A good AHC will write a hardware schedule that meets building and fire codes. They will interpret plans and specify the correct hardware and functions to the best of their ability. They may even provide a specification or modify the Consultants hardware specification and door schedule to make sure there aren’t any contradictions between the documents. Sounds great, right?

A great AHC will have a different approach. They will meet with Consultants, End Users, and/or Contractors. They will ask questions about design, use of the building, and budget. They will then proceed to provide a specification and hardware schedule that incorporates aesthetics, proper use as to the owner’s requirements, and to the project’s budget.

Great AHCs will choose the best products for the project and not concern themselves as much with specific product lines.

Great AHCs write a schedule for the End User, and the Consultants benefit; not their own. This is a very important point.

So the next time you have a project that needs an AHC (trick statement, every project requires an AHC), make sure they are writing your schedule for the right reasons.

Architectural Hardware Consultants (AHCs) are trained to recognize a builder’s hardware requirements for door openings in all types of public, commercial, industrial and institutional buildings. AHCs coordinate thousands of builders’ hardware items and options to ensure door openings are in compliance with fire, life safety, accessibility and building code requirements.