The process of buying a new doorknob is straightforward. There are many options online or in the store. Sometimes you take something home and it turns out to be wrong. We want to remind you that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. This checklist will show you what to look for when purchasing door hardware. Soon you will be making decisions about which DIY project to tackle next.
Style your way
While you may not think about door hardware often, you notice when it’s damaged, dented or doesn’t match the rest the house. Or just plain ugly. You shouldn’t think that a doorknob means only one thing. Look for hardware that matches the style of your home and your personal tastes, whether you prefer modern and sleek, traditional, ornate, and everything in between.
You should also consider the pros and disadvantages of levers versus knobs when deciding on style. Also, think about how they would fit in your daily life. Do you have a dog that is able to operate a lever? You will need a knob for your door, except if it is a service dog. Maybe you prefer a lever, as it’s easier for arthritis-prone hands to grasp.
Select a finish…or four
Your personal taste is the most important thing about door hardware. It is important to consider whether you want your fixtures to match. Not only are all your levers Bright Chrome, but also other fixtures. Take a look at lighting fixtures, faucets, other plumbing, cabinet pulls, furniture, and other furnishings with metallic accents. A single finish is a good choice for minimalist, Scandinavian or traditional interior design.
A popular trend is to mix metal finishes. Although it’s easy to get carried away with mixing metal finishes, you should limit your choices to just four or fewer. Also, make sure to match some elements so that you don’t look too chaotic. You can use our guide to mixing hardware finishes to help you do it correctly the first go.
Count the doors you have
You may be surprised at the number of doors in your home. You don’t want one of your doors to be broken when you get home. While you don’t necessarily have to replace every knob and lever in your home, it is a good idea to do so as it will help keep the look consistent throughout the house. If you have a shiny brass knob on one door and an elegant satin nickel knob on the other, this can prevent a hallway looking unorganized.
Don’t forget about closets, basement entrances, laundry rooms, or other areas that you may not use every day when counting your doors. You could walk through your home and take a count.
Decide which functions you need
You now know how many knobs or levers you will need. Decide what functions you desire. You have three options when it comes to interior door hardware: Bed & Bath or Hall & Closet.
Bed & Bath (Privacy). Choose Bed & Bath hardware if you need extra privacy. Push-button locks secure the door from within the room. Turning the knob or the lever from the interior unlocks it. Bed & Bath hardware is most commonly used for bathrooms and bedrooms. However, they can also be used in home offices.
Hall & Closet (Passage). Hall & Closet hardware can be used for doors where privacy does not matter. While the latch will keep the door closed, it does not have a locking function. Hall & Closet knobs or levers work best in all types of closets – entryway and bedroom – or on bedroom doors for children if you don’t want them to be able lock themselves in.
Inactive: Sometimes referred to as Non-turning and Dummy, these knobs or levers are primarily decorative. They’re used most often for the non-functioning side or French doors, and any other doors that don’t need to latch.
Schlage door hardware can be used in any of these functions.
Remember your exterior doors
Be sure to include exterior doors into your considerations. Perhaps you feel now is the best time to update your front door handlesets, deadbolts or smart locks. The same guidelines can be used to select the style and finish. If you’re looking to replace a front or back exterior door, count it. Or, a front and garage entrance door.
There are two choices when it comes to exterior door locks: mechanical or electronic deadbolts. BHMA rated Schlage deadbolts in security, durability, and finish as the best. You can be confident that every lock you purchase will offer the quality and security that you require to protect your home. Now the important decision is whether you want a smart lock that offers additional conveniences that suit your lifestyle. Schlage smart lock information is available. To find the best Schlage smart lock for you, use our Get Help Deciding tool.
A screwdriver is a must!
You might wonder if you have all the tools necessary to install door hardware. There’s a good chance you have the tools you need to install Schlage door hardware. All you need is a screwdriver. All standard pre-drilled doors will fit our hardware. You don’t need to become a professional carpenter overnight, or hire a handyman to help you with your home improvement projects.
