To close a door according to the described method, you should push down on the handle or turn the knob clockwise to retract the latch.
Closing a door often involves simply pushing or pulling it shut. However, to ensure smooth operation, quiet closing, or proper latching, a specific method involving the door handle or knob can be used. This method focuses on retracting the door's latch mechanism just before the door meets the frame.
The Key Action: Manipulating the Handle or Knob
The primary action described for closing the door involves interacting with the handle or knob to control the latch. The latch is the metal bolt that extends from the edge of the door into the strike plate on the door frame, holding the door shut.
Here's how the handle or knob should be manipulated when closing a door, based on the provided information:
- Handle Operation: Push down on the door handle.
- Knob Operation: Turn the door knob so it rotates clockwise.
Detailed Steps
- Initiate Handle/Knob Movement:
- If using a handle: Push it downwards.
- If using a knob: Turn it towards the right (clockwise).
- Rotate to Full Extent (or until Latch Recedes):
- Continue pushing the handle down or turning the knob clockwise.
- For a handle, the full rotation typically leaves it in a vertical position.
- For a knob, turn it as far as your wrist comfortably allows or until the latch on the door has receded completely.
- Observe Latch Retraction:
- When the handle is vertical, or the knob is turned sufficiently, the latch will be completely receded into the door. This means the metal bolt is pulled back inside the door's edge, no longer sticking out.
Why Manipulate the Handle When Closing?
Manipulating the handle or knob as described ensures that the door's latch is pulled back into the door. This is beneficial when closing because:
- It prevents the latch from scraping against the door frame as you swing the door shut.
- It allows the door to close quietly without the "click" of the latch hitting the frame initially.
- It prepares the latch to properly align and engage with the strike plate when the door is fully closed, securing it.
By following these steps, you ensure the latch is clear of the frame during the closing motion, allowing for a smoother and potentially quieter operation before the door settles into its frame.
Summary of Actions
| Door Hardware | Action | Result for Handle | Result for Latch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handle | Push down | Vertical position | Completely receded |
| Knob | Turn clockwise | Not specified | Completely receded |
Remember to only apply enough force to turn the knob or push the handle until the latch is visibly retracted or reaches its natural limit.
