How to Install Door Hardware the Right Way

Has the question of how to install door hardware ever crossed your mind? Proper door hardware installation has many benefits, including improved security, enhanced durability, and optimal functionality. Complying with our building regulations can also provide peace of mind by reducing the risk of legal issues or potential insurance complications.  

From choosing and maintaining door hardware to appointing a licenced tradesperson to complete the job, we explore the factors that will ensure your door hardware installation is done correctly. 

The kinds of fixtures that are available should be taken into consideration before installing door hardware.

Front door handles, internal door handles, and door pulls are essential home fixtures. They ensure security and also set the tone for your home. Door handles or entry pulls come in many different designs and styles.

By limiting access and guaranteeing privacy by locking a door when it is closed, door locks offer safety and security. Inside the home, they are particularly popular for bathroom and bedroom doors and usually have a graspable lock to enable easy functionality.

Hinges offer a solution for door fitting. They allow a door to open and close smoothly while securely attached to the door frame and can also contribute to the visual appeal of your interior design.

Door stops are designed to minimise the impact of slamming doors in the home. They can be either wall or floor-mounted and are available in various finishes for pleasing consistency with your other door hardware fixtures.

When learning how to install door hardware, the first step is choosing the right fixtures to complete the project. Security, functionality, durability, and aesthetics are all important considerations in this selection process. 

ABI Interiors offers a wide variety of high-quality door hardware, including internal door handles, hinges, locks, and stops. We also provide equally elegant front door hardware, including front door handles, half-moon pulls, and round pulls. 

Our door hardware is constructed from highly durable 304 stainless steel. It is available in up to seven of our signature finishes to ensure colour consistency with other fixtures throughout your home.

Any how to install door hardware guide should clearly outline the essential tools and materials required to complete the activity successfully. 

Measuring Tape: This is used for accurate measurements and placements.

Pencil and Ruler: This is used to mark out the placements.

Leveller: To ensure your door hardware is aligned correctly.

Screwdriver: A manual or electric screwdriver for driving screws.

Drill and Drill Bits: These are used to create pilot holes and make openings for locks.

Hole Saw or Spade Bit: Used to create circular holes for locksets.

Chisel: To recess hardware and fine-tune fits.

Hammer: This is for gently tapping hardware into place.

Rubber Mallet: To avoid damaging surfaces while adjusting parts.

Screws and Fasteners: These are usually included with your door hardware purchase. 

Hinge Template: To mark and drill hinge recesses accurately.

The following steps outline how your chosen carpenter or door fitter will likely carry out your installation: 

Step 1: Measure the Door Height

The tradesperson will start by measuring the door from the top to the bottom. This ensures they know where to place the door furniture, as there are typical installation heights that need to be followed for consistency.
 

Step 2: Determine the Lock Height

In the UK, the standard height for fitting a lockset on residential doors is usually around 900mm to 1000mm from the finished floor. The tradesperson will typically mark around 950mm on the door edge, as this is a common height that keeps things uniform.
 

Step 3: Mark the Centreline

To get the lock centred, they’ll measure the middle of the door’s width and mark this point vertically at the lock height. This line will serve as a guide for installing the lockset.
 

Step 4: Measure for the Bore Hole

The tradesperson will then measure the backset for the lock, which is generally around 45mm to 60mm from the door's edge to the centre of the lock hole in the UK. They’ll mark the spot carefully, and if the hardware requires a different backset, they'll adjust as needed.
 

Step 5: Measure for the Deadbolt (if applicable)

If fitting a deadbolt, they’ll position it about 150mm above the lockset and mark the height. They’ll then find the centre of the door’s width at this point, just as they did for the lock.
 

Step 6: Mark the Strike Plate on the Door Frame

To get the strike plate in the right spot, they’ll close the door and mark where the latch hits the frame. They’ll then measure down roughly 25mm from this point to mark the centre of the strike plate location, making sure it lines up properly when the door is shut.
 

Step 7: Measure for Hinge Placement

For fitting the hinges:

• Top Hinge: They'll measure 150mm down from the top of the door.
• Bottom Hinge: They'll measure 225mm up from the bottom.
• Middle Hinge (if needed): If using a third hinge (often the case for fire doors or heavier doors in the UK), they’ll place it midway between the top and bottom hinges.
   

Step 8: Double-Check All Measurements

The tradesperson will go back over all the measurements to ensure accuracy. Using a spirit level, they’ll confirm the markings are straight and properly aligned to avoid any issues during installation.
 

Step 9: Prepare for Drilling

With everything marked out, they’ll get ready to drill the necessary holes for the lockset, deadbolt, and hinges. They’ll use the appropriate drill bit size as specified by the hardware manufacturer, such as a 25mm spade bit for the latch and a larger hole saw for the lockset.
 

Step 10: Install the Door Furniture

The tradesperson will then:

• Install the Lockset and Deadbolt: Following the manufacturer's instructions, they’ll secure the lockset and deadbolt in place, making sure they work smoothly.
• Fit the Hinges: They’ll screw the hinges into the marked positions on the door and frame, checking that the door opens and closes properly.
• Add Any Additional Fittings: If there are extra items like door stops, letter plates, or security features (e.g., chains or bolts), they’ll follow the installation instructions for those.
   

Additional Considerations for the UK

• Fire Safety Regulations: If the door is fire-rated, the tradesperson will ensure that the fittings are certified for fire doors according to UK standards (BS 476 or EN 1634).
• Security Requirements: For external doors, they’ll choose locks that meet the British Standard BS3621, which is important for insurance-approved security.
• Accessibility Standards: Public buildings must comply with UK Building Regulations Part M, which might involve fitting door handles at a specific height or using lever handles for accessibility.

To comply with the UK product safety legislation, we always recommend appointing a qualified tradesperson to properly install all your fixtures, including door hardware. 

All ABI Interiors hardware comes with comprehensive installation guides, which can be downloaded from the corresponding product pages — located underneath ‘Product Info’. Please ensure these guides are followed during the installation process.

Incorrectly installing door hardware in the UK can lead to a number of associated costs, from repair expenses to safety and security risks. To avoid these issues, we always advise appointing a qualified tradesperson to properly install all your fixtures, including door hardware, according to the installation guidelines. 

After your door hardware installation is completed, regular maintenance is essential to ensure your fixtures remain functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

Our recommendation is to regularly clean your door hardware with mild liquid detergent or soap and water. Please refrain from using cream cleaners or bleach when cleaning your fixtures, as these substances are abrasive and could impair the finish. Also, avoid using cleaning pads with abrasive surfaces, which could scratch the material. 

Look out for signs that your hardware may need tightening or replacing. Door hinges should be lubricated at least annually to help maintain proper engagement and smooth operation. You can easily complete these maintenance steps yourself.

Contact our friendly team, who can help you choose your door hardware. You can also check out our complete range at the London Showroom. 

For more inspiration on door hardware, read Our Guide to Upgrading Your Cupboard Handles.