Many people buy mortice locks that are wrong for their door.  To avoid this comon problem, measure the width of the door stile and thickness of the door before you go shopping.  Write down the measurements so that you can choose the right lock when you get to the shop.

It is possible to reinforce doors and frames with partnered reinforcements.  The reinforcements consist of two metal strips held together by bolts.  They offer additional protection to the door structure, and make your home that much more secure.

Fitting a mortise lock is easier, if you hold the body of the lock against the face of the door, and mark the position of the keyhole with a pencil.  You will then be able to drill for the keyhole in the right position.  It also helps you avoid having to do it all over again because of a mistake.

After fitting the lock, measure the distance between the lock bolt and the closing face of the door.  This measurement will help you position the keep plate on the door frame in the right position.  You can then ensure that bolt engages in the recess when the door is locked.