Frequently Asked Questions about Tubular Handlesets Mortise Locks Front Entrysets Door Hardware

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By Jim Long, President, A Touch of Brass

Your front door greets your guests as they enter your home and your front door handleset is like your home´s handshake. You want one that is firm, strong and leaves a good first impression. Here are some of the most common questions we get from customers that are shopping for a front door handleset to make the best impression possible:

What is a Mortise Lock?

Mortise locks (pictured) offer more security than standard tubular locks and take a high level of skill to install. The locking mechanism fits into a pocket that must be carved, or "mortised" into the door. Popular in Europe for many years, the mortise lock has slowly but surely gained a following in American architecture and interior design over the past few decades. A mortise lock makes a lasting impression on guests, wowing them before they´ve even crossed the threshold. To learn more about mortise locks click here.

What is a tubular handleset?

A tubular handleset is what you see on most doors. A tubular handleset will have a bottom lock that´s activated with a thumbpiece on the outside and a knob or lever on the inside. Above that lock will be a deadbolt. Standard, reliable and what most doors are already set up for, the tubular handleset is common choice for homeowners. That doesn´t mean it has to be forgettable. The only thing standard about tubular handlesets is the function. There is an endless selection of styles, designs and finishes guaranteeing you can pick one that makes your home unique.

What is the difference between Full Escutcheon, ¾ Escutcheon and Sectional Handlesets?

An escutcheon is a backplate. Some backplates extend the entire length of the handleset (full escutcheon) while others just cover the thumb-piece and the deadbolt (3/4 escutcheon). If you order a handleset with a backplate make sure it will match the holes drilled in your door. If the holes on your door aren´t the standard distance apart (5 ½") then you should consider a sectional handleset. Sectional handlesets don´t come with a backplate, allowing for more freedom during installation. Click here to see more examples of full escutcheon, ¾ escutcheon and sectional handlesets.

What measurements will I need to know before ordering my door?

You´ll need to know your backset, your door thickness and, if you´re ordering a tubular handleset, the center-to-center measurement of the pre-drilled holes in your door. The backset is the distance between the center of the hole for the locking mechanism and the edge of the door. The center-to-center measurement (CTC) is the distance between the center of the hole for the main lock and the center of the hole for the deadbolt on a door that´s set up for a tubular handleset. The standard CTC is 5 ½". Go here to learn even more about how to order a handleset.

To ask questions about your specific set-up or to learn more about all the handlesets we offer call us at 1-800-272-7734 or just send an email to Ask Jim!.

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