It is easy to buy a new knob for your door. You can then go to the store or search online for more options. You might bring something home and find it isn’t quite right. We are here to assure you that there is no need to be overwhelmed. This checklist will help you decide what door hardware to buy. You’ll soon be deciding on the next DIY project.
Select your style
Although you might not think about door hardware style very often, you will notice when it is scratched or dented, does not match the rest of your house, or just plain ugly. Do not let anyone fool you into believing that a doorknob is just a knob. You should choose hardware that suits your personal style and your home’s architectural style, whether it is modern and sleek or traditional and ornate.
Consider the pros and cons for door knobs versus levers, and how they will fit into your life. Are you a pet owner with a curious pet that can pull a lever to get out? A door knob is a better choice than a lever, unless it’s a service pet. Perhaps you prefer a lever to a knob because it is easier to hold with arthritis-prone hands.
You can choose from four finishes
The finish of your door hardware will reflect your personal style. The most important consideration is whether all fixtures in your home should match. This is not limited to Bright Chrome levers. Consider light fixtures, faucets, and other plumbing items, as well as cabinet pulls, and furniture with metallic accents. Focusing on one finish might appeal to minimalists, Scandinavian, and more traditional interior designers.
You can also mix metal finishes, especially as maximalism is becoming more popular. You can easily go too crazy, but it is possible to mix and match. This guide will help you mix and match hardware finishes correctly the first time.
Count the number of doors you have
It might surprise you at how many doors your house actually has. It’s not a good idea to come home and discover that you have a shortage of one. You don’t have to replace every doorknob or lever. However, it can help maintain a consistent look throughout your house. It can help keep your hallways from looking cluttered if you have two different styles of doorknobs: one in bright brass and one in satin nickel.
Don’t forget to count closets, basement entryways, laundry rooms, and other spaces that you may not use daily when counting your doors. You might be able to walk through your house and count the doors.
Determine the functions that you require
Once you have determined how many knobs and levers are needed, you can decide which functions you would like. There are three main options for interior door hardware: Inactive, Hall & Closet, and Bed & Bath.
Bed & Bath Privacy: For rooms that require extra privacy, choose Bed & Bath hardware. The push-button lock locks the door from within the room while the knob or lever unlocks it from the inside. Bed & Bath door hardware works best in bathrooms and bedrooms, but they are also popular for home offices.
Hall & Closet Passage: Hall & Closet hardware is best for doors that do not require privacy. Although the latch helps keep the door shut, there is no locking mechanism. Hall & Closet levers and knobs work well in any closet – entryway, bedroom, pantry – and even children’s bedrooms if they don’t need to lock themselves in.
Inactive: Also known as Non-turning, Dummy or Dummy, inactive levers and knobs are decorative. They are most commonly used to replace the latching mechanism on French doors or other doors that don’t require them to function.
Schlage door hardware is available in all of these functions. This means that no matter what style or finish you choose, it will still fit your needs.
Remember your exterior doors
Make sure to consider exterior doors when making your decisions. It’s possible that you decide now is the right time to replace your front door deadbolt, handleset or smart lock. You can use the same tips as above to choose its style and finish. You should count your exterior doors, especially if you are updating a front or back door. You can also count your garage and front doors.
You have two options when choosing a lock to secure your exterior door: electronic or mechanical deadbolts. BHMA rated Schlage deadbolts as the Best in Security, Durability, and Finish. Each lock offers the security and peace of mind you need to protect your home. The main decision is whether or not a smart lock will provide additional convenience for your life. Schlage smart locks are available in a variety of colors. You can also use our Get Help Deciding Tool for help choosing the right one for you.
You should always have a screwdriver
You may be wondering if your tools are sufficient to install door hardware. You have a good chance that you do. Schlage door hardware is all you need. Our hardware is designed to fit all standard predrilled doors. This is a simple home improvement project that does not require you to be a skilled carpenter or to hire a handyman.
Copyright – Classicalnet