Exterior Door Handles - Your Home's First Impression
Your home's exterior door handles are not only functional but also make a significant impact on its overall look and feel. They are the first thing that visitors see when they approach your home, and they can make or break the first impression. Therefore, it's essential to choose the right exterior door handles that match your home's style and provide the necessary security. In this article, we'll discuss different types of exterior door handles, materials, and finishes, and how to choose the best one for your home.
Lever Handles: Lever handles are the most common type of exterior door handles. They are easy to operate, even for people with mobility issues. Lever handles come in various designs and finishes, such as chrome, brass, bronze, and stainless steel.
Knob Handles: Knob handles are another popular type of exterior door handles. They are available in different shapes and sizes, from classic round knobs to modern square ones. However, knob handles can be challenging to operate for people with arthritis or weak grip.
Handle Sets: Handle sets are a combination of a lever or knob handle and a deadbolt. They provide both security and style and are ideal for front doors.
Smart Lock Handles: Smart lock handles are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their convenience and advanced security features. They allow you to lock and unlock your door using your smartphone, voice commands, or a key fob.
Brass: Brass is a durable and elegant material that's perfect for exterior door handles. It's resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use. Brass handles are available in various finishes, such as polished, brushed, and antique.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular material for exterior door handles due to its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. It's also easy to maintain and comes in different finishes, such as satin, polished, and brushed.
Bronze: Bronze is a classic material that's been used for exterior door handles for centuries. It's strong, durable, and has a warm, rustic look. Bronze handles come in various finishes, such as oil-rubbed, polished, and antique.
Chrome: Chrome is a sleek and modern material that's perfect for contemporary homes. It's highly reflective and comes in different finishes, such as polished, brushed, and matte.
Style: Your exterior door handles should match your home's architectural style. For instance, if you have a traditional home, go for brass or bronze handles. If you have a modern home, chrome or stainless steel handles are ideal.
Functionality: Consider how you want your door handles to function. For instance, if you have a front door, a handle set with a deadbolt provides both security and style. If you have a back door, a lever handle with a smart lock may be more convenient.
Durability: Choose door handles made of durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and daily use. Stainless steel and brass are excellent choices for their strength and resistance to rust and corrosion.
Budget: Door handles come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end designer handles. Set a budget and choose handles that provide both style and functionality within your budget.
Finish: The finish of your door handles can affect the overall look of your home's exterior. Choose a finish that complements your home's color and style. For instance, if you have a white house, black or brass handles can provide a striking contrast.
Yes, replacing exterior door handles is a DIY task that you can do with the right tools and knowledge. However, if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional.
How often should I replace my exterior door handles?
Exterior door handles can last for many years with proper maintenance. However, if your handles are damaged, rusty, or difficult to operate, it's time to replace them.
Can I mix and match different types of exterior door handles?
It's best to stick with one type of exterior door handles for a cohesive look. Mixing and matching different types can create a disjointed look.
Do different finishes affect the durability of exterior door handles?
No, the finish of exterior door handles doesn't affect their durability. However, some finishes may require more maintenance than others.
Types of Exterior Door Handles
Exterior door handles come in different types, each with its unique design and functionality. Let's have a look at some of the popular types of exterior door handles.Lever Handles: Lever handles are the most common type of exterior door handles. They are easy to operate, even for people with mobility issues. Lever handles come in various designs and finishes, such as chrome, brass, bronze, and stainless steel.
Knob Handles: Knob handles are another popular type of exterior door handles. They are available in different shapes and sizes, from classic round knobs to modern square ones. However, knob handles can be challenging to operate for people with arthritis or weak grip.
Handle Sets: Handle sets are a combination of a lever or knob handle and a deadbolt. They provide both security and style and are ideal for front doors.
Smart Lock Handles: Smart lock handles are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their convenience and advanced security features. They allow you to lock and unlock your door using your smartphone, voice commands, or a key fob.
Materials and Finishes
Exterior door handles are available in different materials and finishes, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the popular materials and finishes for exterior door handles.Brass: Brass is a durable and elegant material that's perfect for exterior door handles. It's resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use. Brass handles are available in various finishes, such as polished, brushed, and antique.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular material for exterior door handles due to its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. It's also easy to maintain and comes in different finishes, such as satin, polished, and brushed.
Bronze: Bronze is a classic material that's been used for exterior door handles for centuries. It's strong, durable, and has a warm, rustic look. Bronze handles come in various finishes, such as oil-rubbed, polished, and antique.
Chrome: Chrome is a sleek and modern material that's perfect for contemporary homes. It's highly reflective and comes in different finishes, such as polished, brushed, and matte.
How to Choose the Right Exterior Door Handles
Choosing the right exterior door handles can be overwhelming, given the different types, materials, and finishes available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best exterior door handles for your home.Style: Your exterior door handles should match your home's architectural style. For instance, if you have a traditional home, go for brass or bronze handles. If you have a modern home, chrome or stainless steel handles are ideal.
Functionality: Consider how you want your door handles to function. For instance, if you have a front door, a handle set with a deadbolt provides both security and style. If you have a back door, a lever handle with a smart lock may be more convenient.
Durability: Choose door handles made of durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and daily use. Stainless steel and brass are excellent choices for their strength and resistance to rust and corrosion.
Budget: Door handles come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end designer handles. Set a budget and choose handles that provide both style and functionality within your budget.
Finish: The finish of your door handles can affect the overall look of your home's exterior. Choose a finish that complements your home's color and style. For instance, if you have a white house, black or brass handles can provide a striking contrast.
FAQs
Can I replace my exterior door handles myself?Yes, replacing exterior door handles is a DIY task that you can do with the right tools and knowledge. However, if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional.
How often should I replace my exterior door handles?
Exterior door handles can last for many years with proper maintenance. However, if your handles are damaged, rusty, or difficult to operate, it's time to replace them.
Can I mix and match different types of exterior door handles?
It's best to stick with one type of exterior door handles for a cohesive look. Mixing and matching different types can create a disjointed look.
Do different finishes affect the durability of exterior door handles?
No, the finish of exterior door handles doesn't affect their durability. However, some finishes may require more maintenance than others.