Skip to main content

Identifying Hardware & Taking Photos in the Field

Follow this guide before requesting help with identifying lock types, door closers, operators, and exit devices.

Written by Dan Zappulla

Reference these checklists before submitting hardware photos and specs to TSRs.

Identifying Lock Types

  • Provide measurements and full images of the front, back, and side of the door

  • Note if this is a fire-rated opening (fire-rated labels are found between the top and middle hinges or on the top of the door)

  • If the lock utilizes a key, provide photos of both sides of the existing working key

  • Take clear photos of the latch, backset, trim, lever, and core opening

  • Provide exact measurements or include a tape measure in the photos

  • In writing, specify the lock function needed (classroom, storeroom, etc.)

  • In writing, specify the finish color for exact matching (some colors can be difficult to distinguish)

Download door handing chart here

Identifying Door Closers and Operators

  • Take closeup photos with and without the cover installed

    sample photos of closer with and without cover

  • Provide exact measurements or include a tape measure in the photos

  • In writing, specify the finish color for exact matching (some colors can be difficult to distinguish)

  • Take clear photos of the arm from below

    sample photos of closer arm from below

  • Note if this is a fire-rated opening (Fire-rated labels are found between the top and middle hinges or on top of the door)

Identifying Exit Devices

  • Provide measurements and full images of the front, back, and side of the door (the door width and exit device length differ; please provide both measurements)

  • Provide exact measurements or include a tape measure in the photos

  • In writing, specify the finish color for exact matching (some colors can be difficult to distinguish)

  • Take clear photos of the end caps, head, outside trim, latch, and strike (include photos of the exit device with the head removed, if applicable)

  • Note if this is a fire-rated opening (Fire-rated labels are found between the top and middle hinges or on top of the door)

Electrifying an Opening

  • Provide full images of the door front, back, side, and header with measurements

  • Provide a brief description of what you need to accomplish (adding an electric latch retraction, electric strike, etc.)

  • Note if this is a fire-rated opening (Fire-rated labels are found between the top and middle hinges or on top of the door)

  • Take clear photos of the edge of the door, between the middle and top hinge

  • For openings with two doors, specify which door will be electrified

  • In writing, specify the hardware finish color

  • If an electrical hinge is needed, note the hinge size and quantity of wires required

Did this answer your question?