Most wooden doors will come pre-fitted with mortice locks, there are many different sizes and brands of mortice lock so the one you have fitted to your wooden door will much depend on the manufacturer’s preference. Unfortunately, not all locks that come pre-fitted in wooden doors meet the minimum standard BS3621, to establish if your lock meets this standard you need to look for the kite mark which should be located on the face plate of the lock. If you don’t see the kite mark BS3621 then your locks will need upgrading, it would be worth calling out your local locksmith to come and advise you on the best locks for your door and change them for you. If your locks don’t meet BS3621 then not only are your locks not as secure as they could be but you may also find that insurance companies may be unwilling to offer you cover or even that your current policy is invalid as you have sub standard locks.
Why Change A Mortice Lock?
There are many reasons why you may need your mortice lock changing, a few are as follows:
- Just moved home and need the locks changing to ensure that you and those you trust are the only ones with copies of the keys to your property.
- Locks don’t meet BS3621.
- Faulty locks either due to intentional damage or wear and tear, in some cases a faulty lock can be repaired instead of changed completely, this is something that your local locksmith will be able to advise you on.
Rim Cylinders
Rim cylinders, more commonly known as yale locks are often used as an extra security measure along side a mortice lock on a wooden door. A rim cylinder will automatically lock the door when you close it behind you, this is great for security, not so great if you have left your keys inside! Luckily a good local locksmith will be able to help you gain entry to your property to retrieve your keys without causing any damage to the existing lock or door.
If your wooden door only has a yale lock, then it would be advised to have a mortice lock fitted to work alongside it for extra security.
Just like the mortice lock, you will need a rim cylinder lock changing if it doesn’t meet BS3621, it is damaged, or you have just moved into a new home.
Extra Security
There are a few other ways in which you can improve the overall security of your wooden door:
- If you don’t already have one, install a rim cylinder lock.
- Install a BS3621 Deadlock to the bottom of your door.
- Have bolts or chains installed, these can only be used when you are in the property but are great for extra security at night!
If your wooden door locks need upgrading or repairing, then contact No Shut Sure Lock Bradford today – 07702 752458