Choosing the right door handles is crucial for enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Better Home Products offers a wide range of door handles designed to meet diverse needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of door handles available, their features, and how to select the perfect ones for your home. Whether you're renovating, building a new house, or simply looking to upgrade your existing hardware, understanding the options and benefits of different door handles can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your living space.

Types of Door Handles

When selecting door handles, you'll find a variety of types, each designed for specific purposes and aesthetics. Understanding these differences is key to making the right choice for your home. Let's dive into some of the most common types:

Lever Handles

Lever handles are a popular choice due to their ease of use and modern design. These handles feature a lever that you push down to open the door, making them particularly suitable for individuals with limited hand strength or mobility. Lever handles are compliant with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Better Home Products offers lever handles in various styles, from sleek and minimalist designs to more ornate and traditional options. The ergonomic design of lever handles makes them a practical and stylish choice for any home. When selecting lever handles, consider the finish and material to ensure they complement your existing decor. Common finishes include brushed nickel, polished chrome, and oil-rubbed bronze, each offering a unique aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the durability of the handle is crucial, especially in high-traffic areas. Look for handles made from solid materials like stainless steel or brass to ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Lever handles not only enhance the functionality of your doors but also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. The ease of operation and versatile designs make them a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. By choosing the right lever handle, you can significantly improve the accessibility and style of your living space.

Knob Handles

Knob handles are a classic and timeless choice for interior doors. These handles feature a rounded or shaped knob that you turn to open the door. Knob handles come in a variety of styles, from traditional round knobs to more decorative and intricate designs. Knob handles are often chosen for their simplicity and elegance, making them suitable for a wide range of interior design styles. Better Home Products offers knob handles in various finishes, including brass, chrome, and bronze, allowing you to match them to your existing hardware and decor. While knob handles are aesthetically pleasing, they may not be the best option for individuals with limited hand strength or mobility, as they require a twisting motion to operate. When selecting knob handles, consider the size and shape of the knob to ensure a comfortable grip. Larger knobs are generally easier to turn, while smaller knobs may be more suitable for doors with limited space. Additionally, the material and finish of the knob should be durable and resistant to scratches and wear. Knob handles offer a timeless appeal and can add a touch of sophistication to any room. Their simple design and wide range of styles make them a versatile choice for homeowners looking to enhance the aesthetic of their interior doors. By carefully considering the size, shape, and finish of the knob, you can find the perfect knob handle to complement your home's decor.

Passage Handles

Passage handles are designed for interior doors that don't require locking, such as hallway or closet doors. These handles typically feature a simple latch mechanism that allows you to open and close the door without the need for a key or lock. Passage handles are available in both lever and knob styles, offering flexibility in design and functionality. Better Home Products provides a wide selection of passage handles in various finishes and materials to match your existing hardware. Passage handles are an essential component of any home, providing ease of access and privacy where needed. When selecting passage handles, consider the overall style of your home and choose handles that complement your existing decor. Lever handles are a popular choice for passage doors due to their ease of use, while knob handles offer a more traditional aesthetic. The durability of the handle is also an important factor, especially in high-traffic areas. Look for handles made from solid materials like brass or stainless steel to ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Passage handles are a practical and stylish addition to any home, providing seamless functionality and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your interior doors. By carefully considering the style, material, and finish of the handle, you can find the perfect passage handles to meet your needs and complement your home's decor.

Privacy Handles

Privacy handles are designed for interior doors that require locking, such as bathroom or bedroom doors. These handles feature a locking mechanism that allows you to secure the door from the inside, providing privacy and security. Privacy handles are available in both lever and knob styles, offering flexibility in design and functionality. Better Home Products offers a wide range of privacy handles with various locking mechanisms, including push-button locks and twist locks. Privacy handles are an essential component of any home, providing peace of mind and security where needed. When selecting privacy handles, consider the type of locking mechanism that best suits your needs. Push-button locks are easy to operate, while twist locks offer a more traditional feel. The durability of the handle is also an important factor, especially in doors that are frequently used. Look for handles made from solid materials like brass or stainless steel to ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Privacy handles are a practical and stylish addition to any home, providing security and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your interior doors. By carefully considering the style, locking mechanism, material, and finish of the handle, you can find the perfect privacy handles to meet your needs and complement your home's decor.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Door Handles

Selecting the right door handles involves more than just picking a style you like. Several factors should influence your decision to ensure you choose handles that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here’s a detailed look at what to consider:

Style and Design

The style and design of your door handles should complement the overall aesthetic of your home. Consider the architectural style of your house and choose handles that enhance its character. For modern homes, sleek and minimalist lever handles in brushed nickel or chrome finishes may be a good choice. For more traditional homes, ornate knob handles in brass or oil-rubbed bronze finishes can add a touch of elegance. Better Home Products offers a wide range of styles to suit any taste, from contemporary to classic. When selecting a style, think about the other hardware in your home, such as light fixtures and cabinet pulls, and choose handles that coordinate with these elements. The goal is to create a cohesive and harmonious look throughout your home. The design of the handle itself is also important. Consider the shape, size, and texture of the handle to ensure it is comfortable to grip and easy to use. Door handles are a small detail, but they can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your home. By carefully considering the style and design of your handles, you can enhance the beauty and character of your living space. The style of the door handles should not only match the interior design, but also reflect your personal taste and preferences.

Material and Finish

The material and finish of your door handles play a crucial role in their durability and appearance. Common materials include brass, stainless steel, bronze, and zinc. Brass is a classic choice known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel is a more modern option that is also highly durable and easy to clean. Bronze offers a warm and rustic look, while zinc is a more affordable option that can be finished in various colors. The finish of the handle should also be considered. Common finishes include brushed nickel, polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black. Brushed nickel and polished chrome offer a sleek and modern look, while oil-rubbed bronze adds a touch of warmth and character. Matte black is a popular choice for contemporary homes. Better Home Products offers door handles in a variety of materials and finishes to suit any style and budget. When selecting a material and finish, consider the environment in which the handle will be used. For example, handles in bathrooms or kitchens should be made from materials that are resistant to moisture and corrosion. The material and finish of your door handles can significantly impact their longevity and appearance. By choosing high-quality materials and finishes, you can ensure that your handles will look great and function properly for years to come. Consider how the finish of the door handles will coordinate with other metal fixtures in the room, such as light fixtures, faucets, and cabinet hardware.

Functionality and Accessibility

The functionality and accessibility of your door handles are important considerations, especially for individuals with limited mobility or hand strength. Lever handles are generally easier to use than knob handles, as they require less force to operate. Lever handles are also more accessible for individuals with disabilities, as they comply with ADA standards. When selecting handles for your home, consider the needs of all occupants and choose handles that are easy to use for everyone. The size and shape of the handle are also important factors. Larger handles are generally easier to grip, while handles with smooth surfaces are easier to clean. Better Home Products offers door handles in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit any need. The locking mechanism of the handle is also an important consideration, especially for privacy handles. Choose a locking mechanism that is easy to operate and provides adequate security. The functionality and accessibility of your door handles can significantly impact the comfort and convenience of your home. By choosing handles that are easy to use and accessible for everyone, you can create a more inclusive and welcoming living space. The smooth operation of the door handles ensures ease of use, while the ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip.

Budget

The budget is always a crucial factor when making home improvements. Better Home Products offers door handles at various price points to accommodate different budgets. Consider how many handles you need and set a budget accordingly. Keep in mind that higher-quality handles may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring fewer repairs. When setting a budget, consider the material, finish, and style of the handle. Brass and stainless steel handles are generally more expensive than zinc handles, while specialty finishes like oil-rubbed bronze can also increase the price. The style of the handle can also impact the price, with more ornate and decorative handles costing more than simple and minimalist designs. Better Home Products provides options for every budget, ensuring you can find door handles that meet your needs without breaking the bank. It's important to strike a balance between quality and cost to ensure you get the best value for your money. Investing in durable door handles will not only enhance the appearance of your home but also provide long-lasting functionality. Consider purchasing door handles in bulk if you are renovating multiple rooms, as this can often result in cost savings.

Installation Tips

Installing door handles can be a straightforward DIY project, but it's essential to follow the correct steps to ensure a secure and proper fit. Here are some tips to guide you through the installation process:

1. Gather Your Tools: Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a screwdriver, drill, measuring tape, and pencil.
2. Remove the Old Handle: If you're replacing an existing handle, start by removing the old one. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws and carefully detach the handle from the door.
3. Prepare the Door: Check the door for any damage or wear. If necessary, clean the surface and fill any holes with wood filler.
4. Install the Latch: Insert the latch into the door's edge and secure it with screws. Ensure the latch is properly aligned with the strike plate on the door frame.
5. Attach the Handles: Align the new handles with the latch and screw them into place. Make sure the handles are securely fastened and operate smoothly.
6. Test the Handle: After installation, test the handle to ensure it functions properly. Open and close the door several times to check the latch and locking mechanism.

By following these tips, you can easily install door handles and enhance the functionality and appearance of your doors. If you're unsure about any step, consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance.

Conclusion

Choosing the right door handles is an important decision that can significantly impact the look and feel of your home. By considering the various types of handles, materials, finishes, and styles available, you can find the perfect handles to complement your decor and meet your needs. Better Home Products offers a wide selection of door handles to suit any taste and budget, ensuring you can create a stylish and functional living space. Whether you're renovating, building a new home, or simply looking to upgrade your existing hardware, taking the time to select the right door handles can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic and comfort of your home. So, take the plunge and give your doors the upgrade they deserve!