Does your front door feel a little… plain? Or perhaps you’ve noticed your current door hardware is looking a bit worn and tired. It’s easy to overlook the small details, but your front door hardware is actually a super important part of your home’s look and feel. It’s the first thing guests see and touch when they arrive, and it’s the last thing you interact with when you leave.
Choosing the perfect front door hardware can feel like a puzzle. There are so many styles, finishes, and types to pick from! It can be confusing to know what looks good, what’s durable, and what will keep your home secure. You want something that not only matches your home’s style but also works perfectly and lasts for years.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what to look for. We’ll break down the different options, explain what makes them work, and help you avoid common mistakes. Get ready to transform your entryway from ordinary to extraordinary!
Our Top 5 Front Door Hardware Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Front Door Hardware Detailed Reviews
1. Azdele Front Door Handle and Deadbolt Set
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your home’s curb appeal and security with the Azdele Front Door Handle and Deadbolt Set. This sleek, matte black set offers a modern yet classic look that complements any home’s style. It’s built tough and designed for easy installation, making it a smart choice for homeowners looking for both beauty and function.
What We Like:
- Excellent Design: The handle looks great on any door, whether your home is modern or traditional. It’s made to fit most standard doors, so you won’t have trouble installing it.
- Reversible and Adjustable: The handle can be used on doors that open to the left or right. Plus, the latch easily adjusts to fit different door thicknesses, giving you more flexibility.
- Built to Last: Made from strong Zinc Alloy, this lock set is tough and won’t break easily. The matte black finish resists rust and looks good for a long time.
- Secure and Simple: The deadbolt keeps your home safe, opening with a key from the outside and locking securely from the inside. Everything you need for installation is included, with clear instructions.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Azdele stands behind their product with a lifetime warranty. If anything goes wrong, they’ll help you out with a replacement.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the design is versatile, the matte black finish might show fingerprints more easily than other colors.
This Azdele lock set is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to enhance their home’s security and style. It’s a reliable and attractive addition to any exterior door.
2. Kwikset San Clemente Front Door Lock Handle and Deadbolt Set
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your front door’s look and security with the Kwikset San Clemente Front Door Lock Handle and Deadbolt Set. This stylish satin brass set offers a classic design that fits most standard doors. It’s built tough and designed for easy installation, making it a great choice for homeowners.
What We Like:
- The handleset looks great with its satin brass finish.
- The lever stays straight and doesn’t sag, thanks to its special design.
- You can easily re-key the lock yourself with the SmartKey Security technology, which also keeps your home safe from break-ins.
- Installation is simple and can be done with just a screwdriver.
- It’s made with Microban protection, which helps keep surfaces cleaner.
- The lock is Grade 1 BHMA certified, meaning it’s very secure and built to last.
- Kwikset offers a lifetime warranty for the mechanical parts and finish.
What Could Be Improved:
- If your door doesn’t have a bottom handleset hole, you’ll need a drill to install it.
This Kwikset San Clemente set is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home’s security and curb appeal. It combines style, durability, and advanced security features for peace of mind.
3. Kwikset Belleview Front Door Lock Handle and Deadbolt Set
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your home’s security and style with the Kwikset Belleview Front Door Lock Handle and Deadbolt Set. This classic handleset in a satin nickel finish offers a traditional look that complements any home. It provides reliable protection with its pick-resistant deadbolt and easy-to-use interior knob.
What We Like:
- SmartKey Security protects against advanced break-ins and lets you re-key the lock yourself easily.
- Installation is a breeze, taking only minutes with a screwdriver for most doors.
- It fits standard doors and the adjustable latch makes installation even simpler.
- The set includes everything you need for a complete installation, including keys and hardware.
- BHMA certified for security and durability, giving you peace of mind.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty for both mechanical parts and the finish.
- The traditional design with unique details adds a touch of elegance to your front door.
What Could Be Improved:
- If your door doesn’t have a bottom handleset support hole, you’ll need a drill for installation.
The Kwikset Belleview set is a solid choice for enhancing your home’s security and curb appeal. Its combination of security features, easy installation, and classic design makes it a practical and stylish upgrade.
4. Schlage F60 CEN 622 LAT CEN Century Front Entry Handleset with Latitude Lever
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your home’s security and style with the Schlage F60 CEN 622 LAT CEN Century Front Entry Handleset. This sleek, matte black handleset features a modern Latitude lever design and a robust deadbolt, making it a perfect choice for your front door. It’s built tough and looks great, giving you peace of mind and a touch of elegance.
What We Like:
- It offers advanced security features to keep your home safe.
- The 1-inch deadbolt has special parts to stop break-ins.
- It’s made of strong metal and is certified for the highest security.
- You can install it yourself easily with just a screwdriver.
- It fits most standard doors without needing extra holes.
- It works on both right and left-handed doors.
- Schlage offers a great warranty for both the lock’s mechanics and its finish.
What Could Be Improved:
- The deadbolt only locks from one side, which might not be ideal for every situation.
- While it fits many doors, very old or unusually thick doors might require additional adjustments.
The Schlage F60 CEN handleset provides a fantastic blend of security and style for your entryway. It’s a dependable and good-looking upgrade that you can install yourself.
5. SORWDUERM 1 Pack Antique Brass Front Door Handle and Deadbolt Set Reversible Lever Entry Lock Handleset with Key Single Cylinder
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your home’s entryway with the SORWDUERM Antique Brass Front Door Handle and Deadbolt Set. This stylish and functional lockset adds a touch of elegance to any door, making a great first impression. Its classic antique brass finish complements various home styles, from modern to traditional, and it’s built tough for both homes and businesses.
What We Like:
- UNIQUE DESIGN: Looks good with many home styles and works for houses or shops.
- ADJUSTABLE LATCH: Fits most doors easily, whether they are thick or thin. The latch and deadbolt can be set to 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches.
- DURABLE MATERIAL: Made from strong zinc alloy with a beautiful antique brass coating that stays shiny. It makes your door look fancy and luxurious.
- REVERSIBLE DESIGN: Works perfectly for doors that open to the left or to the right.
- COMPLETE SET: Comes with everything you need to install it, including clear instructions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be a little clearer for first-time installers.
- While the antique brass looks great, it might show fingerprints more easily than other finishes.
This SORWDUERM lockset offers a beautiful and secure upgrade for your front door. It’s a solid choice for adding both style and peace of mind.
Your Front Door Deserves the Best: A Complete Hardware Buying Guide
Your front door is the first impression of your home. It’s your welcome mat and your security guard. That’s why choosing the right front door hardware is so important. This guide will help you pick the perfect set for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for front door hardware, keep these important features in mind:
- Lock Type: This is for security. Deadbolts offer the best protection. Smart locks let you lock and unlock your door with your phone or a keypad.
- Handle Style: This is how you open the door. You can choose from levers or knobs. Levers are easier for people with weaker hands to use.
- Deadbolt Throw: This is how far the bolt extends into the doorframe. A longer throw makes your door harder to force open.
- Keyway: This is the shape of the keyhole. Some keyways are harder for burglars to pick.
- Finish: This is the look of the hardware. Finishes include brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black. Choose a finish that matches your home’s style.
Important Materials
The material of your door hardware affects its look, durability, and price.
- Solid Brass: This is a classic choice. Brass is strong and resists rust. It looks elegant and can be polished to a bright shine or left to develop a natural patina.
- Stainless Steel: This is a very durable and weather-resistant option. Stainless steel won’t rust or corrode easily, making it great for salty or humid areas. It has a modern look.
- Bronze (Oil-Rubbed or Cast): Bronze offers a rich, classic appearance. Oil-rubbed bronze has a dark, aged look. Cast bronze is very strong and can be molded into intricate designs.
- Zinc Alloy: This is a more affordable option. Zinc alloy can be plated with other finishes to mimic more expensive metals. It’s a good choice if you’re on a budget.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all door hardware is made the same. Here’s what makes a difference:
- Build Quality: Look for hardware that feels heavy and solid. Cheap hardware often feels light and flimsy.
- Warranties: A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands by their product. Look for at least a 1-year warranty, or longer for premium options.
- Certifications: For security, look for hardware that meets ANSI (American National Standards Institute) or BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) standards. These certifications mean the hardware has been tested for strength and durability.
- Ease of Installation: Some hardware is designed for DIY installation, while others might need a professional. Check reviews or product descriptions for installation difficulty.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your door hardware every day.
- Everyday Use: Do you want a keyless entry system? Are levers easier for your family to use than knobs? Consider the daily convenience.
- Security Needs: If you live in an area with higher crime, invest in a robust deadbolt and a high-security lock cylinder.
- Aesthetics: The hardware should complement your home’s style. A modern home might look great with sleek stainless steel, while a traditional home could benefit from ornate bronze.
- Weather Resistance: If your front door is exposed to rain, sun, or salt air, choose materials like stainless steel or solid brass that won’t corrode or degrade quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the most secure lock types for a front door?
A: Deadbolts are the most secure. High-security lock cylinders and smart locks with strong encryption also offer excellent security.
Q: How do I choose the right finish for my door hardware?
A: Pick a finish that matches your home’s exterior style. Consider durability too; some finishes hold up better in harsh weather.
Q: Are smart locks worth the extra cost?
A: Smart locks offer convenience, remote access, and enhanced security features. Many users find them worth the investment.
Q: What is a “door knob” versus a “door lever”?
A: A door knob is round and you twist it. A door lever is a handle you push down. Levers are often easier to use.
Q: How important is the material of the door hardware?
A: Material is very important. It affects durability, resistance to rust, and the overall look and feel of the hardware.
Q: Can I mix and match different styles of door hardware?
A: You can, but most people prefer to match their lockset, handle, and deadbolt for a cohesive look.
Q: What does “ANSI Grade 1” mean for locks?
A: ANSI Grade 1 is the highest security rating. It means the lock has passed rigorous testing for strength and durability.
Q: How often should I lubricate my door locks?
A: Lubricating your locks once or twice a year with a graphite-based lubricant can keep them working smoothly.
Q: What’s the difference between a keyed entry lock and a privacy lock?
A: A keyed entry lock has a keyhole on the outside and a thumbturn on the inside for security. A privacy lock is for interior doors and usually has a push-button or twist lock with an emergency release on the outside.
Q: Where can I buy front door hardware?
A: You can buy front door hardware at home improvement stores, hardware stores, and many online retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.