The term “handed” in reference to doors describes which direction the door opens from the perspective of someone standing on the outside of the room looking at the door. Knowing whether a door is left-handed or right-handed is important when installing the door and components like hinges and locks to ensure everything functions properly.
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Left-Handed vs Right-Handed Doors
A left-handed door is hinged on the left side when looking at the door from the outside. When opened, the door will swing to the left. Left-handed doors are also called reverse doors or reverse swing doors. They open towards the left instead of the more common right swing doors.
Conversely, a right-handed door is hinged on the right side when looking at the door from the outside. The door will swing open to the right when used. Right-handed doors are considered standard in most parts of the world.
Determining Door Handing
To determine if a door is left or right-handed, simply stand outside the door and observe which way it opens. If the hinges are on the left and the door swings open to the left, it is a left-handed door. If the hinges are on the right and it swings right, it is a right-handed door.
Another way is to examine the door frame. Door frames are usually beveled on the side where the door is hinged to allow clearance for the door to open and close. If the beveled edge is on the left, it will be a left-handed door. If it is on the right, it is a right-handed door.
Why Door Handing Matters
Knowing the handing of a door is important for several reasons:
- Properly installing hardware – Hinges, locks, and latches need to be oriented correctly based on which way the door swings open to function properly.
- Accommodating foot traffic flow – The swing of the door should promote efficient movement through the doorway.
- Accessibility requirements – Building codes often regulate the direction doors should open based on the room type and door location.
- Safety purposes – Door swing direction can impact evacuation routes and ability to access emergency equipment.
- Aesthetic design – Door handing impacts sightlines and furniture placement in a room.
Tips for Installing Based on Handing
Here are some key things to keep in mind when installing left and right-handed doors:
Hinges
- For left-handed doors, hinges should be on the left side of the frame.
- For right-handed doors, hinges should be on the right side.
- The pins of the hinges should point into the room the door is leading into.
- Be sure there is sufficient clearance in the door frame for the hinges.
Locks and Latches
- Mortise locks on right-handed doors should be installed with the lock body on the right side. For left-handed doors, they should be on the left.
- The angled face of the latch bolt should face into the room for both left and right-handed doors.
- Handlesets should be installed upright on both types of doors.
- Slide bolts lock into the top or bottom of the door on the side opposite the hinges.
Strike Plates
- Strike plates should be centered on the door jamb aligned with the lockset.
- Allow proper clearance for the latch bolt and deadbolt to slide in and out.
- Use angled strike plates when needed to help guide the latch bolt.
Door Stops
- Wall-mounted stops should be placed on the side where the door will swing open to hit against.
- Floor stops should be positioned where the open door will make contact before hitting the wall.
Standard Door Sizes
Doors come in a range of standard widths and heights depending on their purpose and location in homes and buildings. Some typical sizes include:
| Door Type | Standard Width | Standard Height |
|---|---|---|
| Interior doors | 24″, 28″, 30″, 32″, 36″ | 80″ |
| Exterior doors | 32″, 36″ | 80″ |
| Garage doors | 9′ | 7′ |
| Closet doors | 24″, 30″, 32″, 36″ | 80″ |
| Bathroom doors | 24″, 28″, 30″ | 80″ |
Keep in mind door height can vary beyond the standard 80″ for taller doors. The width is the more critical measurement for ensuring proper installation and functionality.
Types of Door Hinges
Several types of hinges can be used on left and right-handed doors:
Butt Hinges
- Most common hinge type
- Consist of two flat rectangular plates joined by a pin
- Screw into the door frame and door
- Usually installed in pairs or threes
Continuous Hinges
- Long hinge that runs nearly the full length of the door and frame
- Offers maximum stability and support for heavy doors
- Allows doors to open wide close to 180 degrees
Concealed Hinges
- Mounted inside cabinet doors and jambs
- Provide a smooth, seamless look when the door is closed
- Specialized design allows the door to open wide
Spring Hinges
- Contain springs that hold doors in place and prevent slamming
- Help close doors automatically from open positions
- Frequently used on screen doors, gates, and kitchen cabinets
Tee Hinges
- Shaped like the letter “T”
- Surface-mounted with decorative caps
- Often used on exterior doors and gates
Options for Door Handles and Locks
Choosing appropriate handles and locks is crucial to allow proper functioning based on door hand and swing direction. Here are some top options:
Entry Door Locks
- Keyed knobsets or deadbolts for security
- Thumb turn interior locks for convenience
- Touchpad electronic locks offer keyless access
- Mortise locks provide maximum strength and durability
Interior Door Hardware
- Passage knobs allow doors to open freely
- Privacy knobs with push-button locks for bathrooms and bedrooms
- Dummy knobs have no latching mechanism
- Lever handles are easy to operate and ADA compliant
Cabinet Door Hardware
- Surface mounted pulls and knobs
- Bar pulls offer a modern minimalist style
- Simple exposed hinges
- Concealed hinges for a streamlined look
Gate and Garage Door Hardware
- Gate latches allow yards to be secured
- Lockable gate handles and deadbolts
- Garage door lock bars prevent forced entry
- Automatic openers for convenience
Specialty Doors and Door Uses
In addition to standard interior and exterior doors, there are some unique door types and uses to consider:
Dutch Doors
- Doors split horizontally into upper and lower sections
- Allows the top half to be opened independently from the bottom
- Provides ventilation while retaining privacy and security
- Commonly used for barns, cottages, and businesses
Pet Doors
- Small doors fitted into larger doors for pet access
- Can be flap style or electromagnetic
- Allow pets to exit and enter the home at will
- Provide access to fenced yards and patios
Pocket Doors
- Door slides horizontally into wall pocket
- Save space instead of swinging open
- Convenient access between rooms
- Require specialized hardware and framing
Barn Doors
- Door hangs from an overhead track system
- Mimic the rustic style of barn doors on sliders
- Used for closets, bathrooms, and room dividers
- Provide a modern industrial look
Troubleshooting Common Door Issues
Some typical door problems and their solutions include:
| Issue | Potential Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Door sticks or drags on floor |
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| Door won’t latch |
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| Door squeaks and creaks |
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| Door rubs or hits frame |
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Conclusion
Understanding door handing helps ensure proper installation and smooth operation. When doors swing open in the correct direction and hardware functions as intended, doors can provide security, privacy, and convenient access throughout a building. Considering door hand during framing, installing hardware properly, and performing regular maintenance allows doors to work correctly for years to come.