Knobs & Levers: Choosing the Right Option for Every Door

Door handles are one of the most overlooked but important pieces of hardware in a home. They provide security and access to entry doors, bedroom doors, and spaces throughout the home. Selecting the right door handles for your space is all about understanding the differences and looking for features that suit the needs of the door.

Knob Vs. Lever

Door handles can be broken down into two main designs: knob and lever.

Knobs are round in shape and require the whole hand to grip and turn. Door knobs are more traditional in design but can be more difficult for children and anyone with arthritis to open.
A lever is a bar-style handle that can be pushed down to open. Levers are easy to use, but on the flip side, they can also be easy for large pets and children to open.

Consider the household needs, and the way you use both options, when deciding which one is the best choice for your space.

Function

Privacy: Privacy door knobs lock from the inside only. They are a popular choice for use on bedroom and bathroom doors where privacy is a concern.

Passage: Passage knobs do not offer a locking mechanism and are ideal for rooms where privacy is not an option, such as laundry rooms and closet doors.

Keyed Entry: Keyed entry knobs are intended for entry doors to the home. They should be installed on front doors, back doors, and doors that lead to the garage.

Dummy: Dummy door knobs provide the look of the rest of the knobs in the collection but they do not actually turn. Dummy knobs simply pull or push to open a door. It can be a good choice for a pantry door or other door where easy access is needed.

Keyless Entry: It is easy for everyone in the home to access the front door when a keyless entry knob is added. This door knob uses a keypad, wifi, or bluetooth app to lock and unlock the door. It makes a great option for busy, tech savvy families.

Combination Packs: Combination packs feature a door knob and a deadbolt lock, providing two layers of protection to entry doors throughout the home.

Style

The knobs in a home should reflect the overall style of a space. Choose a collection that is rustic and industrial, sleek and contemporary, or classically sophisticated. Once you've landed on a style that works, make sure that all the knobs chosen for the home are from the same collection. Most brands will feature knobs of every function in a single collection, making it easy to keep the look consistent throughout the home.

Finish

Door handles come in many different finish options from which to choose. Review the rest of the space, taking note of any metal elements. Choose a knob or lever finish that will coordinate with the existing look of the space seamlessly. Some popular options include black, brass, bronze, chrome, copper, nickel, and stainless steel.

Door Thickness

Prior to making final purchases, take a moment to measure the thickness of every door and the size of any existing knobs. Use these measurements to make sure that the handles selected will fit the doors of the space correctly.

The right door handle will provide reliable entry to a room while bringing a layer of style to the design. Traditional curves, straight and modern lines, and rustic elements are a few of the defining features that can take any door from ordinary to a statement in a room. Consider the needs of each space and choose a function that accommodates those needs.

Door Hardware: Knobs and Levers

No results with current filters

Shop by Related Categories