Entryway hardware plays a crucial role in both the functionality and appearance of a home. A well-installed handleset not only enhances the visual appeal of a door but also contributes significantly to the overall security of the property. The Baldwin Ashton two-point handleset, part of the Baldwin Images® Collection, is a prime example of a product that combines durability, aesthetic design, and advanced security features. This article provides a detailed guide on the installation process for this and similar Baldwin handlesets, drawing from official installation instructions, technical specifications, and manufacturer guidelines.
Understanding the Baldwin Ashton Two-Point Handleset
The Baldwin Ashton two-point handleset is designed for both aesthetic and functional excellence. Constructed from forged brass and hand-finished at the Baldwin facility in Reading, Pennsylvania, it offers a premium appearance and tactile quality. The term "two-point" refers to the dual locking mechanism: the handleset operates the latch bolt, and the deadbolt is a separate but coordinating lock that adds an extra layer of security.
The design accommodates a standard 2-1/8” cross bore opening, while the deadbolt can fit into either a 1-5/8” or a 2-1/8” cross bore. The handleset is engineered to retrofit into most existing door setups with a minimum 5-1/2” center-to-center spacing between the handle and the deadbolt. This flexibility allows for installation on a variety of door types, including solid wood and metal-sheathed doors.
Security is further enhanced by the deadbolt’s hardened steel roll pin, which resists cutting attacks. A saw blade cannot grip the loose roll pin, making it extremely difficult to compromise the lock using traditional cutting methods.
Preparing the Door for Installation
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to ensure that the door is properly prepared. The Baldwin Ashton requires two cross bore openings: one for the latch mechanism and one for the deadbolt. The latch bolt is housed in the upper cross bore, while the deadbolt is installed in the lower bore. These openings allow the handleset to be installed in a tubular design, simplifying the internal mechanism and ensuring smooth operation.
The recommended center-to-center distance between the handle grip and the deadbolt is 5-1/2 inches. If the door is already drilled for a different configuration, such as a knobset and deadbolt setup with a 6-inch separation, a second cross bore may need to be drilled to accommodate the new handleset. It is important to measure the existing bore holes and determine if any additional drilling is necessary.
For doors not yet prepared, a template is typically provided with the installation instructions. This template helps to locate the bore hole positions accurately. The process involves folding the template to align with the desired height—approximately 40 inches from the floor—and marking the door for drilling. The 2-1/8” face bore and the 1” edge bore must be drilled first. Care must be taken to avoid damaging the door by rechecking the hole locations before proceeding.
Installing the Exterior and Interior Subassemblies
The installation process begins with the exterior subassembly. Once the door is prepared, the exterior components, including the thumb piece and lock cylinder, are inserted into the upper cross bore. The thumb piece is designed to retract the latch assembly, ensuring the door can be secured from the outside. The subassembly is then secured to the door using a #10-32 x 2-1/2” screw from the interior side. This screw is critical for maintaining the alignment and stability of the exterior components.
Next, the interior subassembly is placed onto the door. This includes the lever, which is used to operate the latch from the inside. The interior subassembly is secured using three mounting screws. At this stage, it is important to test the operation of the handleset to ensure that the latch and deadbolt function smoothly. If any resistance is encountered, adjustments may be necessary.
The spindle, which connects the interior lever to the latch mechanism, is then prepared for assembly. A wave washer is slid onto the spindle, followed by the escutcheon. The escutcheon is secured using a thimble, which is threaded onto the interior spindle. It is crucial to ensure that the escutcheon is plumb to the deadbolt to maintain a clean and secure fit. The escutcheon is further secured using #6-32 x 7/16” mounting screws.
Once the lever is slid onto the spindle, it is secured using a setscrew. This final step ensures that the lever is firmly attached and operates without wobbling or misalignment. A final test of the handleset is recommended to confirm that all components function as intended.
Adjustments and Finishing Touches
The Baldwin Ashton handleset is designed to accommodate different backset measurements. A backset refers to the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole. The handleset can be adjusted to fit either a 2-3/8” or 2-3/4” backset, making it adaptable to a wide range of door configurations. This flexibility is particularly useful for doors that may not have been pre-drilled to standard specifications.
After all components are installed, the screw base is prepared for the final touches. The #10-32 screw is covered with a screw cover, which is threaded onto the screw base. This cover provides a finished appearance and helps to prevent any exposed hardware from becoming a tripping hazard.
For doors that require additional security, the deadbolt can be operated independently from the handleset. This allows for a two-point locking system where both the latch and the deadbolt can be engaged for maximum security. The deadbolt is operated via a key on the exterior and a thumb piece on the interior, ensuring that the door can be locked from both sides without the need for a key.
Maintenance and Care for Longevity
To maintain the appearance and functionality of the Baldwin Ashton handleset, it is recommended to clean the hardware regularly. For most finishes, a simple solution of warm, soapy water followed by a thorough towel dry is sufficient. For finishes such as oil-rubbed bronze, occasional application of light machine oil can help to deepen the color and enhance the sheen. The oil should be applied evenly to the metal parts, allowed to sit for a few minutes, and then gently dabbed off with a clean cloth to avoid rubbing, which can damage the finish.
It is important to avoid using abrasive materials, ammonia, or harsh chemicals, as these can degrade the finish and compromise the integrity of the hardware. For more detailed care instructions, Baldwin provides a guide on their website, which outlines the best practices for maintaining different types of finishes.
Compatibility and Customization Options
Baldwin offers a variety of customization options for their handlesets, including different finishes, levers, and knobs. The Ashton handleset is available in 17 finishes, allowing it to match a wide range of interior and exterior design schemes. For doors with unique configurations, Baldwin also offers thick door kits and standalone grip handle kits that can be paired with existing deadbolts.
In terms of keyways, the standard keyway for Estate and Reserve lines is the C-keyway, a widely used industry standard. However, it is important to note that different keyways are not interchangeable, so users should ensure that the keyway matches their existing lock system if they are replacing or retrofitting their door hardware.
For smart home integration, Baldwin offers a Touchscreen deadbolt that is compatible with Z-Wave systems. This allows for remote access and control of the lock via a smartphone or home automation system. If a user’s smart home system uses Z-Wave, the Touchscreen deadbolt should be fully compatible.
Conclusion
The Baldwin Ashton two-point handleset is a high-quality, secure, and aesthetically pleasing option for entryway doors. Its dual locking mechanism, forged brass construction, and hardened steel roll pin make it a durable and reliable choice for homeowners seeking both functionality and style. The installation process, while requiring some preparation and precision, is straightforward and can be completed with the help of detailed manufacturer instructions.
Whether you are retrofitting an existing door or installing a new handleset, the Baldwin Ashton offers a versatile solution that can be adapted to a variety of door types and configurations. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that the handleset remains in optimal condition for years to come.