When you work with a door and window replacement service, you don’t just choose the door or the window; you also have the option of choosing the hardware that goes best with your door or window.
Your door’s hardware is its “lockset”, whether it has a locking mechanism or not. Locksets differ in style, material, and operability. While you can choose cheaper locksets, it’s never a bad idea to buy better and pricier hardware, as these generally perform better and last longer.
Here’s a short guide to door hardware selection.
Doorknob Options
Doorknobs are commonly round, but you can find lever-type doorknobs, which are often classier and easier to operate for people with mobility problems or arthritic hands. A simple doorknob is turned for operation, but a lever has a combination thumb-latch-and-handle for exterior doors.
How the Doorknob Attaches to the Spindle
Older style doorknobs have screws that are exposed. The knob, secured by the screws, attaches to a square threaded spindle. These are good, but they often come loose. When a knob comes loose, it can rotate in your hand and fail to detach from the spindle. The exposed screws are also ugly. Look for knobs from a reputable door and window company that don’t use any screws but a detent, which is a concealed device.
Lockset Options
There are many types of locksets for home use and other door purposes. However, most home doors use only four basic types of locksets.
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Passage – This is a common lockset type for interior doors, including pantry and closet doors, as well as some bedrooms. They don’t have a locking mechanism and are purely for “passage” from one area in your home to another.
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Privacy – This is mostly for interior doors, as well, with a “privacy side” that’s lockable. The lock is usually engaged by pushing or turning a button. There is no regular keyhole, but there might be a small hole for inserting an emergency key in case of emergency.
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Keyed Entry – This is the type commonly used for exterior doors. It’s lockable on both sides. The outdoor side is lockable with a key, while the indoor side can be locked by turning or pushing a button.
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Dummy – A dummy lockset does not lock or turn. It’s just there as a handle for opening a door. This is the common hardware for closet doors.
There are also some specialty locksets that are more technologically advanced, such as those that require a code to be entered before the lock can be disengaged. Renewal by Andersen® of Memphis, experts in house window replacement and door installation, can discuss your door hardware needs with you. Call us today at (901) 979-4460 or leave us a message here.
