Whether you want to change up the aesthetic of your home or you’re noticing faults in your old door handles, there are plenty of reasons why you might be itching to add a new handle or knob to your property.
Still, there are lots of options out there. To help you frame your thoughts, here’s how to choose the best door handle that suits both your design preferences and functionality needs.
When should you replace your door handles?
Depending on quality, material, and how often they’re used, door handles can last a lifetime. However, more often than not, they will lose their functionality and beauty over time. If you’re noticing annoying faults with your handles or knobs, it might be time to replace them.
It’s hard to give a timeline for the expected lifespan of a door handle as it can be made from such a wide range of materials. It’s best to use your own judgement to replace yours as and when required.
Keep an eye out for the following door handle afflictions:
- Looseness — is your door handle feeling loose? You could try tightening the screws or replacing any missing screws, first. However, if it’s still loose you might need a replacement.
- Faulty locks — is the door lock in your handle working as it should? It could just need a clean, but a broken, jamming, or flimsy lock might require a full replacement.
- Misaligned components — door handles are used time and time again, almost every day for years. Usage and temperature changes can lead to doors warping and misaligned locks and handles. Sometimes internal doors and external doors can be repositioned, but if lots of warping has taken place you’ll need new components.
Of course, you don’t have to wait until something is going wrong to replace a handle. You might also want to add a lock to a previously unlockable door. Alternatively, you might just want to change up the look of your home. In this case, choosing new interior or exterior door handles made from a different material or with a different finish will help you create the feel you want.
How to change a door handle
Removing a door handle is usually quite simple. To remove most door handles and knobs, simply:
- Use a doorstop to stop the door from moving back and forth
- Remove the copper plate using a screwdriver
- After removing the plate, remove the screws and door handle
- Remove the door spindle
- Remove the latch by taking out the bolts
- You’re now ready to install your replacement!
Most door handles have slightly different designs, so there might be a few extra steps for you depending on your handle. Persevere and you’ll get there.
What to look for in a new door handle
When choosing a new door handle, there are a few key things to decide on…
Brand
Let’s just say, some door furniture brands aren’t known for their product’s durability and quality as much as others. Luckily, reputable suppliers will make finding a good brand easier for you, as they will have vetted the brands they stock. For example, at A Wood Idea, we only sell door handles from brands we know and trust — like Dale and LPD.
Material
In terms of material, we offer a wide range of door handle options. From PCP, SCP, and Blk Nickel to Satin Nickel and Satin Chrome, you’re sure to find the ideal material for your needs. Each of these is strong and durable, so you can browse to find the one that best suits your home’s aesthetic.
Aesthetic design
For colour, finish, and style, the same goes. Think about the look you’re trying to achieve and the existing feel of your home or specific room. Most people want their door handles to blend into their existing decor, rather than stand out. If your kitchen or bathroom has polished appliances or countertop accents, a polished handle might be the most fitting.
However, you could also choose something contrasting if you prefer. Would you prefer a classic door knob or a long handle?
Functionality
Do you need a door handle with a lock? If so, it’s wise to consider whether you need a handle that locks with a key — perhaps for a bedroom or storage cupboard — or whether a latch lock would be best (for instance, for a bathroom).
Internal or external?
Are you looking for an internal or external door handle? This will make a difference, as you might want something with greater security and the ability to withstand the elements on your external door.
Choosing a new door handle — our recommendations
For internal doors, our current favourites include our Venus Lever On Round Rose PCP, which is a classic polished chrome handle with an elegant curve to it. We think it looks great in any room in the house. Alternatively, a straight handle option is the Sultan Lever On Round Rose SCP — a versatile satin chrome option.
For something a little different, you might like our Orbit Lever On Round Rose with a dual polished chrome and polished brass colour scheme. Our Flex Lever On Round Rose is another chic option for contemporary properties, while the Nolita Matt Black Handle is an ultra-modern pick.
Make sure you check out our entire door furniture collection for useful items like escutcheons (keyhole covers), external hardware, hinges, turn-and-release bathroom sets, and more.
Secure door handles from A Wood Idea
No matter what material or aesthetic you’re after, take a look at our collection of secure and easy-to-install door handles today. We stock a wide range of options to suit modern and contemporary homes, so get browsing! Feel free to get in touch with us at 0191 414 1300 if you have any questions.
