Want to make a major change in the impression of your home without spending big bucks?
We all want our homes to have that “wow factor” when people first see them. And your home’s first impression definitely starts at the front door.
The problem?
Most people think about big investments like landscaping or repainting when it comes to curb appeal. They don’t think about one of the easiest and most cost-effective home upgrades of all time.
Door hardware
This article will break down exactly how your door hardware can dramatically boost your curb appeal and why it has such a powerful impact.
Let’s jump right in.
In this article you’ll find:
- Reasons Door Hardware Impacts So Much
- What Makes Door Hardware Selection Unique?
- Top Door Hardware Trends That Work
- Picking Hardware That Matches Your Home
Reasons Door Hardware Impacts So Much
Door hardware has some major curb appeal advantages. It’s one of the first things people see as they walk up to your house. If you haven’t given your door hardware an upgrade, you are missing out.
Here are three reasons why you should be upgrading your hardware today.
1. It creates an instant focal point.
Door hardware grabs the attention of visitors as soon as they approach your house. Since it’s right at eye level, hardware is the natural handshake between your home and guests.
Quality door hardware that is stylish right away tells people you care about your home.
We all know…
Better details mean better first impressions.
Good doors (Check out our residential doors) and high-quality hardware combined are a match made in heaven. Visitors are automatically drawn to your home when they notice premium hardware.
It’s a no-brainer, really. Premium door hardware is a simple way to:
- Signal quality and attention to detail.
- Create visual interest and appeal.
2. It builds perceived value & quality.
Door hardware is like jewelry for your home. Visitors and buyers want to know the standards you set even before they step foot on the property.
How do they know if you care about quality? They look at how you treat the details.
Here’s the secret:
Cheap, old, or mismatched door hardware sends a message about your home that you don’t want to give. Quality hardware, on the other hand, speaks volumes.
Did you know good curb appeal can raise a property’s value up to seven percent? (According to The Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics.)
Now that is a pretty good ROI!
3. It also has functional benefits.
One of the underrated perks of quality hardware is functionality. Quality hardware isn’t just there for looks; it’s better and works well.
Durability, operation, and security features are some of the functional benefits of quality door hardware. Hardware that works well on a practical level makes guests feel at home when they interact with it.
That’s a win-win situation.
What Makes Door Hardware Selection Unique?
Door hardware selection is more complicated than most people think.
Successful curb appeal means hardware that can span a number of different elements.
It includes:
- Entry door handles and locks.
- Decorative elements such as knockers.
- Hinge finishes and styles.
- House numbers and mailbox styling and pairing.
The secret to finding great door hardware is having a design strategy that plays well with your home’s architectural style.
Exterior hardware choices require consistency and coordination to get maximum curb appeal impact.
Top Door Hardware Trends That Work
All right, time for the door hardware trends that will actually work for you. These are the strategies to get the curb appeal neighbors will ask you for your secret.
These trends work for design professionals… So they will work for you, as well. Scroll through the door hardware trends, pick out which ones fit with your style and use them.
Matte Black Reigns Supreme
Door hardware trends? Matte black will be everywhere.
The reason? Matte black hardware is bold enough to make a statement, but not so loud that it overpowers the door. It is also versatile enough to work with virtually any color or architecture style.
Matte black hardware is beautiful on white doors, natural wood, and even on colored doors. The contrast adds visual interest.
Want to use matte black hardware? Grab a whole set with pieces all using the same finish quality from one manufacturer for consistency.
Brushed Gold for Warmth and Luxury
Brushed gold hardware is the perfect option if you are looking for a bit of warmth and sophistication.
Think of brushed gold as the jewelry piece for your door hardware collection. It is warm and inviting without the flashiness of regular gold.
Brushed gold has a more sophisticated, warm appearance that goes with both modern and traditional home designs. It is also less reflective, meaning it hides small scratches better than polished gold.
Mixing Up Metals For “Magic”
Mixing metals is a great door hardware choice if you want more depth and sophistication to your front door.
A word of caution: When you mix up different metals, there are some rules to not let it look too busy or dated.
Two best trends?
- Pairing a main and accent metal.
- Combining warm and cool-toned metals.
Pick a dominant metal and use it for the main door hardware. Use the second metal as an accent for decorative pieces. You are creating visual interest but keeping it planned and purposeful.
Door Hardware Meets Smart Technology
Smart hardware is one of the hottest trends in door hardware.
You can use smart locks and connected hardware that provides security and style.
The key to success? Smart hardware should not be technology first, but second.
The best smart door hardware can look like traditional high-end hardware while offering you extra security, peace of mind, and technological functionality.
Make A Statement with Door Knockers and Numbers
Little details can make a huge curb appeal difference…
Giant oversized house numbers and sculptural door knockers can add instant flair to your front door.
Knockers and numbers work best when they complement your hardware and architecture of your home.
Picking Hardware That Matches Your Home
The most important thing about door hardware choice is ensuring your selection works for your home’s architectural style.
For traditional designs, go with classic brass or bronze finishes. For modern or contemporary homes, cleaner lines and finishes like matte black or brushed stainless steel.
A few more key choices to consider:
- Architectural style
- Coordination of existing finishes
- Quality and durability
- Budget and maintenance
Many people find it is helpful to talk to a door hardware specialist who can help recommend a set of hardware that works well together.
Wrapping it all up
There you have it, powerful door hardware strategies to give your curb appeal an instant upgrade. Door hardware upgrades do require planning and investing in quality to give you the results you want.
Not an expert? Many people work with a door hardware consultant to help them choose the pieces that go best together. Quality consultants are well versed in how to coordinate finishes, style, and even functionality to give you a set that works well together.
But don’t forget… Make sure your doors themselves are in great shape, as well. Exterior door replacement offers a 188% ROI according to the 2024 Cost vs. Value report from Builder Online, making it one of the best home improvement returns available.
Pairing quality doors with quality door hardware is the type of curb appeal that can transform the look and value of your entire home.