Door Hardware or in other words door furniture refers to items attached to the door to beautify its appearance and boost its functionality. Door hardware includes door handles, hinges, locks, fasteners and other accessories like door closers and openers, door knockers, door stops, peepholes, fingerplates etc. Depending upon the type of door you will be installing and its location, you would have to decide which aspect would you want to give more preference, safety or the style of your home. Here are a few tips to help you out with your selection
Security
You would want to ensure the safety of your family at all times. Locks are a very important part of your hardware. Deadbolt locks are most commonly preferred. It is advisable to opt for simple locks instead of high end complicated ones, as they are not reliable and require lots of maintenance. Weak hinges are common places where intruders and burglars tend to attack. Exterior doors of your house should open inward as in this case the hinge pins would be safe inside the house. Stainless steel and brass hinges are mostly used because of their durability. Screws used to secure locks and hinges should be long enough to hold against an intruder. Peepholes and security chains are also very important. Make sure peepholes are one way so that the person standing outside your door cannot see when you come to take a look.
Attachments and accessories
Door attachments like door knockers, address plates, towel hangers etc. add to the functionality of your home. Door stops are very useful as they prevent open doors from swinging into a wall or furniture and causing damage. Door openers keep open doors from closing automatically. Knobs and handles made of wood, porcelain, brass, cast iron and glass can be used for your cabinets.
Interior Hardware
Door pulls could be used instead of door locks. These pulls can be used on kitchen doors to allow hands-free operation. Bathrooms and bedrooms could use privacy locks which have no keys, but can be locked on the inside by a push button on the door knob.
Keep in mind the décor of your home
You can choose doorknobs, handles and levers which are available in different styles and designs to suit the interior décor of your home. There are also a variety of colors like gold and silver and finishes of bronze, nickel, brass and chrome you can opt for.
Budget
Always keep the budget in mind. Sit and chalk out how many doors you would like to have in your home and how you would like to accessorize them accordingly. Once you have drawn a figure, it will be easy for you to avoid expensive brands and pick one that matches up your budget.
You should do proper research before you pick your door hardware so that you get the right product that fits your requirement. Choosing the right hardware for your door will not only add style and accentuate the décor of your home, but also provide lasting security and peace of mind.
