Mortice lock fitting in Tiverton
Looking for professional mortice lock fitting help in Tiverton? Hembury Contracting provides reliable misc services across Tiverton and surrounding areas.
Price Guide
£85-160
Typical Duration
1.5-3 hrs
Location
Tiverton
Proper mortice lock fitted into your door for solid security. Precision cut, smooth operation, insurance-approved options available.
### Real Security, Not Just A Lock
Surface-mounted rim locks? They're better than nothing. But a **mortice deadlock recessed into the door** - that's proper security.
Can't lever it off. Can't snap it. Just solid protection that'll outlast the door itself.
> 💡 **Pro tip:** Insurers love BS3621 5-lever mortice locks because they're proven to resist picking, drilling, and forcing. Often required for buildings insurance.
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### Why Mortice Beats Rim
| ✅ Mortice Lock | ❌ Rim Lock | |----------------|------------| | Recessed - nothing to lever | Surface-mounted - can be attacked | | 5+ levers = pick-resistant | Often simpler mechanisms | | Insurance-approved options | May not meet policy requirements | | Invisible when locked | Bulky box on door inside |
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### What's Involved
**🔧 Precision Installation**
| Stage | What Happens | |-------|--------------| | **Mark up** | Measure and mark lock position precisely | | **Cut mortice** | Chisel out pocket for lock body | | **Fit lock** | Test fit, adjust, secure lock case | | **Drill** | Keyhole, handle spindle, faceplate recess | | **Fit keeps** | Mark and chisel strike plate into frame | | **Test** | Check smooth operation, adjust if needed |
**📦 End Result** - Lock operates smoothly - Key turns easily - Bolt engages firmly - Professional finish - All tested and working
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### Pricing Guide
| Job | Estimated Time | You'll Pay | |-----|----------------|------------| | Standard 5-lever mortice | 1.5-2 hrs | **£85-£110** | | Remove old, fit new | 2-2.5 hrs | **£110-£135** | | Hardwood door (slower work) | 2.5-3 hrs | **£135-£160** |
*Based on £60 minimum (first hour) + £50/hr after. Lock itself typically £40-80 depending on spec.*
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### When You Need This
✅ **New external door** - fit proper security from the start
✅ **Insurance requirement** - upgrading to BS3621 spec
✅ **Old rim lock failing** - replace with something better
✅ **Period property** - mortice locks suit traditional doors
Why Choose Us for Mortice lock fitting in Tiverton?
Better security than surface rim locks
Insurance-approved BS3621 available
Recessed - can't be levered off
Lasts decades when fitted properly
What to Expect
### Step 1: Mark & Measure I measure up carefully, mark where the lock needs to sit, check alignment with the frame and existing holes if replacing. ### Step 2: Cut The Mortice Carefully chisel out the pocket for the lock body. This is precision work - too tight and it binds, too loose and it rattles. ### Step 3: Fit & Adjust Lock goes in, faceplate fitted flush, keyhole drilled, spindle hole for handle. Then mark and fit the keeps in the frame. ### Step 4: Test & Tune Check it operates smoothly, bolt engages properly, key turns without force. Adjust until perfect.
Our Tiverton Service Coverage
We cover Tiverton and a 30-mile radius from Exeter, meaning you get local service with the backing of an established business. Whether you're in the centre of Tiverton or in the surrounding villages, we're here to help.
Good to Know
> 🔨 **Door thickness matters:** Standard mortice locks need 44mm minimum. Slimmer doors need a different solution (probably a narrow nightlatch or surface lock). **BS3621 is your friend.** If your insurance specifies it, make sure the lock has that kitemark. Not all 5-lever locks are BS3621 rated. **Pair it with a nightlatch.** Mortice deadlocks are brilliant for security but you need a key to get out (fire escape issue). Most people have a mortice plus a nightlatch (Yale-type) for convenience. **Hardwood takes longer.** Oak, mahogany, iroko - lovely doors but much harder to chisel. Allow extra time and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mortice lock fitting in Tiverton
What's the difference between mortice and rim locks?
A mortice lock sits inside the door (I cut a pocket for it), while a rim lock mounts on the surface. Mortice locks are much more secure because there's nothing to lever off. They're also insurance-friendly - many policies require a BS3621 5-lever mortice on external doors.
Can you fit a mortice lock to my door?
Need a door at least 44mm thick (most external doors are fine). Won't work on UPVC, glazed doors, or very thin internal doors. I can tell you once I see it - send a photo if you're unsure.
Do I need to buy the lock?
Either way works. If you want a specific one, buy it first. If not, I'll recommend a good quality 5-lever BS3621 lock and grab it from the merchant. Budget £40-80 for a decent lock depending on size and brand.
How long does it take?
1.5-2 hours typically. Longer if the door's hardwood or if there's an existing lock to remove first. It's precision work - the mortice needs cutting exactly right or the lock won't operate smoothly.
Will it meet insurance requirements?
Yes, if I fit a BS3621 rated 5-lever lock. That's the insurance industry standard for external doors. I'll recommend the right spec for your situation.
Get a Free Quote in Tiverton
Call us today for a free, no-obligation quote for your mortice lock fitting job in Tiverton.
01392 964094Request Online QuotePricing for Tiverton
* Same rates for all locations in our service area
Got multiple jobs?
Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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