Doors and Hardware Basics

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Key Questions

The following key questions are answered in this module:

What are the three settings on every door closer?
The three settings on every door closer are the backcheck, swing speed, and latch speed.

What type of doors are latchsets used for?
Latchsets are used for interior doors that do not need to be locked, such as closet doors and fire doors.

What is the importance of a spring latch or deadbolt?
A spring latch or deadbolt holds the door shut when it is locked.

When drilling lockset holes in a new door, which hole should be drilled first?
The larger handle hole should be drilled first.

What precautions should be taken when using a hole saw?
Keep the drill going straight to avoid binding the hole saw, do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that could become entangled in the hole saw, and do not use the trigger speed lock button (if your drill has one).

Sample Video Transcript

Below is a transcript of the video sample provided for this module:

A hydraulic door closer is a device that automatically closes doors. There are different types of closers and different mounting options, but they all operate similarly. A spring inside the closer body provides the force needed to close the door. Hydraulic fluid counteracts the spring to control the closing speed. When the door is opened the closer arms rotate a shaft that moves the piston. The piston compresses the spring and forces hydraulic fluid through ports. The hydraulic fluid and valves regulate the opening and closing speed. There are three settings on every door closer: backcheck, swing speed, and latch speed. Backcheck provides resistance if the door is opened too far. This prevents the door from hitting a wall or getting thrown open by the wind. Swing speed controls how fast the door closes from fully open to a few degrees from closed. Latch speed controls the closing speed for the last few degrees. It slows the door down so it closes softly but still latches. The swing and latch speed should be adjusted so it takes about 5-7 seconds to close from 90 degrees open. The latch speed should be adjusted so it is fast enough to latch but does not slam. Never back out a valve beyond the closer body or hydraulic fluid could leak out of the closer. Many door closers allow the spring to be adjusted. The spring should be set to achieve the desired opening force. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that the force to open interior doors does not exceed five pounds. Exterior door closers should be set as low as possible. Make sure to adjust for wind gusts that can cause the door to swing open or slam shut. There are several ways to prop open a door and prevent it from closing. You can install a kick down door stop, place a doorstop between the bottom side of the door and the floor near the handle edge of the door, or use a small weight as long as it does not pose a tripping hazard. Never place a wedge between the door and the hinge side of the door frame. Also, never prop open fire doors. They must remain closed at all times because, if a fire occurs, they keep the fire and smoke from spreading.