Understanding Mortice Locks
How traditional British door locks work.
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Your Door Deserves a Specialist.
Composite and wooden doors have their own lock types and their own challenges. From Victorian mortice locks to modern multipoint mechanisms—we understand both the door and the lock. Careful work that respects your property.
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BS Locks
Traditional and modern, understood. See lock types we work with ↓
Door Challenges
When Your Door Needs Expert Attention
Wooden and composite doors present unique challenges. We understand the materials, the mechanisms, and how to work with both.
Victorian Mortice Lock Stuck?
Traditional five-lever locks need specific expertise. Older mechanisms use different keyways and internal designs. We work with these daily— repair, replacement, or upgrade without damaging period features.
Composite Door Won't Lock?
Modern composites with multipoint systems are complex. Gearbox failure, cylinder issues, alignment problems—there are multiple potential causes. We diagnose properly before recommending solutions.
Timber Frame Swelling?
Wood moves with the seasons. Doors stick, locks bind, alignment shifts. We address both the lock mechanism and door fit—sometimes easing the door is the real solution, not lock replacement.
Night Latch Failing?
Rim locks and Yale-style latches on wooden doors need proper fitting to work correctly. Worn tongues, weak springs, or misaligned strikes— we repair or replace without damaging door trim or finish.
Heritage Door, Modern Lock?
Want better security without ruining your period door's character? We advise on sympathetic upgrades—BS-rated locks that fit existing preparations, minimal visible modification.
Letterbox Lock Broken?
Built-in letterbox locks, sashlock bolts, thumbturns—the smaller components that are often overlooked. We source and fit replacements for these "minor" items that matter for daily use.
Key Won't Turn Smoothly?
Stiff locks on older doors often mean mechanism wear or alignment issues—not just lack of lubrication. We investigate properly rather than just squirting oil and hoping for the best.
Deadlock or Sashlock Problem?
Five-lever mortice deadlocks and sashlocks need specialist attention. We supply and fit insurance-rated options—BS3621 certified locks that meet policy requirements without compromising your door.
Why Choose Us
Traditional and Modern, Understood
Your door is part of your property's character. We treat it accordingly.
| What You Need | Trulox | General Locksmith | Handyman |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mortice Lock Expertise | ? | ||
| Heritage-Sympathetic Approach | |||
| Composite Multipoint Systems | ? | ||
| BS3621 Lock Supply & Fit | |||
| Door Alignment Assessment | |||
| Non-Destructive Methods | ? | ? | |
| Period Lock Sourcing |
Our Process
How We Work With Your Door
Understanding the door type comes first. Then we address the lock properly.
Describe Your Door
Is it wooden, composite, or uPVC? Traditional mortice lock or modern multipoint? Period property or modern build? These details help us prepare the right tools and parts.
~2 minutesLock Assessment
We examine the lock mechanism, door alignment, and how they interact. Is the lock worn? Is the door binding? Is it both? We need to understand the full picture before proceeding.
~10 minutesOptions & Advice
We explain what's wrong and what the options are. Repair or replace? Standard or BS-rated? Heritage-appropriate or modern? You decide based on honest information.
~5 minutesCareful Repair or Replacement
Whether servicing a Victorian mortice or fitting a composite gearbox, we work carefully. No unnecessary damage, no shortcuts. The door's character and finish are protected.
20-60 minutesDoor Works Perfectly
Lock operates smoothly. Door closes and locks without force. Keys turn freely. The mechanism is tested thoroughly before we consider the job complete.
Working properly Lock Types
What We Work With
Traditional and modern—we understand both.
Five-Lever Mortice Deadlocks
The traditional British lock—installed inside the door body, operated by key only. We service, repair, and upgrade to BS3621 rated versions for insurance compliance.
Mortice Sashlocks
Combined latch and deadbolt—handle operates the latch, key secures the bolt. The workhorse of wooden front doors. We fit quality replacements that last.
Composite Multipoint Systems
Modern locking with multiple engagement points—hooks, rollers, deadbolts. We diagnose gearbox failures, replace mechanisms, and fit anti-snap cylinders.
Rim Locks & Night Latches
Surface-mounted locks on the inside of the door. Yale-type latches, traditional rim locks, and modern variants. Repair, replacement, or upgrade—carefully fitted.
Cylinder Rim Deadlocks
Additional security for doors with night latches. Surface-mounted deadlocks that work alongside existing locks. We fit and integrate properly.
Traditional Lever Handles
The handles that operate sashlocks and latches. Worn spindles, broken springs, loose fixings—we repair or replace with matching styles for period properties.
Our Approach
What's Included in Our Service
Careful work that respects your door.
Door Type Assessment
We understand that wooden, composite, and uPVC doors all behave differently. Our assessment considers the door material, not just the lock.
Non-Destructive Approach
We don't damage doors to get locks out. Careful techniques preserve your door's finish and structural integrity.
Quality Hardware
We fit locks that will last—reputable brands, proper materials, appropriate for the door type. No cheap alternatives.
Insurance-Rated Options
BS3621 rated mortice locks available if your insurance requires them. We advise on compliance and provide documentation.
Heritage-Friendly Advice
For period properties, we suggest sympathetic options that improve security without compromising character.
Proper Fitting
Locks fitted correctly—aligned, tested, working smoothly. We don't rush or leave until the door operates perfectly.
What Our Customers Say
Real stories from wooden and composite door owners.
"1930s house with original front door. The five-lever lock seized completely—couldn't even get the key in. Trulox repaired rather than replaced, and the door still looks exactly as it should. Really appreciated their care."
Verified customer
"Composite door multipoint failed on a Friday evening—couldn't lock the house. Trulox came Saturday morning, diagnosed gearbox failure, fitted replacement same day. Brilliant service when we really needed it."
Verified customer
"Beautiful oak door with antique rim lock. Previous locksmith wanted to fit a modern Yale. Trulox sourced a period-appropriate replacement that matches the original. Actually cared about the door's character."
Verified customer
Common Questions About Door Locks
Understanding traditional and modern locking systems.
Can you work on old mortice locks or only modern ones?
Traditional
We work with all mortice locks—from Victorian five-lever mechanisms to modern British Standard versions. Many "old" mortice locks can be repaired, but we can also source period-appropriate replacements if needed.
What's the difference between a deadlock and a sashlock?
Lock Types
A deadlock has just a bolt operated by key. A sashlock has both a bolt and a latch—the latch retracts with the handle for everyday use, the bolt provides security when you lock up. Most front doors benefit from sashlocks.
My wooden door sticks in summer—is that a lock problem?
Seasonal
Often not. Wood expands in humidity and heat. If your lock was fine before, the door may just need easing rather than lock work. We check both—sometimes it's the door binding, sometimes the lock needs adjustment.
Can you fit a modern lock to a period door without damage?
Heritage
Usually yes. The key is choosing locks that fit existing preparations or making modifications that aren't visible when the door is closed. We advise on sympathetic options that improve security without ruining character.
Do you supply British Standard mortice locks for insurance?
Insurance
Yes. We stock BS3621-rated mortice deadlocks and sashlocks that meet insurance requirements. We can advise on what your policy likely needs and provide documentation confirming the lock rating.
How do composite door locks differ from uPVC?
Composite
Both typically use multipoint locking systems and euro cylinders, but composite doors are heavier and often have different adjustment requirements. The lock mechanism itself is very similar—we're experienced with both.
My night latch doesn't hold—what's usually wrong?
Night Latches
Common causes: worn latch tongue, weak spring, or misaligned strike plate. Sometimes the snib (hold-back) is partially engaged. Often repairable rather than requiring full replacement.
Can old mortice locks be repaired or must they be replaced?
Repair
Many can be repaired—worn levers, broken springs, stiff mechanisms. Some are beyond repair due to worn keyhole bushings or obsolete parts. We assess honestly and only recommend replacement when repair isn't practical.
How do I know if my door lock meets insurance requirements?
Compliance
Look for "BS3621" stamped on the lock faceplate. If it's not there, the lock likely doesn't meet the standard. Many older mortice locks predate this rating. We can check and advise on upgrades if needed.
What causes mortice locks to become stiff over time?
Maintenance
Dust accumulation, dried lubricant, worn lever pivots, and door movement affecting alignment. Regular light lubrication with graphite (not WD-40) helps. If it's already stiff, we can service or repair the mechanism.
Our Commitment
Doors Treated With Respect
Your door is part of your home's character. We understand that.
Material Understanding
We know how wood moves, how composite responds, what makes mortice locks different from multipoint systems. This knowledge informs everything we do.
Non-Destructive Approach
We don't force, don't damage, don't take shortcuts. Your door's finish, character, and integrity are protected throughout our work.
Quality Hardware Only
We fit locks that match your door's value. Quality mechanisms that operate smoothly and last for years. No cheap alternatives that let you down.
Respect for Character
Period doors deserve period-appropriate solutions. We advise on upgrades that work with your door's style, not against it.
Expert Advice
Learn More About Door Locks
Guides for understanding and maintaining your locks.