7 Things to Consider When Shopping for Door Hardware

If you are upgrading your home, you know how important the little things are. From the hardwood floors to the paint color to the door handles, every detail matters. Each element adds up to create a well-polished home. 

As you design your home, you may wonder how something as small as a door handle can matter. Although they may be overlooked, choosing the right door hardware can make a huge difference. After all, no one wants a doorknob that doesn’t look right or doesn’t work. 

But how do you know what fixture is right for your door? Here are 7 things to consider for door hardware.

1. Type of Handle

When it comes to door handles, there are three main types, and each handle serves a specific function. Here is a rundown of each type:

• Levers: These handles are easier to use than knobs because they do not require the grasping and twisting motion to open a door that knobs do. Because levers are easy to operate, they are especially useful for people who cannot use traditional doorknobs, such as older adults or people with dexterity issues.  
• Knobs: These handles are a more traditional choice than levers. In addition to giving a home a classic look, these handles are also harder for pets and toddlers to open than lever handles. 
• Pull handles: These handles are best suited for heavy or sliding doors because they allow a user to have a firmer grip and apply more force than other hardware, making it easier to open the door. 

2. Style and Finish

While most people overlook door hardware, it sticks out like a sore thumb when it does not fit the aesthetic of a home. Door hardware should seamlessly match your other home décor, and suit the color of your door. Whether your home is vintage, classic, rustic or modern, you should buy hardware that matches.

When you decide what style of hardware you want, you will also want to choose what material and finish you want. While most door hardware is made of metal, you can choose another door finish, such as brass, matte black, nickel, chrome or bronze. If you want to make a statement, you could even opt for a glass, porcelain, wood or ceramic door handle.  

Use contrast to strike a balance between all elements in your home — for example, if you have a white door, you might choose a matte black hardware finish for a modern feel. Another way to make a statement with your door hardware is to mix and match hardware. If you decide to go this route, make sure you do not go overboard. 

3. Backplates and Rosettes 

As another element of design, you can choose a handle with either a backplate or a rosette. Backplates are rectangular and offer a traditional and classic look. Since they are larger than a rosette, they are great for covering up any holes or scratches on your door. 

Rosettes, on the other hand, are minimalistic and modern. They are slim pieces of round hardware that go around your door handle. If you are looking for a clean look, rosettes add the perfect touch. 

4. Lockset

A lockset is the mechanism in a door handle that allows the latch to open and lock. There are multiple types of locksets. The function of your door will determine which lockset you choose. 

Here are some of the most common locksets and the ideal function of each: 

1. Passage lockset: This lockset allows users to turn the doorknob right or left, opening the door, but it does not have locks. Privacy locksets are common for interior doors such as bedroom doors and closet doors.
2. Privacy lockset: This lockset is very similar to a privacy lockset except that it often has a push button or turn-bottom that locks the door. Passage locksets are a great choice for bathroom doors.
3. Keyed entry lockset: This lockset has a keyed lock that can be accessed from both sides of the door. One side requires a key to turn the lock and the other side has a lever or turn button to lock the door. This lockset is common on exterior doors.
4. Dummy lockset: This lockset is only a doorknob in appearance — it does not turn or lock. Common uses of this lockset are on doors for broom closets or laundry rooms.

5. Type of Door

Will the hardware be placed on an interior or exterior door? While hardware for interior doors is usually selected for functionality and style, hardware for exterior doors is selected for security. When you are choosing hardware for an exterior door, you want to make sure it is durable and secure. 

Keyed entry locksets are preferred for exterior doors because they are designed to be thick, weather-resistant and long-lasting. For an extra measure of security, you can also install a deadbolt above your normal hardware. 

6. Hinges

While hinges are not as glamorous as door handles, they are the unsung hero of a smoothly working door. If you are replacing your door’s hinges, consider your door’s color and weight. 

When you purchase new hinges, you want to pick a set that matches the color of your door and can support your door’s weight. If not, the hinges cannot do their job, and will stand out to visitors.

7. Measurements 

Before you buy door hardware, make sure you take the proper measurements. Nothing is more frustrating than buying something that does not fit. So before you head to the store or make an online purchase, pull out your tape measure and take the following measurements:

• Door-thickness: Before buying new hardware, measure the thickness of your door. While most interior and exterior doors have a standard level of thickness, some doors that are older or have been custom-made may deviate from these standards. 
• Bore diameter: Measure the distance in inches from one side of the round hole — bore — in your door to the other side. 
• Backset: The backset is the distance in inches from the center of the bore to the edge of the door.

Explore Premium Hardware’s Selection of High-Quality Door Hardware

Premium Hardware offers an extensive selection of luxury products at a low price. Every product shows our commitment to making products that are high-quality, secure, durable and cost-effective.

No matter what type of door you are buying hardware for, our experienced staff will help you find a product that works for your space. And for your peace of mind, our hardware has a Rockwell Guard lifetime finish that ensures that your hardware will last.  

To find hardware that delivers quality and security, browse our online inventory or contact us for more information.