Builders Hardware Guides

Installing an HES 1006, 9600 or 5000 electric strike? We link the HES installation instructions and show where each document prints the cutout and dimension drawings, the 12 and 24 VDC ratings and minimum wire gauge, and what it says about fail secure and fail safe operation.

When you order a key blank, the lock brand is not enough: the blank has to fit your cylinder's keyway and pin count. See how Schlage and Sargent numbers match Ilco numbers, what restricted keyways mean, and how to read our key blank listings.

How to read a Schlage model number such as F51 LAT 619 ADD or ALX 53 P SAT 612: the function, cylinder, lever design, finish and trim codes of residential F Series and commercial ND, ALX, L and B Series locks.

Ordering a Burns pull or push plate? The model number gives the style and size; the finish is a separate Burns code. Here we read the pull center letters, push and pull plate numbers, push bar sets, VP vertical pull series and finish codes in Burns' own catalogs.

Rim, surface vertical rod, concealed vertical rod or mortise? See where each exit device type latches, how Von Duprin, Sargent and Corbin Russwin number them, what less bottom rod (LBR) means, and what to specify when you order.

Master Lock padlocks are ordered by model number and letter codes. This guide explains KA, MK and shackle codes, which padlocks take replacement shackles and cylinders, and what to know about key blanks, key numbers and keyed alike orders.

Each of these Pemko templates shows the fastener hole pattern of one full mortise geared hinge model in one length. Download the FM, FMHD, FMSLF, FMSLF-HD, KFM, KFMHD, SPFM and WTFM templates and see how to match a hinge number such as CFM83HD1 to its drawing.

A guide to the 498-page Slide-Co hardware catalog: which sections cover sliding screen doors, patio doors and windows, how its entries and master index help you identify a part, and which Prime-Line items we list.

Matching an existing door hardware finish? This chart shows the codes used most often in our catalog: BHMA numbers such as 626, 630, 613 and 622 with the older US codes, plus what manufacturer finish tables say about base materials and differences between brands.

Ordering a Schlage lock part? Note the lock series, finish, hand and door thickness first. We show where Schlage publishes its service manuals and parts diagrams by series, how to read example part numbers, and where the Schlage parts are in our store.