Commercial Door Hardware Procurement Checklist for Contractors

For contractors involved in commercial and fire-rated building projects, door hardware procurement is a critical decision point that directly impacts project compliance, inspection approval, construction schedules, and long-term maintenance costs.

Unlike residential hardware, commercial door hardware must meet strict performance, fire safety, and regional certification requirements. Selecting the wrong components—or the wrong supplier—can result in failed inspections, costly replacements, or project delays.

This procurement checklist is designed to help contractors, project managers, and commercial buyers systematically evaluate door hardware requirements, supplier capabilities, and cost planning considerations.

1. Define Project Type and Regulatory Scope

Before sourcing any hardware, contractors must clearly define the project scope and applicable regulations.

Key questions include:

• ◆Is the project fire-rated or non-fire-rated?

• ◆Which regions or countries apply (EU, UK, Middle East, North America)?

• ◆Is CE certification, UL certification, or both required?

• ◆Are there local authority or insurance-driven compliance requirements?

For international or mixed-market projects, sourcing CE + UL certified door hardware allows contractors to standardize specifications and reduce compliance risk.

2. Identify Required Door Hardware Categories

A commercial door is a system, not a single product. Contractors should ensure all necessary components are included in the procurement plan.

A complete commercial door hardware package typically includes:

• •Door hinges and concealed hinges

• •Door locks or locking systems

• •Door closers

• •Panic exit devices or fire exit hardware

• •Door handles and accessories

• •Lock cylinders (where applicable)

Missing or mismatched components often cause issues during inspection or commissioning.

3. Verify Fire-Rated Performance for Each Component

For fire-rated doors, every hardware component must be approved for use on fire doors.

Contractors should verify:

• √Fire test standards (EN 1634 or UL 10C)

• √Fire rating duration (e.g. 60, 90, 120, 180 minutes or 3 hours)

• √Compatibility with timber or steel fire doors

It is a common mistake to assume that if the door leaf is fire-rated, any hardware can be used. In reality, hardware certification is independently verified.

4. Check CE and UL Certification by Product Type

Certification must match both product category and regional requirements.

CE Certification (EN Standards)

For CE-marked projects, contractors should confirm:

• *Hinges: EN 1935

• *Locks: EN 12209

• *Door Closers: EN 1154

• *Panic Exit Devices: EN 1125

• *Handles: EN 1906

• *Lock Cylinders: EN 1303

• *Fire Testing: EN 1634

• *Corrosion Resistance: EN 1670

CE certification is mandatory for most European, UK, and Middle East commercial projects.

UL Certification (North America)

For UL-controlled projects, confirm:

• *UL 10C fire resistance for hinges, locks, closers, and exit hardware

• *UL 305 for panic hardware

• *ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or Grade 2 performance where applicable

• *Valid UL file numbers for verification

UL certification is essential for US and Canadian commercial buildings.

5. Evaluate Durability and Lifecycle Performance

Commercial doors experience high-frequency use, especially in public buildings.

Contractors should verify:

• •Cycle test performance (200,000–2,500,000 cycles)

• 
  

• •Heavy-duty or commercial-grade classification

• •Proven performance in high-traffic environments

Hardware with insufficient durability increases maintenance costs and warranty claims over the project lifecycle.

6. Assess Supplier Manufacturing Capability

Not all suppliers are equal. Contractors should distinguish between traders, assemblers, and true manufacturers.

Key evaluation points:

• ◆In-house production vs. outsourced manufacturing

• ◆Ability to supply full hardware packages

• ◆Stable production capacity for large projects

• ◆Consistency of materials and finishes

• ◆Availability of test reports and certifications

A manufacturer with integrated production and certification coverage offers better quality control and delivery reliability.

7. Confirm System Compatibility and Configuration Support

Door hardware components must work together as a coordinated system.

Contractors should confirm:

• ◆Lock and panic hardware compatibility

• ◆Door closer power size matching door weight and size

• ◆Hinge load ratings suitable for door leaf

• ◆Correct handing and installation orientation

Working with a one-stop door hardware supplier simplifies system matching and reduces technical errors.

8. Consider Installation and After-Sales Support

Installation issues can delay handover and increase labor costs.

Contractors should assess:

• ◆Availability of installation guidelines

• ◆Technical support during installation

• ◆Replacement part availability

• ◆Warranty terms for commercial use

Reliable after-sales support is especially important for long-term commercial projects.

9. Plan Procurement Cost Beyond Unit Price

For contractors, the lowest unit price does not always equal the lowest project cost.

Key cost factors include:

• •Certification and inspection approval risk

• •Installation time and labor efficiency

• •Maintenance and replacement frequency

• •Supplier lead times and logistics reliability

Sourcing a complete commercial door hardware package from a single certified manufacturer often results in better overall cost control.

10. Typical Application Scenarios for Contractors

★Office Buildings and Business Parks

• •High-cycle hinges and closers

• •Certified locking systems

• •Consistent hardware finishes

★Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

• •Reliable self-closing fire doors

• •Panic exit hardware for safe evacuation

• •Durable and corrosion-resistant finishes

★Hotels and High-Rise Residential Projects

• •Fire-rated locks and closers

• •Quiet and controlled door operation

• •Compliance with local fire codes

★Airports, Schools, and Public Buildings

• •Heavy-duty panic hardware

• •High corrosion resistance

• •Proven performance under extreme traffic

For further information about fire rated door hardware or any of our services, please click to Contact us Now:

Contact: David Jian

Mobile No.: 0086-139 2903 7292

Email: sales@danddhardware.com