Owl Locksmiths and Security are experts in wooden door locks and the locks you are likely to have on your wooden windows. We understand the technical details of locking devices, and can assist in all scenarios should you come to find yourself locked out, if you are having trouble with your lock, or if you need or simply want to upgrade your locks in your home or business, we can help.
The most common locks found in wooden doors are Night Latches, incorrectly but normally known as YALE Locks, and Mortice Locks, again incorrectly but commonly known as CHUBB Locks.
Night Latches come in various security grades from basic “low” security to the higher security British Standard versions.
Mortice Locks come in various security grades ranging from your basic “low” security 2 or 3 lever for internal doors such as cupboards up to the stronger 5 or more Lever Mortice locks, which also come in British Standard. Mortice Locks are embedded in the door for extra strength, providing exceptional security, and are specified by most insurance companies (see our insurance advice).
Types of Wooden Door Locks
There are many other forms of locks that you will also find in wooden doors. Owl Locksmiths & Security can cater for the majority of situations. For plastic doors and windows, see our UPVC door and window lock repair page.
Mechanical Digital Push Button Locks, commonly known as Digi Locks, are widely used by commercial, retail and hospitality premises. These types of mechanisms range from low to high security, which is reflected in their cost. There is no need for any electrical operation or batteries, and the products Owl Locksmiths and Security supply have been tried and tested in various situations. They are often part of our commercial security work.
Upgrading or Replacing Wooden Door Locks
Should you require the fitting or upgrade of any locks in your wooden doors, in your home or business, Owl Locksmiths and Security can assist you with both the advice and fitting. Call Owl Locksmiths & Security to discuss any of the options detailed and obtain a no obligation quote tailored to your needs.
If you would like several doors to work from one key, see our master key systems and keyed alike locks.
Owl Locksmiths and Security are well stocked in high grade locks, handles and accessories which regularly surpass the expectations of their clients. Should a more specialist non-standard form of lock be needed it will be obtained and installed within 24-48 hours.
Should your locks be either damaged or just require upgrading or changing, Owl Locksmiths and Security can be called upon to assist. We can change and upgrade any lock or replace one type with another in most cases.
Fire Safety Locks
In some instances, depending on the type of property and its use, there may be a requirement to fit or convert to a lock that complies with the current fire safety regulations. There are numerous options but some will have to be fitted depending on use, as it is not “One Fits All”.
We can offer this service, but as every task would be individual, we would have to do a survey initially to advise on what is required. For business and other non-domestic premises, the owner, employer or landlord is the responsible person for fire safety in the workplace, so it is worth getting the locks right.
Contact Owl Locksmiths and Security or call Barrie on 07503 985947 to discuss your requirements and get a no obligation quote at the same time.
Wooden Door Lock FAQs
What is the best lock for a wooden front door?
For most wooden front doors, a British Standard 5 lever mortice deadlock used together with a British Standard night latch. The night latch locks the door when it closes, and the mortice deadlock adds a bolt set into the door that cannot be slipped. Many insurers ask for this pairing. We check the door and frame first, because the right lock depends on the door thickness and condition.
What is the difference between a night latch and a mortice lock?
A night latch (often called a Yale lock) is fitted to the inside face of the door and latches automatically when the door closes. A mortice lock (often called a Chubb lock) is set into a slot cut in the edge of the door and is locked with a key. A mortice sash lock also has a latch worked by a handle; a mortice deadlock has a bolt only.
Do insurers require British Standard locks?
Many home insurance policies require British Standard locks on the final exit doors, and a claim after a break-in can be refused if they are missing. Check the wording of your policy. Our insurance advice page explains what to look for, and we can upgrade your locks to meet it.
Can a new lock be fitted to my existing wooden door?
Usually, yes. Most wooden doors can take a new night latch or mortice lock, or have an old lock replaced with a stronger one. If the door is thin or damaged, or the old cut-outs are the wrong size, we explain the options before any work starts.
Can you repair locks on wooden windows?
Yes. We repair and replace locks on timber windows, including sash and casement windows, when the locks or catches are broken, worn or no longer secure.
Can fire doors have locks?
Yes, but the lock must be suitable for a fire door. An unsuitable lock can weaken the door, and doors on escape routes must open easily from the inside without a key. What is needed depends on the building and its use, so we survey first and then advise.
Need a wooden door lock fitted, repaired or upgraded? Contact Owl Locksmiths & Security or call Barrie on 07503 985947. No call-out fee.
