Glossary of Terms
Problems and Solutions | Frequently Asked Questions | Glossary of Terms
Anodize — To provide a non-corrosive oxide film on the surface of a metal, particularly aluminum, by electrochemical action.
Bevel of Door — The angle of the edge of the door in relation to the inside and outside surfaces of the stile. Thin doors are not usually beveled. The commonly used bevel for heavier doors is 1/8" in 2". (A beveled edge on a thick door is necessary for a close fit when the door is closed because of the arched swing of the door.)
Butt Hinge — A hinge mortised into both the door and frame.
Butt Weld — A weld of members butting against each other.
Concealed Hinge — A hinge so constructed that no hinge leaves are exposed when the door is closed.
Continuous Hinge — A hinge designed to extend for the length of the moving part to which it is applied. Also called "piano hinge."
Corrosion — The deterioration of metal by chemical or electrochemical action resulting from exposure to weather, moisture, chemicals or other agents. A form of oxidation.
Door Buck — A door frame (usually metal).
Door Closer (or Door Check) — A device attached at the top of the door, either on the surface or mortised, to regulate and control the operation of the door.
Fireproofing — Any material protecting structural members to increase their fire resistance.
Galvanizing — The process of coating metal with zinc, either by dipping in a bath of molten zinc or by electrolytic action.
Hinge — Two jointed plates hinged together and attached to a door and its frame. Serves to support or "hang" the door and allows the door to swing or move.
Half Surface — Hinge with one leaf mortised in door jamb, the other leaf secured to surface of door.
Full Surface — Hinge with one leaf secured to surface of door, the other leaf secured to surface of door jamb.
Jamb — The vertical member forming the side of a door, window or wall opening frame. The hinge jamb is the jamb at which the hinges or pivots are installed. The strike jamb is the jamb in which a strike may be installed and away from which the door or window swings. A blank jamb is one that has not been prepared to receive hardware.
Mortise — An opening recess or cutout made to receive a lock or other hardware. Also the act of making such an opening.
Oxidation — The natural tendency of compounds to break down and return to their basic, original forms. This characteristic is both beneficial and detrimental in builders' hardware. Rust and corrosion are detrimental, destructive forms of oxidation. On the other hand, a finish that darkens with use, i.e., oxidized bronze or copper's "patina" are examples of attractive, essentially non-destructive forms of oxidation.
Rabbet — A term used to define that portion of a doorframe into which the door fits. Also a term used to describe the abutting edges of a pair of doors or windows so shaped as to provide a tight fit. One half of the edge projects beyond the other half, usually 1/2".
Single-Rabbet Frame — A doorframe having only one rabbet.
Surface Hinge — One having both leaves secured to the surface of the door and frame.
