Understanding antique door and window hardware can feel overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with the terminology. Whether you’re restoring a historic home, working on a design project, or simply fascinated by vintage pieces, knowing the correct terms can make it much easier to find and appreciate these treasures. Here’s a helpful glossary of common antique door and window hardware terms to guide you through the basics.
Door Hardware Terms
Backplate/Face Plate: A decorative metal plate that sits behind a doorknob or lever. Backplates often feature intricate designs and protect the door from wear.
Rosette: A small, circular or oval plate that surrounds a doorknob or lever. Rosettes are often simpler than backplates but serve the same protective function.
Escutcheon: A plate or cover surrounding a keyhole to protect the door and add a decorative element. Some escutcheons include a flap to cover the keyhole.
Keyhole Cover: Also called an escutcheon, this piece surrounds and protects the keyhole, sometimes with a hinged cover for added security.
Mortise Lock: A type of lock installed inside a pocket (or mortise) cut into the edge of the door. Mortise locks are common in older homes and are prized for their durability and craftsmanship.
Rim Lock: A surface-mounted lock fixed to the door’s interior side. Rim locks were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and often feature a keyhole and latch.
Strike Plate: A metal plate affixed to the door frame, designed to guide and secure the latch or bolt when the door is closed.
Latch: A mechanism that secures the door when it’s pushed or pulled shut, often operated by a doorknob or lever.
Knob Set: A pair of doorknobs (one for each side of the door) connected by a spindle, often accompanied by matching backplates or rosettes.
Hinge: A pivoting mechanism that allows the door to open and close. Antique hinges, such as ball-tip or finial hinges, often feature decorative details.
Window Hardware Terms
Sash Lock: A locking mechanism that secures a window sash in a closed position. Sash locks are commonly found on double-hung windows.
Sash Lift: A handle or pull mounted on the bottom of a window sash to help lift or lower the window.
Window Stay: A bar or rod used to hold a window open at a specific angle. These were especially common on casement windows.
Casement Fastener: A latch mechanism used to secure casement windows. These often feature elegant, curved designs in antique versions.
Pulley: A small wheel mounted in the window frame, used as part of the counterweight system for double-hung windows.
Counterweight: A weight hidden inside the window frame, attached to the sash by a cord and pulley system, allowing smooth opening and closing of the window.
Shutter Dog: A decorative or functional piece of hardware used to hold window shutters open. Many antique shutter dogs feature ornate shapes like scrolls or stars.
General Terms
Patina: The natural aging and wear on metal hardware, often adding character and authenticity to antique pieces.
Finish: The surface treatment or coating on hardware, such as brass, bronze, nickel, or iron. Antique finishes can range from polished and shiny to weathered and matte.
Antique door and window hardware is more than just functional; it’s a piece of history that adds character and charm to any space. Whether you’re restoring a historic property or creating a vintage-inspired look, knowing these terms will help you make informed choices and appreciate the craftsmanship of the past.
If you’re looking for authentic antique hardware, visit our online store or stop by our shop in Florence, Colorado. We’re here to help you find the perfect pieces for your project!