Glossary: Door Hardware, Tapware & Renovation Terms Explained

Definition: Backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the handle, knob, keyhole or latch hole.

What this means for you: The shorter the backset, the closer the handle or knob will sit to the edge of the door. The longer the backset, the further in from the edge it will sit. Getting this right is important so your handle feels comfortable to use and lines up correctly with your door.

How to choose the right backset:

- Replacing existing hardware: Use the same backset you already have so everything lines up with the existing holes in your door.

- New single doors (no glass or panelling near the handle): A 60mm backset is the most common and works well in most situations.

- Double doors or doors with glass or panels: Measure the width of the vertical section of timber where the handle will sit (called the stile), then divide that measurement by 2. Choose the backset size that is closest to this measurement so the handle sits visually centred.

Related: How to measure your backset | View Door Handles | View Locks & Latches

Definition: A spindle is the metal bar that connects the handles or knobs on each side of a door.

What this means for you: When you turn the handle, the spindle rotates and operates the latch inside the door.

Related: Door handles | Locks & latches

Definition: A lever handle is a door handle that is pushed down to operate a latch.

What this means for you: Lever handles are easy to use and are available in passage, privacy, entrance and dummy functions depending on the product.

Related: Lever door handles

Definition: A door knob is a round handle used to open and close a door.

What this means for you: Door knobs can be used on internal or external doors, depending on the matching latch or lock. Some knob sets need a deeper backset than lever handles to give enough room for your hand to turn the knob comfortably.

Related: Door knobs

Definition: A rose is the round or square plate that sits behind a door handle or knob.

What this means for you: Handles on rose usually have a smaller, more minimal look than long backplate handles. They are often paired with separate privacy turns, keyhole escutcheons or locks.

Related: Door handles

Definition: A backplate is the longer plate behind a door handle or knob.

What this means for you: Backplates can help cover existing holes or marks from previous hardware. They also create a more traditional or decorative look.

Related: Door handles

Definition: A pull handle is a fixed handle used to pull a door open, rather than turn a latch.

What this means for you: Pull handles are commonly used on entrance doors, sliding doors, cupboards and larger doors where a strong grip is helpful.

Related: Door pull handles

Definition: An edge pull is a small pull fitted into the edge of a sliding door.

What this means for you: It helps you pull a cavity sliding door out from inside the wall pocket when the door is fully open.

Related: Sliding door handles

Definition: A flush pull is a recessed pull handle that sits flat or nearly flat with the door surface.

What this means for you: Flush pulls are commonly used on sliding doors because they do not protrude far from the face of the door.

Related: Sliding door handles

Definition: A latch is the internal mechanism that keeps a door closed.

What this means for you: The latch is operated by turning a handle or knob. It is commonly used on non-locking internal doors such as hallways, bedrooms and living areas.

Related: Locks & latches

Definition: A tubular latch is a common latch that fits into a drilled hole in the edge of a door.

What this means for you: It is used with many modern door handles and knobs. Tubular latches are available in different backset sizes, so check compatibility before ordering.

Related: Latches | What is backset?

Definition: A passage set is a non-locking door handle or knob set.

What this means for you: Passage sets are used where privacy or security is not needed, such as hallways, living rooms, laundries and some bedrooms.

Related: Privacy vs passage door handles | Door handles

Definition: A privacy set is a door handle or knob set with a simple internal lock.

What this means for you: Privacy sets are usually used on bathrooms, toilets and bedrooms. They typically lock from the inside and have an emergency release on the outside.

Related: Privacy vs passage door handles | Privacy door handles

Definition: A dummy handle is a fixed handle that does not turn or operate a latch.

What this means for you: Dummy handles are used for doors that only need to be pulled open or for doors where one side is decorative only.

Common uses: Wardrobes, cupboards, linen closets and the inactive side of some double doors.

Related: What is a dummy handle? | Dummy door handles

Definition: An entrance set is a door handle or knob set designed for external doors and key locking.

What this means for you: Entrance sets are used where security is needed, such as front doors, back doors and external access doors.

Related: Entrance door handles | Locks & latches

Definition: A mortice lock is a lock body installed inside a cut-out pocket in the door.

What this means for you: Mortice locks are commonly used with traditional door handles, keyhole plates or entrance sets. They are often used on external doors or doors that need a more substantial locking mechanism.

Related: What is a mortice lock? | Mortice locks

Definition: A euro cylinder is a removable lock cylinder used with compatible euro-style locks.

What this means for you: The cylinder is the part the key goes into. Euro cylinders are often chosen because the cylinder can be replaced separately from the full lock body.

Related: Locks & latches

Definition: A deadbolt is a locking mechanism that extends a solid bolt into the door frame.

What this means for you: Deadbolts are used to add security to external doors and are usually separate from the main door handle.

Related: Deadbolts

Definition: A privacy bolt is a simple locking bolt used with a privacy turn or snib.

What this means for you: It is often used on bathrooms and toilets where a basic privacy lock is needed rather than a keyed lock.

Related: Privacy latches

Definition: A split cam latch allows the handles on each side of the door to operate independently in certain privacy or locking setups.

What this means for you: Split cam mechanisms are used in specific door hardware systems. Always check the product description to make sure the handle, latch and privacy function are compatible.

Related: Locks & latches

Definition: A snib is a small turn, button or lever used to lock or unlock a door from one side.

What this means for you: Snibs are often found on privacy locks, screen door locks and some entrance locks.

Definition: A rim lock is a lock fitted to the surface of a door rather than inside the door.

What this means for you: Rim locks are often used in traditional or heritage-style homes where a visible surface-mounted lock suits the style of the door.

Related: Locks & latches

Definition: A French door is one of a pair of doors that open from the centre.

What this means for you: French doors often have glass panels and may use narrower backsets, flush bolts, rebated hardware or special latches depending on how the doors meet.

Related: Door handles | Door bolts

Definition: A rebate is a step or overlap cut into the edge of a door or frame.

What this means for you: Rebated doors may need compatible rebated locks, latches or conversion kits so the two doors can close neatly together.

Related: Locks & latches

Definition: A cavity sliding door slides into a pocket inside the wall.

What this means for you: Cavity sliding doors usually need flush pulls, edge pulls or dedicated cavity sliding door locks rather than standard lever handles.

Related: Sliding door handles

Definition: An external door is a door that leads outside or is exposed to weather.

What this means for you: External doors usually need stronger locking hardware and products suitable for the conditions where they will be installed.

Related: Entrance door handles

Definition: An internal door is used inside the home.

What this means for you: Internal doors commonly use passage, privacy or dummy handle functions depending on the room.

Related: Internal door handles

Definition: Door thickness is the measurement from one face of the door to the other.

What this means for you: Door thickness can affect whether the screws, spindle, latch and lock will fit correctly. Check product specifications before ordering.

Definition: Handing refers to whether a door is left-handed or right-handed, depending on how it opens.

What this means for you: Some locks, handles, hinges and other hardware are handed, meaning you need to choose the correct left or right version.

Definition: Centre to centre is the distance between the centre points of two fixing holes or important points.

What this means for you: This measurement is commonly used for cabinet handles, pull handles and some door hardware. If you are replacing existing hardware, matching the centre-to-centre measurement can help avoid drilling new holes.

Related: Cabinet handles

Definition: A bore hole is a large round hole drilled into a door to fit a handle, knob or lock mechanism.

What this means for you: Some modern doors have a large bore hole, often around 54mm. If you are replacing hardware, make sure the new handle or backplate can cover the existing hole.

Related: What door handle do I need?

Definition: Projection is how far a handle, knob, hook or fitting sticks out from the surface it is mounted on.

What this means for you: Projection matters in tight spaces, behind doors, near walls, on cupboards and anywhere clearance is limited.

Definition: Overall length is the full length of a product from one end to the other.

What this means for you: This is useful for checking the visual size of handles, pulls, bolts and other hardware.

Definition: A faceplate is the visible metal plate on the edge of a door around the latch or lock.

What this means for you: The faceplate is the part you see on the door edge when the door is open. It may need to match the size and shape of your existing cut-out when replacing hardware.

Definition: A strike plate is the metal plate fitted to the door frame where the latch or bolt enters when the door is closed.

What this means for you: The strike plate needs to align with the latch or bolt so the door closes properly.

Definition: Through fixing uses screws or bolts that pass through the door to connect both sides of the handle together.

What this means for you: Through fixing creates a strong, secure installation and can be especially useful for door handles that get regular use.

Definition: A grub screw is a small screw used to hold a part in place, often tightened with an Allen key.

What this means for you: Grub screws are commonly used to secure a handle or knob onto a spindle.

Definition: An adapter plate is a plate used to cover, adjust or adapt existing holes or fixing positions.

What this means for you: Adapter plates can be useful when replacing old hardware with new hardware that does not match the existing door preparation exactly.

Definition: An escutcheon is a decorative plate that surrounds a keyhole or lock cylinder.

What this means for you: Escutcheons create a neat finish around the keyhole and can help match the style and finish of your door handles.

Related: Door handle accessories

Definition: A hinge is the hardware that allows a door, window or cabinet to swing open and closed.

What this means for you: Hinges need to suit the size, weight and use of the door or cabinet they are fitted to.

Related: Hinges

Definition: A butt hinge is a common hinge made from two leaves joined by a pin.

What this means for you: Butt hinges are widely used on doors and are available in different sizes and finishes.

Related: Hinges

Definition: A flush bolt is a bolt recessed into the edge or face of a door.

What this means for you: Flush bolts are often used on double doors to secure the inactive door at the top or bottom.

Related: Door bolts

Definition: A barrel bolt is a surface-mounted bolt that slides into a keeper to secure a door, gate or cupboard.

What this means for you: Barrel bolts are simple, visible bolts often used where an extra manual fixing is needed.

Related: Door bolts

Definition: A door stop is used to stop a door from opening too far.

What this means for you: Door stops can help protect walls, skirting boards, handles and nearby surfaces from impact.

Related: Door stops

Definition: A finish is the surface colour, texture or coating on a product.

What this means for you: Common hardware finishes include antique brass, satin brass, matte black, chrome, nickel and bronze. Matching finishes across different products can help create a consistent look.

Definition: Solid brass means the product is made from brass, not just finished in a brass colour.

What this means for you: Solid brass is commonly used for traditional hardware because it is durable and has a quality feel.

Definition: A plated finish is a thin layer of metal applied over another base material.

What this means for you: Plating allows products to achieve different colours and surface finishes, such as chrome, nickel, brass or bronze tones.

Definition: Electroplating is a process that uses electricity to apply a metal coating to a product surface.

What this means for you: Many decorative hardware finishes are created using electroplating.

Definition: PVD stands for Physical Vapour Deposition. It is a coating process used to create a durable surface finish.

What this means for you: PVD finishes are often chosen for areas where a harder-wearing finish is wanted. Always check the individual product details for suitability.

Definition: A living finish is designed to change over time with handling, exposure and use.

What this means for you: Living finishes are popular in traditional and heritage-style homes because they develop character rather than staying perfectly uniform.

Definition: A lacquered finish has a clear protective coating over the surface.

What this means for you: Lacquer can help slow natural changes to the finish, although all finishes should still be checked against the individual product description.

Definition: An unlacquered finish has no clear protective lacquer over the surface.

What this means for you: Unlacquered brass and similar finishes are intended to age and develop a natural patina over time.

Definition: Tarnish is the natural darkening or colour change that can occur on some metal surfaces.

What this means for you: Tarnish is often part of the natural ageing process of real brass and some other metals.

Definition: Antique brass is a darker brass finish designed to create an aged or traditional look.

What this means for you: Antique brass works well with heritage, classic, rustic and traditional interiors.

Related: Antique brass hardware

Definition: Satin brass is a soft brushed brass finish with a muted look.

What this means for you: Satin brass gives warmth without the high shine of polished brass.

Definition: Polished brass is a bright, reflective brass finish.

What this means for you: Polished brass is often used in traditional, vintage and classic interiors where a brighter gold-toned finish is wanted.

Definition: Matte black is a low-sheen black finish.

What this means for you: Matte black is popular for modern, industrial, farmhouse and Hamptons-style interiors.

Definition: Chrome is a bright, reflective silver-toned finish.

What this means for you: Chrome is commonly used for tapware, bathroom accessories, door hardware and cabinet hardware.

Definition: Nickel is a silver-toned finish that is usually warmer and softer than chrome.

What this means for you: Nickel finishes can suit both traditional and modern homes, depending on whether the finish is polished, satin or brushed.

Definition: A mixer tap combines hot and cold water through one spout.

What this means for you: Mixer taps usually have one lever or handle to control both the water flow and temperature.

Related: Tapware

Definition: Three-piece tapware has separate hot and cold handles with a separate spout.

What this means for you: This style is common in traditional bathrooms, kitchens and laundries, and may suit existing three-hole installations.

Related: Tapware

Definition: A wall mixer is installed into the wall and controls the water flow and temperature.

What this means for you: Wall mixers are often used for showers, baths and wall-mounted basin or kitchen tap setups.

Definition: A ceramic disc is a modern tap mechanism that uses two ceramic plates to control water flow.

What this means for you: Ceramic disc mechanisms are designed for smooth operation and are less likely to drip than traditional rubber washer mechanisms.

Definition: A standard washer is a traditional rubber component inside some taps that helps seal the water flow.

What this means for you: Standard washers are used in more traditional tap mechanisms and may require more turning than quarter-turn styles.

Definition: A rapid action washer is a tap washer designed to open and close with fewer turns than a standard washer.

What this means for you: It gives a quicker on-and-off action while still using a washer-style mechanism.

Definition: A quarter turn tap turns on or off with a short quarter turn of the handle.

What this means for you: Quarter turn tapware is quicker to operate than traditional multi-turn taps.

Definition: WELS stands for Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards.

What this means for you: A WELS rating helps show the water efficiency of products such as taps, showers and toilets.

Definition: WaterMark is a certification mark for certain plumbing and drainage products in Australia.

What this means for you: Products that require WaterMark certification should meet the relevant Australian plumbing requirements.

Definition: A gooseneck spout has a high curved shape, similar to a goose’s neck.

What this means for you: Gooseneck taps provide extra clearance under the spout, which can be helpful for sinks and basins.

Definition: A pull-out or pull-down spray tap has a flexible spray head that can be extended from the spout.

What this means for you: This style is commonly used in kitchens and laundries where extra reach is useful.

Definition: A diverter redirects water from one outlet to another.

What this means for you: Diverters are often used to switch water flow between a bath outlet and shower, or between different shower functions.

Definition: A butler sink is a deep, rectangular sink often made from fireclay or ceramic material.

What this means for you: Butler sinks are popular in traditional, farmhouse and classic kitchens, and are often installed with the front of the sink visible.

Related: Sinks

Definition: Fireclay is a ceramic material fired at high temperatures to create a strong sink surface.

What this means for you: Fireclay is commonly used for butler sinks, farmhouse sinks and traditional kitchen sinks.

Definition: An inset sink is installed from above the benchtop, with the rim sitting on top of the bench.

What this means for you: Inset sinks are one of the most common installation types and can suit many kitchen and laundry benchtops.

Definition: An undermount sink is installed underneath the benchtop.

What this means for you: Undermount sinks create a clean benchtop look, but the benchtop material and installation method need to be suitable.

Definition: An apron front sink has a visible front panel that sits forward of the cabinetry.

What this means for you: This is a common feature of butler and farmhouse-style sinks.

Definition: A single bowl sink has one main sink bowl.

What this means for you: Single bowl sinks can provide more uninterrupted space for washing larger items.

Definition: A double bowl sink has two separate sink bowls.

What this means for you: Double bowl sinks allow separate areas for rinsing, washing or soaking.

Definition: A basin is a bathroom sink used for washing hands and face.

What this means for you: Basins come in many styles, including above-counter, inset, wall-hung and pedestal designs.

Related: Basins

Definition: An above-counter basin sits on top of the vanity or benchtop.

What this means for you: This style creates a feature look and may affect the height and style of tapware needed.

Definition: An overflow is a small opening that helps water drain if the basin or sink gets too full.

What this means for you: Basins with and without overflow may require different waste types, so check compatibility before ordering.

Definition: A waste is the fitting that sits in the drain hole of a sink, basin or bath.

What this means for you: The correct waste depends on the product type and whether it has an overflow.

Definition: A heated towel rail is a towel rail that warms towels using electricity or hydronic heating.

What this means for you: Heated towel rails are used in bathrooms, ensuites and laundries for warm, dry towels.

Related: Heated towel rails

Definition: Hardwired means the product is connected directly into the electrical wiring rather than plugged into a power point.

What this means for you: Hardwired products usually need to be installed by a licensed electrician.

Definition: Plug-in means the product connects to a standard power point or GPO.

What this means for you: Plug-in products may be simpler to position where a suitable power point is available.

Definition: Left-hand or right-hand refers to which side a feature, drainboard, outlet or fitting is positioned on.

What this means for you: Check the product diagram carefully so the layout suits your room and plumbing position.

Definition: A vanity is bathroom cabinetry that supports or surrounds a basin.

What this means for you: Vanities provide storage and help determine the basin, tap and waste configuration needed.

Definition: IP stands for Ingress Protection. An IP rating indicates how well a product is protected against dust and water.

What this means for you: IP ratings are especially important for outdoor lights, bathroom lighting and areas where moisture may be present.

Related: Lighting

Definition: GPO stands for General Power Outlet and is another name for a power point.

What this means for you: A GPO is where plug-in electrical products connect to power.

Definition: A pendant light hangs down from the ceiling, usually by a cord, chain or rod.

What this means for you: Pendant lights are commonly used over kitchen islands, dining tables, hallways and bedrooms.

Related: Pendant lights

Definition: A wall light is mounted to a wall rather than the ceiling.

What this means for you: Wall lights are used for hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, outdoor areas and feature lighting.

Related: Wall lights

Definition: A lamp holder is the part of a light fitting that holds the globe.

What this means for you: The lamp holder determines what globe base type the fitting requires, such as E27 or B22.

Definition: Colour temperature describes how warm or cool a light appears.

What this means for you: Warm white light feels softer and more traditional, while cool white or daylight can feel brighter and more functional.

Definition: Lumens measure the brightness of a light.

What this means for you: More lumens generally means a brighter light.

Definition: Heritage style refers to products inspired by older Australian, Victorian, Federation, Edwardian, Art Deco or traditional home styles.

What this means for you: Heritage-style products are often chosen when renovating older homes or adding classic character to a newer home.

Definition: Art Deco is a design style known for geometric shapes, stepped details and bold decorative forms.

What this means for you: Art Deco hardware, lighting and fittings can suit homes from the 1920s and 1930s, as well as interiors inspired by that period.

Definition: Federation style refers to Australian homes and design details from around the late 1800s to early 1900s.

What this means for you: Federation-style products often include traditional shapes, decorative detail, warm metal finishes and classic proportions.

Definition: Hamptons style is a light, coastal-inspired look often featuring white, neutral colours, shaker cabinetry and classic hardware.

What this means for you: Hamptons-style interiors often use finishes such as matte black, brushed nickel, chrome, brass or satin brass depending on the overall look.

Definition: Shaker cabinetry has a simple recessed centre panel with a clean frame around it.

What this means for you: Shaker cabinetry pairs well with knobs, cup pulls, cabinet handles and classic hardware styles.

Related: Cabinet handles

Definition: Lead time is the estimated time before an item is ready to dispatch or arrive from a supplier.

What this means for you: Lead times can vary by brand, stock availability and product type. Check the estimated shipping information on the product page or invoice.

Definition: A special order item is ordered in specifically for a customer rather than held as regular stock.

What this means for you: Special order items may have different lead times or return conditions, so always check the product page details before ordering.