Choosing Hardware for Project Applications

Key Aspects to Consider

- TONY J PERAYIL

Every building carries a unique feature that creates its own identity. This identity makes the building stand out in the world of contemporary architecture's infinite iterations.

The architecture hardware used in the building creates that unique identity, it matches the aesthetic vision of the architect with the functional parameters demanded by the project and end user.

The selection of hardware depends on the application purpose, the end user experience, safety, the specific function, performance, aesthetics, aesthetics, endurance, customisation, and quality.

Safety is of paramount importance when it comes to selecting any hardware. The performance of a building and the experience that it delivers to the endusers depends majorly on the hardware used even though architectural hardware cost comes to a meagre 2 to 7% of the total project value.

A typical project might be from the following sector: health care, retail, commercial, residential, or institutional. Choosing the right hardware is key to the overall successful completion of the project. Short cuts and compromises on quality, safety, and performance parameters will adversely affect the installation, long-term maintenance, and safety.

The key to a proper functioning building with aesthetic appeal is the right selection of hardware used in façades, aluminium/ uPVC doors & windows, door controls, railings, canopies, etc.

Automatic sliding doors, D&W hardware, lock hardware, bathroom hardware, flooring hardware, internal railings, door control hardware, etc., give the touch and feel experience to the end user and any failure of the above-mentioned shall result in loss of customer satisfaction.