Choosing Your Door Jewelry: A Guide to Exterior Door Hardware

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You’ve taken your measurements. You’ve visited the Franklin Window and Door showroom for design consultations. You’ve selected your door. Ah… what a feeling of accomplishment. Your project is well under way! But wait… don’t forget the door hardware. Most people consider this an afterthought, but your “door jewelry” is important when it comes to the form and function of your exterior door.

The job of door hardware is simple: it allows you to open, close, and lock your doors. Simple, but essential! Beyond the practicality, though, it also empowers you to make a visual impact. If you have a lovely modern home, for example, hardware like the contemporary example pictured above, is a perfect complement.

You also have the opportunity to personalize your door, putting your own unique stamp on your home. It may be a relatively small detail, but it’s the many little details that come together to enhance aesthetics, performance, comfort, and convenience.

To choose the right door hardware, take a little time to get to know your options:

● Grip Entrance Sets. These sets feature a back plate with deadbolt and grip entrance on the exterior side. On the interior side, there is a back plate with a knob, lever, or thumb turn.
● Multi-point locking hardware. This hardware locks in different locations on the door (usually center, top, and close to the bottom) to add security. If you have a tall door (i.e. over 8 feet), multi-point locking hardware also prevents warping.
● Smart locks. If you don’t want to carry a key or want to provide access to trusted people (e.g. a neighbor who’s going to pop in and water your plants), smart locks are a great option. You can use biometrics, codes, or security tokens, as well as integrate the lock with your alarm system.
● Metals and finishes. As with regular jewelry, door jewelry comes in a variety of metals. Most common are brass, bronze, stainless steel, and wrought iron. There is also an array of finishes. With brass, for example, popular options are oil rubbed, bright, antique, and satin nickel.
● Appearance. From Victorian and Tuscan style to contemporary and historical, you can find the right fit for your exterior door and your home.

You also need to think about your door hinges. For exterior doors, there are several styles available:

● Butt hinge. These are very common and practical as they bear a lot of weight. They have two identical leaves, one attached to the moving component of the door and the other attached to the fixed area. They’re connected by a curled barrel.
● Flush hinge. These are minimal in style as one leaf fits into the other when your door is closed.
● Ball bearing hinge. Here, a ball bearing is positioned between two knuckles (the middle component where the leaves meet). This reduces friction and wear, making them ideal for heavier and wider doors.
● Case hinge. These are similar to a butt hinge but offer more decorative designs.
● Strap hinge. Strap hinges have a short knuckle with a long leaf. This adds strength and support to your entry door.
● Pivot hinge. If you have a tall door, these are a great option. They help keep the doors aligned.
● Heavy duty hinge. Available in any style, heavy duty hinges are rugged and made for heavy doors and/or those that are heavily used.

Don’t let this important detail slip through the cracks when you’re planning your exterior door project! Visit the Franklin Window & Door showroom and explore your options; we’re happy to help you select the best door hardware for your home by providing clear education and a hassle-free experience.