Hat and coat hooks - (more than) all you need...

Join us as we explore the quirky questions and curiosities surrounding hat and coat hooks—queries that might never cross your mind but deserve answers nonetheless. At Door Controls Direct, we're here to assist with everything from basic hardware terminology to troubleshooting complex door closers and access control systems.

This brief dive into the world of door hooks covers:

• Hardware terminology
• Installation height
• Product spacing
• Fitting hooks

Terminology Explained

Though seemingly simple, coat hooks come in various forms, each serving a slightly different purpose. Here are the most common types you might encounter in homes or commercial washrooms:

• Coat Hook: A single protruding hook that may have a decorative rose, no rose, or a backplate.
• Double Coat Hook: Two hooks aligned horizontally on the same plane.
• Hat and Coat Hook: Two hooks on a backplate, positioned one above the other.
• Double Hat and Coat Hook: One hat hook above a pair of coat hooks.

Context changes everything. A cat is a predator to a mouse but a pet to a human. Similarly, a coat hook in a bathroom becomes a robe hook, while in a bedroom, it’s called a wardrobe hook. These terms vary depending on where you install them. Hooks can also be attached to a board instead of being mounted individually, allowing you to create a coat rack with minimal effort. Some hat and coat hooks feature a rubber buffer at the tip, doubling as a door stopper.

How High Should Coat Hooks Be?

When installing any door hardware, it's crucial to consider both the building's users and any relevant regulations. The construction of the door itself may impose limitations on where hooks can be safely installed, along with other restrictions like space behind the door. For instance, will the hook's projection interfere with the door's swing?

The Department of Health’s Core Elements Health Building Note 00-02: Sanitary Spaces recommends installing two coat hooks in wheelchair and semi-ambulant changing rooms and washrooms—one at 1050mm and another at 1400mm. This isn’t because of the volume of belongings but to ensure accessibility for everyone. By providing hooks at different heights, you cater to diverse user needs.

While there may be specific guidelines for certain scenarios, many experts suggest installing two hooks at varying heights in all bathrooms and changing areas. This approach accommodates users with:

• Varying Heights: Shorter individuals won't struggle to reach higher hooks.
• Different Mobility Levels: People with limited upper-body mobility will appreciate lower hooks, especially in places like hospitals, retirement homes, or medical facilities.
• Different Ages: Younger children can easily access lower hooks, making them ideal for schools and family-friendly environments.
• Varying Accessories: Lower hooks can hold bags, while higher ones accommodate garments, making them suitable for busy areas like retail stores or shopping centers.

In most cases, there’s no strict rule for hook height. Instead, focus on accessibility, functionality, aesthetics, and practical considerations like installation, which we’ll discuss next.

How Far Apart Should Coat Hooks Be?

A quick online search reveals conflicting advice on spacing: 10-15cm, 15-20cm, or even 30-40cm apart. In commercial settings like changing rooms, hotels, or WCs, you'll typically find only one or two hooks per door or wall, so spacing isn't a major concern.

However, in shared spaces like offices or educational facilities, you might need to install multiple hooks. If you’re setting up a multi-hook arrangement without opting for a pre-assembled multi-rack, here are some factors to consider when determining the spacing:

• Number of Users: How many people will use the space simultaneously? Do you need one hook per user?
• Purpose: What will be hung on the hooks? If hangers are involved, hooks need to be spaced further apart.
• Privacy: Do users require personal space? Larger gaps between hooks—or even partitions—might be necessary.
• Space Availability: How many hooks can fit comfortably in the available space?
• Hardware Design: Are the hooks wide-spaced or straight-out? Aesthetic preferences may influence spacing decisions.

Your facility's unique requirements, combined with these factors, will guide your decision on how far apart to space your hat and coat, robe, or garment hooks.

Fitting Hooks

We’ve covered types of hooks, their height, and spacing. Now, let’s talk about installation. You’ll likely be mounting hooks on walls or doors, either during new construction or as part of routine door maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to attaching a coat hook.

Before starting, ensure you understand the specifics of the installation—what material or surface you’re working with, the type of fixings required, and whether the hook will need to be removable later. Consider the placement in relation to the room’s layout and whether it could damage the wall when the door opens.

Once you’ve decided where to place the hook—whether on a plaster wall or hollow door—the initial steps for screw fixing (non-self-adhesive) products are generally consistent:

• Gather the appropriate tools, including a suitably sized drill bit and wall anchors/plugs.
• Measure and mark the exact position.

Depending on the surface, you might need to drill pilot holes. For heavier loads, consider using specialist plasterboard fixings or hollow door fixings if you can’t secure the hook to the wall stud. Once ready, drill the holes and screw in the hooks. If installing multiple hooks nearby, double-check their alignment, especially if they’re stacked vertically.

When retrofitting or replacing hooks, try to match the original size to reuse existing holes. If that’s not possible, opt for a larger hook to cover older fixings, or plan for repairs before installation.

It All Hangs on This

The humble hat and coat hook comes in countless styles—Victorian, contemporary, flat, swan neck, square back, tubular, and more. Finishes range from woodgrain to white plastic, aluminum to antique brass, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every environment. Whether you’re designing an anti-ligature application, outfitting a luxury hotel, or building a new housing development, there’s a solution for every space.

When purchasing hat and coat hooks, keep the following in mind:

• User Needs: Their height, what they’ll hang on the hooks, and mobility levels.
• Setting: The number of hooks, their material and durability, plus the finish and design.
• Installation: Where they’ll be placed, the type of fixings, and the height and spacing.

Installing the right hook in the right place ensures functionality, accessibility, and compliance. It can also enhance the room’s aesthetic appeal, making it stand out or blend seamlessly. The choice is yours.

For help with hooks, handles, hinges, or anything else, our expert team is here to assist. Contact us today: [email protected] or 01305 263300.