Top 6 Must-Have Door Hardware & Locks
When it comes to securing your home and enhancing its aesthetic appeal, the right door hardware and locks play a crucial role. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing fixtures or are starting from scratch, choosing the best options can make a significant difference. In this post, we’ll explore the top six must-have door hardware and locks that combine style, functionality, and security to elevate your home’s entrance. Let’s dive in!
Schlage Camelot Keypad Entry, Brushed Chrome
The SCHLAGE FE595 CAM 626 ACC Camelot Keypad Entry Lock offers you the ultimate convenience of keyless entry while enhancing your home’s security. With its sleek brushed chrome finish, this lock not only looks stylish but also features customizable options, allowing you to set up to 19 unique user codes. Whether you’re managing a busy household or welcoming guests, you can easily add or remove codes in seconds, ensuring that everyone can come and go without the hassle of physical keys.
Designed for ease of use, the Flex-Lock feature lets you toggle between automatic re-locking and unlocked modes, providing flexibility tailored to your lifestyle. Installation is a breeze—just grab a screwdriver and you’re set in under 30 minutes! With a robust battery life and durable construction, this keypad lock is built to withstand the elements while offering you peace of mind, knowing your home is secure and accessible at all times.
Kwikset Casey Matte Black Door Handle
The Kwikset Casey Interior Privacy Door Handle is the perfect blend of style and security for your home. With its sleek matte black finish and contemporary design, this door lever not only enhances the aesthetics of your bedrooms and bathrooms but also ensures your privacy with a simple thumb turn lock mechanism. Plus, the Microban protection keeps it cleaner and more sanitary, making it an ideal choice for any living space.
Installation is a breeze with this reversible handle, fitting standard doors with ease and requiring just a screwdriver. Customers love its solid feel and smooth operation, praising how it elevates the overall look of their interiors. Whether you’re upgrading all your door handles or just replacing a single one, the Kwikset Casey lever offers trusted durability and style, backed by a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Kwikset Tylo Satin Nickel Entry Set
The Kwikset 96900-381 690T 15 SMT BBPKG Satin Nickel Tylo Entry Combo Set combines classic elegance with modern security features. Its timeless Tylo design pairs beautifully with the sleek satin nickel finish, making it a perfect addition to any exterior door. With both a keyed entry and a deadbolt, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is secure while enhancing its overall aesthetic.
Installation is a breeze, thanks to the adjustable latch that fits standard door preparations and the included SmartKey re-key technology, allowing you to rekey the lock in just three simple steps. This combo set is versatile for both right- and left-handed doors, making it a practical choice for any homeowner. Plus, with features like Microban Antimicrobial Protection and a stainless steel locking bar, this lock not only looks great but also provides added security against tampering.
Keyed Entry Door Knob Set
The CML Hardware Keyed Entry Door Knob Set offers a perfect blend of security and style for your home. Featuring a solid stainless steel finish and a 5-pin anti-bump lock cylinder, this durable knob set provides peace of mind with its reliable locking mechanism. Plus, with three keys included, you can easily share access with family members or trusted friends.
Installation is a breeze, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned DIYers and those new to home improvement. The adjustable latch accommodates a range of door sizes, and the round ball handle design ensures ease of use for everyone, especially seniors or those with arthritis. With an impressive ANSI Grade 3 certification, you can trust that this knob set will stand the test of time!
BESTTEN Keyed Entry Door Knob – Satin Nickel
The BESTTEN Keyed Entry Door Knob is a perfect blend of style and functionality, featuring a sleek satin nickel finish that complements any door. Designed for easy installation, you can have it set up in just minutes, and it conveniently includes three keys for your peace of mind. With an adjustable latch and sturdy all-metal construction, it fits a variety of door thicknesses and backsets, ensuring a secure fit for your home.
While some users noted the lock’s alignment can be slightly off, many appreciate its overall quality and ease of use. The solid feel and aesthetic appeal make it a great choice for both interior and exterior doors, adding a touch of elegance without breaking the bank. Whether you need it for a garage entry or a backyard door, this door knob is a reliable option that delivers great value for its price.
Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock
The Sifely Digital Electronic Lock is your ideal solution for securing entryways with style and convenience. Designed for homeowners and rental hosts alike, this keyless-entry fingerprint smart door lock offers six different unlocking methods: fingerprint, passcode, wireless key fob, card, smartphone, and traditional key. The advanced 3D fingerprint technology allows you to unlock your door in under 0.3 seconds, making access quick and efficient, whether you’re coming home or welcoming guests.
Installation is a breeze with just a Phillips screwdriver—no drilling or locksmith required! With a sleek silver finish, this smart lock not only enhances your home’s security but also elevates its aesthetic appeal. It offers up to a year of battery life and the option for remote management through the Sifely app and WiFi Gateway, allowing you to generate codes and monitor access logs easily. Say goodbye to fumbling for keys and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with modern security!
Explore Your Options
Essential Information on Door Hardware and Lock Solutions
There are several common signs that may indicate it’s time to replace a lock:
- Difficulty Turning: If you find it increasingly hard to turn the key or the lock feels stiff, it could be a sign of wear or internal damage.
- Rust or Corrosion: Visible rust or corrosion on the lock can compromise its functionality and security.
- Loose or Wobbly: If the lock feels loose or wobbly in its housing, it may not function properly and could be at risk of breaking.
- Key Won’t Insert or Turn: If your key struggles to go in or won’t turn at all, this can indicate that the lock is damaged or malfunctioning.
- Lock Misalignment: If the lock doesn’t align properly with the door frame, it may cause issues with securing your door.
- Frequent Jamming: If the lock frequently jams, it may be time to consider a replacement rather than just a repair.
- Old Age: If the lock is old and has been in use for many years, it may be less secure and could benefit from being replaced.
- Previous Break-in Attempts: If your lock has been tampered with or you’ve experienced a break-in, replacing the lock can provide peace of mind.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to assess the situation and consider replacing your lock to ensure your security.
When it comes to door hardware, durability is key, and several materials are commonly used to ensure longevity and strength. Here are some of the most popular choices:
- Stainless Steel: Known for its resistance to rust and corrosion, stainless steel is a top choice for door hardware, especially in outdoor or high-moisture environments.
- Brass: Brass is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers excellent durability. It resists tarnishing and corrosion, making it a great option for various types of hardware.
- Aluminum: Lightweight yet strong, aluminum is often used in door frames and hardware. It’s resistant to corrosion and can be finished in various ways for added protection.
- Zinc Alloy: This material is often used for door knobs and locks due to its strength and resistance to wear. It’s also cost-effective and can be molded into various shapes.
- Bronze: Bronze is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, making it a great choice for external applications. It also develops a beautiful patina over time.
- Plastic Composites: Some modern door hardware uses high-quality plastic composites that are designed to withstand the elements and resist wear.
Choosing the right material can significantly impact the performance and lifespan of your door hardware, so keep these options in mind!
When selecting door hardware for exterior versus interior doors, there are several key factors to consider:
- Material and Durability: Exterior door hardware should be made from materials that can withstand weather elements, such as stainless steel or brass. These materials resist rust and corrosion. In contrast, interior door hardware can be made from a wider variety of materials, including less durable options since it won’t face the same environmental challenges.
- Security: For exterior doors, security is a top priority. Look for deadbolts and high-security locks that provide enhanced protection against break-ins. Interior doors typically don’t require the same level of security, so standard knobs or privacy locks are often sufficient.
- Functionality: Consider the function of the door. Exterior doors often need hardware that provides both security and ease of access, like a keypad or smart lock. Interior doors may require different types of hardware based on use, such as privacy locks for bathrooms or passage knobs for general rooms.
- Aesthetics: The style of the hardware should match the overall design of your home. Exterior hardware often features more decorative elements that complement the home’s curb appeal, while interior hardware can be more varied and personalized to your taste.
- Weather Resistance: For exterior doors, choose hardware that is weather-resistant or specifically designed for outdoor use, as it will be exposed to rain, snow, and sun. Interior hardware does not need to be weather-resistant.
- Installation and Maintenance: Consider how easy the hardware is to install and maintain. Exterior hardware may require more complex installation and regular maintenance checks to ensure it functions properly over time.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that you choose the right door hardware for both your exterior and interior doors, enhancing functionality, security, and aesthetics.
I’d love to recommend the August Smart Lock! It’s super easy to install and works great with my smartphone. Maybe it could make your list next time?
Great suggestion! August Smart Lock is definitely a popular choice among smart lock users. I’ll consider adding it to future roundups!
Has anyone tried mixing and matching these hardware options? I’m thinking of doing a modern twist with the classic look of the Kwikset Tylo!
Mixing and matching can create a unique look! Combining modern and classic styles can make your home stand out. Definitely give it a try!
Could you dive a bit deeper into the security features of the Schlage Camelot Keypad Entry? I’ve been looking for something reliable for my front door.
Absolutely! The Schlage Camelot features an impressive security rating and allows you to set multiple codes for different users, which is great for family and friends. It also has a built-in alarm for added security!
I’ve had the Kwikset Casey Matte Black Door Handle for over a year now, and it looks just as good as the day I installed it! It’s super easy to grip too. Anyone else had a similar experience?
Awesome to hear! The Kwikset Casey is designed for both aesthetics and functionality, so it’s great to know that it holds up well over time!
Could you recommend a good door hardware set for a budget-friendly option? I’m trying to keep costs down but still want something decent!
Sure thing! The BESTTEN Keyed Entry Door Knob in Satin Nickel is a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. It’s both stylish and functional!
I personally love the Kwikset Tylo Satin Nickel Entry Set! It looks sleek and modern on my front door. Plus, it’s pretty sturdy. Definitely recommend it!
Thanks for sharing your experience! The Kwikset Tylo does have a beautiful finish and is known for its durability, making it a favorite for many homeowners.
Tip for everyone: when installing locks, make sure to follow the instructions carefully! I rushed mine once, and it took forever to fix. Also, don’t forget to change the default code on smart locks!
Thanks for the tip! It’s crucial to read the instructions and customize settings for security, especially with smart locks.
Thanks for your comment! I haven’t personally tried the Sifely lock, but I’ve heard great things about it. It’s definitely a popular choice for smart home enthusiasts!
Thanks for the roundup! I totally agree that the Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock is a game changer! It’s so convenient not having to fumble for keys anymore. Have you tried any smart locks yourself?