Choosing the right door handles can significantly impact your home's aesthetic and functionality. Whether you're renovating, building a new house, or simply looking to replace outdated hardware, better home products door handles offer a blend of style, security, and durability. In this article, we'll explore the various types of door handles available, factors to consider when selecting the perfect fit, and tips for maintaining them to ensure long-lasting performance. We will also touch on popular brands and where to find the best deals, ensuring you make an informed decision for your home improvement project.

Understanding the Types of Door Handles

When it comes to better home products door handles, understanding the different types available is crucial. Each type offers a unique aesthetic and serves specific functional purposes. Let's dive into the most common types you'll encounter:

Lever Handles

Lever handles are among the most popular choices for interior doors. Their design features a horizontal lever that you push down to open the door. This makes them incredibly user-friendly, especially for individuals with limited mobility or arthritis. Lever handles come in a wide variety of styles, from sleek and modern to ornate and traditional, ensuring you can find one that complements your home's decor. They are also available in various finishes, such as brushed nickel, polished brass, and matte black, allowing for further customization.

In addition to their ease of use, lever handles are also known for their durability. High-quality lever handles are typically constructed from solid brass or stainless steel, which can withstand daily wear and tear. When selecting lever handles, consider the overall design of your home. A contemporary home might benefit from minimalist lever handles with clean lines, while a more traditional home could opt for lever handles with decorative details. Ensure the finish matches other hardware in the room, such as light fixtures and cabinet pulls, for a cohesive look.

Knob Handles

Knob handles are a classic choice that has been used for centuries. These handles feature a rounded or shaped knob that you turn to operate the latch. While they may not be as ergonomically friendly as lever handles, knob handles offer a timeless appeal that can enhance the character of any home. They are particularly well-suited for older homes or those with a vintage aesthetic. Knob handles are available in various materials, including glass, porcelain, and metal, each offering a unique look and feel.

One of the advantages of knob handles is their simplicity. They are easy to install and maintain, making them a practical choice for homeowners. However, it's essential to consider the grip and ease of use, especially for elderly residents or those with hand mobility issues. When selecting knob handles, pay attention to the quality of the materials and the smoothness of the turning mechanism. A well-made knob handle should operate smoothly and feel solid in your hand. Like lever handles, knob handles should also coordinate with the overall design and hardware finishes in your home.

Entry Door Handlesets

Entry door handlesets are designed specifically for exterior doors and typically include a combination of a handle, deadbolt, and sometimes a decorative escutcheon plate. These sets are designed to provide both security and style, making a strong first impression on visitors. Entry door handlesets come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and are available in various finishes to match your home's exterior. These are a critical aspect of better home products door handles.

Security is a primary consideration when choosing an entry door handleset. Look for sets that feature a high-quality deadbolt with a hardened steel core, which resists drilling and forced entry. The handles themselves should be sturdy and well-constructed to withstand daily use and potential abuse. Consider the overall design of your home's exterior when selecting an entry door handleset. A grand, traditional home might benefit from an ornate handleset with intricate details, while a modern home could opt for a sleek, minimalist design. Ensure the finish complements your home's exterior colors and other hardware, such as doorbells and lighting fixtures.

Specialty Handles

In addition to the standard types of door handles, there are also specialty handles designed for specific purposes. These include:

• Pocket Door Handles: These handles are designed to sit flush with the door's surface, allowing it to slide smoothly into the wall.
• Sliding Door Handles: These handles are typically surface-mounted and feature a thumb latch or lever for easy operation.
• Barn Door Handles: These handles are often larger and more rustic in design, complementing the look of barn doors.

When selecting specialty handles, it's essential to consider the specific requirements of the door and the overall design of the space. Ensure the handles are compatible with the door's hardware and that they provide smooth and reliable operation. Specialty handles can add a unique touch to your home and enhance its functionality.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Door Handles

Choosing the right door handles involves more than just picking a style you like. Several factors can affect your decision, including:

Style and Design

The style of your door handles should complement the overall aesthetic of your home. Consider the architectural style of your home and choose handles that reflect that style. A modern home might benefit from sleek, minimalist handles, while a traditional home could opt for more ornate designs. The finish of the handles should also coordinate with other hardware in the room, such as light fixtures, cabinet pulls, and hinges. Better home products door handles should enhance, not detract, from your home's design.

Material and Finish

The material and finish of your door handles affect their durability, appearance, and maintenance requirements. Common materials include brass, stainless steel, bronze, and zinc. Brass is a classic choice that offers a warm, elegant look, while stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Bronze offers a rich, antique look, and zinc is a more affordable option that can be finished in various colors.

The finish of your door handles can also affect their appearance and maintenance. Popular finishes include polished brass, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black. Polished brass offers a bright, shiny look, but it requires regular polishing to maintain its luster. Brushed nickel is more resistant to fingerprints and smudges, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Oil-rubbed bronze offers a warm, antique look and is relatively easy to maintain. Matte black is a modern, stylish choice that complements a variety of design styles.

Security

For exterior doors, security is a paramount concern. Choose handlesets that feature a high-quality deadbolt with a hardened steel core, which resists drilling and forced entry. The handles themselves should be sturdy and well-constructed to withstand daily use and potential abuse. Consider investing in smart locks that offer advanced security features, such as keyless entry, remote locking and unlocking, and activity monitoring. Ensuring better home products door handles include strong security features is essential for peace of mind.

Ease of Use

Consider the ease of use of the door handles, especially for elderly residents or those with hand mobility issues. Lever handles are generally easier to operate than knob handles, as they require less grip strength. Ensure the handles are comfortable to grip and that the latch mechanism operates smoothly. Consider the height of the handles and ensure they are accessible to all residents of the home.

Budget

Door handles range in price from affordable to high-end, so it's essential to set a budget before you start shopping. Consider the number of doors you need to outfit and the overall cost of the project. Keep in mind that higher-quality handles may cost more upfront but can offer better durability and longevity, saving you money in the long run. Look for sales and discounts to get the best deals on door handles.

Tips for Maintaining Your Door Handles

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your door handles and keep them looking their best. Here are some tips for maintaining your door handles:

Regular Cleaning

Clean your door handles regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the handles and dry them thoroughly. For polished brass handles, use a brass cleaner to maintain their luster.

Lubrication

Lubricate the latch mechanism of your door handles periodically to ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant or a dry lubricant to avoid attracting dust and dirt. Apply the lubricant sparingly and wipe away any excess.

Tightening

Check the screws on your door handles periodically and tighten them as needed. Loose screws can cause the handles to wobble and eventually fail. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws, being careful not to overtighten them.

Replacement

If your door handles are damaged or worn, replace them promptly. Damaged handles can compromise the security of your home and detract from its appearance. When replacing handles, choose high-quality replacements that match the style and finish of your existing hardware.

Popular Brands and Where to Find the Best Deals

Several reputable brands offer high-quality door handles. Some popular brands include Schlage, Kwikset, Baldwin, and Emtek. These brands are known for their durability, security, and style. You can find these brands at home improvement stores, hardware stores, and online retailers.

To find the best deals on door handles, shop around and compare prices. Check online retailers like Amazon, Lowe's, and Home Depot for sales and discounts. Sign up for email newsletters from these retailers to receive notifications about upcoming sales. Consider purchasing door handles in bulk to save money on larger projects. Remember, investing in better home products door handles is an investment in your home's security and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

Choosing the right door handles is an essential part of any home improvement project. By understanding the different types of handles available, considering the factors that affect your decision, and following proper maintenance tips, you can select door handles that enhance your home's style, security, and functionality. Whether you're looking for lever handles, knob handles, entry door handlesets, or specialty handles, there's a perfect option out there for you. So, take your time, do your research, and invest in high-quality door handles that will last for years to come. With better home products door handles, you can elevate the look and feel of your entire home.