How to Pick Out Hardware for Your Doors: A Comprehensive Guide
Whether you're renovating or building your home from the ground up, making sure everything fits together is key – and that includes your door hardware. With so many choices at the hardware store, it can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, here’s a simple guide to help you pick the right door hardware that matches your style and needs.
6 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING DOOR HARDWARE
1. DOOR TYPE
When it comes to exterior doors like your front and back doors, you’ll want to choose hardware that’s both secure and durable since these are your first line of defense. Think deadbolts, high-security locks, and materials that can handle the weather.
For interior doors—like bedrooms, bathrooms, or your home office—security isn’t as big of a deal, so you can focus more on style and privacy. Privacy locks and sleek door levers are usually the go-to.
If you have sliding or glass doors, you’ll need specific hardware like sliding tracks, rollers, and specialized locks to keep everything running smoothly and securely.
2. STYLE
If you're going for a modern or minimalist vibe, stick with clean lines and simple shapes—something like stainless steel or chrome finishes can give you that sleek, contemporary look.
For a more traditional style, brass knobs or antique bronze finishes add a timeless, classic touch to your space.
If you’re into the rustic or farmhouse aesthetic, matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, or distressed finishes fit perfectly with that cozy, lived-in feel.
And don’t forget, sliding or glass doors need specific hardware like sliding tracks, rollers, and special locks to keep everything running smoothly and secure.
3. MATERIAL
Brass is a go-to for door hardware because it’s both durable and has that classic, timeless look. You can keep it polished for a shiny finish or let it age naturally for more of an antique vibe. It’s perfect if you want something that blends style with longevity.
Stainless steel is ideal if you're after something modern and tough. It’s resistant to rust and corrosion, which makes it great for exterior doors or homes in humid areas. Plus, it gives off a sleek, contemporary feel.
Satin nickel is super versatile. Whether your home is modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, its soft, muted shine fits beautifully on interior doors. It’s durable too, so you won’t have to worry about it losing its appeal over time.
For something darker and more dramatic, oil-rubbed or aged bronze is a solid pick. Its rich, deep finish adds character and pairs perfectly with rustic or traditional styles, giving your home a warm, sophisticated look.
4. FUNCTIONALITY
Door knobs are a classic choice and have that timeless look. However, they require a bit of grip to turn, which might not be the easiest for everyone—especially if you have young kids or elderly family members at home.
On the other hand, door levers are much more user-friendly. You just push down, and they’re good to go. They’re perfect for accessibility and often come in sleek, modern designs.
If you’re thinking about the front door, handle sets are where it’s at. They not only look decorative but are also more secure, usually coming with a deadbolt and a matching knob or lever, combining style and safety.
5. SECURITY
When it comes to securing your exterior doors, a deadbolt is a must-have. It adds that extra layer of protection. Just make sure to choose one with a high-security rating for peace of mind.
If you’re all about convenience and love tech, smart locks might be right up your alley. They let you skip the keys entirely and offer keyless entry. Plus, many of them can be controlled right from your smartphone, making life a little easier!
6. PROPER FIT
Before you dive into buying door hardware, it’s super important to get your measurements right. Start by checking the backset, bore hole size, and door thickness. This way, you can be sure that the hardware you choose will fit perfectly. While most standard doors work with typical hardware, older or custom doors might require something a bit more specialized. Taking these steps will save you from any surprises later on!
THE RIGHT DOOR HARDWARE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
While keeping these factors in mind, it's also essential to know if you're purchasing from a known and high-quality brand. Consider BTCS Hardware to get not only stylish but high quality and durable door hardware!