What is the difference between a mortise and a latch?
Mortise locks are installed into a cut-out pocket in the edge of the door (the lock body sits inside the door). A latch style is typically a simpler mechanism with a latch tongue engaging the strike plate.
How to identify your door
- Look at the door edge: do you see a large faceplate and a deep internal lock body? (likely mortise)
- Is it a simpler latch tongue with a smaller internal mechanism? (likely latch)
- Check your handle spacing and existing cut-outs
Why it matters
Choosing the correct format ensures correct alignment, smooth closing, and long-term reliability.
If you’re unsure, send a door-edge photo to support