General Product Specifications

At Hardware Renaissance, we are proud of our custom hand forged hardware line. Every style is completely hand-made by master blacksmiths using traditional blacksmithing methods. It is not dropped-forged, cast, or made any other way except in a coal-fired forge.

Strike-Bar Spring Latches
Our exclusive hardware featuring an exposed spring and “strike-bar” are based on centuries old styles. This was how hardware was made in order to latch and lock doors centuries before the availability of commercially made tubular latches and mortise locks.

These strike-bar latches come with a hand forged latch or “keeper” that is mortised into the jamb or the passive door in a pair. It protrudes from the inside face of the jamb and has a slot which accepts the strike-bar which holds the door in the closed position. The exposed spring holds the strike bar down in the keeper until the lever is depressed. This lifts the strike bar from the latch allowing the door to be opened.

Privacy Functions are available on interior door strike-bar latch styles. The locking is done by a “blocker” pin that is inserted into the back plate, preventing the strike bar from being operated, thus locking the door. In order to meet building codes, an emergency release is provided on the exterior of the door allowing the pin to be pushed out of the locked position. An attractive chain holds the pin to the back plate, preventing it from being lost or misplaced.

Levers
Many Lever styles are available for our strike-bar spring latches, as well as with conventional tubular latches. All levers (except the Art Nouveau) can also be ordered as entry sets using a modern mortise lock. In this configuration, a hand forged key cover is added to the exterior back plate and a thumb turn to the interior back plate. They can also be ordered as entry sets using a more cost-effective Mortise Deadbolt/ Tubular Latch combination. In this case, the key cover and thumb turn are on separate 3” square back plates.

Spring Assist
This is a feature included on our conventional styles incorporating a tubular latch or mortise lock. The spring assist returns the lever to the idle position without stressing the internal springs of conventional tubular latches and mortise locks.

The spring assist is installed on both the interior and exterior side back plates. It is not necessary on the historic strike bar latches as the hand forged and tempered spring does this automatically.

Custom Patinas
All hand forged hardware comes with the traditional “hot wax” finish which is the final step in crafting the piece. A wax with a high carnuba content is used to bring the iron to black finish, and provides a protective element to the iron.

Other custom patinas are available at a surcharge -- such as faux rust, bronze, rose, antique copper. Please check with a dealer for cost and lead time. Like any hand applied patina, these will change over the years making the hardware only more beautiful.

Rust
Rust is a natural occurrence with iron and periodic maintenance will be required in humid areas. This is easily done by using some fine steel wool and reapplying a wax coating. When a rust finish is required for a truly antique look, we offer a faux-rust done with chemicals and heat that provides an authentic look without compromising the workings of the hardware.

Installation
All Hardware Renaissance hand forged hardware styles are easily installed. Styles using conventional tubular latches and mortise locks install as easily as assembly line manufactured styles. Historic strike-bar latches, while rustic in appearance, also install
conventionally, with standard internal spindles. They also contain bronze bushings to make levers and moving parts operate smoothly.

Lead Times
Standard orders are delivered within 6-8 weeks of order date. Rush delivery is available in 4 weeks for a nominal surcharge

Warranty
All our hand forged products come with a lifetime guarantee. Should you ever sell your home containing any Hardware Renaissance hand forged hardware, the warranty automatically transfers to the new owner. This warranty excludes internal mechanisms made by others, patinas, or damage caused by abuse. Should any Hardware Renaissance piece fail for any reason, we will repair or replace it at our discretion. We know of no other hardware company offering a similar guarantee.