Hardware Selection | Conveying Selections
Option A Specify Knob/Lever Design Style Only And Leave The Balance To Interpretation
Steps
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Make an initial selection and provide supplier basic instructions (tubular or mortise, etc.).
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Allow for assembly of hardware schedule by distributor.
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Review, adjust, repeat.
Pros
Minimizes time required for specifier to begin process.
Allows for the benefit of the distributor’s expertise and experience on best practices, best products, and is likely to provide the most realistic overall hardware budget.
Cons
Very time consuming for the specifier to assemble.
Less likely to use expertise or experience of the distributor.
Option B Specify Everything
Steps
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Specifier works through creating a hardware schedule.
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High level distributor reviews low level. Prices as is, but usually with low quality substitutes.
Pros
Allows for precise use of exactly what the specifier wants.
Diminishes distributor turn around time, unless they are reviewing it in which case it typically takes longer.
Any intended, but not called out, deviation from the norm will be caught by the specifier ahead of time.
Cons
Very time consuming for the specifier to assemble.
Less likely to use expertise or experience of the distributor.
Option C Combine Aspects Of Options A & B
Steps
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Specifier provides what their intent and aesthetic desires are, while providing specific instructions for abnormal locations.
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Distributor deciphers all information and assembles a draft hardware schedule, taking into account all direction provided.
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Review, adjust, repeat.
Pros
Allocates responsibility and time requirements where skill sets and roles deem appropriate. Requires a high level of communication with shared responsibilities and requires review by both parties.
Cons
More time required by specifier than Option A.
Why “Sets” Work for Selections, but Not Specification
Creating hardware sets for intent works, but any variation regardless of how minor disrupts their use for implementation. (Handing, thickness, door stop type, door height, etc.). In residential, exactly identical doors only exist in 10-15% of the openings. Their use can be misleading and cause incorrect door prep if variances are not identified.