Left and Right Swinging Doors

There is nothing more frustrating than ordering a door and discovering that the hinges are on the wrong side when you receive it. It can also be a costly mistake.

The terms that describe the position of the hinge on a door are left and right handed. To ensure you purchase exactly the correct swinging direction, you should know the difference between a left-handed and right-handed door. You can use this guide to eliminate the guesswork anytime you place an order.

Determining Door Handling

Position yourself with your back against the hinged side of the door jamb. If the door opens to your left, this is a left-handed door. If it opens to your right, it is a right-handed one. Simple!

Another simple technique is to stand facing the door on the side, which swings away from you. After that, hold up your hands, while you pretend your hands are doors and your wrists are hinges. The door is a left-handed door if the movement of your left-hand matches the door. The door is right-handed if your right-hand swings with the “hinges” on the same side as the door in front of you.

If you are purchasing your door you will want to ensure you receive the correct one, especially if it an online purchase. You should stipulate whether you want a left-handed door or right-handed door AND if you want your door to swing outward or inward. (Out-swing doors open to the exterior; in-swing doors open into the interior.)

Determining Door Swing

You will also need to determine which kind of door swing you install. If you have a wall or other obstacle perpendicular to one side of the door, this has to be the side the hinges are situated. By doing this, the door opens against the wall, allowing enough clearance for you to walk through.

Another factor to consider is the direction you approach the door. If your stairs lead up to a door on a wall parallel to the stairs, you most likely need the hinges on the far side of the door to allow it to open toward the stairs. It helps stop you from walking all the way around the door to get into the room.

Reversing The Direction Of The Door Swing

If you revamp your home and discover that it would be beneficial to change the direction of the door swing, you can do this without replacing the door. You will have to modify the hinges position and strike plate on the door jamb, and also reverse the door’s hardware placement.

If you are not comfortable with performing this yourself, it is wise let an expert install it. Whether you are searching for interior doors, entry doors, or patio doors, we have the products or expertise you are searching for here at MCM Home Exteriors in Edmonton. If you are looking for guidance on your latest project we are happy to help you with your needs!