How to Measure, Select, and Install Interior Door Hardware (A Step-by-Step Guide)
The past few years, my most requested product link has been my door hardware… and for good reason. It’s beautiful, heavy, well made, has the perfect brass finish, and has seriously elevated the aesthetic of our millwork and home. As we near the homestretch of the entryway renovation, installing door hardware was left on our punch list. I wanted to take that as an opportunity to share more about the hardware selection and installation process- especially since it’s one of my most asked about designer resources. Click through for a detailed post on how to measure, select, and install interior door hardware with a step-by-step guide… along with my timeless hardware picks- all are safe bets for a classic look that won’t go out of style.
Back in April, I shared how to order and replace an interior door… definitely check out that one for my millwork recommendations and step-by-step tutorial on how to update interior doors throughout your home. It’s a process we’ve slowly been tackling since moving into our house. Today, I’m chatting all about hardware- scroll on for everything you need to know about measuring, ordering, and installing updated interior door hardware.
Measuring & Ordering
Determine the Function
Before you order door hardware, you need to know what type of door it’s for. Here are the three options, with examples of each:
- Privacy – this means it’s lockable and functional from both sides… ideal for a bedroom or bathroom.
- Passage – this one is non lockable, but functional from both sides… perfect for a space like a laundry room.
- Dummy – this type of hardware is more for aesthetic… it’s only functional from one side and is typically used on closets.
Determine the Door Swing
Next, you’ll need to determine the door swing. I made a handy diagram for you (save or pin this)! Door handing is important because hardware is directional- especially if your hardware includes levers or backplates.
Measure the Backset
Next, measure the backset- most hardware requires 2 3⁄8″ or 2 3⁄4″. For example, our backset (pictured above) is 2 3⁄4″… from the center of the hardware to the door edge. This is important if you have pre-drilled your door for hardware.
Hardware Style Guide
When it comes to choosing a specific style for your home, I’ve been brand loyal to Grandeur and Nostalgic Warehouse since we started renovating over a decade ago. We’ve used it in all three of our homes. Why? Their styles have a classic and historic aesthetic that will withstand the test of time. They’re also excellent quality, but from a visual point of view- they have timeless options. There are quite a few styles to choose from, so they’ve architecturally felt cohesive with our bungalow, rambler, and colonial over the years. Some things to consider when choosing a style…
- Backplate Size – consider the scale and height of your door.
- Finish – what finish feels consistent or complementary with others found throughout your home?
- Style – as I previously mentioned, I try to choose a cohesive architectural match, or something consistent with the style of a home.
- Door Knob Shape – do you prefer a knob or a lever? If a knob, what shape (oval, round, etc).
- Material – in addition to metals, some hardware contains glass or crystal knobs.
My Top Picks
Check out some of my top designer hardware choices below. These all feel very timeless to me, and would work well with a variety of aesthetics.
Click directly on each hardware set below to be redirected.
Installation
Unbox
Upon unboxing new Grandeur (or Nostalgic Warehouse) hardware, you’ll notice handy instructions, the template, and all the parts you’ll need for a complete installation. Everything is also neatly labeled.
Templating
First, grab the clear template and align it with the pre-bored hole. Or- you can use the template to mark and bore the hole yourself. Mark the top and bottom holes, then drill those- as that’s where the backplate will attach.
Install the Latch Tongue
The latch tongue should slide into place easily- and the diagram in the instructions makes it very clear to identify what goes where. Once you have it in place, install the face plate. It simply secures with two included screws.
Mount the Exterior Backplate
Thread the screw extender into each backplate (there is one for each side of the door- front & back), then secure it with a screw in the top and the bottom of the plate… pictured below.
Install the Privacy Pin
Since this door leads to a bedroom, it has a privacy lock. Therefore, it includes a privacy pin. The pin simply screws into place, then it can be pushed to lock the door from the inside. The last step is to test the hardware, making sure it functions smoothly & properly, as expected.
I know hardware installation may seem daunting, but it’s really that simple. I think measuring is the most difficult part of the process… especially if you order your doors pre-drilled.
FAQ
Grandeur actually has nine finishes to choose from, so it can definitely be tricky to tell. Mine is the Carré Tall Plate with the Georgetown Lever in Vintage Brass. I do appreciate how customizable their hardware is.
Nice hardware is definitely a worthy home investment, in my opinion. Door hardware is something you interact with every single day, multiple times a day… almost like plumbing fixtures. In addition to durability, heavy hardware is a great way to make a door feel more substantial. It’s one of my designer tricks for making a home feel higher end and custom. I can also attest to the quality and finish of this brand.
I actually compared my exterior hardware (since I have one of each). Check out this detailed comparison I previously shared: Grandeur vs Emtek exterior door hardware.
Related
Looking for more door and hardware posts? I’ll link some favorites for you below… I hope they’re helpful!
- Grandeur vs Emtek Exterior Door Hardware
- How to Order & Replace an Interior Door (with Designer Recommendations)
- Roundup : Brass Door Hardware
- Cabinetry Hardware Placement Guide (with Easy Examples)
- Selecting Interior Doors & Hardware Style
- How We Choose : Hardware
- How to Paint a Door
- How to Replace & Upgrade Your Cabinet Doors
- Replacing the Front Door
Let me know if you have any hardware or door questions in the comment section! I’m always happy to help. I’ve got a hardware giveaway coming to Instagram today, too! I reached out to Grandeur and they agreed to let one of you pick out a new set. Head over there for details on entering!
Next, I’ve got to finish upholstering my antique chairs for the entry. It’s on my to-do list as soon as my nephew leaves. We’ve been having the best time though. I hope you also had a wonderful long summer weekend! Here’s to a good week ahead, friends.