Rim or Mortice? – Locks, Latches and Knobs

Which do you need? Choosing the right option is important to save you time when updating your door furniture. Don’t worry, it isn’t as technical as the jargon can make it sound.

Whether you need a rim or mortice door knob, lock or latch for your project simply depends on whether the lock/latch mechanism on your door is internally or externally installed on the frame. “Rim” indicates the mechanism is mounted on the surface or face of the door, whereas “mortice” door furniture is recessed into the frame and door panel.

Rim

Lock – a surface mounted locking box best suited to thinner doors where an internal mechanism is not practical. Rim locks are often used as an interesting decorative addition to a door, particularly iron rim locks in a traditional design.

 

 

For example, on this Victorian style rim lock with universal key a keyhole is included to allow locking, with a keeper plate on the door frame for the latch to secure into.  View our range of rim locks for locks crafted from iron, polished brass and a wide variety of other finishes and designs. 

 Latch- As above but without a keyhole to allow locking a rim latch is used on internal doors where the extra security of a lock is not necessary, for example a lounge area or bedroom.

 

 

 

 

Shown here is an iron bathroom rim latch set with privacy slide. Pair with a rim door knob from our rim knob range.

 

 

 

 

Mortice

Lock – the lock mechanism is integral to the door with the keeper recessed into the door frame. Only a door knob or handle is visible on the surface of the door with either a traditional key hole or euro cylinder lock.

 Pictured is a pewter patina octagonal mortice knob with accompanying mortice lock.

 

 

Latch – As above but without a keyhole for locking. The keeper plate is sunk into the inside edge of the frame for the latch to rest in. Pair with mortice knobs or a lever handle set.