Door Knobs & Levers

Door Knobs and Levers

Door knobs and door levers help add value and beauty to your home. From Schlage’s black matte handles to Kwikset’s satin nickel finishes, they provide privacy and security. Still, not all hardware is created equal, so evaluate your choices before replacing or installing locksets.

Choose door knobs and door levers based on the level of security you need for the home. Some handles and knobs have a keyed entry and/or keypad for security purposes. They operate with or without deadbolts. Other door levers have buttons to lock the doors from the inside.

• Entrance Door Knobs and Door Levers: Entrance knobs and door levers have keyed cylinders. The handle or knob features a push or turn button to lock the door manually from the inside. Combined with a deadbolt, the handles provide a high-level of security.
• Privacy Lock Door Knobs and Door Levers: These locksets do not have a keyed cylinder. Instead, they feature a button lock on the inside of the knob so you can maintain privacy in bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Passage Door Knobs and Door Levers: The hardware on passage knobs and levers is for use on doors that do not require privacy or security. Passage door levers and handles work well on linen closets, laundry rooms, and utility rooms.
• Dummy Knobs: Purely for aesthetic purposes, they do not turn or have a locking mechanism for the door.

Consider your wall color and furnishings when choosing levers and knobs. Specific finishes can add personality to your home. Knobs coordinate well with both conventional and contemporary decor. Levers, on the other hand, help elevate the look of contemporary designs. Review the options below to find door hardware to meet your needs.

• Brass Finishes: Door levers and knobs with brass finishes offer a cozy feel. Try antique brass in homes with rustic designs and polished brass in contemporary spaces. Brands like Kwikset and Schlage offer a variety of stylish levers, knobs, and deadbolts to bring out the beauty in your home.
• Oil Rubbed Bronze Finishes: Warmth, beauty, and style exude from oil rubbed bronze locksets. Bronze door hardware is a smart choice for homes with wood floors and trim.
• Black Finishes: Contrast white walls and doors with black levers and door knobs. Opt for hardware with a black matte finish like the Schlage Georgian passage knob or the Schlage Latitude passage lever.
• Satin Nickel Finishes: The soft sheen finish on satin nickel handles bring a look of sophistication. The Schlage Camelot model is one choice for exterior doors.

Before purchasing hardware for your door(s), take a few measurements. Knowing the size and depth of the opening will help you zero-in on your style choices. Get a tape measure and take note of the door's thickness, backset, and opening.

• Door Depth: Record the door’s thickness. It should be between 1 3/8 and 1 3/4 inches thick.
• Backset Dimension: The back set should measure between 2 3/8 and 2 3/4 inches from the edge to the center of the door knob.
• Door Opening: A door that can be pulled toward you with your right hand is a right-opening entry.