How do you enter a building when you arrive at one? There's a good chance you use the door knob or handle unless you're planning to break in. 

One of the first objects visitors see when they visit your home is your front door. Not only will they make a judgment based on how it looks, but they'll very likely grab your door knob or handle to enter your house. If you care about other peoples' perceptions, then you should take the time to pick out door handles that match your overall style and aesthetic. 

Here's everything you need to know about choosing front door handles and door knobs in Australia. 

The Importance of Choosing the Right Door Fixture

Many people disregard their external and internal door handles. As long as it opens the door, then why buy anything other than the cheapest options available?

However, the right door handle can help with your overall design, make entering and leaving rooms much easier, and last longer than the cheaper variety. 

For example, a handle in a place with high traffic needs to withstand much use. Likewise, a door knob used for your front door needs to be sturdier than one used for your bedroom, as the lock attached doubles as a security measure. 

Lever or Knobs?

The first major consideration when outfitting your doors is whether to go for a lever or a knob. 

Door knobs have been around for a long time for good reason. They're primarily used in domestic settings and have a rounded design. 

You'd want to use a door knob because they're generally more affordable and easier to install. However, they don't offer as much grip and may prove difficult for children and the elderly to use. 

Door levers are much easier to use than knobs, which makes them great for public spaces. People don't have to worry about whether or not they can grip them, as you can open them easily with even an elbow. 

Some disadvantages of levers are that they won't always match up with older

 homes or doors. They're also notorious for snagging clothing due to their design. 

Things to Consider When Shopping for a Door Handle and Knob

What kind of handle or knob would best fit your door and home? There are many different types of knobs and handles out there, including privacy knobs, rustic ones, and various finishes. 

Before you buy one, you should consider your door's style and finish, the shape of the handle or knob, and your interior design. 

Your Door's Style and Finish

Don't ignore your door's style and finish when choosing a handle or knob. They're an integral part of it, and people will notice if they clash design-wise. 

Look for hardware that matches your personal tastes and your home's architectural design. For example, black door handles and black door knobs go with pretty much everything. 

The Shape of the Handle/Knob

Similarly, you should consider the overall shape of your handle or knob.

It's enticing to pick a quirky or highly stylized door knob, but you have to remember that you're going to use these every day, so they need to be comfortable to the touch and not wear away or break easily. 

If you struggle opening standard door knobs, then a handle will help immensely. Those who want something more traditional will be happier with a knob. 

Sliding door handles are a bit more limited in design, as they're either installed vertically or recessed into the door. However, you can still find the right material and shape for your home's aesthetic. 

Your Home's Overall Interior

It's essential to match your exterior, but what about the inside of your house? All the doors in your home need some kind of knob or handle, so they need to reflect the room they're in. 

You don't need to buy the same exact door knob or handle for every door in your house. However, it may help to pick ones from a set, as they'll share a general design. 

Even your exterior knob needs to complement the room it opens up to. 

Additional Factors to Consider

Design isn't everything when it comes to choosing a knob or handle. There's the size and weight of the door they're attached to, the door's location, and how easy the handle is to use. 

The Size and Weight of the Door

Not all door knobs and handles are suitable for every type of door. For large and heavy doors, you'll want something that provides an ample grip and can bear the weight you're pulling. 

Handles offer an excellent grip, but too much weight may bend and break them. Some knobs are sturdier, but they'll need to be larger to facilitate a better grip. 

The Door's Location and Function

Bedroom and kitchen door knobs face different challenges because they serve different purposes. 

For example, bathroom door knobs will have to be resistant to moisture. Copper and brass door handles provide antimicrobial properties that are especially good for kitchen door handles. They're also generally useful for all of your rooms. 

In addition, you may want to find a handle material that can withstand your cleaning products.  

The Handle's Ease of Use

Some homeowners may struggle with opening standard door knobs. This is because they might have problems with their hand or grip strength. These people may even lack hands altogether, in which case grabbing and turning a knob is very difficult for them. 

A handle doesn't suffer that problem, as all it requires is some amount of downward force to open the door. You can open it with your wrist or even by pressing your body down on it. 

Get Your Door Handles and Knobs From a Reliable Source 

Buying poor-quality door handles will give you many problems down the line. It's not uncommon for cheap ones to give you problems like failing to unlock or getting stuck. They may also begin to corrode on you if they aren't the right option for where they're placed.

A reliable store like The Lock Shop specializes in supplying all the door hardware you could need. We stock all the big brands, such as Lockwood, Gainsborough, and Whiteco. Check out our collection of door hardware and handles online today.