Your front door is the first impression visitors have of your home. It sets the tone for what lies beyond and contributes significantly to the overall feel of your property. Choosing the right hardware involves more than just selecting attractive pieces; it requires careful consideration of durability, functionality, and security. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential hardware for your front door and how to make the best choices for your home.
Considerations for Choosing Front Door Hardware
Style and Property Age
When choosing door hardware, it is important to consider the style and age of your property. A sleek, modern front door will have different requirements compared to a classic Victorian or Georgian panelled door. Researching design blogs and using terms such as modern, contemporary, Victorian, or Georgian can help refine your selection. Take your time with this decision, as front door hardware is a long-term investment that you will live with for years.
Environmental Factors
The location of your home plays a significant role in determining suitable hardware materials. If you live in a coastal area, the atmosphere can be highly corrosive, requiring materials that can withstand such conditions.
Unlacquered brass requires occasional polishing but can endure the elements well.
Bronze is an excellent choice as it naturally oxidises over time, developing a "living finish." The untouched areas will darken, while frequently used areas will lighten, creating a unique patina.
Marine-grade stainless steel (316 stainless steel) is an ideal modern option, as it is highly resistant to corrosion, even in direct saltwater exposure.
Essential Front Door Hardware
Door Numbers
Starting from the top, you will likely need a door number. There are numerous fonts, sizes, and finishes to choose from, so select one that aligns with your home's overall aesthetic.
Door Knockers and Doorbells
Door knockers are available in a vast array of styles, from traditional to contemporary, in numerous finishes. Alternatively, a wired or wireless doorbell, including smart video doorbells, provides a modern convenience and added security. Many people now prefer video doorbells with WiFi connectivity, as they act as a deterrent and offer remote monitoring.
Antique Brass Brompton Door Knocker
Polished Chrome Door Bell
Polished Bronze Lion Head Door Knocker
Centre Door Knobs
A centre door knob is a large, fixed door knob positioned in the middle of the door, designed for pulling the door shut rather than turning. This prevents excessive force from being applied to the door knocker, which is not designed to function as a pull handle.
Letter Plates
Given the rise in online shopping, a large letter plate is a practical addition to your front door, accommodating parcels and reducing missed deliveries. There are several types available:
Sprung or gravity-opening letter plates
Horizontal or vertical letter plates
Letter plates with integrated knockers
Letter Plate Tidies
A letter plate tidy covers the unsightly cut-out made for the letter plate on the inside of your door. These are often hinged and match the finish of the letter plate, contributing to a neat interior look while also helping to reduce draughts.
Night Latches
A night latch (also known as a Yale lock) is a surface-mounted lock on the inside of the door, operated by a key from the outside and a knob from the inside. There are two main types:
Deadlocking night latches, which automatically lock when the door is closed, adding extra security.
Non-deadlocking night latches, which require manual locking.
For security reasons, night latches should ideally be paired with an additional locking mechanism, particularly on doors with glass panels, to prevent intruders from reaching inside and unlocking the door.
Door Handles and Knobs
Choosing between a door handle and a door knob will depend on design preferences and practical considerations. The selection can be overwhelming, but it is crucial to maintain a consistent design theme and match finishes closely, as all hardware elements are in close proximity.
Locks: Euro Profile vs. British Standard 5 Lever Lock
Both locks meet UK insurance requirements, but they have distinct differences:
British Standard 5 Lever Locks: A traditional and highly secure option, but the keys are often bulky, and thumb-turn options are limited.
Euro Profile Cylinder Locks: A slimmer and more modern alternative with advanced security features such as anti-pick and anti-snap mechanisms. They also allow for thumb-turn locks, providing a safe and convenient way to unlock the door from inside without a key.
Euro Profile locks can also be configured to operate multiple locks with a single key, or even as a suited system where certain keys provide restricted access to different doors.
Hinges
Front doors are typically heavier than internal doors and require robust hinges. The most common options include:
Traditional washered butt hinges, known for their slim profile and long-term reliability.
Ball race hinges, which contain ball bearings but may leak grease over time, making their long-term durability uncertain.
Most front doors require three or four 4-inch hinges to distribute the weight properly and ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right front door hardware is essential for security, functionality, and aesthetics. Consider the style of your property, environmental factors, and practical requirements before making your final decisions. Investing in high-quality materials ensures durability and creates a welcoming entrance that stands the test of time.
