A Comprehensive Guide To The Different Types Of Door Hardware

by Milcasa Store September 3, 2024

When it comes to enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of your home, understanding the various types of door hardware is crucial. From exterior doors to interior doors, the right hardware can make a significant difference in both security and style. This guide will explore the diverse types of door hardware available, while also touching on other popular choices.

Types Of Door Hardware: An Overview

Door hardware encompasses a wide array of components designed for interior and exterior doors. These include door knobs, levers, deadbolts, and more. Each type of door hardware serves a specific purpose and comes in various styles to suit different preferences and needs.

Door Knobs & Levers

Door knobs and levers are among the most common types of door hardware. They're essential for operating doors and come in numerous designs.

Traditional Door Knobs: These round handles are a classic choice for many homes. At Milcasa we offer a variety of door knobs made of brass or steel that add a touch of simplicity and elegance to any interior.

Door Levers: Lever handles are increasingly popular due to their ease of use. They're especially beneficial for those with limited hand mobility.
Dummy Sets: These non-functioning knobs or levers are used for aesthetic purposes on doors that don't require latching.

Deadbolts

Deadbolts provide added security for exterior doors and some interior doors. There are two main types:

Single Cylinder Deadbolt: This type has a keyed cylinder on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside.
Double Cylinder Deadbolt: These have keyed cylinders on both sides, offering enhanced security but requiring a key to exit.

Entry Sets

Entry sets combine a handle or knob with a deadbolt for a complete door hardware solution. They're ideal for front doors and other exterior doors.

Handlesets: These feature a grip handle on the outside and often include a matching interior knob or lever.
Keyless Entry Sets: These are modern options that use keypads or smart technology for access.

Privacy & Passage Hardware

These types of door hardware are commonly used for interior doors:

Privacy Locks: Used for bathrooms and bedrooms, they feature a push button or turn button lock on the inside.
Passage Hardware: Non-locking options ideal for closet doors, hallways, and other areas where privacy isn't needed.

Specialty Hardware

“Specialty hardware" refers to unique and specialized components designed for specific types of doors and applications. Unlike standard door knobs or levers, specialty hardware caters to the unique needs of doors like pocket doors, French doors, and barn doors. These specialized components not only enhance the functionality of these doors but also add a distinctive touch to your home's decor.

Pocket Door Hardware

Pocket doors are a fantastic space-saving solution, especially in areas where swinging doors might be impractical.

These doors slide into the wall cavity when open, making them virtually invisible and freeing up valuable floor space.

Key components of pocket door hardware included:

Edge Pulls: These are small handles that allow you to pull the door out of its pocket. They are often flush with the door surface to maintain a sleek look.
Locking Mechanisms: For privacy, especially in bathrooms or bedrooms, you can install a pocket door lock. These locks are designed to be operated from both sides of the door.
Guides and Rollers: These components ensure that the door slides smoothly in and out of the wall cavity.

French Door Hardware

French doors are elegant and often used for double door entries to patios, balconies, or interior spaces like dining rooms. They consist of two doors that open from the center, creating a wide and inviting entryway.

Key components include:

Flush Bolts: These are installed on the inactive door to keep it securely closed when not in use. They can be surface mounted or mortised into the door edge.
Multi-Point Locking Systems: For added security, especially on exterior French doors, multi-point locks engage at multiple points along the door frame.
Handles & Levers: French doors often feature decorative handles or lever handles that complement the overall aesthetic of the home.

Barn Door Hardware

Barn doors have become increasingly popular in both modern and rustic home designs. These doors slide along a track mounted above the doorway, adding a unique and stylish element to any room.

Key components of barn door hardware include:

Track Systems: The track is the most critical component, as it supports the door and allows it to slide smoothly. Tracks come in various lengths and finishes to match your decor.
Rollers: These attach to the door and glide along the track. High-quality rollers ensure a quiet and effortless operation.
Door Guides: Installed at the floor level, door guides keep the barn door from swinging out and ensure it slides straight.
Handles & Pulls: Barn doors often feature large, decorative handles or pulls that make a statement and are easy to grip.

Why Choose Specialty Hardware?

Specialty hardware is designed to meet the specific needs of unique door types, ensuring smooth operation and enhanced usability. These components often come in various styles and finishes, allowing you to match them with your home's decor and create a cohesive look.

Pocket and barn doors are also excellent solutions for maximizing space, making them ideal for smaller rooms or areas with limited floor space. Additionally, specialty hardware like flush bolts and multi-point locks provide additional security and privacy, especially for French doors and pocket doors.

Picking The Right Door Hardware

When selecting types of door hardware, consider the following factors:

Door Type: Ensure the hardware is compatible with your door thickness and style.
Function: Determine whether you need locking, non-locking, or dummy hardware.
Style: Choose hardware that complements your home's decor. Milcasa Store offers a range of finishes and designs to match various aesthetics.
Security Needs: For exterior doors, opt for high-security options like double cylinder deadbolts or smart locks.
Accessibility: Consider lever handles for easier operation, especially for those with mobility issues.

Installation Considerations

Proper installation is crucial for the functionality and longevity of your door hardware. Key points to remember are:

Door Preparation: Ensure your door is pre-drilled correctly for the chosen hardware.
Door Handedness: Determine whether your door is left-handed or right-handed to order the correct hardware.
Door Thickness: Standard doors are typically 1-3/4" thick, but always measure to ensure compatibility.
Backset: This is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole. Common backsets are 2-3/8" or 2-3/4".

Maintaining Your Door Hardware

To keep your door hardware functioning smoothly:

Clean Regularly: Wipe down hardware with a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime.
Lubricate: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to moving parts annually.
Tighten: Periodically check and tighten any loose screws.
Care For Finish: Use appropriate cleaners to maintain the hardware's finish.

Smart Door Hardware

As technology advances, smart door hardware is becoming increasingly popular. These systems offer:

Keyless Entry: Access your home using a code, smartphone, or biometrics.
Remote Access: Lock or unlock your door from anywhere using a mobile app.
Integration: Many smart locks can be integrated with home automation systems.
Temporary Access: Easily grant access to guests or service providers without physical keys.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the various types of door hardware is essential for making informed decisions about your home's security and style. Whether you're updating your front door, replacing hardware on interior doors, or outfitting a new construction, there's a wide range of options to suit your needs.

Milcasa Store offers an extensive selection of modern door hardware, ensuring you'll find the perfect fit for your home. All products are made in Italy, following rigorous quality production guidelines.

Remember, the right door hardware not only enhances the functionality of your doors but also contributes to the overall aesthetic of your living space. Take the time to explore different options, consider your specific needs, and choose hardware that aligns with your home's style and security requirements. With the right types of door hardware, you can elevate both the form and function of every door in your home.

FAQs

How do I choose the right door hardware finishes for my home?

When selecting door hardware finishes, consider the overall style of your home and existing fixtures. Popular options include brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and polished brass. For a cohesive look, match your entry door hardware with other exterior elements like light fixtures. Interior door hardware can either match or complement your room decor.

Remember that different brands may have slight variations in finish, so try to stick with one manufacturer for consistency. For double door entry, ensure the finishes match on both doors.

What's the difference between a mortise lock and a surface-mounted lock?

A mortise lock is installed inside the door, requiring a pocket to be cut into the door's edge. It offers enhanced security and is often used in commercial settings or high-end residential doors.

Surface-mounted locks, on the other hand, are attached to the door's surface and are easier to install. While they may not be as secure as mortise locks, they're suitable for most doors in residential applications and are easier to replace or upgrade. Mortise locks include a lock body and can be used with a keyed lock or lever handle.

How do I secure French doors or double door entries?

For French doors or double door entries, use a combination of locking mechanisms. Install a keyed lock or lever handle on the active door and surface bolts (top and bottom) on the inactive door.

For added security, consider using a mortise lock with a multi-point locking system. Ensure the door frame is sturdy and properly aligned to prevent forced entry. Use flush bolts for the inactive side of the door to keep it securely closed.

What types of door hardware are best for basement doors?

For basement doors, prioritize security and moisture resistance. Use a keyed entry lock or lever handle with a single cylinder deadbolt for exterior access. If the basement is prone to humidity, choose hardware with corrosion-resistant finishes like stainless steel or brass. For interior basement doors, passage or privacy locks are suitable, depending on the room's function. Ensure the door frame is strong and that the door swings correctly for easy access.

How do I ensure my home is secure during a power outage if I have electronic locks?

To maintain home security during a power outage, have a backup plan for electronic locks. Many smart locks have a manual key override, so keep a physical key accessible. For doors without key access, consider installing a separate keyed single cylinder deadbolt.

Additionally, ensure all household members know how to manually lock and unlock doors in case of emergency. Use a pin hole or small hole on the inside portion of the lock for manual override if available.

What's the best way to handle door swings for pocket doors?

Pocket doors slide into the wall, so traditional door swings don't apply. However, when choosing hardware for pocket doors, consider the direction the door slides (left or right) and ensure the handle or pull is on the correct side.

For privacy, use a locking edge pull that can be operated from both sides of the door. Remember that the small hole for the locking mechanism should be easily accessible when the door is both open and closed. Use a ball catch mechanism for smooth operation.

How do I choose between a knob and a lever handle for most interior doors?

When deciding between knobs and lever handles for most interior doors, consider both functionality and aesthetics. Lever handles are generally easier to operate, especially for those with limited hand mobility, as they require a simple pushing motion rather than a twisting motion.

Knobs, however, can offer a more traditional look. For consistency, try to use the same style throughout most interior doors, but feel free to use statement pieces for main areas like the master bedroom or home office. For double dummy sets on closet doors or other doors that don't require a latch, choose dummy hardware that matches the rest of your home. Ensure the correct key is used for keyed locks and that the locking mechanisms function properly.