Door and window hardware accessories should also meet the development needs of new materials
June 25 12:21:00, 2025
As the construction industry in China moves toward industrialization, doors and windows are gradually being replaced by new materials. Alongside this transformation, door and window hardware accessories must also evolve to meet the demands of these modern materials. Today, people are placing increasing importance on the functionality of doors and windows, and it is the hardware that makes these functions possible. As a result, innovation in hardware has become a top priority for the industry in the coming years.
In terms of design and function, doors and windows are now moving towards better sealing, insulation, energy efficiency, and multi-functionality. This shift requires hardware components to be more advanced, durable, and efficient. However, the current state of door and window hardware in China still lags behind international standards, and this issue has persisted for many years.
One major reason for this backwardness is the lack of awareness regarding the importance of hardware accessories. Many people view hardware as just a minor part of the door or window, not realizing that it plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and performance. For example, some believe that hardware doesn’t need to be visually appealing, leading to the use of simple, outdated designs like basic crescent locks. This attitude limits the overall quality and appeal of doors and windows.
Another issue is the lack of understanding about the functional benefits of high-quality hardware. While many companies in China rely on imported hardware due to its superior performance, domestic manufacturers have been slow to develop their own advanced solutions. Foreign manufacturers specialize in producing a wide range of hardware with diverse features—such as multi-point locks that offer greater security compared to the traditional two-point locks commonly used in China. Additionally, high-end hardware can enable advanced features like sliding or folding mechanisms, which significantly enhance the functionality of doors and windows.
There is also a misunderstanding about the profitability of hardware accessories. Some believe that the margins are too low to justify investment. However, when looking at foreign markets, hardware accessories often account for 20% to 30% of production costs, indicating a substantial profit potential. Moreover, with China's massive market demand for doors and windows each year, there is a huge opportunity for domestic manufacturers to capture this space.
Despite these challenges, there are promising signs. Some large and well-known Chinese hardware manufacturers are beginning to modernize their facilities, while others are exploring partnerships with foreign companies or setting up joint ventures. In addition, some domestic military-related factories have the capability to produce high-grade hardware using idle equipment, suggesting that the infrastructure is already in place.
In conclusion, it’s time for the industry to recognize the critical role of hardware accessories and invest in innovation and development. By improving the quality, functionality, and aesthetics of hardware, China can move beyond its current limitations and compete globally in the door and window industry.