Fitting mortice locks and latches

Fitting Mortice locks and latches

Before we begin the process of explaining the principles of fitting a Mortice, there are just a few questions to ask yourself, just to make sure you are ready to go!

(1) If you are fitting new furniture to existing doors make sure you measure your existing lock to ensure that they are of a similar size so you don’t have to make other holes within your door. A Lever with backplate can sometimes cover existing holes on the vertical, but not usually horizontally. Always make sure that the Forend/ Faceplate of the lock/latch is greater than the one you are replacing as you can always make the hole larger but not smaller.

(2) Make sure your lock thickness is not more than ¾ of the thickness of the door as this will weaken the door.

(3) Check that the Spindle length you have chosen is compatible with the width of the door. Remember you can alter the length by reducing the size by cutting, but you cannot add length.

(4) Check whether the furniture you are fixing, either new or existing, is Sprung or Unsprung and that the corresponding lock or latch is an acceptable match – see Locks/latches explained.

(5) Always measure hinge size, both width and depth, as differing depths can affect how the door closes, causing the need for alterations.

(6) Will one system, if fitting a locking mechanism for an external door, be enough? A determined burglar may still be able to access your property by a heavy blow, possibly splitting the door frame. Experts advise a number of locking systems spaced along the door to spread the load and give strength. Other locking systems to consider for an external door include: Hinge bolt, Rack bolt, and Night latch.

(7) Make sure, if you are fitting external doors/fittings, you have enough time to complete the job. Finding you have no way to lock your door by nightfall could cause serious problems!

Fitting.

This section makes the assumption that you are fitting your new furniture, purchased from doorchic, onto a new door. The same principle does apply to existing doors, but make sure you have read points 1-7 above.

(1) Once you have decided the height for your handles, hold the lock/latch body against the edge of the door and mark above and below the height of the Mortice.
(2) Measure the thickness of the body of the mechanism, and mark the measurements, either in pencil or using a Mortice gauge, centrally on the door edge.
(3) Using tape on your drill bit as a depth gauge, select a drill bit that is equal in size to the required opening. Drill overlapping holes down the centre line just slightly deeper than the lock/latch body.
(4) Using a chisel, clean out any left over wood and debris.
(5) Place the mechanism in the Mortice to check the size, and adjust if necessary. With the lock/latch in the Mortice carefully scribe around the Faceplate with a pencil or knife and remove the mechanism.
(6) Using the outline as a template, carefully use a wood chisel to cut around the outline. Make a series of parallel cuts with the chisel within this area, and carefully chisel out the waste wood making sure to keep within the confines of the recess.
(7) Hold the lock/latch flush and level against the door with the Faceplate facing towards the Mortice and mark the central position of the Spindle and or keyhole with a bradawl.
(8) Clamp a piece of scrap wood to the other side of the door (to avoid splitting) and drill a hole large enough to accept the Spindle, and or the key. Please note that these holes may differ in size, and always remember to make sure the Rose or Escutcheon is larger than the drill bit you are using.
(9) Slide the lock/latch into the Mortice and drive in the Faceplate fixing screws.
(10) Insert the Spindle, and fit the furniture. Do not fix to the door until you are sure that the Spindle moves freely. Ensure the key works the lock, and then affix the Escutcheon centrally to the hole.
(11) Close the door and mark where the latch bolt/bolt meets with the door frame and mark the position.
(12) Chisel out a Mortice for the bolt and Striking plate (as above) and screw on the plate.

Please note that the guidelines on ‘fitting’ a Mortice are to be used as a guide only, and we cannot be held responsible for any damaged property or appliances. If you are unsure you should always consult an expert.