A Guide to Door Handing for Locksmiths

Determining door handing and selecting the right products for the job every time

Door handing may seem like a straightforward concept, but getting it right is crucial for locksmiths, especially when selecting locks, hardware, and ensuring seamless door operation. Here’s a guide to help locksmiths and door hardware professionals better understand door handing, with helpful images that can make it easy to determine.

What Is Door Handing?

Door handing refers to the direction in which a door swings when it’s opened. This determines which type of lockset or handle you need and where it should be installed. Incorrect door handing can lead to lock alignment issues, functionality problems, and poor aesthetics. Door handing is especially important in security applications and high-traffic areas, where doors need to open and close smoothly.

How to Determine Door Handing

The most common way to determine door handing is to stand with your back against the hinged side of the door while it’s open. Then note which hand would be most natural to use when pulling the door towards you:

• Left-Handed Doors (LH): If the door opens towards you and the handle is on the left side, it’s a left-handed door.
• Right-Handed Doors (RH): If the door opens towards you and the handle is on the right side, it’s a right-handed door.
• Left-Hand Reverse (LHR): If the door swings away from you and the handle is on the left, it’s a left-hand reverse.
• Right-Hand Reverse (RHR): If the door swings away from you and the handle is on the right, it’s a right-hand reverse.

This simple check helps avoid costly mistakes, especially with pre-ordered hardware or custom installations.

Why Handing Matters in Hardware Selection

Locks, levers, and even hinges can be left- or right-handed, depending on the door handing. While some hardware, such as cylindrical locksets, may be reversible, many mortise locks and levers are handed and need to be ordered correctly. Using the wrong-handed hardware can lead to installation issues and even security concerns.

Common Scenarios Requiring Door Handing Knowledge

• Entry Doors: These often use deadbolts or electronic locks that may have specific handing requirements.
• Commercial Applications: Heavy-duty locks and exit devices often require accurate door handing for proper operation.
• ADA Compliance: In accessible buildings, doors must be easy to open and follow specific regulations, making correct handing even more critical.

Avoiding Mistakes with Reversible Locks

Some locks and latches come with reversible handing, allowing locksmiths to adjust the handing on-site. This flexibility is especially useful for locksmiths who may encounter a variety of door orientations in one job. However, some reversibility methods can add steps or require specific tools, so check product specifications before purchase.

Key Tips for Correct Door Handing

• Always double-check from the hinge side. This prevents the common mistake of confusing right and left.
• Know your hardware’s handing options. Some locks or levers are reversible; others require you to specify the handing at the time of order.
• Use images and guides when explaining to customers. Visuals make it easier to communicate door handing, especially for clients who are unfamiliar with the terms.

Conclusion

Understanding door handing may take a bit of practice, but mastering it is essential for any locksmith. Clear knowledge of this concept not only improves job efficiency but also enhances customer satisfaction by avoiding errors with costly or custom hardware. With this guide and reference images, locksmiths can feel confident in determining door handing and selecting the right products for the job every time.