A Guide to Door Handles and Hardware for Your Home

Proper door hardware is crucial for your home's functionality and aesthetics. Whether securing your entrance or choosing stylish handles, door hardware impacts your daily life and home design. G Johns are here to walk you through the essentials of choosing the best hardware for various rooms in your home. 

When it comes to door handles, levers offer an ergonomic design that’s easier to operate, especially for children, the elderly, or individuals with limited dexterity. They often suit modern and minimalist interiors. Door knobs use a twisting motion and are available in various styles and finishes.

Essential for door operation, hinges come in several styles. Butt hinges are the most common for residential use due to their durability and simplicity. Concealed hinges, often used in modern designs, are hidden from view when the door is closed, providing a clean and sleek appearance. Pivot hinges are used when doors need to swing both ways or in tight spaces.

Locks and latches are vital for security and privacy. Spring latches are simple and affordable, suitable for interior doors. Deadlocks offer better security for exterior doors by providing a thicker, more secure locking mechanism that extends into the door frame. 

• Strike plates reinforce the area where the latch engages with the door frame, helping to prevent damage and improve security.
• Door closers are essential for ensuring doors close properly. They can help control the speed and force with which doors shut, which is especially useful in maintaining energy efficiency and noise control.
• With high traffic volume, door plates protect against the day-to-day wear and tear of people pushing doors open with their feet.

Choose hardware made from robust materials such as stainless steel or brass, which can withstand daily wear and is weather-resistant against rust and corrosion. 

For added security, consider installing door chains and spy holes, which provide extra peace of mind by allowing you to check who is outside before opening the door.

Enhance the appearance and security of your front door with accessories like escutcheons, which cover and protect the keyhole, adding a sleek and finished look. Complete the look with letter plates and knockers.

For superior security, consider 5 Lever BS Locks or Chubb Locks, which meet British Standards for high-quality protection. 

Yale locks and night latches are also excellent options, offering security and convenience, especially for front doors.

Choose door knobs or handles that complement the living room’s decor, considering finishes like matt black for a contemporary look, brushed nickel for a modern yet classic appeal, or polished chrome for a touch of elegance.

Glass sliding doors are excellent room dividers. They allow natural light to flow through while creating a clear separation between spaces, making the living room feel brighter and more spacious.

Parliament hinges are ideal for living rooms. They allow doors to swing open wider than standard hinges, making it easier to create an open, spacious feel. They are handy for larger doors, offering functionality and a seamless flow between rooms.

Door bolts offer an additional layer of security by providing a manual locking mechanism at the top or bottom of the door. These are ideal for bedrooms where extra privacy or safety is desired.

Levers are often preferred for their ease of use, especially for those with limited hand strength. Knobs offer a more traditional look and can be matched to the bedroom’s decor for a cohesive style.

Concealed hinges, hidden when the door is closed, provide a sleek and modern appearance, improving the overall look of the room while maintaining smooth and quiet door operation.

Bathrooms are prone to moisture, so choose hardware made from materials like satin stainless steel, brushed stainless steel or brass that is resistant to rust and corrosion.

Bathroom turn & release locks provide a simple and effective way to secure privacy in restrooms. The lock is operated by turning a knob or lever on the inside, while the exterior features a release mechanism for emergency access. These locks are commonly used for their ease of use and quick release in case of emergencies. 

Robe hooks offer a convenient way to hang robes, towels, or clothing, keeping them off the floor and within easy reach. They come in various styles and finishes, making them a practical and decorative addition to any bathroom.

Fire door hinges and locks add an extra layer of safety by providing resistance to heat and flames, which is especially important in the kitchen where fire hazards are a concern.

For pantry doors, lightweight cabinet handles and knobs that are easy to operate are practical. Space-saving options like sliding or bifold doors can maximise kitchen space and functionality.

Smooth, non-porous materials like stainless steel or chrome are ideal for kitchen handles as they are easier to clean and maintain, essential in a space prone to spills and stains.

Simple, sleek handles or knobs in finishes such as satin nickel or matt black offer a modern, uncluttered look that complements contemporary wardrobe designs.

Concealed sliding pocket doors are a great space-saving solution as they slide into the wall, reducing the need for clearance space. Recessed handles are a practical choice for maintaining a streamlined appearance.

For smooth operation, ensure high-quality tracks and rollers for sliding doors. Choosing the right sliding door handles can improve functionality and add a stylish touch to the door's design.

Incorporate silent hinges and weather-sealing strips to reduce noise transmission, creating a quiet and productive workspace, whether it's for a home office, study room or office-based environment. 

Opt for sleek, modern handles in finishes such as satin or polished chrome, matt black, or nickel that enhance the professional look of an office environment.

Smart locks with electronic access control have features like remote access, keypad entry, or fingerprint recognition offer increased security and convenience, which is ideal for home offices.

Sliding door handles improve ease of use, while flush handles create a streamlined look. D-shaped handles offer a more secure grip, making them practical for frequent use.

Multi-point locking systems provide enhanced security by locking at multiple points along the door frame, while keyless and smart locks offer modern security solutions.

Use robust heavy-duty hinges and handles made from steel or reinforced brass to handle the wear and tear typical of garage and utility room doors.

Keyed or smart locks integrated with your home’s security system provide added protection for garage doors, deterring unauthorised access.

Install weather-sealing strips around garage doors to prevent drafts, water leaks, and pest entry, enhancing the energy efficiency and cleanliness of the space.

When selecting door hardware, it's important to consider both functionality and aesthetics. The right door handle materials and finishes can enhance the overall look of your space while providing durability and long-lasting performance.

Brass, nickel, chrome, and matte black each offer distinct looks that can dramatically alter a room’s style. Polished brass provides a classic, elegant appearance, while matt black offers a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Align hardware finishes with your home's overall decor to create a cohesive look— antique brass for traditional or vintage styles and matt black for contemporary or industrial designs.

Opt for finishes like satin or brushed, which are resistant to fingerprints and scratches, making them ideal for areas with high foot traffic.

Proper door hardware maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Choosing your door handle material can affect how you maintain it, as different materials require specific care routines to keep them looking their best and functioning smoothly.

Regularly clean and lubricate hinges with silicone-based lubricants to prevent rusting and ensure smooth operation. Avoid using oil-based lubricants that can attract dust and dirt.

Use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to remove dirt and maintain the shine of handles and knobs. For metal finishes, use a product specifically designed for the type of metal to avoid damage.

Inspect hardware periodically for signs of wear or damage, such as rust, looseness, or difficulty in operation. Replacing worn or outdated hardware ensures continued safety and functionality.

Door hardware significantly impacts both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. You can create a secure, stylish, and practical living environment by carefully selecting handles, locks, hinges, and finishes tailored to each room’s needs. Prioritise durability, ease of use, and design to make informed decisions and enhance your home’s overall appeal.

Visit our showroom for a wide range of products and services to meet your needs. Whether you’re inspired by aesthetic door handles, glass sliding doors, or electronic access-controlled locks, we can help you find the perfect door hardware for your home.

Can't make it in person? Shop our extensive collection of Door Handles, Front Door Fittings, Locks & Latches and Hinges now!

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