Hardware

A Homeowner’s Guide to Window and Door Hardware

Loti -Article - 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.