Picture this: You walk up to a charming old house with a beautifully crafted wooden entrance door… only to be greeted by a flimsy, plastic door knob that feels out of place. Yikes! It's a bit like wearing sneakers with a tuxedo—the mismatch can be jarring and destroy the whole appeal.

When it comes to buying door hardware, one of the big decisions you’ll face is whether to opt for cheaper or more expensive options. Choosing the right types of door knobs and handles for your home is more than just a matter of aesthetics too. These seemingly small components play a vital role in the functionality, security, and overall look of your doors.  

Let’s navigate the factors to consider when it comes to types of door hardware, so you can make an informed decision to suit your budget and needs.

Which Types of Door Knobs and Handles to Buy? 

Factors to Consider

Material and Build Quality

Consider what materials will best suit the environment of your home. For example, if you live in a humid area, stainless steel or brass may be preferable due to their resistance to corrosion. In contrast, a dry climate might be more forgiving on a wider variety of materials, including some lower-cost options. 

Design and Aesthetics

Think about the overall style of your home and what types of door knobs and handles may complement it. If you have a modern home, sleek and minimalistic designs might be ideal. For a traditional or vintage home, more ornate and detailed designs could be a better fit. The finish of the door hardware, whether it's matte, polished, or antique, should also match other fixtures and fittings in your home. 

Durability and Longevity

Consider how much use each door will get. High-traffic areas, like the front door or doors leading to common areas, require more durable and long-lasting hardware. Assess the longevity of the materials and construction methods of the door hardware. Solid metals and high-quality manufacturing techniques generally ensure that the hardware can withstand frequent use over many years. 

Security Features

Security is a key concern, especially for exterior doors. Evaluate the security features of the types of door handles you’re considering. Look for reinforced plates, robust locking mechanisms, and sturdy construction that can resist tampering and forced entry. Your home’s location can also influence your needs; for example, in a high-crime area, investing in high-security features would be crucial. 

Installation and Maintenance

Finally, think about the installation process and ongoing maintenance. Some types of door levers and knobs are easier to install than others, which can save you time and money if you plan to do it yourself. Higher-quality options might require professional installation. Maintenance is another consideration; look for door hardware that is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring it remains functional and attractive over time.  

Cheap Vs Expensive Types of Door Knobs and Handles: What’s The Difference?

When comparing cheap and expensive door handle types, several key differences stand out: 

Materials

Cheap door knobs are often made from materials like plastic or low-grade metals, which can feel flimsy and wear out quickly. On the other hand, better quality options from trusted brands like Gainsborough or Lockwood use high-quality materials like solid brass, stainless steel, or chrome, which are more durable and provide a premium feel. 

Design

Cheap door knobs generally come in basic designs and fewer finish options, which may not align with refined interior decor styles. Pricier options, however, offer a broader range of designs including intricate detailing and a variety of finishes, allowing for better customisation. From modern minimalist to classic ornate, and flush pull handles to statement door knockers—if you’re happy to pay a little more, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your home’s decor.

Durability

Durability and longevity are critical for door knobs and handles that are subject to frequent use. Cheaper door knobs might wear out or break sooner, leading to additional replacement costs. In contrast, more expensive door hardware is designed to last longer. The superior materials and construction methods used in high-end options ensure that they can withstand the rigours of daily use without losing their functionality or appearance. 

Security

Security features in expensive door hardware are often more advanced. High-end options often come with enhanced security features, like reinforced plates, higher-quality locks, and more robust construction, providing better protection against intruders. Cheap options might lack these features, making them easier to tamper with or break. 

Maintenance

While cheap door knobs may be easier to install, they often require more maintenance and are more likely to need replacement down the track. Expensive door knobs, although potentially requiring professional installation, tend to be more reliable and require less maintenance over time.

The Verdict

When deciding between cheap and expensive types of door knobs and handles, consider your specific needs and budget. If you’re furnishing a temporary or low-traffic area, cheaper options might suffice. But for high-traffic areas or for doors where security is a major concern, investing in more expensive door knobs and handles is worthwhile. 

Expensive door hardware offers superior materials, better design options, enhanced durability, and advanced security features, making them a better long-term investment. Although the initial cost is higher, the reduced need for maintenance and replacements can save money over time. 

And here’s the good news! At The Lock Shop, we offer the cheapest prices on the highest quality door hardware products in Australia—giving you the best of both worlds. Reach out today if we can assist you with making the most economical decision for your needs.