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Door handing made simple

Use the outside/key side and the hinge position to identify LH, RH, LHR, or RHR.

Door handing viewed from the outsideFour plan views identify left hand, right hand, left hand reverse, and right hand reverse.Stand on the outside / key sideHinge side + swing direction = handingLHLeft hingesSwings inRHRight hingesSwings inLHRLeft hingesSwings outRHRRight hingesSwings out
Step 1 of 4

Step-by-step guide

  1. 1Stand on the outside or key side of the opening.
  2. 2Identify whether the door swings toward you or away from you.
  3. 3Note whether the hinges are on your left or right from that position.
  4. 4Use both facts to select LH, RH, LHR, or RHR.

Transcript

Door handing combines the hinge side with the direction of swing. Always start from the outside or key side. A standard hand swings inward; a reverse hand swings outward. Confirm both the hinge side and swing before ordering.

Technical source: Steel Door Institute handing reference