Glossary: Door Hardware, Tapware & Renovation Terms Explained

Definition: Backset is the horizontal distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the spindle or handle position.

What this means for you: The backset determines how far the handle or knob sits from the edge of the door. Common backsets include 45mm, 60mm and 70mm, but the correct size depends on your door and the latch or lock being used.

How to choose the right backset:

- Replacing existing hardware: Measure from the edge of the door to the centre of the existing spindle or handle hole.

- New doors: A 60mm backset is common, but it is not automatically suitable for every door.

- Doors with narrow stiles, glass or panels: Measure the available timber before choosing the latch or lock. Also allow for the width of the handle or backplate, the glass or panel position and the construction of the door.

- Door knobs: Door knobs commonly need more clearance from the door edge than lever handles so you do not scrape your knuckles against the frame.

Before ordering: Check the individual product page for dimensions, inclusions and compatibility, as these vary between products and brands.

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 or lock inside the door.

Before ordering: Spindles vary in length and thickness, commonly including 7.6mm or 8mm square profiles. Check the handle, lock and door thickness before ordering a replacement.

Related: Door handles | Locks & latches

Definition: A Taylor’s spindle is a special spindle used to convert a compatible door handle into a fixed dummy handle.

What this means for you: Unlike a standard spindle, which turns to operate a latch, a Taylor’s spindle allows the handle to be fixed so it does not turn or operate a latch. This is useful when you want to use a matching door handle as a dummy handle on a wardrobe, cupboard, linen press or the secondary (inactive) door of a pair of French doors.

Before ordering: Check that the Taylor’s spindle is compatible with the handle you have chosen and whether you require a single dummy handle or a pair.

Related: Taylor’s spindle for dummy door handles | What is a dummy handle? | Dummy Handle

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 that is turned 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. They commonly need more clearance from the door edge than lever handles so there is enough room for your hand and you do not scrape your knuckles against the frame.

Related: Door knobs

Definition: A centre door knob is a fixed decorative knob fitted to the face of an entrance door, traditionally positioned towards the centre of the door.

What this means for you: Unlike a standard door knob, a centre door knob does not turn to operate a latch. It is primarily a decorative feature and also acts as a pull handle for opening or closing the door.

Before ordering: Check the diameter, projection and fixing method, as well as where the knob will sit in relation to door panels, mouldings, locks and other door hardware.

Related: Centre door knobs | Door Knob | Heritage front door hardware guide

Definition: A door knocker is a fitting installed on an entrance door that allows a visitor to knock using a hinged or moving section.

What this means for you: Door knockers are both functional and decorative and are particularly common on traditional and heritage-style entrance doors.

Before ordering: Check the overall dimensions, projection and fixing positions, and make sure there is enough suitable space on the door for installation.

Related: Door knockers | Heritage front door hardware guide

Definition: A letter plate is a fitting installed over an opening in an entrance door to allow letters and small mail items to pass through the door.

What this means for you: Letter plates are commonly used on traditional and heritage-style front doors and usually have a hinged flap covering the opening.

Before ordering: Check the overall dimensions and the size of the opening required. When replacing an existing letter plate, make sure the new plate will cover the existing cut-out and fixing holes.

Related: Letter plates | Heritage front door hardware guide

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

What this means for you: Handles mounted on a rose usually have a smaller, more minimal appearance than handles on a long backplate. 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. A pull handle does not operate a latch unless it is part of a specialised handle-and-lock system.

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: Passage describes a functional, non-locking door handle or knob.

What this means for you: Passage handles are commonly used on internal doors where privacy or keyed security is not required, such as hallways, living rooms and some bedrooms.

Important: “Passage” describes the function. It does not necessarily mean the latch, spindle or fixings are included. Check the individual product page to see what is supplied and what must be ordered separately.

Related: Privacy vs passage door handles | Door handles

Definition: Privacy describes door hardware that can be locked from inside without using a keyed security lock.

What this means for you: Privacy hardware is commonly used on bathrooms, toilets and bedrooms. Depending on the product, the privacy function may be built into the handle or may require a separate privacy latch, bolt, turn or snib.

Important: Some privacy products include an emergency release on the outside, while others do not. Check what is included and make sure the handle, spindle and privacy mechanism are compatible.

Related: Privacy vs passage door handles | Privacy door handles

Definition: A dummy handle is a fixed, non-functional handle. It does not turn and does not operate a latch.

What this means for you: Dummy handles act like pull handles and are commonly used on wardrobes, cupboards and the secondary (inactive) door in a pair of French doors.

Important: Dummy handles are often sold individually rather than as a pair. Some lever designs are also handed, so you may need to select a left-hand or right-hand version.

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

Definition: Entrance or entry hardware is designed for doors that require keyed locking or greater security, such as front and external doors.

What this means for you: Depending on the product, an entrance set may include the lock and cylinder, or it may be a handle set that must be paired with a compatible lock.

Before ordering: Check whether the handle set includes the latch, lock, cylinder, spindle and fixings, or whether these need to be purchased separately.

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” describes how the lock is installed, rather than one particular locking function. Mortice locks are available for different functions, including keyed entrance, traditional keyhole and privacy applications.

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 and can usually be replaced separately from the full lock body. Euro cylinders are available in key-and-key, key-and-turn and other configurations.

Before ordering: The cylinder length must suit the door, lock and any escutcheons or plates. Check the individual product page for dimensions and compatibility.

Related: Locks & latches

Definition: A Euro mortice lock is a mortice lock designed to operate with a compatible Euro cylinder.

What this means for you: The lock body is installed inside the door, while the Euro cylinder provides the keyed locking function. Depending on the cylinder selected, it may use a key on both sides or a key externally and a thumbturn internally.

Before ordering: Check that the lock, Euro cylinder and door handles are compatible. Depending on the handle style, the cylinder may be used with separate Euro escutcheons or with a long backplate door handle that has a Euro keyhole cut-out. Also check the lock dimensions, backset, cylinder length and door thickness.

Related: Mortice Lock | Euro Cylinder | Backset | Euro locks | Heritage front door hardware guide

Definition: A thumbturn is a small knob or turn used to lock or unlock a door from one side without a key.

What this means for you: Thumbturns are commonly used on the inside of entrance doors with a key-and-turn cylinder, as well as with some privacy and locking systems.

Important: A thumbturn describes the part you turn rather than one particular type of lock. How it operates depends on the lock or cylinder it is connected to.

Related: Euro Cylinder | Mortice Lock | Privacy Function | Heritage front door hardware guide

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. A deadbolt may be fitted separately from the handle or incorporated into an entrance lockset.

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. A privacy bolt locks the door but does not normally operate the main latch, so the door may require both a passage latch and a separate privacy bolt.

Related: Privacy latches

Definition: A split cam latch has a divided internal follower that can allow the handles on each side of a door to operate independently.

What this means for you: Independent operation requires a compatible split spindle and suitable handle or privacy setup. When used with a standard spindle, the latch generally operates like a normal tubular latch.

Before ordering: Do not assume that every handle, split spindle and split cam latch will work together. Check the product compatibility information or contact us with the products you are combining.

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. The exact function varies by product: on some locks it operates the locking bolt, while on others it holds or releases the latch.

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: French doors are a pair of hinged doors that meet in the centre and usually open away from each other.

What this means for you: The doors may have flat meeting edges or rebated, overlapping edges. This affects which latches, locks, rebate kits and bolts can be used. One door may also be secured as the inactive leaf using flush bolts.

Related: Door handles | Door bolts

Definition: A rebate is a stepped or overlapping section along the edge of a door or frame. On rebated double doors, the edge of one door overlaps the other when they are closed.

What this means for you: Rebated doors often require a compatible rebated lock, latch or rebate kit. Rebate kits are product-specific, so check the rebate depth and compatibility rather than choosing one by finish alone.

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: A door stile is one of the vertical sections that forms the outer edge of a door.

What this means for you: The stile on the handle side is where door handles, locks and latches are commonly installed. On doors with glass panels or decorative mouldings, the available timber may be quite narrow.

How to choose your backset: For the most balanced appearance, the door handle should ideally sit in the centre of the stile. Measure the width of the stile and divide that measurement by two. This gives you the ideal backset, or you can choose the available backset size closest to that measurement. The backset is the measurement of the latch or lock from the edge of the door to the centre of the spindle or handle position.

Before ordering: Measure the available width of the stile and check that the handle, backplate, latch or lock will fit without interfering with glass, panels or other parts of the door.

Related: Backset | How to measure your backset | Door handles | Locks & latches | Heritage front door hardware guide

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 identifies whether a particular handle, lock, latch, bath or other product is made for a left-hand or right-hand installation.

What this means for you: The correct handing depends on which side you are viewing the product from and how the manufacturer defines left and right.

Before ordering: Follow the handing diagram on the individual product page. Do not rely only on a general description such as “the hinges are on the left”, as conventions can vary.

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 the face of a door to fit a handle, knob or lock mechanism.

What this means for you: Cylindrical locksets often use a large face bore, commonly around 50–54mm, but existing holes vary. Measure the diameter and backset before choosing replacement hardware, and 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: A keeper is the fixed fitting that a catch, bolt, hook or other fastening component engages with to hold a door, window, gate or cupboard closed.

What this means for you: Keepers are used with many types of hardware, including window fasteners, door bolts and cupboard catches. The shape and installation of the keeper depends on the hardware it is designed to work with.

Important: A keeper is not the same as a strike plate. A strike plate is specifically used with a door latch or lock, while a keeper is used with other types of catches, bolts and fastening hardware.

Before ordering: Check that the keeper is compatible with the corresponding catch, bolt or fastener and that the two parts can align and engage correctly.

Definition: Through fixing uses fasteners that pass through the door or mounting surface. Tie bolts are one type of through fixing used to connect or secure the fittings on opposite sides.

What this means for you: Through fixing can create a strong, secure installation and is often used for door handles that receive 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 ball bearing hinge is a hinge with bearings between the hinge knuckles to help reduce friction as the hinge moves.

What this means for you: Ball bearing hinges are commonly used on heavier or frequently operated doors, including entrance doors, where smooth operation and durability are important.

Before ordering: Choose hinges suitable for the size, weight and use of the door. Check the individual product dimensions, material, fixings and any stated load recommendations.

Related: Hinge | Butt Hinge | Hinges | Heritage front door hardware guide

Definition: A Parliament hinge is a wide hinge designed to allow a door or window to swing clear of the surrounding wall, architrave or another obstruction.

What this means for you: The extended hinge moves the pivot point further away from the frame, allowing the door or window to open back further than it could with a standard butt hinge.

Before ordering: Check the hinge dimensions and projection as well as the door or window size, weight, frame, wall clearance and required opening position.

Related: How to calculate Parliament or broad butt hinge size | Hinge | Butt Hinge | Hinges | Heritage front door hardware guide

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 sash window contains one or more framed glass panels, called sashes, that slide vertically. In a double-hung sash window, both the upper and lower sashes can move. In a single-hung window, only one sash moves.

What this means for you: Traditional sash windows may use cords, pulleys and hidden weights. Other sash windows use spiral balances or different support systems.

Related: Sash window hardware guide | Window hardware

Definition: The upper sash is the top framed glass panel of a sash window.

What this means for you: Depending on the window design, the upper sash may be fixed or may slide downward. The sash fastener keeper is commonly fitted to the meeting rail of the upper sash.

Definition: The lower sash is the bottom framed glass panel of a sash window.

What this means for you: The lower sash is usually the section lifted to open the window. Sash lifts are commonly fitted near the bottom of the lower sash, while the sash fastener is fitted to its meeting rail.

Definition: The meeting rail is the horizontal rail where the upper and lower sashes meet when a sash window is closed.

What this means for you: Sash fasteners are usually installed on the meeting rails. Before ordering a fastener, check the width of the available timber and make sure the lock and keeper can align and engage correctly.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A sash lift is a small handle or pull fitted to the lower sash of a sash window.

What this means for you: A sash lift gives you something to grip when lifting the window open or pulling it closed. Many sash windows use two lifts so the sash can be raised evenly. Sash lifts are usually sold individually.

Related: Sash lifts | Sash window hardware guide

Definition: A sash window fastener secures the upper and lower sashes together at the meeting rails when the window is closed.

What this means for you: Sash fasteners, also sometimes called sash locks, come in several styles, including Fitch, Brighton, quadrant and hook designs. They may be locking or non-locking, and the fastener and keeper must fit and align on the available timber.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A sash keeper is the fixed part of a sash window fastener that the locking arm, hook or fastener body engages with.

What this means for you: The keeper needs enough room on the meeting rail and must line up closely with the fastener. If the rails are uneven, damaged or too far apart, the fastener may not close properly.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A narrow sash fastener is a sash window fastener designed for a slim meeting rail or an area with limited timber.

What this means for you: Measure the available width on both meeting rails before ordering. A narrow fastener may be needed when a standard fastener and keeper will not fit comfortably.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A Brighton sash fastener is a traditional sash window fastener with a sprung arm and a screw-style knob that tightens into the keeper.

What this means for you: When tightened, the fastener helps pull the meeting rails together and secure the window closed. When released, the arm lifts away so the sash can move.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A quadrant sash fastener is a traditional sash window fastener with a curved rotating arm that engages with a keeper.

What this means for you: Some quadrant fasteners have a slimmer keeper, which can be useful where there is limited room on the meeting rail. Some styles can also be secured with a small locking screw.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A hook sash fastener is a traditional sash window fastener that uses a hook-shaped section to engage with the keeper.

What this means for you: The hook secures the upper and lower sashes together when the window is closed. Check the meeting rail width and the alignment between the fastener and keeper before ordering.

Related: Sash window fasteners

Definition: A sash stop restricts how far a sash window can open or move.

What this means for you: Depending on its position and design, a sash stop can hold the sash at a limited opening for ventilation or prevent the sash moving past a set point.

Important: A sash stop is different from a sash fastener, which holds the window closed at the meeting rail. Do not assume a standard sash stop is a security or child-safety device unless the product is specifically rated or described for that purpose.

Related: Sash window accessories

Definition: A flush sash stop is a retractable sash stop designed so the barrel can sit flush with the surface when it is not being used.

What this means for you: Retracting the stop allows the sash to open fully without removing the fitting. Check the product dimensions and installation requirements before ordering.

Related: Sash window accessories

Definition: A sash drop is a traditional sash-window fitting used to support a raised sash and help hold the window open.

What this means for you: It is commonly fitted beside the sash and moved into position beneath or against the sash when support is needed. The exact installation and operation vary by design, so check the product images and fitting instructions.

Quantity: Some sash drops are used one per window, but requirements can depend on the size, weight and design of the sash.

Related: Sash window accessories

Definition: A sash cord is the cord that connects a sash to a hidden sash weight in a traditional cord and weight window system.

What this means for you: The cord runs over a sash pulley inside the window frame. If the cord is broken, stretched or worn, the sash may become difficult to lift or may not stay open.

Related: Sash window accessories

Definition: A sash pulley is a small wheel fitted into the window frame that guides the sash cord.

What this means for you: The sash cord runs over the pulley and connects the sash to its hidden counterweight. A worn, damaged or poorly moving pulley can affect how smoothly the window opens and closes.

Related: Sash window accessories

Definition: A sash weight is a hidden counterweight used inside a traditional sash window to balance the weight of the sash.

What this means for you: The weight is connected to the sash by a cord that runs over a pulley. Correctly balanced weights help the window move smoothly and remain open instead of sliding down.

Definition: A cord and weight system is a traditional sash window operating mechanism that uses sash cords, pulleys and hidden counterweights.

What this means for you: The weights counterbalance the sash so it can move up and down more easily. If the window will not stay open or is difficult to lift, the cord, pulley or weight system may need to be checked.

Related: Sash window hardware guide

Definition: A spiral balance is a spring-tension mechanism used in some sash windows instead of traditional sash cords, pulleys and weights.

What this means for you: The spring tension supports the sash as it moves up and down. A spiral balance is not interchangeable with a cord and weight system, so identify the existing operating mechanism before ordering replacement parts.

Related: Sash window hardware guide

Definition: Screw hole centres are the distance measured from the centre of one fixing hole to the centre of another fixing hole.

What this means for you: When replacing existing sash window hardware, matching the screw hole centres can help the new fitting line up with the existing holes and reduce the need for additional drilling.

Related: Centre to centre / CTC

Definition: A finish is the visible surface colour, texture and treatment applied to a product.

What this means for you: Finish names are not standardised between brands. For example, one brand’s Antique Brass may be noticeably darker, lighter or more textured than another brand’s Antique Brass.

For the closest match: Choose products from the same brand and finish range where possible. Differences can still occur between materials, manufacturing methods and batches. When an exact match is important, order a sample or one item first.

Definition: Solid brass means the main body of the product is made from brass rather than a brass-coloured coating over another base metal.

What this means for you: “Solid brass” describes the base material, not the visible finish. A solid-brass product may still be plated, lacquered, aged or coated.

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 a finish that will naturally change in colour and appearance through handling, oxidation, cleaning and environmental exposure.

What this means for you: The surface may darken, lighten, develop patina or wear differently in frequently touched areas. This variation is expected and is not normally considered a product fault.

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 a surface reaction that can change the colour or appearance of metals such as brass, copper and silver-toned finishes.

What this means for you: Tarnish can develop through exposure to air, moisture, skin oils, cleaning products and the surrounding environment. Tarnish is different from iron or steel rusting.

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 tap uses a cartridge containing ceramic surfaces to control the flow of water.

What this means for you: Ceramic-disc taps usually provide smooth quarter-turn operation. They can be durable, but cartridges are often brand- or model-specific and can still require replacement if they wear or become damaged.

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 mechanism is a tap spindle designed to turn the water on and off with a short, usually quarter-turn movement.

What this means for you: It provides an operating action similar to a ceramic-disc tap, but the internal mechanism and replacement parts may be different.

Before ordering replacement parts: Check the individual product details before ordering washers, spindles or cartridges, as these vary between products and brands.

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. It is Australia’s water-efficiency rating and labelling scheme.

What this means for you: The WELS label shows a product’s star rating and its water-consumption or flow-rate information. More stars generally indicate greater water efficiency within that product category.

Important: WELS and WaterMark are different. WELS relates to water efficiency; WaterMark relates to plumbing-product certification.

Definition: WaterMark is Australia’s certification scheme for certain plumbing and drainage products.

What this means for you: Products that require WaterMark certification must be appropriately certified before they can be legally installed in applicable Australian plumbing systems.

Important: WaterMark does not show how water-efficient a product is. Water efficiency is shown by its WELS information.

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 durable ceramic material made by firing clay at very high temperatures.

What this means for you: Fireclay is commonly used for butler and apron-front sinks. Because fireclay products are fired at high temperatures, small variations in dimensions and surface appearance can occur.

Before installation: The sink should be received and measured before cabinetry or benchtops are cut.

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.

Before installation: Always follow the installation method stated for the individual sink rather than assuming it can be installed in any configuration.

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.

Before installation: Always follow the installation method stated for the individual sink rather than assuming it can be installed in any configuration.

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: A hardwired product is connected directly to the electrical wiring rather than plugged into a power point.

What this means for you: Hardwired products create a fixed installation and do not have a standard plug and cord.

Installation: Hardwired electrical products must be installed by an appropriately licensed electrician.

Definition: A plug-in product connects to a standard power point using a cord and plug.

What this means for you: Plug-in products can be simpler to connect than hardwired products, but some may still require wall mounting or installation work. Check what cord, plug, transformer and mounting components are supplied.

Definition: Left-hand or right-hand describes the position of a bowl, drainer, waste, tap ledge or other feature on an asymmetrical bath or sink.

What this means for you: The correct option depends on the product layout and how it will sit in your room or cabinetry.

Before ordering: Left and right are defined differently by different manufacturers, so always use the product diagram rather than relying on the product name alone.

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 uses two numbers to indicate the level of protection against solid objects and water.

What this means for you: The suitability of a light or electrical product depends on its exact installation position, exposure and applicable electrical requirements. A higher number does not automatically make a product suitable for every outdoor or bathroom location.

Before ordering or installing: Ask your licensed electrician to confirm the required IP rating for the installation location.

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 required before an item is ready to be dispatched.

What this means for you: A lead time may include supplier processing, manufacturing, plating, ordering from overseas or transferring stock between warehouses. It does not normally include the delivery time from the dispatch location to your address.

Total time to receive your order: Lead time or dispatch time plus delivery transit time.

Important: Items in the same order may have different lead times and may be sent in separate parcels.

Definition: A special-order item is sourced, manufactured, finished or imported specifically to meet a customer’s order rather than being supplied from normal available stock.

What this means for you: Special-order products often have longer lead times and may have restricted cancellation, exchange or return conditions.

Before ordering: Check the estimated lead time, finish, measurements and return conditions carefully. Where special-order restrictions apply, they should be confirmed before the order is placed.