Exterior hardware includes components like lock guards, viewers, knockers, and mail slots designed for front doors. These hardware pieces are crucial for enhancing the security, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of exterior doors. Ives provides exterior hardware that is built to withstand various weather conditions and meet specific application needs, enhancing  durability and performance.

Lock guards are protective devices installed around the lock area of a door to prevent tampering, forced entry, and damage. When to Use: They are used to enhance security for doors with mortise or cylindrical locks, particularly in residential and commercial settings where additional protection from burglars or vandals is needed.

Mail slots are openings installed in exterior doors or walls to allow mail delivery directly into a building. When to Use: They are used in residential homes, offices, and other buildings to facilitate convenient and secure mail delivery, especially where traditional mailboxes are impractical or undesirable.

Viewers are small optical devices installed in doors that allow occupants to see who is outside without opening the door. When to Use: They are used in residential, multifamily, or commercial doors to enhance security and privacy, enabling occupants to identify visitors before granting access.

Door knockers are decorative and functional hardware mounted on doors, allowing visitors to announce their presence by knocking. When to Use: They are typically used on front doors of homes and some commercial buildings to provide a traditional and elegant way for visitors to signal their arrival, often enhancing the door's aesthetic appeal.

Selecting the proper lock guard is essential for enhancing the security and durability of your door hardware. Here are the key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Type of Door & Material

Wooden Doors: Ensure the lock guard is compatible with the thickness and material of wooden doors.

Aluminum Doors: Look for lock guards specifically designed for aluminum doors, which often include features for compatibility with electric strikes.

2. Type of Lock

Mortise Locks: Choose lock guards compatible with type 86 mortise locks, ensuring they cover the latch bolt area effectively.

Cylindrical Locks: Select lock guards designed for type 161 cylindrical locks, adhering to ANSI/BHMA standards (Series 2000, 4000).

Electric Strikes: For doors equipped with electric strikes (e.g., Von Duprin 6210 and 6211), ensure the lock guard is designed to accommodate these mechanisms.

3. Security Features

With Security Pin (e.g., LG1): Provides added security by preventing separation of the door and frame. Ideal for high-security applications.

Without Security Pin (e.g., LG7): Suitable for standard security needs without the additional frame pin.

4. Design & Fit

Width of Rose or Escutcheon: Ensure the lock guard fits the width of the rose or escutcheon (commonly 2 3/4" or 3 1/2" wide).

Narrow Designs: Opt for narrow lock guards for applications with limited space or specific aesthetic requirements.

Non-Handed vs. Handed: Non-handed lock guards are versatile and can be used on either side. Handed lock guards (e.g., for aluminum doors) require specifying left or right hand based on door orientation.

5. Installation

Ease of Installation: Look for lock guards that are easy to install, typically through bolted with carriage bolts and nuts.

No Exposed Fasteners: Choose designs with welded mounting studs and no exposed fasteners on the face of the unit for a cleaner appearance and enhanced security.

6. Application Environment

Residential vs. Commercial: Consider the specific needs of residential versus commercial applications, including the level of security required and the frequency of door use.

Weather Conditions: Ensure the lock guard is made from materials that can withstand the environmental conditions where it will be installed.

When selecting viewers, consider the following:

Field of View: A wider field of view allows better visibility of the area outside the door.

Privacy: Ensure the viewer provides a clear view from inside while maintaining privacy from the outside.

Durability: Choose materials that can withstand weather conditions and potential tampering.

Ease of Installation: Select viewers that are easy to install and fit the door thickness.

When selecting mail slots, consider the following:

Size: Ensure the mail slot is large enough to accommodate typical mail sizes without jamming.

Weather Resistance: Choose materials and designs that can withstand outdoor weather conditions, preventing water or debris from entering.

Security: Select mail slots with features that prevent unauthorized access or tampering.

Aesthetic Match: Ensure the mail slot complements the door’s design and finish, enhancing the overall appearance.

When selecting mail slots, consider the following:

Size: Ensure the mail slot is large enough to accommodate typical mail sizes without jamming.

Weather Resistance: Choose materials and designs that can withstand outdoor weather conditions, preventing water or debris from entering.

Security: Select mail slots with features that prevent unauthorized access or tampering.

Aesthetic Match: Ensure the mail slot complements the door’s design and finish, enhancing the overall appearance.

View the installation guidelines and templates.

View the Ives Pricebook for detailed how to order information and the latest pricing.

Learn more about our offering in the product pages and Ives catalog.