Glossary of terms (as they apply to door components):
Hinge: a device usually consisting of two leaves interlaced to receive a removable pin allowing for movement of the two leaves so that a positive attachment can be made to two individual stabile components.
Closer: A hydraulic or spring loaded device designed to draw, retard or bring together a door to the door framed opening.
Swing: The direction of movement and arced path of travel taken by a door in a framed opening.
Panic device: A piece of hardware designed to work without any special knowledge, activated by applying force to a bar usually positioned horizontally across the face of the door.
Frame: The product bordering a wall opening allowing connection between wall and door.
Lock set: Any lock device that works in concert with a latch and strike plate.
Smoke seal: Any material capable of gasketing a framed opening. The material that the seal is composed of is specifically designed to isolate transfer of smoke and poisonous gases emitted by a fire.
Door sweep: A piece of weather-stripping or smoke seal designed to stop air, smoke or other objects from entering underneath a closed door. Acts like a broom to sweep along the floor, sealing the door bottom.
Threshold: The boundary of two areas associated with a door way. The material located directly underneath a closed door. Depending on rating requirements, a variety of materials are used.
Latch: The bolt that physically holds a door closed when engaged in a strike plate working as part of a lockset.
Strike plate: The plate attached to a door frame, with a hole to receive the latch..
Michael Panish is an expert witness, forensic analyst, and consultant in the field of construction. He is licensed in the State of California as a Door, Lock & Security Equipment Contractor. Michael has over 35 years hands-on experience manufacturing, installing, and servicing doors for most commercial and residential applications. His company, Door & Hardware Systems, specializes in ADA (American Disability Act) and Life Safety compliance issues for hospitals, hotels, County/State facilities, and specialty applications. He has extensive knowledge and experience as a door vendor and custom manufacturer, and is considered a sole source contractor for many California State and County projects. Michael has consulted and testified in many injury cases pertaining to door related issues as well as most aspects of construction defects, product liability, and poor workmanship. Read some of Mike Panish's published articles relating to doors, automatic doors, and other construction related expert services he provides.