Doors serve as the entryways to our homes, providing security and privacy. To enhance their functionality, various door hardware parts are meticulously designed and installed. These components ensure smooth operation, security, and aesthetic appeal.
If you’re curious about how these parts work, this blog is for you! We’ll take a closer look at the anatomy of door hardware and explore the functions of each component.
What Is Door Hardware?
Before diving into the details, let’s define door hardware. It refers to all the mechanical and electronic components attached to a door, enabling it to perform its intended function.
Door hardware can be classified into two main categories: interior and exterior.
Interior Door Hardware Parts
Interior door hardware focuses on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the door and the overall interior space. What are the parts of door hardware? Here are some:
1. Knobs and Handles
Knobs and handles are the most recognizable parts of door hardware. You choose different designs and add a personal touch to your doors. Their primary function is to provide a grip for operating the door.
2. Hinges
Hinges are essential for connecting the door to its frame, enabling it to swing open and closed. They come in different types, such as butt hinges, continuous hinges, and pivot hinges, each suitable for specific door styles and weight.
3. Latches and Locks
Latches and locks provide security for interior doors. Latches are mechanisms that hold the door in a closed position, while locks offer an additional level of protection by securing the door. These can be operated using various means, including keys, thumb turns, and electronic keypads.
4. Strikes
Strikes are metal plates or boxes attached to the door frame. They serve as the receiver for the latch or lock, ensuring that the door stays securely closed when engaged.
5. Stops
Stops are parts of door hardware that prevent the door from opening too far and hitting the wall or other objects. They can be in the form of wall-mounted brackets, hinge-pin stops, or floor-mounted door stops.
Exterior Door Hardware Parts
Exterior door hardware is designed to provide an extra layer of security and withstand the elements. The components in this category are:
1. Door Knockers and Viewers
Door knockers and viewers are optional components that can be added for convenience and security. Door knockers allow visitors to announce their presence, while viewers, commonly known as peepholes, let you see who is outside without fully opening the door.
2. Kick Plates and Door Edges
Kick plates and door edges are protective hardware. Kick plates are metal plates installed on the lower part of the door, safeguarding it against damage from kicks and scuffs. Door edges, on the other hand, reinforce the hinged side of the door, increasing its strength and security.
3. Escutcheon Plates and Rosettes
Escutcheon plates and rosettes are decorative elements that are often used to enhance the appearance of the door. They are placed behind the knobs or handles and can be intricately designed to add a touch of elegance.
4. Doorbells and House Numbers
For doors that are part of the primary entrance to a residence, doorbells and house numbers can be considered as part of the hardware. Doorbells provide a means for visitors to announce their arrival, while house numbers help in identifying the location.
5. Security Components
Security components, such as deadbolts and smart locks, are crucial for exterior doors. These provide enhanced protection, and smart locks offer the convenience of keyless entry, often controlled through a mobile app.
The Bottom Line
Doors are essential for any structure, and the right door hardware parts can greatly improve their functionality and security. Now that you are familiar with the various components of door hardware, you can make informed choices to meet your specific needs.
Looking for Quality Door Hardware Parts?
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