Norton 1601 Door Closer

Norton's 1600 Series is considered a Universal Closer Series because it fits so many applications. It is non-handed with a fully adjustable spring and can mount in any of the 3 mounting styles.

Typically, you're biggest worry when ordering model 1601 is the finish. 90% of all 1601's are sold in the aluminum or dark bronze finish, so ordering is about as easy as it can be.

The bolt hole spacing for narrow footprint closes has become standardized on Norton's 1601. Reputable brands and even those you've never heard of use this standard spacing.

If you are ordering the Norton 1601 as a replacement closer, be sure to check your existing bolt hole pattern first. Chances are the pattern will fit exactly, but if it doesn't you will end up drilling and tapping extra holes. This extra work will double the cost of the installation so it pays to do your homework before ordering.

Since the 1601 is copied by so many other manufacturers you will need to make a pricing decision. Like most things, you get what you pay for. If you spend the extra for the Norton 1601 you'll be provided many years of reliable service. If you opt for the cheaper, knock-off route then you might as well buy two units. The second one will serve as a relacement when the first fails after a few years.

The 1600 series is available with various types of springs.

A 1602, for example, uses a size 2 spring which is for smaller doors. You can also order a 1602, 1603, 1604 and 1605 model, each with increasingly larger springs for larger doors.

Most people don't want to have to worry about getting exactly the right spring size. The order an adjustable spring closer, the 1601. This covers spring sizes 3 - 6 and works on the most common door sizes.

A standard door uses a size 3 or size 4 door. Size 3 would be for a standard interior door while size 4 for exterior.

When trying to meet ADA standards (Americans with Disabilities Act) certain rules apply. Norton came out with a version of the 1601 called 1601BF (Barrier Free). This has an adjustable spring as well, and the sizes are 1 - 4. Just be careful about using this on an exterior door. If the door opens easily and no wind conditions are a problem it will work fine. If your situation is like most and the weather changes, the 1601BF may not be strong enough to close the door.

The best choices then are 1601BF for interior doors and model 1601 for exterior doors.