Your Annual Hardware Checklist – Must-Have Replacements & Upgrades
Posted by ZenSupply Product Guru on Aug 11th 2025
Stay Ahead of Wear, Code Changes, and Compliance
Commercial hardware doesn't last forever even the best-grade products wear down over time, especially in high-traffic facilities. From sagging hinges to drafty thresholds, small failures can snowball into safety risks, energy loss, or ADA violations if left unchecked.
That's why smart facility managers and contractors run an annual hardware review and ZenSupply is here to make it EASY. This week, we’re giving you a facility-tested checklist of hardware components that should be inspected, replaced, or upgraded at least once a year.
✅ Why Perform an Annual Hardware Audit?
A proactive hardware check ensures:
- Security stays intact
- ADA and fire code compliance
- Reduced emergency repairs and downtime
- Improved building efficiency
- Better hygiene and appearance
- Lower long-term maintenance costs
ZenSupply customers often use this time to bundle orders, earn rewards, and make sure every door, lock, and seal is doing its job.
The Annual Commercial Door Hardware Checklist
Here’s what to inspect and consider replacing or upgrading every year:
1. Door Closers
Signs You Need Replacement:
- Oil leaking
- Door slams or doesn’t latch
- Slow or uneven closing
Top Replacements:
2. Hinges
Look For:
- Sagging doors
- Loud squeaking or misalignment
- Rust or surface damage
Best Sellers:
- Hager BB1168 Ball Bearing Hinge
- McKinney Full Mortise Hinges
- Best Continuous Geared Hinges for high-traffic doors
3. Exit Devices & Panic Hardware
Check:
- Loose mounting
- Delayed or non-retracting latches
- Audible alarms not working
Recommended Upgrades:
4. Door Sweeps & Seals
Why Replace:
- Drafts, pests, or light leaks
- Damaged or detached seals
- Loss of thermal efficiency
Top Picks:
- Zero International Door Bottom Sweeps
- NGP Gaskets & Weatherstripping
- Pemko Weatherstrips and Gasketing
5. Thresholds & Saddle Plates
Watch For:
- Warping, corrosion, or separation
- ADA height compliance
- Thermal break integrity
Best-Sellers:
- Pemko 171A Saddle Threshold
- NGP 321 Thermal Bridge Threshold
- Cal-Royal Thresholds and Door Weather Seal
6. Lever Locks & Cylindrical Locks
Key Checks:
- Loose handles
- Key not turning smoothly
- Cylinder spinning or falling out
Reliable Replacements:
7. Wrap-Around Plates & Filler Kits
When Needed:
- Hardware retrofits
- Covering damage or old lock preps
- Strengthening door edges
ZenSupply Favorites:
8. Kick Plates & Push Plates
Annual Must-Do for:
- High-traffic doors
- Healthcare, foodservice, education sectors
Materials:
Stainless steel, brass, or aluminum in a range of finishes
9. Maglocks & Electric Strikes
Inspect:
- Bonding strength
- Fire system integration
- Delayed egress function
Popular Upgrades:
10. Signage & ADA Labels
Update If:
- Missing, faded, or outdated symbols
- Changed room functions (e.g., all-gender restrooms)
- Non-compliant sizes or braille
Best Options:
- ADA tactile signs
- Custom signage from ZenSupply’s engraving partners
ZenSupply Pro Tip
Use this checklist at year-end or during slow seasons to schedule preventive maintenance. Bundle multiple SKUs to earn more rewards, qualify for free shipping, and reduce vendor paperwork.
What Facility Pros Are Saying
“We run this checklist every summer. Saves us from mid-year emergencies and keeps all our lock hardware compliant.”
Angela D., Maintenance Lead, Public School District
“ZenSupply makes it easy to re-order everything from thresholds to push bars. We just cloned last year’s cart.”
Jeff M., Regional Building Manager
ZenSupply Perks for Annual Upgrades
✅ Zen Points on Every Order
Earn and redeem rewards for gift cards, discounts, or exclusive perks.
✅ Contractor & Facilities Pricing
Volume discounts and tax-exempt billing options available.
✅ Real-Time Inventory & Fast Ship
Stocked nationwide. Ships same-day.
✅ Live Tech Support
Need help identifying or matching an old part? Upload a photo or spec and chat with a Zen Advisor.
Ready to Stock Up for the Year?
✔ Door closers
✔ Exit Device Trim
✔ Protection Plates, Kickplates and Door Armor
✔ Electromagnetic Locks and Holders
✔ All in one place
Start Your Annual Hardware Refresh Now:
Shop the Checklist Collection → Shop Now
Talk to a Zen Advisor → Contact Us
Join ZenSupply Rewards → Zen Rewards