Exterior Double Door Hardware

Introduction

In the world of home design, even the smallest details can make a significant impact. One such detail is the hardware on your exterior double doors. This article delves into the importance of exterior double door hardware, not just for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its functionality and security. We'll explore the latest trends in door hardware, from matte black levers to smart locks, and provide guidance on how to choose the right hardware for your home. Whether you're looking to revamp your home's curb appeal or enhance its security, this article will provide you with the insights you need.

Understanding the Importance of Exterior Double Door Hardware

Exterior double door hardware, especially for French doors, is not just about aesthetics but also about functionality and security. The right hardware can enhance the charm and character of your home while ensuring safety. Whether you're considering a lever with a curve, a smart lock, or a double cylinder deadbolt, it's crucial to understand the door's structure, such as bore holes, and the handing of your doors. This knowledge will help you choose the right hardware that not only complements your home's style but also meets your security needs.

Latest Trends in Exterior Double Door Hardware

In 2023/2024, door hardware trends are leaning towards a variety of styles. Matte black levers are highly requested due to their versatility with other metal tones. Polished chrome levers are making a comeback, now designed to avoid thumbprints and scratches. Brushed gold levers and knobs continue to trend, complementing warm tones in home decor. The modern brushed nickel lever remains a timeless choice, now featuring modern edges and lines. Lastly, traditional door hardware, with classic rosettes and knobs, offers a nice contrast to modern furniture.

Smart Locks and Digital Keyless Entry Systems

Smart locks are an innovative trend in exterior double door hardware, providing enhanced security and convenience. These electromechanical devices allow remote access and unlocking, eliminating the need for physical keys. They connect to smartphones and other smart devices via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or Z-Wave, enabling remote authentication for authorized users. The smart lock market is growing rapidly, with an expected value of USD 4.98 billion by 2028. Major players in this market include leading manufacturers available on Alibaba.com.

Bold and Colorful Door Handles

Gold is making quite the comeback, and it’s one of the hottest trends in door hardware. Whether you prefer golden brass, yellow gold, or rose gold, adding gold hardware to doors is the perfect way to turn any space from dull to fabulous. More and more people are drawn to black and white color schemes. Adding a black handle to a white door provides strong contrast while adding to a modern and elegant atmosphere. You could even switch it up and try adding white hardware to a black door!

Vintage-Inspired Brass and Bronze Hardware

Bring out the rustic charm in your home with vintage-inspired solid forged brass knobs and pulls. This style of hardware adds a touch of elegance and nostalgia to your exterior double doors, enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home. The solid forged brass ensures durability and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to combine style with functionality.

Minimalist and Modern Door Hardware

In the realm of modern and minimalist door hardware, sleek levers and handles are gaining popularity. These minimalist designs, often associated with luxury interiors, leave a lasting impression on guests and add a touch of sophistication to your home. Another trend is the rise of matte black door hardware. The demand for matte black door handles has steadily increased, offering a contemporary, zen, and timeless feel to any space. Pairing these with a natural wood finish can truly elevate the aesthetic of your exterior double doors.

How to Choose the Right Hardware for Your Home

Choosing the right hardware for your French doors involves understanding the door's structure and your security needs. If your doors have bore holes, you'll need to select the appropriate function for your hardware. For doors requiring a lock, opt for a Bed & Bath / Privacy function. For doors that only need to latch, a Hall & Closet / Passage function is suitable. For exterior doors, consider a double cylinder deadbolt for enhanced security. If your door has three bore holes, a handleset is a stylish choice. Smart locks are also an option for tech-savvy homeowners.

Consider Your Home's Architectural Style

The overall design theme of your home can dictate your choice of door hardware. If your home has a busy design with lots of colors and textures, keeping things simplistic when choosing your handles will elevate your home's design. Conversely, a sleek, minimal, and modern home would benefit from cohesive handles to maintain the theme, but could also look fantastic with standout handles that bring variety to the house. Therefore, when considering exterior double door hardware, it's essential to consider your home's architectural style.

Factor in Durability and Maintenance

Exterior double door hardware is exposed to the elements and frequent use, so durability and maintenance are crucial factors. Most contemporary hardware is designed to withstand these conditions, requiring infrequent cleaning. However, the material and finish of the hardware can affect its longevity and maintenance needs. For instance, stainless steel hardware is resistant to rust and staining, making it relatively easy to clean. On the other hand, brass and copper hardware can discolor over time and may require a commercial cleaner for maintenance. Always remember to buff any metal after cleaning to preserve its shine.

Think About Security and Functionality

When it comes to door security, deadbolts have long been a reliable choice. Modern doors often come equipped with multipoint locking systems to bolster your protection. For French doors, a high-quality deadbolt with a one-inch throw is crucial. A three-point locking system is highly recommended for enhanced security. Smart door locks offer additional benefits, allowing real-time monitoring and the ability to lock or unlock the doors from anywhere. They also eliminate the risk of lost keys falling into the wrong hands, as they do not require physical keys.

Installation Tips for Exterior Double Door Hardware

When installing your new exterior double door hardware, it's crucial to follow step-by-step guides for a successful installation. Whether it's a front entry door or a patio door, each type requires a specific installation process. Always read the product warranty before starting the installation. If you encounter any issues or have questions, don't hesitate to contact the support center. For professionals, consider joining a certified contractor program to enhance your skills and knowledge in door hardware installation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the hardware on your exterior double doors plays a crucial role in both the aesthetic appeal and security of your home. From the latest trends like matte black levers and smart locks to vintage-inspired brass and bronze hardware, there's a wide range of options to suit every home style and security need. When choosing your hardware, it's essential to consider your home's architectural style, the durability and maintenance of the hardware, and the level of security it provides. With the right hardware, you can not only revamp your home's curb appeal but also enhance its functionality and security.