Mortice Locks Ireland | Sashlocks, Deadlocks & Bathroom Locks

A mortice lock is fitted into a recess cut into the edge of a door, leaving most of the lock mechanism concealed within the door itself.

Mortice locks are available in several different configurations, so choosing the correct type will depend on whether the door needs to latch, lock with a key, operate with a cylinder or provide bathroom privacy.

Mortice Sash Locks

A mortice sash lock combines two functions within one lock case: a spring-operated latch that holds the door closed and a deadbolt that provides the locking function.

Sash locks are normally used with a pair of lever handles or suitable door knobs, together with a key, cylinder or other locking mechanism depending on the model.

They are commonly used where a door needs to operate normally with a handle but also needs the option of being securely locked.

Mortice Deadlocks

A mortice deadlock provides a locking bolt without the spring latch found in a sash lock.

Deadlocks are often used where a door does not require a lever handle to operate a latch, or as an additional locking point on a door.

When selecting between a sash lock and deadlock, consider how you want the door to operate during everyday use as well as how it needs to be secured.

Bathroom Mortice Locks

Bathroom mortice locks combine a latch with a separate privacy locking mechanism.

They are normally used with a bathroom thumbturn on the inside of the door, allowing the occupant to lock and unlock the door without using a key. An emergency release can generally be fitted externally as part of the bathroom furniture.

Bathroom mortice locks are suitable for bathrooms, WCs, en-suites and other rooms where privacy rather than high-security locking is required.

2½" or 3" Mortice Lock?

Mortice locks are commonly available in 2½" and 3" case sizes.

The correct size will depend on the door construction and the position you want the handle, knob or keyhole to occupy in relation to the edge of the door.

A larger lock case generally positions the operating mechanism further away from the door edge. This can be particularly important when using larger door knobs, where additional clearance between the knob and the door frame may make the door more comfortable to operate.

Always check the individual lock dimensions, including the case depth and backset, before ordering or replacing an existing mortice lock.

Lever Locks or Euro Profile Locks?

Traditional mortice locks can use a lever-operated key mechanism, while Euro profile mortice locks are designed to accept a separate Euro profile cylinder.

A Euro cylinder system offers flexibility because the cylinder and lock case are separate components. Depending on the cylinder selected, options can include key-and-key operation, key-and-thumbturn operation and keyed-alike systems.

Traditional lever locks provide an integrated key-operated locking mechanism and remain popular for both traditional and contemporary timber doors.

The best system will depend on the door, required level of security and the other ironmongery being used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mortice lock?

A mortice lock is a lock installed into a pocket or recess cut into the edge of the door. Most of the lock case is therefore concealed once the door is installed.

What is the difference between a sash lock and a deadlock?

A sash lock contains both a latch and a locking bolt, allowing the door to be operated with a handle and locked when required.

A deadlock contains a locking bolt but no spring latch.

What is a 5 lever mortice lock?

A 5 lever lock uses a series of internal levers that must be correctly positioned by the key before the locking bolt can move.

When security or compliance is important, check the exact testing and certification of the individual lock rather than assuming that every 5 lever lock offers the same performance.

Should I choose a 2½" or 3" mortice lock?

Both sizes are commonly used. The main consideration is the position of the handle, knob or keyhole in relation to the edge of the door.

A 3" lock can provide greater clearance from the door frame, which can be particularly useful with larger mortice door knobs.

What is the backset of a mortice lock?

The backset is the distance from the edge or faceplate of the lock to the centre of the spindle, keyhole or cylinder position.

It is an important measurement when replacing an existing lock or when coordinating the lock with door handles and knobs.

What lock should I use on a bathroom door?

A bathroom mortice lock is normally the most suitable option. It provides a standard latch for the door handle together with a separate privacy bolt operated by a bathroom thumbturn.

Can I use a mortice lock with door knobs?

Yes, many mortice locks can be used with door knobs. However, the lock size and backset are particularly important because sufficient clearance is needed between the knob and the door frame.

For larger knobs, a deeper lock case or suitable horizontal lock may provide a more comfortable operating position.

Need Help Choosing a Mortice Lock?

The correct mortice lock will depend on your door, ironmongery and required locking function.

Roundtower Hardware stocks mortice sash locks, deadlocks, bathroom locks, Euro profile locks and traditional lever locks for a wide range of residential and commercial applications.

Browse our mortice lock collection online, or contact our team if you need help matching a lock to your door handles, door knobs, cylinders or existing ironmongery.