exit device

Exit devices are installed on the interior face of commercial exit doors, mounted to the door surface with through-bolts or sex bolts and connected to a strike mounted in the frame. This installation guide covers the standard procedure for installing a rim-type exit device (panic device) on a hollow metal or wood commercial door. The process includes door preparation, device mounting, strike installation, and adjustment for proper latching and unlatching operation.

CDF Distributors ships complete door and frame assemblies from its Nashville, Tennessee headquarters. You can configure and order exit device assemblies online using CDF’s ProBuilder tool at cdfdistributors.com. For assistance selecting the correct exit device for your project, call (855) 769-9895 or email sales@cdfdoors.com.

What Is an Exit Device?

Exit devices, also referred to as panic devices, are installed on exit doors to provide safe and efficient egress in emergency situations. They are designed to allow occupants to exit a building or area quickly and easily during emergencies, such as fires or other hazardous situations. An exit device consists of a crossbar or touchpad mounted horizontally across the interior face of the door, a mechanism housing, and a latch bolt that engages with a strike in the door frame. When an occupant pushes the crossbar, the latch retracts and the door opens.

There are two main types of exit devices: rim surface exit devices and surface vertical rod exit devices. Rim exit devices mount on the door surface and latch into a strike mounted on the frame jamb. They are used on single door applications and double door applications with one active and one inactive door. Surface vertical rod exit devices use rods that extend vertically from the device to latch points at the top and bottom of the door. Vertical rod devices are typically used on double doors without a center mullion, where both doors need independent latching at the header and threshold.

Exit devices are required by building codes on doors serving occupancy loads above specified thresholds and in assembly, educational, and high-hazard occupancies. Fire-rated exit devices are required on fire-rated door assemblies and must carry matching fire labels. Fire-rated assemblies are available in 20-minute, 45-minute, 60-minute, 90-minute, and 180-minute configurations.

Field Preparation Responsibility

CDF Distributors does not prep doors or frames for surface-mounted hardware, including exit devices. Customers are responsible for all field preparation, including drilling through-bolt holes in the door, cutting the latch bolt pocket in the door edge, and mounting the strike on the frame. Exit device manufacturers provide paper templates with each device to mark hole locations accurately.

Installation Specifications

This guide covers the installation of a standard rim-type exit device on a single commercial door. The procedure applies to hollow metal and wood doors with a 1-3/4” thickness, which is the commercial standard. The exit device mounts to the interior face of the door at a height specified by the manufacturer, typically between 38” and 42” from the finished floor to the centerline of the crossbar. The strike mounts on the frame jamb opposite the hinge side.

At a Glance

The following table summarizes the key specifications for a standard rim exit device installation on a commercial door assembly.

Device Type

Rim surface exit device (panic device)

Door Thickness

1-3/4” (commercial standard)

Door Material

Hollow metal or wood

Mounting Height

38” to 42” from finished floor to crossbar centerline (per manufacturer)

Latch Type

Rim latch bolt engaging frame-mounted strike

Strike Location

Frame jamb, strike side (opposite hinges)

Fastening Method

Through-bolts or sex bolts through the door

Fire Rating Options

20, 45, 60, 90, and 180 minutes (when required)

Tools and Materials

  • Tape measure: for verifying mounting heights and hole locations
  • Pencil or scribe: for marking hole positions from the manufacturer template
  • Manufacturer template: paper template provided with the exit device for marking drill locations
  • Power drill: for drilling through-bolt holes and latch pocket
  • Hole saw or spade bit: for drilling the latch bolt pocket in the door edge
  • Drill bits: sizes specified on the manufacturer template for through-bolt holes
  • Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers: for device assembly and adjustment screws
  • Allen wrench set: for set screws on the exit device mechanism (sizes vary by manufacturer)
  • Level: for verifying horizontal alignment of the crossbar
  • Through-bolts or sex bolts: provided with the exit device for mounting to the door
  • Strike plate and screws: provided with the exit device for frame-side installation
  • Safety glasses: required PPE during drilling operations
  • Chisel: for mortising the strike into the frame jamb if required
  • File: for deburring drilled holes in hollow metal doors

Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Review the Manufacturer Template and Hardware

Before drilling or cutting, unpack the exit device and locate the paper installation template provided by the manufacturer. Verify that all components are present.

  1. Lay out all hardware components: crossbar assembly, mechanism housing, latch bolt assembly, strike plate, through-bolts or sex bolts, and any trim or cylinder components.
  2. Read the manufacturer installation instructions completely. Each manufacturer has specific dimensions and tolerances.
  3. Confirm the exit device matches the door hand (left-hand or right-hand). Exit devices are handed and cannot be reversed in the field.
  4. For fire-rated assemblies, verify that the exit device carries the correct fire label matching the door and frame ratings.

Step 2: Mark the Door Using the Template

The manufacturer template is the primary reference for all hole locations. Do not measure freehand.

  1. Tape the paper template to the interior face of the door at the height specified in the manufacturer instructions. Typical mounting height is 38” to 42” from the finished floor to the centerline of the crossbar.
  2. Align the template edge with the door edge on the latch side. Ensure the template is level.
  3. Using a pencil or scribe, mark all through-bolt hole locations on the door face.
  4. Mark the latch bolt pocket location on the door edge. This is where the latch mechanism passes through the door.
  5. If the door has an exterior trim (lever or pull), mark those hole locations from the opposite side using the trim template.

Step 3: Drill the Door

With all locations marked, drill the required holes through the door.

  1. Drill the through-bolt holes at each marked location using the bit size specified on the template. Drill completely through the door from the interior face.
  2. Drill or cut the latch bolt pocket in the door edge using the appropriate hole saw or spade bit. The pocket must be deep enough for the latch bolt assembly to sit flush with or slightly recessed from the door edge.
  3. For hollow metal doors, deburr all drilled holes with a file to prevent sharp edges from interfering with bolt seating.
  4. Test-fit the latch bolt assembly in the door edge pocket before proceeding. It should slide in and out freely.

Step 4: Install the Latch Bolt Assembly

The latch bolt installs in the door edge before the main device is mounted on the face.

  1. Insert the latch bolt assembly into the pocket in the door edge. The latch bolt face should be flush with the door edge.
  2. Secure the latch bolt assembly using the screws provided. Tighten evenly.
  3. Verify the latch bolt extends and retracts freely by hand before mounting the mechanism.

Step 5: Mount the Exit Device to the Door

With the latch bolt in place, mount the main exit device assembly to the interior face of the door.

  1. Position the mechanism housing over the through-bolt holes, aligning the tailpiece or connecting bar with the latch bolt assembly in the door edge.
  2. Insert through-bolts or sex bolts from the exterior side of the door through to the mechanism housing on the interior side.
  3. Thread and hand-tighten all bolts before final tightening. This allows minor adjustment for alignment.
  4. Tighten all through-bolts evenly. Do not overtighten, as this can distort the door face on hollow metal doors.
  5. Attach the crossbar to the mechanism housing according to the manufacturer instructions. The crossbar should operate smoothly and spring back to the closed position when released.

Cross-section diagram showing the through-bolt connection from exterior trim through the door to the exit device mechanism housing on the interior face. Shows latch bolt assembly in the door edge pocket. This diagram requires CDF approval before inclusion in the production file.

Step 6: Install the Strike on the Frame

The strike mounts on the frame jamb on the strike side (opposite the hinges) and receives the latch bolt when the door is closed.

  1. Close the door and mark the strike location on the frame jamb by observing where the latch bolt contacts the frame.
  2. Position the strike plate on the frame jamb at the marked location. Use the strike template if provided by the manufacturer.
  3. If the strike requires mortising (recessing into the frame), use a chisel to cut the mortise to the correct depth. Many rim strikes are surface-mounted and do not require mortising.
  4. Secure the strike plate with the screws provided. Use all screw holes for a secure connection.

Step 7: Install Exterior Trim (If Applicable)

If the exit device includes exterior trim (lever, pull, or cylinder), install it on the exterior face of the door.

  1. Feed the trim spindle or tailpiece through the door from the exterior side into the mechanism housing.
  2. Secure the exterior trim plate using the through-bolts or mounting screws provided.
  3. Test the exterior trim operation. If equipped with a cylinder, verify the key retracts the latch bolt from the exterior side.

Step 8: Adjust and Test the Exit Device

After mounting all components, adjust the exit device for proper operation.

  1. Close the door and verify the latch bolt fully engages the strike. There should be no gap between the latch bolt and the strike pocket.
  2. Push the crossbar from several positions along its length. The latch should retract fully and the door should open freely from any push point.
  3. Release the crossbar. It should return to the closed position under spring tension and the latch bolt should re-extend automatically.
  4. Check the door gap between the door edge and the frame. The latch bolt should not drag on the strike face during closing.
  5. If the latch does not engage fully, adjust the strike position. If the crossbar does not return to center, check the spring tension adjustment per the manufacturer instructions.
  6. For fire-rated assemblies, verify that the door closes and latches positively under its own power. Fire-rated exit devices must latch without manual assistance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors during exit device installation:

  • Drilling without the manufacturer template. Freehand measurements lead to misaligned holes. Always use the paper template provided with the device.
  • Installing the wrong hand device. Exit devices are manufactured for specific door handing (left-hand or right-hand). A device installed on the wrong hand door will not latch or operate correctly. Verify handing before drilling.
  • Overtightening through-bolts on hollow metal doors. Excessive torque distorts the door face and can bind the exit device mechanism. Tighten evenly and stop when snug.
  • Misaligning the strike with the latch bolt. If the strike is mounted too high, too low, or too far from the door edge, the latch bolt will not engage properly. Always test-close the door and mark the actual latch contact point before mounting the strike.
  • Skipping the latch bolt test before mounting the device. If the latch bolt does not move freely in the door edge pocket, the crossbar will not retract it fully. Test the latch bolt independently before attaching the mechanism housing.
  • Ignoring fire-rating requirements. On fire-rated assemblies, the exit device must carry a matching fire label. Using a non-rated device on a fire-rated door voids the assembly rating and creates a code violation.
  • Failing to field-prep the door and frame. CDF Distributors does not prep doors or frames for surface-mounted hardware such as exit devices. All drilling, cutting, and mortising is the responsibility of the installer.

Fire-Rated Exit Device Assemblies

When an exit device is installed on a fire-rated door assembly, the device must carry a fire label matching the assembly rating. Fire-rated exit device assemblies are available in 20-minute, 45-minute, 60-minute, 90-minute, and 180-minute configurations. All components in the assembly—door, frame, exit device, closer, hinges, and any glazing or louvers—must carry matching or compatible fire ratings.

Fire-rated exit devices must be self-latching. The door must close and the latch bolt must engage the strike without manual assistance. A door closer is required on all fire-rated exit device assemblies. Verify all requirements with the project specifications and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Configure Your Assembly

CDF’s ProBuilder tool allows contractors and facility managers to configure door and frame assemblies with exit devices online. During configuration, ProBuilder displays compatible hardware options based on the selected door, frame, and fire-rating requirements. Exit devices can be added to single-door and double-door assemblies during the hardware selection step.

For assistance selecting the correct exit device type, function, or trim for your project, call (855) 769-9895 or email sales@cdfdoors.com. CDF’s sales team is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM CT.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a rim exit device and a surface vertical rod exit device?

A rim exit device latches into a strike mounted on the frame jamb and is used on single doors or double doors with one active leaf. A surface vertical rod exit device uses rods extending to the top and bottom of the door, latching at the header and threshold. Vertical rod devices are used on double doors without a center mullion where both leaves must latch independently.

Do I need to prep the door for an exit device?

Yes. Exit devices are surface-mounted hardware, and CDF Distributors does not prep doors or frames for surface-mounted hardware. The installer is responsible for drilling through-bolt holes, cutting the latch bolt pocket, and mounting the strike. Manufacturer templates are provided with each device for accurate hole placement.

Can I install an exit device on a wood door?

Yes. Exit devices can be installed on both hollow metal and wood commercial doors. The door must be 1-3/4” thick (commercial standard). For wood doors, ensure the through-bolt locations do not interfere with the door’s internal structure (stiles, lock blocks). Manufacturer templates account for standard door construction.

What mounting height is standard for an exit device?

The typical mounting height for an exit device crossbar is 38” to 42” from the finished floor to the centerline of the crossbar. The exact height is specified by the exit device manufacturer. ADA requirements specify that operable hardware must be between 34” and 48” above the finished floor.

Are exit devices required on fire-rated doors?

Exit devices are not required on all fire-rated doors, but when an exit device is specified for a fire-rated assembly, it must carry a matching fire label. Fire-rated exit device assemblies are available in 20-minute, 45-minute, 60-minute, 90-minute, and 180-minute configurations. A door closer is required on all fire-rated assemblies with exit devices.

How do I know if I need a left-hand or right-hand exit device?

Exit device handing is determined by the swing direction of the door. Stand on the exterior (push side, which is the keyed side) of the door. If the hinges are on the left, it is a left-hand reverse door requiring a left-hand exit device. If the hinges are on the right, it is a right-hand reverse door requiring a right-hand exit device. CDF’s ProBuilder tool guides users through handing selection during assembly configuration.

What happens if the latch bolt does not fully engage the strike?

If the latch bolt does not fully engage the strike, the door will not latch securely. Common causes include a misaligned strike, an improperly drilled latch pocket, or insufficient door-to-frame overlap. Adjust the strike plate position first. If the problem persists, verify that the latch bolt extends fully when the crossbar is in the closed position and that the door gap is consistent.

Can I add an exit device to an existing CDF door assembly?

Yes. Exit devices can be added to existing CDF door and frame assemblies in the field. Because CDF does not prep for surface-mounted hardware, the installation process is the same whether the assembly is new or existing. The installer is responsible for all field preparation. Ensure the exit device is compatible with the existing door thickness, frame type, and any fire-rating requirements.

About This Guide

This installation procedure reflects CDF Distributors’ standard fabrication specifications and field-tested installation method used by commercial contractors nationwide.

For questions about exit device installation or to order a door assembly with exit hardware, contact CDF at (855) 769-9895 or sales@cdfdoors.com. Configure your assembly online at cdfdistributors.com using ProBuilder.