Comprehensive Buying Guide on Door Handles

When it comes to interior design, the often-overlooked element of door handles or knobs can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your home. Not only do door handles serve a functional purpose, providing access and security, but they also contribute to the seamless integration of your interior design. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of door handles, materials, top brands, and essential tips to help you choose the perfect door handles for your home.

Types of Door Handles

Here we have mentioned the types of door handles:

• Lever Handle: Lever on the Backplate: Commonly used in homes and commercial spaces, offering variations like curved, square, or custom-shaped backplates.

• Lever Rose Handle: Features a circular or square rose, providing a smooth finish and operating a latch for opening and closing.

• Privacy Lever: Specifically designed for bathrooms and bedrooms, equipped with a thumb-turn mechanism for added privacy and security.

• Pull Handle: Ideal where latches are not required, commonly found in offices and in the form of D Pull or flush pull handles for sliding doors.

• Knob: Spherical handles that can be turned clockwise or anticlockwise are available in various styles such as antique cast iron, polished chrome, and stainless steel.

Importance of Door Handles

More than just latches to open doors handles play an integral yet subtle role in interior spaces. Well-chosen door handles blend functionality with aesthetics, complementing the design scheme of a room. Handles see frequent physical contact, so durability in high-traffic areas is key. Their shapes and finishes introduce textures, colors, and ergonomics into décor. Handles often indicate room purpose via privacy locks or pull shapes on closets.

They impact first impressions upon entrance through bold front door hardware. Handles also offer convenient accessibility for children and the elderly. Investing in quality door handles ensures performance, and safety and contributes significantly to the overall ambiance of living spaces through their tactile, visual, and functional characteristics. Choosing ideal handles deserves care and consideration.

Materials Used While Making Door Handle

Common materials in while making door handles include:

• Stainless Steel: Durable and strong, suitable for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial spaces.

• Cast Iron: Antique designs, perfect for heritage buildings, providing a classic and timeless look.

• Glass: Brightly colored glass or crystal-like handles for aesthetic appeal, often used in knob varieties.

• Porcelain: Comes in a plethora of colors and finishes, ideal for interior applications, contributing to a stylish and vibrant look.

• Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective, making it suitable for various designs and budgets.

Top Brands Selling Door Handles

Here we have listed out the top brands selling door handles:

• Godrej

• Fast Hardware

• Atom Locks

• Kakal Brothers

• Sifon

• Tunes Interior

Factors Impacting the Cost of Door Handles

The cost of door handles depends majorly on the materials used, manufacturing quality, coatings, design complexity, features, and installation needs. Unusual metals like solid brass or semi-precious stones raise costs over common steel or zinc alloys. Reputed brands producing premium quality handles with smooth finishes command higher pricing.

Special coatings like antique brass or polished chrome are more expensive to apply. Custom shapes, carvings, inlay work, and smart technology features like touch locks also increase pricing. The overall cost increases if full locksets are included alongside handles and professional installation services are utilized. Knowing these factors will help set realistic budget expectations when shopping.

Tips to Choose the Perfect Door Handle

Here we have mentioned some of the tips for choosing the perfect door handle:

• Consider Overall Design: Ensure that the style of the door handle complements the overall design of the room and appears in the right place.

• Consistency in Design: Decide whether you want a consistent design throughout the house or different designs for various rooms.

• Colors and Finishes: Take into consideration the colors and finishes of the handles to create a cohesive and harmonious look.

• Locking Mechanism: Choose a door handle with a good locking system, such as a mortise handle door lock for enhanced security.

• Personal Preference: Select the type of door handle – lever, door knob, or pull – based on your personal preference and comfort.

• Budget Considerations: Avoid purchasing cheap handles for frequently used doors; invest in quality to ensure durability.

Installation Guide for DIY Door Handles 

If you want to install your new door handles yourself, follow this straightforward process:

• Carefully measure your existing handle holes and spindles to match the new handles. 

• Purchase all necessary mounting hardware ahead of time.

• Remove old door handle set and thoroughly clean the mounting holes.

• Position the new exterior handle and screw it into place.

• Slide spindle through the door and attach the interior handle. 

• Test handle movement and locking function before final tightening.

• Use filler if the old handleholes don’t align perfectly with the new set. 

• Take care not to overtighten screws to prevent cracking the handle or door.

Proper measuring and hole alignment are key for a smooth do-it-yourself installation.

Maintenance Tips for Door Handles

Properly caring for your door handles ensures their long-lasting function and visual appeal. Here are some key maintenance tips:  

• Clean handles regularly with a soft cloth and mild cleaner to prevent buildup and corrosion. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

• Periodically check for loose screws or damage and tighten or replace as needed.  

• Apply a protective coating like wax to keep metal surfaces looking shiny and new. 

• Ensure locking mechanisms are properly aligned and lubricated with graphite powder if sticks or drags.

• Consider protective plates for handles on frequently used doors to prevent scratches.

• When handles become loose or damaged beyond repair, replace them promptly.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect door handle involves thoughtful consideration of design, materials, functionality, and budget. With a myriad of options available in the market, from traditional to modern designs, you have the flexibility to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home while ensuring optimal functionality and security. By following the tips provided and exploring reputable brands, you can make an informed decision that elevates the overall look and feel of your living spaces. Invest in quality door handles to create a lasting impression and add a touch of sophistication to your home.

FAQs

Q-1. Should I get matching interior and exterior handles?

A-1. Yes, choosing matching handles creates a cohesive look. Mixing handle finishes and styles appears disjointed. Go for uniformity unless consciously looking for an eclectic style.

Q-2. Is it necessary to buy the more expensive branded door handles?

A-2. More expensive designer and branded handles usually offer better build quality, durable finishes, and smooth performance justifying their higher cost over generic unbranded varieties.

Q-3. What handle and lock type is best for a high-traffic main entrance door?

A-3. For frequently used external doors, opt for sturdy stainless steel handles coupled with mortise or cylindrical locksets that have protective coatings.