Door Swing & Handing Guide

Choosing the correct door swing is important because it determines hinge placement, hardware preparation and how the door fits the frame. Use this guide to identify your door handing when viewed from the outside.

Use this guide to identify your door swing when viewed from the outside.

Follow These Three Steps

1. Stand Outside

For an exterior door, stand outdoors. For an interior door, stand on the corridor, public or keyed side.

2. Find the Hinges

  • Hinges on the left = Left Hand
  • Hinges on the right = Right Hand

3. Check the Swing

  • Door opens away from you = In-Swing
  • Door opens toward you = Out-Swing

When standing outside and facing the door, the hinges are on the left and the door opens away from you into the building.

When standing outside and facing the door, the hinges are on the right and the door opens away from you into the building.

When standing outside and facing the door, the hinges are on the left and the door opens toward you and toward the exterior.

When standing outside and facing the door, the hinges are on the right and the door opens toward you and toward the exterior.