There is a vast array of door hardware available on the market. We will install whatever you choose, if we are building a new pre-hung door unit. If we are supplying door slabs only, your carpenter must first fit the door into the existing opening. Then the hinges are located from the jamb and installed. Finally, when the door is properly fit and swinging, at that point, the lock set is installed.
We have a few definite thoughts concerning lock set types: Cylindrical (also referred to as tubular) mechanisms are preferable to mortise type sets. There are several reasons we feel this way: Mortise sets are generally more expensive. They are more finicky mechanisms in our experience. Mortise box sizes have no standards, so in the event a problem arises a replacement can be very difficult to obtain. The large cut for a mortise set will weaken the door at that location, and can remove most of a tenon if the location falls at a cross rail.
Cylindrical sets by contrast frequently have consistent internal dimensions. So a working replacement to a broken mechanism is usually easily obtained locally. We have also found them to be largely problem free.
Three point locksets have been very delicate mechanisms in our experience. They are built into the door, and are proprietary – so replacement can be quite difficult. Adjustment of a door or jamb from movement of the structure is limited, if possible at all. If you are drawn to the perceived security of this design, you should look at “Cremone bolts” as an alternative.
Mail slots, peep holes, pet doors, knockers, bells – whatever you desire can also be accommodated. We strongly urge you to make your hardware selections as soon as you order a door, if not before! The size and design of the hardware usually must be accounted for in the door’s internal dimensions. Additionally, there is frequently an extended lead time for many hardware choices.
Hardware choices are many, in fact – if you can find it, we can incorporate it into your project! Our advice will always be to choose hardware with the best possible properties of longevity and maintainability, balanced with energy performance considerations. Glazing choices are equally diverse, from using existing historic art glass pieces to high performance insulated units.
All of our materials and methods are selected with one goal in mind: longevity of the product. Customers routinely ask us to duplicate windows and doors that are well over 100 years old. For today’s building industry, it is the norm for products to have an engineered life span of 15 years. However, we, at Allied Millwork of Pittsburgh, pride ourselves on manufacturing products that surpass the industry’s expectations, and our clients have come to rely on us for producing products with paramount longevity. A note on design: although our products maintain a classic, historic look, they can meet modern energy standards.
We pride ourselves on our attention to the smallest details. If we feel that a particular product offers a significant benefit, we utilize it. This is done without regard to a slight increase in our manufacturing cost (something that larger companies will not do). You, the customer, benefit from this approach and we sleep better at night with the knowledge that we have supplied you with the best possible product!
Our shop has provided goods destined for historic projects in Ohio, Kentucky, Georgia, Maryland, New York and throughout Pennsylvania. We have been involved in new structures as far away as Westport, Connecticut and Nantucket Island, Massachusetts.