This extended glossary is designed specifically for a better understanding of technical terms used by your architects, designers, builders, and specifiers working on Australian residential and commercial projects. It goes beyond basic definitions to include technical context, specification considerations, and installation principles, helping ensure correct hardware selection, compliance, and performance.
- Door Hardware System Overview
Architectural door hardware is not a single product — it is a coordinated system of components working together.
Diagram: Basic Door Hardware Components
┌───────────────────────────────┐
│ │
│ DOOR PANEL │
│ │
│ [Lever]──Spindle──[Lever] │
│ │ │ │
│ └──Latch──────┘ │
│ │
└───────┬───────────────────────┘
│
Strike Plate
│
Door Frame
Primary components:
- Lever or pull handle
- Latch or lock mechanism
- Spindle
- Strike plate
- Hinges or pivot system
- Door closer (if required)
For architects, thinking in systems prevents specification conflicts.
- Backset and Door Preparation
Backset
The backset is the horizontal distance from the edge of the door to the centreline of the handle or lock.
Typical Australian standards:
- 60mm (most common residential)
- 70mm (commercial or premium)
Diagram: Backset Measurement
Door Edge
│
│<—— Backset ——>● Handle Centre
│
└──────────────────────── Door Face
Specification Considerations
Architects should confirm:
- Door thickness
- Lock type compatibility
- Existing bore holes (renovations)
- Fire door requirements
Incorrect backset is one of the most common on-site problems.
- Lever Sets, Roses, and Backplates
Lever Set
A lever set includes:
- Two levers
- Spindle
- Latch or lock body
- Fixing hardware
Rose vs Backplate
Rose: Minimal circular or square mounting plate
Backplate: Larger plate incorporating lock and handle
Diagram: Lever on Rose vs Backplate
Lever on Rose Lever on Backplate
┌───┐ ┌──────────┐
│ ● │ │ ● │
└───┘ │ │
└──────────┘
Architectural Insight
Modern architecture typically prefers rose-mounted levers for minimalist aesthetics.
- Mortice Locks vs Tubular Latches
Mortice Lock
Installed into a pocket cut into the door edge.
Advantages:
- Stronger security
- Premium feel
- Multiple functions in one case
Tubular Latch
Cylindrical mechanism inserted into a drilled hole.
Advantages:
- Faster installation
- Lower cost
- Common in residential construction
Diagram: Mortice vs Tubular
Door Edge Section
Mortice Lock Tubular Latch
┌────────────┐ ┌───────┐
│ │ │ │
│ │ │ │
└────────────┘ └───────┘
Specification Tip
High-end residential and commercial projects often specify mortice locks for durability and alignment precision.
- Door Handing and Orientation
Door handing determines hardware configuration.
Types
- Left Hand (LH)
- Right Hand (RH)
Many modern lever sets are universal handing, reducing specification risk.
- Hinges and Load Considerations
Hinge Types
- Butt hinge (standard)
- Ball bearing hinge (heavy duty)
- Concealed hinge
- Pivot hinge
Load Factors
Architects must consider:
- Door weight
- Door height
- Frequency of use
- Fire rating requirements
Diagram: Hinge Placement
Door Height
Top Hinge 150–200mm from top
Middle Centre (if required)
Bottom 250mm from bottom
Heavy doors require additional hinges or pivots.
- Pivot Door Hardware Systems
Pivot doors rotate on top and bottom pivot points rather than side hinges.
Components
- Top pivot
- Bottom pivot
- Floor bearing
Diagram: Pivot Door Concept
Top Frame
- Pivot
Door Panel
│
│
- Floor Pivot
Floor
Pivot systems allow larger and heavier doors but require precise structural planning.
- Fire-Rated Door Hardware (Australia)
Fire doors must comply with AS 1905.1 and the National Construction Code (NCC).
Requirements May Include
- Fire-rated hinges
- Self-closing devices
- Approved locksets
- Intumescent seals
Hardware substitutions can invalidate fire certification.
- Accessibility and Compliance (AS 1428)
Accessibility standards influence hardware selection.
Key Requirements
- Lever handles can only be used
- Operable with one hand
- Minimal force required
- Appropriate mounting height
Accessibility compliance is mandatory in many commercial environments.
- Door Closers and Control Devices
Door closers control door movement and safety.
Types
- Surface-mounted closer
- Concealed closer
- Floor spring
- Overhead concealed closer
Diagram: Surface Door Closer
Frame ───── Arm ───── Door
[Closer Body]
Closers are essential for:
- Fire doors
- Commercial entries
- High-traffic environments
- Strike Plates and Latching Systems
The strike plate receives the latch or bolt.
Types
- Standard strike
- Extended lip strike
- Electric strike (access control)
Correct alignment is critical for door performance.
- Pull Handles and Entrance Hardware
Pull handles are common on:
- Pivot doors
- Commercial entries
- Feature residential entrances
Specification Factors
- Door thickness
- Fixing method (back-to-back vs face fix)
- Centre-to-centre measurement
- Projection distance
Large architectural doors require proportionally sized pulls.
- Hardware Finishes and Material Performance
Material choice affects durability.
Common Materials
- Solid brass
- Stainless steel
- Zinc alloy
- Aluminium
Environmental Considerations
Coastal environments require corrosion-resistant finishes such as marine-grade stainless steel or PVD coatings.
- Hardware Scheduling for Architects
A hardware schedule ensures coordination across documentation.
Typical Schedule Fields
- Door number
- Location
- Door type
- Hardware set number
- Lock function
- Finish
- Compliance requirements
Early scheduling reduces construction errors.
- Common Specification Mistakes
Architects frequently encounter:
- Incorrect door thickness assumptions
- Mixing incompatible hardware systems
- Ignoring fire compliance requirements
- Missing accessibility standards
- Under-specifying hinges for heavy doors
Coordination with suppliers early in design prevents issues.
- Emerging Trends in Architectural Door Hardware
Modern architecture is influencing hardware design:
- Minimalist concealed hardware
- Oversized entrance pulls
- Magnetic latching systems
- Smart locking integration
- Warm metallic finishes (brass, bronze)
Architectural hardware is increasingly considered part of the design language rather than a functional afterthought.
- Final Thoughts for Architects and Specifiers
Door hardware sits at the intersection of:
- Design
- Engineering
- Compliance
- User experience
Successful specification requires balancing aesthetics with technical performance and regulatory requirements.
Collaborating with experienced hardware consultants early in the design process can significantly reduce project risk and improve outcomes.
Need Technical Support?
For complex projects, architects should consult us at Avoca Architectural, the door hardware specialists, to:
- Review door schedules
- Confirm compliance requirements
- Coordinate finishes
- Ensure installation compatibility
Early engagement saves time, cost, and site issues.