Choosing the right door handles might seem like a small detail, but it can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your home. Better home products door handles not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also provide functionality and security. In this article, we'll explore the various aspects of selecting the perfect door handles, from styles and finishes to installation and maintenance. Whether you're renovating your entire house or simply looking to upgrade a few doors, understanding the options available will help you make informed decisions that reflect your personal style and meet your practical needs.

Why Choose Better Home Products Door Handles?

When it comes to better home products door handles, the advantages are numerous. First and foremost, these handles are designed with durability in mind. Constructed from high-quality materials such as solid brass, stainless steel, and durable alloys, they are built to withstand daily use and resist wear and tear. This longevity translates to fewer replacements and long-term cost savings. Furthermore, better home products door handles often come with enhanced security features, providing peace of mind for you and your family. Many models include robust locking mechanisms and tamper-resistant designs that deter intruders and ensure your home remains safe.

Beyond functionality and security, the aesthetic appeal of better home products door handles is undeniable. Available in a wide range of styles, finishes, and designs, these handles can complement any interior décor. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more traditional, ornate style, you'll find options that perfectly match your taste. The variety of finishes, including polished chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black, allows you to coordinate your door hardware with other fixtures in your home, creating a cohesive and stylish look. Additionally, better home products door handles often feature ergonomic designs that provide a comfortable grip and smooth operation, enhancing the overall user experience. By choosing better home products door handles, you're investing in quality, security, and style, making your home more beautiful and functional.

Types of Door Handles

Navigating the world of door handles can be overwhelming, but understanding the different types available makes the selection process much easier. Let's dive into some of the most common types of door handles you'll encounter:

Lever Handles

Lever handles are a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties due to their ease of use and versatile design. These handles feature a horizontal lever that is pushed down to open the door, making them particularly suitable for individuals with limited mobility or arthritis. Lever handles come in various styles, from sleek and modern designs to more traditional and ornate options, allowing you to find the perfect match for your home's décor. Common materials include stainless steel, brass, and bronze, each offering different levels of durability and aesthetic appeal. Lever handles are also available with different locking mechanisms, including passage, privacy, and keyed entry functions, providing flexibility for various applications throughout your home. Their ergonomic design and ease of operation make lever handles a practical and stylish choice for any door.

Knob Handles

Knob handles are a classic and timeless option that has been used for centuries. These handles feature a rounded or shaped knob that is turned to open the door. Knob handles are available in a wide range of materials, including glass, porcelain, brass, and stainless steel, offering diverse aesthetic options to suit any style. While knob handles may not be as easy to operate as lever handles for some individuals, they remain a popular choice due to their traditional appeal and versatility. Knob handles can be found in various locking functions, including passage, privacy, and keyed entry, making them suitable for different rooms in your home. Their simple yet elegant design makes knob handles a classic choice for adding a touch of sophistication to any door.

Pull Handles

Pull handles are commonly used on doors that don't require a latch, such as closet doors, pantry doors, and some types of exterior doors. These handles are designed to be pulled to open the door and do not typically include a locking mechanism. Pull handles come in a variety of styles and materials, including bar pulls, flush pulls, and recessed pulls, offering different aesthetic and functional options. Bar pulls are long, cylindrical handles that provide a comfortable grip, while flush pulls are designed to sit flush with the door surface for a sleek and minimalist look. Recessed pulls are installed into a cutout in the door, providing a discreet and space-saving option. Pull handles are available in various finishes, including stainless steel, brass, and black, allowing you to coordinate them with other hardware in your home. Their simplicity and versatility make pull handles a practical choice for doors that require easy access without the need for locking.

Choosing the Right Finish

The finish of your door handles plays a crucial role in both the aesthetic appeal and durability of the hardware. Here's a rundown of some popular finishes:

Polished Chrome

Polished chrome is a sleek and modern finish that offers a bright, reflective surface. It is highly resistant to corrosion and tarnishing, making it a durable choice for high-traffic areas. Polished chrome is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional wiping with a soft cloth. Its bright and shiny appearance can complement a variety of interior styles, from contemporary to minimalist. However, polished chrome can show fingerprints and smudges more easily than other finishes, so it may require more frequent cleaning in some households. Overall, polished chrome is a stylish and practical choice for door handles, offering a combination of durability and aesthetic appeal.

Brushed Nickel

Brushed nickel offers a softer, more subtle alternative to polished chrome. This finish features a lightly textured surface that diffuses light, creating a warm and inviting look. Brushed nickel is also highly resistant to corrosion and tarnishing, making it a durable choice for door handles. It is less likely to show fingerprints and smudges than polished chrome, making it a low-maintenance option for busy households. Brushed nickel complements a wide range of interior styles, from traditional to contemporary, and its neutral tone blends seamlessly with other hardware and fixtures. Overall, brushed nickel is a versatile and practical choice for door handles, offering a combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze

Oil-rubbed bronze is a rich, dark finish that adds a touch of warmth and elegance to any home. This finish features a deep brown color with subtle copper undertones, creating a rustic and antique look. Oil-rubbed bronze is a popular choice for traditional and transitional interior styles, and it complements a variety of wood tones and color palettes. While oil-rubbed bronze is generally durable, it can be susceptible to wear and tear over time, especially in high-traffic areas. The finish may lighten or develop a patina with use, which some homeowners find adds to its character. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help preserve the original look of oil-rubbed bronze. Overall, oil-rubbed bronze is a stylish and timeless choice for door handles, offering a combination of aesthetic appeal and durability.

Matte Black

Matte black is a bold and modern finish that adds a touch of drama and sophistication to any space. This finish features a smooth, non-reflective surface that creates a sleek and minimalist look. Matte black is a popular choice for contemporary and industrial interior styles, and it can also add a striking contrast to lighter color palettes. While matte black is generally durable, it can show fingerprints and smudges more easily than other finishes, so it may require more frequent cleaning in some households. However, its bold and stylish appearance makes it a worthwhile choice for homeowners looking to make a statement. Matte black complements a variety of hardware and fixtures, and it can be used to create a cohesive and modern look throughout your home. Overall, matte black is a stylish and contemporary choice for door handles, offering a combination of aesthetic appeal and versatility.

Installation Tips

Installing new door handles can be a straightforward DIY project, but it's essential to follow these tips for a smooth process:

1. Prepare Your Tools: Gather the necessary tools, including a screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), a measuring tape, a pencil, and possibly a drill if new holes are needed.
2. Remove the Old Hardware: Carefully remove the old door handles and any associated hardware. Take note of how the old hardware was installed, as this can be helpful during the installation of the new handles.
3. Measure and Mark: Measure the backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the borehole) and mark the location for the new handles. Ensure the measurements match the specifications of your new door handles.
4. Install the Latch: Insert the latch into the borehole on the edge of the door and secure it with screws. Make sure the latch is oriented correctly for the direction of the door swing.
5. Attach the Handles: Install the new door handles on either side of the door, aligning them with the latch. Secure the handles with screws, ensuring they are snug but not overly tightened.
6. Test the Operation: Test the operation of the new door handles to ensure they function smoothly and the door latches properly. Adjust the handles or latch as needed to ensure proper alignment and function.

Maintenance

To keep your door handles looking their best, regular maintenance is key. Clean them regularly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and fingerprints. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the finish. For finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, consider applying a specialized cleaner or polish to maintain their luster. Tighten any loose screws periodically to ensure the handles remain secure and functional. With proper care and maintenance, your better home products door handles will continue to enhance the beauty and security of your home for years to come.

Conclusion

Upgrading to better home products door handles is a simple yet effective way to enhance the style, security, and functionality of your home. By considering the different types of handles, finishes, and installation tips, you can make informed decisions that reflect your personal taste and meet your practical needs. Whether you're looking to add a touch of elegance with oil-rubbed bronze or create a modern look with matte black, the right door handles can make a significant difference in the overall aesthetic of your home. Remember to prioritize quality and durability to ensure your new door handles provide lasting performance and value. So go ahead, give your doors the upgrade they deserve and enjoy the beauty and functionality of better home products door handles for years to come.