When it comes to installing or replacing a door, one of the most important measurements you need to take is the backset.
This refers to the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole for the knob or lock. Getting the backset right is crucial for ensuring that your door hardware fits properly and functions correctly.
Understanding door backset is the first step to getting it right. The backset measurement is typically either 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches, although other sizes are also available.
The backset measurement is important because it determines the size of the hole that needs to be drilled in the door, as well as the size of the latch or lock that will be installed.
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How to Measure Backset on Door
Tools Required for Measurement
Before you start measuring the backset on your door, you will need a few tools:
- Tape measure
- Pencil or pen
- Paper or notepad
Step by Step Process
Follow these simple steps to measure the backset on your door:
- Close the door and stand on the side of the door where the latch is located.
- Measure the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole where the latch fits. This distance is your backset measurement.
- Write down the measurement and label it as “backset measurement.”
- If you need to replace the hardware on your door, make sure to purchase hardware with the same backset measurement as your original hardware.
It’s important to note that the backset measurement is not the same as the overall measurement of the door.
The overall measurement includes the thickness of the door and the width of the door edge, while the backset measurement only includes the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole where the latch fits.
Want to know more? Read about what a backset on a door actually is.
Common Backset Measurements
When measuring the backset on your door, it’s important to know the most common measurements.
The backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole where the doorknob or lock is installed. The most common backset measurements are 2-3/8″ and 2-3/4″.
A backset of 2-3/8″ is the most common measurement for residential doors. This measurement is typically used for interior doors and some exterior doors. If you have an older home, you may find that your doors have a backset of 2-1/4″.
A backset of 2-3/4″ is less common but still used for some exterior doors. This measurement is typically used for commercial doors and some residential doors.
When measuring the backset on your door, it’s important to measure from the edge of the door to the center of the hole where the doorknob or lock is installed. Use a tape measure to measure the distance accurately.
Adjusting the Backset
Adjusting the backset on your door is a simple process that can be done with just a few tools.
If you need to adjust the backset, you will need to remove the lockset from the door. To do this, you will need a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the lockset in place. Once the lockset is removed, you can adjust the backset by moving the latch mechanism in or out, depending on your needs.
Some locksets have an adjustable backset, which means that you can change the backset without having to remove the lockset from the door. To adjust the backset on an adjustable lockset, you will need to locate the adjustment mechanism, which is usually located on the latch mechanism.
To adjust the backset, you will need to turn the adjustment mechanism using a screwdriver. Turning the mechanism clockwise will increase the backset, while turning it counterclockwise will decrease the backset. Once you have made the necessary adjustment, you can test the lockset to ensure that it is functioning properly.
It is important to note that not all locksets have an adjustable backset, so it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to adjust the backset. If your lockset does not have an adjustable backset, you will need to replace the lockset with one that has the correct backset for your door.
Popular Door Hardware Brands and Their Backsets
When it comes to measuring backset on a door, it’s important to know the standard sizes for popular door hardware brands. Here are a few of the most common brands and their corresponding backsets:
- Weiser: 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″
- Weslock: 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″
- Kwikset: 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″
- Schlage: 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″
Most latches and other door hardware are designed to fit one of these two standard backset sizes. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the manufacturer’s specifications before making a purchase.
Weiser, Weslock, Kwikset, and Schlage are all well-known and trusted brands in the door hardware industry. Each brand offers a variety of products, including door knobs, handlesets, deadbolts, and more. No matter what type of hardware you need, you can be sure that these brands will have a product that meets your needs.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can accurately measure the backset on any door. Make sure to use a quality tape measure and take your time to ensure accuracy.
It is important to note that backset measurements can vary depending on the type of door and hardware being installed. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific measurements and guidelines
