The parts of a door's hardware
Hardware includes hinges, locks and latches, closers, exit devices (panic bars), pulls and push plates, kick plates, stops, seals, thresholds and electric strikes. Each has its own job, and each interacts with the others.
Hinges carry the weight and set the swing. Closers pull the door shut at a controlled speed. Exit devices provide quick exit in an emergency. Seals and thresholds affect draft, sound and fire performance.
Getting hardware right
Hardware is specified on a hardware schedule, usually grouped by door type. A good installation follows that schedule exactly, because substituting one part can affect fire ratings, accessibility or security. Our installers check each opening against the schedule and manufacturer instructions.
Adjustment is just as important as installation. A closer set too fast slams, and one set too slow leaves the door open. Latches need to align with strike plates. Exit devices need to release smoothly under load.
Where hardware is electrified, such as electric strikes, magnetic locks and card readers, our electrical and low voltage teams run the wiring and test the connections. That avoids the situation where the door has a lock but no power to it, or a reader that the security system does not recognize.
- Hinges, closers and stops
- Exit devices and panic hardware
- Locks, latches and trim
- Electric strikes and magnetic locks
- Seals, thresholds and kick plates
What to plan for
Hardware often has the longest lead time on a door. Finishes and specific brands can add weeks. We order early and confirm the hardware set before doors are cut, since many doors are prepared for hardware at the factory.
Think about keying early. The master key system, the number of keys and who controls them should be settled before locks are ordered.
Accessibility again plays a role. Lever handles, force limits on closers and mounting heights are all regulated.
Finally, plan for maintenance. Hardware wears, and using quality parts in high-traffic locations reduces future service calls.