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HARDWARE STORE VISIT REPORT

Store name - The Electroplating & Polishing Works, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad, IN

Date of visit – 05/03/2025

Purpose – To observe and document hardware related to doors and windows for
understanding and architectural applications.

Index

Introductory

This report summarizes the findings of a visit to The Electroplating and polishing works on
05/03/2025. The primary objective was to gain practical knowledge about the variety of
hardware components used in door and window construction, focusing on their functionality,
materials, and applications within architectural design.

What is hardware?

Door and window hardware are essential components of any building, offering both
functionality and aesthetics. From hinges and locks to handles and knobs, these fittings play a
crucial role in ensuring the security, accessibility, and overall appeal of doors and windows.

Observation and findings

Door Hardware –

1. Hinges

Hinges are mechanical joints that connect two objects, allowing them to pivot or swing
relative to each other, enabling doors and windows to open and close smoothly.

A door hinge connects the door to the door frame and allows the door to be opened and
closed with a turning movement. In its simplest form, hinges consist of two plates that are
connected to each other by a hinge pin. One of these plates is attached to the Door, while the
other is mounted on the door frame or wall.

1. Butt Hinges: Most widely used type of hinges, suitable for lightweight to heavy doors.
Butt hinges come in various sizes and materials, making them versatile for many
applications. The sizes ranges from 3inch to 6inch. Made out of stainless steel, they have
various finishes like antique satin, copper satin, oxidise, lacquer, antique copper matt,
satin nickel, satin.
2. Concealed Hinges: Hidden from view when the door is closed, offering a sleek and
modern look, perfect for cabinets and furniture.
 3. Pivot Hinges: Ideal for heavy or oversized doors, allowing the door to rotate on a vertical
axis. Commercial settings or statement doors in luxury homes commonly use pivot
hinges.
4. Parliament hinges: a type of door furniture designed to allow doors to swing open 180
degrees, mostly used on French doors. They have a cut-out section at the top and bottom
to allow the door to be projected away from the architrave or frame and open flat against
a wall. They are manufactured with ball bearings in the knuckle to provide extra strength
and a smooth opening action.

Points to consider while choosing the right type of hinge:

1. Door weight and size: Heavier doors require stronger, more durable hinges.
2. Frequency of use: High-traffic doors need hinges that can withstand constant use.
3. Material and finish: Choose hinges that complement your door and hardware finishes.
4. Aesthetic preferences: Consider whether you want visible or concealed hinges.
5. Special requirements: Some doors may need self-closing or wide-opening hinges.

For example, a heavy, frequently-used front door may require sturdy, heavy-duty butt
hinges, while a lightweight interior door can benefit from decorative, low-profile
hinges.

(write about variation in type and size and load capacity, discuss the application of diff types
for various door weights and opening mechanisms)

2.Door latches and locks

a. Mortise lock

A mortise lock is a type of door lock which typically combines a latch and deadbolt in one
unit. It requires a pocket, or mortise, to be cut into the edge of the door for installation. The
locking components are usually contained inside the door itself, providing an aesthetically
pleasing design with no visible hardware from the outside. Mortise locks offer increased
security and privacy compared to other types of door locks, as their internal mechanisms are
not visible from the outside. Many mortise locks contain a built-in cylinder that can be used
with a key for added security.

b. Cylindrical locks

A cylinder lock, also known as a key cylinder lock or door lock cylinder, is a locking mechanism
characterized by its cylindrical core where the key is inserted. The cylinder is the heart of the
lock and houses a series of pins that must align correctly with the key to enable the lock to
turn and unlock. This design allows for the lock to be easily rekeyed or replaced without
altering the entire lock assembly, making it an efficient and cost-effective solution for many
security applications.

c. Rim locks

d. Smart locks

e. Pad lock

f. Baby lock

(write about different latch mechanisms, security features)

1. Door closers

a. Concealed door closers

b. Overhead door closers

(discuss the adjustable closing speed and backcheck features)

2. Door stops and holders

a. Floor mounted

b. Wall mounted

c. Overhead

(discuss their role in preventing damage to walls and doors)

3. Door handles and knobs

(add pictures of handle and knob designs)

Window hardware –

1. Window hinge and stays

a. Friction hinges

b. Casement stays

(discuss the mechanisms for controlling window and opening and closing)

2. Window locks and latches

a. Casement window locks

3. Window rollers and tracks

Material and Finishes

(add pictures of everything in different materials (diff. ke form me)

Analysis and conclusions

This visit underscored the significance of even the smallest hardware details in architectural
design. We learned that careful consideration of hinges, locks, and operators, along with
material and finish choices, is vital for creating functional, secure, and aesthetically pleasing
spaces. This practical experience will elevate our attention to detail in future projects.