When designing or building a single-family home, door hardware might seem like a small detail compared to flooring, cabinetry, or lighting. But in reality, it plays an integral role in how a home looks, feels, and functions. The right hardware offers durability, security, and a lasting first impression.
From front entries that welcome guests to interior doors that see daily use, high-quality hardware ensures a home stands the test of time. For builders and designers alike, choosing durable door hardware is one of the most practical investments for long-term performance and homeowner satisfaction.
Key Considerations When Choosing Door Hardware
Selecting hardware for single-family developments requires balancing form and function. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
- Functionality: Door hardware serves different purposes. Passage knobs and levers are ideal for hallways or closets. Privacy sets work well for bathrooms and bedrooms. Keyed entry handles are used far less frequently, as smart locks have become more common. For maximum security, deadbolts remain the most effective option for locking doors. Dummy sets are used on pairs of closet doors and opposite entry handles where the door isn’t using a latch.
- Durability: Materials matter. High-quality hardware made from unlacquered brass, bronze, polished chrome, or stainless steel will withstand everyday wear better than low-cost alternatives. The quality of a lock mechanism plays a big role in the durability of your door hardware. For example, tubular locksets are generally less heavy-duty than mortise locks. Mortise locks, however, often require custom fitting to your door.
- Weather Resistance: For exterior applications, hardware should be water resistant and UV resistant to avoid fading, rust, or deterioration over time. Weather-resistant finishes ensure the home’s curb appeal stays strong for years and are well worth the investment. Most standard lock lines use powder coated finishes, which can break down quickly in strong UV conditions—especially darker colors like black and dark bronze. For areas with high sun exposure, we recommend choosing more durable materials.
Materials That Stand the Test of Time
Not all hardware is created equal. Here are some of the best material choices for long-term door hardware:
- Unlacquered Brass: Naturally antimicrobial and highly durable, unlacquered brass develops a rich patina over time, adding character to both modern and traditional homes.
- Bronze: You can choose silicone bronze with copper tones, or white bronze if you prefer a finish without them. Natural metals without a coating on them will naturally patina or oxidize depending on the type of material it’s made of. Because of this, they hold up better overtime without looking scratched or damaged.
- Polished Chrome: If you’re looking for a mirror-like, glossy finish then polished chrome is for you. While it’s more prone to show smudges and fingerprints, it makes a great eye-catching finish that won’t patina over time; this is due to its durable plating material. It’s best for being used in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Stainless Steel: You can choose this to be brushed or polished finishes with subtle nickel tones. Both options are cost-effective, highly durable, and resist tarnishing over time.
It’s important to understand the three main finish categories when it comes to door hardware:
- Chrome
- Can be applied as a PVD finish on chrome or stainless steel. New PVD processes use chrome that is colorized at the molecular level, creating a range of finishes that are just as durable as traditional chrome.
- Living finishes
- Living finishes are not coated so they react with environmental conditions and touch. Natural bronze and unlacquered brass develop a patina over time, changing in appearance based on the metal and alloy.
- Cerakote
- Cerakote has recently been recognized as more durable than traditional powder coating on natural metals. Its hard ceramic coating provides comparable durability while being more cost-effective.
By choosing these materials, builders can ensure hardware not only looks good but also stands the test of time.
Security & Performance Features
A beautiful door knob isn’t enough: it also needs to perform. Builders should look for:
- Locks & Deadbolts: From traditional deadbolts to modern smart locks, security is a top priority for homeowners.
- ANSI Grading: This grading system ensures hardware meets rigorous standards for durability and strength.
- Multipoint Locks: These distribute force across multiple points, offering added protection and better sealing for exterior doors.
- High-Quality Internal Components: The unseen parts matter. Precision-engineered latches, springs, and lock mechanisms extend the lifespan of the hardware.
- Door Compatibility: Sizing, backset, and thickness should all align to ensure proper installation and smooth operation.
By prioritizing high-quality hardware, builders deliver peace of mind along with style.
Environmental & Longevity Considerations
Sustainability is a growing concern in the building industry, and hardware is no exception. Choosing materials and finishes with a low environmental impact means fewer replacements and reduced waste over time.
- Durable Finishes: UV- and weather-resistant coatings reduce wear and extend the hardware’s life.
- Maintenance: While high-quality hardware may require regular cleaning, it is more durable and long-lasting than cheaper alternatives, which often need to be replaced after only a few years.
- Long-Term Savings: Though premium materials may cost more upfront, they minimize replacement needs, proving themselves to be an investment that pays off in the long run.
Why Builders & Designers Choose Parks Decorative
At Parks Decorative, we understand that every detail matters in single-family developments. That’s why we offer…
- Education. We want to educate our customers to help them get the best value for what they are looking for. Our personalized service is tailored to builders, designers, and developers who want long-term solutions that align with their vision.
- A curated selection of premium door hardware designed to combine durability with timeless style. We deal with multiple brands giving our customers an array of brand lines to choose from.
- Options for both exterior and interior doors, ensuring consistency throughout the home.
- Strong partnerships with industry professionals who trust our high-quality hardware to deliver on both performance and design.
Door hardware is a key element in how a home functions, looks, and lasts. By considering durability, style, security, and sustainability, builders can select hardware that enhances the value of their developments and provides long-term satisfaction to homeowners.Our designers recommend top brands like Baldwin and Rocky Mountain Hardware. With trending finishes, endless customizations, and time-tested quality, these brands are sure to provide products to fit your style and specifications. Ready to upgrade your project with door hardware that wows?