A resource guide for new homeowners and remodelers to use for reference when choosing new door hardware.

Choosing a door and its accessories should be a simple task. In truth, there are many options out there that can muddy the market and delay the selection process. Differences in color, style, size and function can leave you overwhelmed with choices when identifying the door hardware best for yourself, a client, or a project. Certain looks or functions are loosely available as commanded by various models and brands, and all door hardware is not created equally.

We at Kwikset compiled this handy guide designed to help you make the most-informed door hardware decisions for your new construction or remodeling needs.

  • Hinges: the hardware connected from a doorframe to the door, allowing for movement one way or another. Hinge placement determines the direction and adaptation of a door’s movement. It is necessary to implement coordinating hardware that complements the hinges to ensure the door works properly.
  • Door Handing: the way a door is mounted to swing or open in one direction or another. Kwikset products will identify a “handed” lever as either a left-handed lever or a right-handed lever. In order to choose the properly handed lever, examine the door from the exterior. If the hinges are placed on the left, a left-handed lever is appropriate; if they’re on the right, opt for the right-handed lever.

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  • Finishes: the different aesthetic options for door hardware styles. Finishes vary based on material, which influences color of the hardware over time. Popular finishes include brass, steel, nickel, chrome, bronze, pewter and black, and the polish of each vary as well. Ensure your door hardware’s finish evokes the overall style and mood of your home or project.

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  • Door Lever: a basic style of door hardware. Opposite a knob and quite different than a keypad, levers are simple in design and function well as standard hardware pieces. Kwikset made it a priority to create levers that satisfy multiple door requirements and different consumer preferences, to provide ultimate convenience while also maintaining safety.

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  • Non-handed levers: levers that allow for flexibility, customization, and convenience to add personality to your doors. Kwikset levers are typically non-handed lever designs, which means you have the opportunity to select the design you like best, the one that speaks most to you, and use it on any door you choose, regardless of its hinge direction.
  • SmartKey Re-Key: This SmartKey technology that provides increased strength and security with the option to re-key your own locks in a matter of seconds. Universally designed, they can fit a variety of doors and create the most secure door and best functioning hardware.

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  • Strike: used to implicate the metal attachment that is mounted onto the doorframe.

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  • Keyway: the area on the face of a keyed product where the key is placed.

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  • Dummy: a stationary piece of door hardware that does not provide any latching or security function for the door. It’s a good idea to request a dummy or two in the case you’re undecided on which door hardware to opt for.

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  • Function: the capabilities of a certain type of door hardware, including:
    • Exterior keyed entry: both knobs locked or unlocked by key outside or turnbutton inside
    • Interior keyed entry: both knobs locked or unlocked by emergency key outside or turnbutton inside, as seen in a bedroom or bathroom
    • Passage: both knobs always free, for use such in a hall or closet
    • Half Dummy Trim:
 does not turn or perform a function other than for decorative purposes or as a pull

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For a more complete list of other helpful glossary terms, visit Kwikset here.