Mortice Locks – How Do They Work?
Trusted Advice from Locksmith Salisbury
At Locksmith Salisbury, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How exactly does a mortice lock work?” These traditional locks have been a reliable form of door security for decades, and they’re still widely used across Salisbury and surrounding Wiltshire towns.
If you’re thinking of upgrading your home security or simply curious about how your current locks protect your property, here’s a straightforward guide to understanding mortice locks—and why they remain such a popular option in our area.
What Is a Mortice Lock?
A mortice lock is set into a pocket (or “mortice”) that’s cut into the edge of a wooden door. Unlike surface-mounted locks, this type of lock sits within the door itself, making it both more discreet and harder for intruders to tamper with.
You’ll find mortice locks all over Salisbury—in homes from the city centre to Wilton, Laverstock, and the surrounding countryside. In fact, many older properties still rely on 5-lever mortice deadlocks on their main doors. And for good reason—they’re tough, reliable, and built to last.
Types of Mortice Locks
Most homeowners around Salisbury will come across two main kinds of mortice locks:
Sashlocks
These combine a key-operated deadbolt with a handle-operated latch. They're ideal for internal or external doors that need both locking and daily use.
Deadlocks
Deadlocks use a single bolt and are key-operated only—no handle. They’re often fitted as an additional security measure alongside other locks.
How a Mortice Lock Works
When you insert and turn the key, it engages a set of internal levers. These levers must all be raised to a specific height (set by the key) before the bolt can slide back into the lock case or out into the strike plate.
The more levers, the more secure the lock—5-lever mortice locks are stronger and harder to pick than 3-lever versions. Most insurers now require BS3621-rated 5-lever locks on entrance doors for full policy compliance.
Why Salisbury Homes Still Rely on Mortice Locks
Many properties in Salisbury still feature timber doors, making mortice locks an ideal choice. Here’s why they remain a trusted favourite:
Built for strength – Solid internal mechanisms make them highly resistant to brute force and tampering.
Perfect for wooden doors – Especially common in period properties found throughout the city and nearby villages.
Meets insurance standards – BS3621-approved locks are often a must for home insurance.
Signs It’s Time to Replace or Repair Your Lock
If your key starts sticking, you have to wiggle it to turn the lock, or the whole unit feels loose—don’t ignore it. These are early signs of wear or internal failure. A quick fix now could save you from being locked out later.
We carry BS3621-compliant locks on board and aim to resolve most issues on the first visit—whether it's a repair, realignment, or a full replacement.
Your Local Mortice Lock Experts in Salisbury
At Locksmith Salisbury, we cover the city and surrounding areas including Downton, Amesbury, Alderbury, Odstock, and more. When you contact us, you’ll get:
No call-out charges or hidden fees
Clear advice and honest pricing
Same-day service where possible
A reliable, local locksmith you can trust
Book a Mortice Lock Service Today
Whether you need a quick repair or a full upgrade, we’re just around the corner and ready to help. Call 01722 730034 or visit
www.locksmithsalisbury.co.uk to speak with a friendly local expert today.