Choosing the Perfect Door Hardware for Your Home

No door is complete without the correct hardware. Although it is a small detail, carefully selecting your door handle can enhance your interior style while providing the functionality and security your home needs. To select the perfect handle for your doors, there are a few factors to consider.

Determine Your Function

For interior door hardware, an important consideration is the intended function of the door, which is determined by which room it will be installed in. There are three primary functions: privacy, passage, and inactive.

Privacy

A privacy door is used where extra privacy is needed, like bedroom and bathroom doors, and typically calls for a handle with a push-button lock. They are also commonly found in home offices.

Passage

For passage doors, such as hallway or closet doors, a handle or knob without a locking mechanism is suitable. This type of hardware is also beneficial for children’s bedroom doors if you don’t want them to be able to lock themselves in.

Inactive

An inactive door is also known as non-turning or dummy because it is primarily decorative. This includes the doors on cabinets and the non-functioning side of French doors.

Pick a Finish

Your taste largely determines the finish of your door hardware. To create a cohesive space, try to match your handles to the rest of the finishes in your home. There are a variety of materials to choose from, ranging in longevity, maintenance, and hygiene level.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel door handles are a popular choice due to their durability and reasonable cost. They come in many options, including brushed, matte, and high-gloss.

Aluminum

Another common option for door handles is aluminum or copper alloys like brass and bronze. These materials are popular for homes with a traditional design.

Plastic

Plastic or plastic-coated door handles are a hygienic hardware option. They often have antibacterial properties and are available in a wide range of colors.

Other Finishes

Other popular materials for door handles include chrome, matte black, and satin nickel, all of which complement a contemporary style of home. Crystal, wood, ceramic, and glass handles can also be used for decorative purposes.

Choose Your Type

Like finish, the style of handle you choose is influenced by the existing decor in your home. There are several types to choose from, which mostly fall under two categories: handles and knobs.

Handles

Handles are a modern choice for door hardware. The most popular type of handle available is the door lever, as they are easy to operate and especially suitable for people with reduced mobility. A few other options include pull handles (fixed door handles without a latching mechanism) and recessed handles (flush or inset pull handles).

Knobs

A door knob offers a more traditional look than a handle and nicely complements classic decorating styles. They are a great option for homes with pets, as a dog can’t jump up to open a door like they could with a lever handle.

Your Source for Door Hardware

Door handles are just one of the many door hardware items that we carry at The Window Depot. We have everything you need to complete your door installation, including hinges, viewers, and jambs. Stop by one of our locations today to browse our inventory. Contact us today with any questions regarding our door hardware selection.