A Homeowner’s Guide to Window and Door Hardware
Window and door hardware plays a crucial role in the security, functionality, and style of your home. Whether you're rebuilding from a disaster, updating your current setup or installing new doors and windows, understanding the different types of hardware and their uses will help you make informed decisions.
Below is a concise guide to the most common types of window and door hardware, their uses, and some key installation considerations.
Door Hardware
1. Door Handles and Knobs
Used to open and close doors, door handles and knobs come in various styles, such as lever handles or round knobs, and are available in different finishes like brass, nickel, and chrome. Handles are generally easier to operate than knobs, making them a popular choice for interior and exterior doors.
2. Deadbolts
Deadbolts provide additional security for exterior doors. They come in single-cylinder (key on the outside, thumb turn on the inside) and double-cylinder (key on both sides) varieties for added security.
3. Smart Locks
Smart locks offer keyless entry and can be controlled via smartphone or integrated with Home Automation systems. They provide convenience and remote access to lock and unlock doors.
4. Hinges
Hinges attach doors to the frame and allow them to swing open and closed. Available in various sizes and finishes, hinges are crucial for supporting the weight of the door.
5. Door Stops
Door stops prevent doors from swinging too far and damaging walls or furniture. They can be floor-mounted, wall-mounted, or hinge-mounted depending on the space.
6. Door Knockers
Door knockers are decorative hardware that allows visitors to announce their presence by knocking. They add a traditional aesthetic to entry doors.
7. Peep Holes
Peep holes, or door viewers, are small lenses installed in entry doors to allow homeowners to see outside before opening the door.
8. Mail Slots
Mail slots are small openings in doors that allow mail to be delivered without requiring the door to be opened.
9. Barn Door Hardware
Barn door hardware includes tracks and rollers that allow doors to slide open horizontally, making them a space-saving and aesthetically appealing option for interior doors.
10. Soft Close Hinges
Soft close hinges prevent doors from slamming shut by slowing the door as it closes. These are ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms where noise control is important.
11. Keyless Entry Pads
Keyless entry pads allow for pin-code access without a key. They are commonly used on exterior doors and can be paired with smart locks for added convenience.
12. Door Closers
Door closers automatically close doors after they’ve been opened. They are common in commercial buildings but are also used in residential settings to ensure doors close fully.
13. Bifold Door Hardware
Bifold door hardware includes hinges, pivots, and tracks that allow folding doors to open by folding onto themselves. They are often used for closets and small spaces.
14. Sliding Door Hardware
Sliding door hardware consists of tracks, rollers, and handles that allow doors to slide open horizontally. This is commonly used for patios and interior doors.
15. Pocket Door Hardware
Pocket door hardware includes the track and roller system that allows a door to slide into the wall cavity, providing a space-saving solution for tight areas.
16. Cane Bolts
Cane bolts are heavy-duty sliding bolts used to secure double doors, gates, or garage doors in place, especially on one side of a double-door system.
17. Kick Plates
Kick plates are metal or plastic plates installed at the bottom of doors to protect them from scuffs and damage caused by feet or objects.
18. Flush Bolts
Flush bolts are installed on the inactive leaf of double doors to secure it in place when the door is closed. They are typically recessed into the door for a clean appearance.
Window Hardware
1. Window Locks
Window locks secure windows in the closed position, preventing unauthorized access. They are available in different styles to match various window types, such as sliding or double-hung windows.
2. Window Latches
Latches are used to keep windows closed and secure. They are commonly found on double-hung and casement windows.
3. Window Cranks
Cranks are used to open and close casement and Awning windows. These are mounted on the window frame and turn to extend or retract the Window Sash.
4. Window Handles
Handles are used on sliding or older Sash windows to provide an easy grip for opening and closing the window.
5. Sash Locks
Sash locks secure the top and bottom sashes of double-hung windows, preventing them from opening unless the lock is disengaged.
6. Window Balances
Window balances are internal mechanisms that help support the weight of the window sash, making it easier to open and close, especially in double-hung windows.
7. Cremone Bolts
Cremone bolts are decorative locking mechanisms often used on French Doors and windows. They feature vertical rods that lock into the top and bottom of the frame when the handle is turned.
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Door Hardware Compatibility
When selecting door hardware, it’s important to consider compatibility in terms of sizing, bore hole location, and door handing.
Bore Hole Size and Location
Most modern doors are pre-drilled with bore holes to accommodate standard locksets. The most common bore hole size for door knobs and deadbolts is 2 1/8 inches in diameter. The backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole) typically ranges from 2 3/8 to 2 3/4 inches. Make sure the hardware you select matches the existing bore hole size and backset.
Right-Hand vs Left-Hand Installation
Door handing refers to the direction in which the door swings. When determining if you need right-handed or left-handed hardware, stand with your back to the hinges and face the door. If the door swings to the right, you need a right-handed handle or knob. If it swings to the left, you need a left-handed one. Some handles and knobs are reversible for universal use.
Follow-Up Reading
Wrap-Up
Selecting the right window and door hardware ensures that your home is both secure and functional. Whether you’re choosing handles, locks, hinges, or smart systems, each piece of hardware has a significant impact on the ease of use and security of your doors and windows.
Additionally, understanding compatibility, such as door handing and bore hole size, will help you make the best choice when purchasing new hardware. Make sure to choose quality materials and finishes that not only match your home’s aesthetic but also offer durability and long-term value.