Commercial Door Hardware Guide: Hinges, Closers, Locksets & More

Overview of Commercial Door Hardware

Commercial door hardware is engineered for high-traffic, heavy-duty use. Unlike residential hardware, commercial-grade components are built to ANSI/BHMA standards and rated for millions of cycles. Choosing the right hardware is as important as choosing the right door.

Types of Commercial Door Hardware

Hinges

Commercial hinges are typically full-mortise, heavy-duty ball-bearing hinges. Key specs to know:

• Size: Most commercial doors use 4.5" × 4.5" hinges.
• Quantity: 1.5 hinges per foot of door height (a 7'0" door needs 3 hinges).
• Material: Steel, stainless steel, or brass depending on environment.
• NRP (Non-Removable Pin): Required on exterior doors for security.

Door Closers

Door closers control the speed and force of door closing. Required on all fire-rated doors.

• Surface-mounted closers: Most common, mounted on the door face or frame.
• Concealed closers: Hidden in the door or frame for a cleaner look.
• Size/power: Rated 1–6; size 3–4 covers most standard commercial doors.

Locksets & Cylindrical Locks

Commercial locksets are available in multiple functions:

• Passage: No locking, always open (closets, hallways).
• Privacy: Interior locking without key (restrooms).
• Storeroom: Always locked from outside, always open from inside.
• Office: Lockable from outside, always open from inside.

Exit Devices (Panic Hardware)

Required by code on certain egress doors. Allows exit by pushing a bar — no turning or grasping required. Available in rim, mortise, and vertical rod configurations.

Strikes & Keepers

The strike plate receives the latch or bolt. Electric strikes allow remote access control integration.

Hardware Grades (ANSI/BHMA)

• Grade 1: Heavy-duty commercial — highest cycle rating.
• Grade 2: Medium-duty commercial.
• Grade 3: Light-duty residential.

Always specify Grade 1 for commercial applications.