Are you planning on installing a new door or replacing your current door’s hardware? It may seem like a simple task, but selecting the right door and hardware requires more thought than you might realize. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Hardware to Consider
The lock
One of the main purposes of a door is privacy. Keeping intruders from entering your home is crucial to your safety and can be managed by the use of a lock. To fulfill its purpose, your lock needs to be durable and reliable. For an entry door replacement or a patio door replacement (any exterior door), it is wise to go with a single cylinder deadbolt. For interior doors that require locks, like the bathroom door, you can go with something a little simpler like a handle-lock.
The latch
When it comes to door knobs, latch alignment is crucial. To allow your door to open and close easily, make sure your latches are properly catching. The door handle or knob opens and closes a door by manipulation of the latch, which is the mechanical fastener that connects the door to the frame. When the handle is rotated, the movement causes the attached bolt to slide in and out of the latch receptacle in the door frame.
The attachments
The lock and the latch are two essential components of a door, but there are additional pieces of hardware that can be added to enhance the look or function. For instance, you may want to invest in kick plates or spring door stoppers to protect your walls, or you could add a couple hooks or towel bars to the back of a bathroom door.
Other Aspects to Consider
Aesthetics
To improve the look of your home, it is important to make sure that all of the door hardware throughout your house matches. Choose colors, materials, and accents that complement your style.
Maintenance
Before deciding on a door, consider how much maintenance you are willing to perform. Some kinds of doors and door hardware are more durable and reliable while others require frequent upkeep. A steel door, for instance, is known for its strength and durability. In fact, a steel door replacement or replacement front door averages a 97.2% return on investment.
Whether you’re hiring a remodeling service or installing a replacement door yourself, it is important to think carefully before selecting a door and its hardware. A door, after all, is only as dependable as its individual components.
