Do you feel like your existing doors need a fresh new look? Does fully replacing them seem like too much of a hassle or too big of a financial commitment? Then you should consider the simple, yet effective route of adding door refurbishment accessories to your existing layout. Not only does this instantly give your space a new and improved aesthetic, but it also provides an easier and less costly alternative to replacing the entire door.
It’s safe to say that out of all the accessories for a home decor revolution, door refurbishment pieces are probably the most overlooked and massively underrated. Since these are quite small items, they often don’t make an appearance in the design world – but that doesn’t mean they can’t help you create a stand-out look.
What Accessories Does a Door Need?
Even though there may be different designs and general requirements, there are several equally functional items that make up the entryway of a room. Naturally, you don’t want to splurge on just any random item – you need to be on the lookout for stylish and durable accessories for doors that will stand the test of time.
Cover Plates
These are basically the outer frames that fit around the locks and latches of your door. While their main purpose might be decorative, they also act as the binder that holds all the various bits of hardware together. If you choose wisely, your cover plate can become a statement piece in its own right.
In terms of design, you can get them in an array of styles and materials – from vintage to modern, chrome to brass. The traditional models usually have a round shape, with intricate patterns around their circumference. On the other hand, some of the more contemporary options come in a rectangular shape with a simpler design. There’s no real right or wrong choice – it all depends on what best matches your home’s existing décor.
As for the materials, chrome is generally the most durable option, although it does require a bit of upkeep to keep it looking shiny and pristine. In contrast, brass is typically easier to maintain, albeit being a bit more prone to scratches and other forms of damage.
Ball Catches
These door accessories are the sleek and unassuming little items that are found on the inside of your door. As the name implies, they work by catching a metal ball that’s connected to the inner frame and the door itself. By moving the ball, you can either close or open it depending on your needs.
In most cases, the size and shape of the ball catches don’t really matter, as long as they fit in properly with your existing latch mechanism. However, if you want to create a luxurious look for your door, then you should go for the slightly bigger and more ornamental versions. This includes items like the Victorian scroll catch, which is designed with complex details and comes in a range of finishes.
Rebate Kits
Also known as mortice locks, these kits contain everything you need to create a strong and secure frame for your door. It usually consists of different components like the lock case, faceplate, latch bolt, spindle, and screws.
Depending on your current specifications, you’d need to be mindful of the shape – with cylindrical ones being the most common due to their ease of use. Other than that, there’s also the standard square type, as well as the oval-shaped ones which are more aesthetically pleasing.
As for the material and finish, you’d want to opt for one that’s corrosion-resistant and able to withstand the elements. For example, if you live in an area that has consistent moisture, then go for stainless steel or bronze. On the flip side, if your door is exposed to more extreme temperatures, then the best solution would be to opt for brass or zinc.
Different Types of Latches
Among all of the accessories for doors these are probably the most noteworthy items. They’re the connecting pieces between the entryway and the frame, located just behind the handle. With the right level of security, these components can prevent intruders from gaining access to your home or business premises.
The two most common types are the spring latch and the deadbolt. The former works by pushing a catch plate into place when you turn the handle, while the latter goes one step further by using a separate locking mechanism. This distinction is quite significant since it helps determine the level of security required for your property.
Thumb Turns
These are quite similar to latches but offer a much more user-friendly experience. As the name implies, their round shape allows you to easily rotate them with your thumb, with single-cylinder ones providing access from the inside, and double-cylinder types having to be unlocked from both sides.
If you’re looking for a robust yet elegant solution, then you should definitely consider the thumb turn. Available in an array of materials, including brass and stainless steel, these items come with a keyhole or even combination locks for additional safety.
Stoppers
Have you ever flung open a door and been startled to find it banging against the wall? Well, chances are you don’t have any stoppers installed. These nifty little items are designed to keep doors from swinging too far, thus reducing the risk of damage or injury.
They can either be placed on the floor or the wall, depending on your preference. Floor varieties usually come in rubber form and feature a grip that secures them in place, while wall-mounted solutions are made out of metal and include a plate that prevents the door from overshooting.