource that offers mortise lock installation services.