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Ever struggled to understand door hardware terms? Clear definitions make choosing, replacing, and installing easier. In this article, you'll explore knobs, locks, hinges, and security terms to guide homeowners, builders, and designers.
Door hardware refers to the essential parts that let doors open, close, and lock. It includes knobs, levers, hinges, locks, latches, and more. Without these elements, a door is simply a slab of wood or metal. By combining them, we gain function, privacy, and security. For homeowners and builders, understanding door hardware is key to making informed choices.
Most residential doors follow a standard preparation process. A large circular hole, known as the bore hole, is drilled through the face of the door. A smaller hole, the cross bore, is drilled into the door edge for the latch. These holes align so knobs or levers can be installed securely. Standard prep ensures that most door hardware products fit without modification. If a door has non-standard prep, special hardware or professional adjustment may be needed.
very installer or supplier uses a few standard measurements:
● Backset: Distance from the door edge to the center of the bore hole. Common values are 2-3/8" and 2-3/4".
● Bore Hole: The main circular opening through the face of the door, usually 2-1/8" in diameter.
● Cross Bore: The smaller hole drilled into the edge, typically 1" in diameter, where the latch slides in.
These measurements matter because hardware designed for one size won’t fit another. Adjustable latches can solve mismatches, but higher-end products often require precise sizing.
Term | Description | Common Size |
Backset | Edge of door to bore hole center | 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" |
Bore Hole | Main circular opening for knob or lever | 2-1/8" diameter |
Cross Bore | Edge hole for latch installation | 1" diameter |
Misunderstanding these basics often leads to wasted purchases. For example, buying a deadbolt that doesn't match your backset means the lock won't align with the door jamb. Incorrect bore hole sizing can leave gaps that weaken security. For businesses handling multiple projects, these errors add up quickly. By knowing the essentials, you save both time and money.
Note: When ordering door hardware in bulk, always confirm bore hole and backset measurements with suppliers to avoid mismatched deliveries.
Knobs and levers are the most visible parts of door hardware. A knob is usually round, requiring a twist to open. A lever has a longer handle that you push down or lift. Both perform the same task, but levers are often preferred for accessibility. They require less grip strength, making them easier for children and seniors. Style options vary from traditional brass knobs to modern chrome levers. Choosing between the two often comes down to ergonomics and design preference.
A latch keeps the door shut by extending a spring-loaded bolt into the strike plate. When you turn a knob or lever, the latch retracts and the door opens. The most common type is the tubular latch, a simple cylinder mechanism installed in the edge of the door. Tubular latches are reliable for interior doors and light security. For heavier-duty use, mortise latches offer more strength and flexibility. Understanding latch types ensures you match the right hardware to the door's purpose.
Deadbolts provide an added layer of protection that standard latches cannot. A single-cylinder deadbolt uses a key outside and a thumb turn inside. A double-cylinder requires a key on both sides, improving security but posing safety risks in emergencies. Many building codes restrict double-cylinder use for this reason. Deadbolts are a staple of exterior door hardware because they resist forced entry better than knobs or levers alone. Businesses often choose deadbolts in high-traffic or vulnerable entry points.
Hinges attach the door to the frame, allowing it to swing. The most common is the butt hinge, but continuous hinges and pivots are also widely used. Pins connect the hinge plates, and in some cases, they can be removed. For outward-swinging exterior doors, non-removable pins (NRP) enhance security. They stop intruders from pulling the pin to remove the door. Materials like brass or stainless steel affect durability, while decorative finishes allow hinges to blend with interior design.
A strike plate is mounted on the door frame, receiving the latch or deadbolt. Its job is to reinforce the frame and prevent wear. A poorly aligned strike plate causes doors to stick or fail to close securely. Faceplates, on the other hand, are trim pieces surrounding the latch on the door edge. They not only protect the wood but also improve appearance. Standard faceplates are rectangular or rounded at the corners, making installation straightforward.
These are trim components that sit behind knobs or levers. A rosette is typically round, while escutcheons may be square or decorative. Backplates can be larger, covering more surface area. Their role is both practical and aesthetic: they hide installation holes and add a polished look. In commercial projects, escutcheons often provide additional reinforcement for high-use doors. Choosing the right trim ensures hardware blends with the interior style while offering added durability.
Dummy knobs and levers are surface-mounted handles that don't operate a latch. They are commonly used on closet doors, pantry doors, or double doors where only one side needs hardware. Despite being non-functional, they still add balance and style to the overall look. Many interior designers recommend dummy sets to keep door hardware consistent throughout a home. They are sold individually or in pairs, giving flexibility for different layouts.
Ball catches use a spring-loaded ball that snaps into a strike plate, holding the door closed. They are most often seen on closet or pantry doors. Flush bolts, on the other hand, are recessed into the edge of a door. By sliding the bolt up or down, one side of a French door can be secured in place. Both are subtle forms of door hardware that improve convenience without adding visible locks. In upscale homes, flush bolts are often chosen for clean design lines.
Door viewers, often called peepholes, are small optical devices installed at eye level. They allow occupants to see outside without opening the door. Modern versions offer wide-angle views for greater coverage. Some high-security viewers even include privacy covers or integrated cameras. For residential entry doors, a viewer is a simple upgrade that improves safety. In multi-unit buildings, they are often required by code for tenant security.
Finials are ornamental tips that attach to the top or bottom of a hinge pin. While they don’t affect function, they add elegance to the hardware. Traditional styles include ball, steeple, and urn-shaped designs. In historical renovations, finials help preserve architectural authenticity. For modern builds, they serve as small accents that elevate a room’s design. Though optional, they show how door hardware can blend functionality with style.
A keyway is the opening where a key is inserted into a lock cylinder. The cylinder contains pins or wafers that align when the correct key is used. This interaction unlocks the hardware. In modern door hardware, cylinders can be swapped or rekeyed for security upgrades. Businesses often standardize cylinders across multiple doors for easier management. Understanding keyways helps avoid compatibility issues when ordering locks from different manufacturers.
Keyed alike systems allow multiple locks to be operated by one key. This is convenient in homes and small offices where ease of access is important. Keyed different systems give each lock a unique key, offering higher security but less convenience. For larger buildings, a mix of both may be used. For example, storage closets might be keyed alike, while entry doors remain unique. Knowing these terms ensures you choose the right balance of security and practicality.
Master key systems create a hierarchy of access. A master key can open several locks, while individual keys only open specific ones. A grand master key takes it further, controlling multiple groups of master-keyed locks. Custom keying allows locks to be tailored for unique security needs. In commercial projects, this system reduces key clutter while maintaining control. For schools, hospitals, or hotels, keying strategies are critical for daily operations and emergency access.
An interconnect device links two locks, usually a latch and a deadbolt. Turning the handle retracts both at the same time. This feature improves ease of exit while maintaining entry security. In residential door hardware, it is often used on front doors for quick egress. In multi-family housing, interconnect devices are favored because they meet fire and safety codes. By combining function and safety, they reduce the need for extra hardware.
Mortise locks are some of the most durable door hardware options. Unlike tubular locks, they require a pocket cut into the door edge to house the lock body. This design supports larger, stronger mechanisms and makes them ideal for schools, hospitals, or government buildings. The cylinder in a mortise lock can be replaced or rekeyed, offering flexibility for evolving security needs. Their strength, weight, and customization options justify their higher cost.
Exit devices, also known as panic bars or crash bars, allow quick egress during emergencies. A horizontal bar mounted inside the door unlatches the mechanism when pressed. They are required by code in many public spaces with large occupancy. These devices combine safety with convenience because they allow fast exit while keeping the exterior secure. Designs include touchpad, crossbar, and concealed versions, each balancing durability and aesthetics.
Electrified locks use power to control access, often linked to keypads or card readers. Electromagnetic locks rely on magnetic force to hold the door shut. Both are common in commercial access control systems. The terms "fail safe" and "fail secure" describe their behavior in a power outage. Fail safe locks unlock without power, ensuring safety, while fail secure locks stay locked to maintain security. Choosing the right option depends on fire codes, building use, and risk levels.
A door closer ensures a door shuts smoothly after opening. In commercial environments, this maintains security, saves energy, and prevents damage from slamming. Options include surface-mounted, concealed, and floor closers. Automatic operators go further by opening doors electronically with push buttons or sensors. They are essential for ADA compliance and accessibility in modern buildings. Both closers and operators extend the lifespan of door hardware by reducing wear from daily use.
The door jamb is the vertical frame that holds the door in place. Anchors secure the jamb to the surrounding wall, ensuring the structure can handle daily use and security loads. Without strong jambs and anchors, even the best door hardware becomes ineffective. A weak frame can allow forced entry or cause misalignment. In commercial settings, hollow metal jambs are common because they resist warping and provide better durability than wood.
An astragal is a strip of material applied to the meeting edge of double doors. Its purpose is to close the gap between the doors, improving privacy, fire resistance, and security. Some astragals are fixed, while others are automatic and move into place when the door shuts. In commercial projects, they are often required by fire and building codes to block smoke transfer. Astragals also reduce drafts, making them practical for energy efficiency.
Thresholds are the horizontal strips at the base of a doorway. They seal the gap beneath the door, protecting interiors from water, dust, and drafts. Stops are moldings along the jamb that prevent doors from swinging the wrong way. Rails, which are horizontal members in a door's construction, provide structural stability and keep the door square. Together, these supporting elements ensure that door hardware operates smoothly while protecting the door from daily wear.
Kick plates are metal sheets mounted at the bottom of doors. They protect surfaces from scuffs, scratches, and impact when people use their feet to push doors open. Edge guards reinforce the vulnerable sides of doors, shielding them from chips or splits. Both are simple but effective ways to extend door life. In commercial spaces, these additions reduce maintenance costs and keep door hardware looking professional.
The finish of door hardware refers to its outer coating, which provides both protection and style. Common finishes include polished brass, satin nickel, matte black, and stainless steel. Split finishes allow the interior and exterior sides of hardware to have different looks. For example, a satin nickel interior paired with polished brass on the outside. This flexibility ensures doors match interior design while blending with exterior architecture. Finishes also provide resistance against corrosion, extending hardware life.
Certain hardware is rated for sound control or fire resistance. Sound-rated products reduce noise transfer between rooms, essential in offices, hotels, or medical spaces. Fire-rated door hardware is tested to withstand high heat, helping slow fire spread. These ratings are not cosmetic—they are critical for compliance with building codes. In many projects, choosing hardware without proper certifications can lead to safety risks and failed inspections.
Residential projects often prioritize style and comfort. Homeowners may select knobs, levers, and finishes that match décor while ensuring basic security. Commercial spaces demand durability and code compliance. Hardware in offices, schools, or hospitals must withstand heavy use and often include fire-rated or ADA-compliant options. Selecting the right door hardware means matching performance to environment, not just appearance.
The best hardware combines performance with visual appeal. Functionality ensures smooth operation, security protects occupants, and aesthetics create harmony with the space. For example, a sleek lever handle might suit modern interiors, while a mortise lock ensures strength in high-traffic doors. Businesses must weigh these factors carefully to avoid choosing hardware that looks good but fails in daily use.
Accurate measurement is the first step in avoiding installation issues. Always confirm backset, bore hole size, and door thickness before ordering. When replacing, check compatibility between new hardware and existing prep. Ordering in bulk for commercial jobs requires careful coordination with suppliers to prevent mismatched shipments. For residential upgrades, it's smart to keep spare keys, matching finishes, and installation tools on hand.
Learning door hardware terms makes buying and installation easier. This glossary helps homeowners and professionals select with confidence. Readers can use it as a reference when upgrading or planning projects. By understanding these terms, mistakes and delays are reduced. Foachi offers reliable products with durable performance and stylish finishes. Its solutions provide long-term value, supporting both residential and commercial needs with trusted service.
A: Door hardware includes knobs, levers, hinges, locks, and accessories that let doors function and stay secure.
A: Understanding door hardware terms helps you choose, measure, and install products correctly, avoiding costly mistakes.
A: A latch holds a door closed with a spring, while a deadbolt provides stronger security by extending a solid bolt.
A: Finishes protect door hardware from corrosion and match the style of interiors or exteriors.
A: Yes, commercial door hardware is usually heavier, more durable, and designed to meet fire and safety codes.
