Door Knockers

About Door Knockers

To begin with, remember that door and window hardware – door knockers, doorbell pushes, door closers, door hooks, flush pulls, door stops, etc. – is crucial if one wants their structures to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. Thus, they should be chosen carefully. 

The two commonly-used types are through-the-door knockers and surface-mounted door knockers. While the latter is more conventional, i.e., they're held on a door with the help of screws, through-the-door knockers are fastened to the door.

Nevertheless, homeowners may find themselves in a jam when choosing between them, as both are popular, attractive, durable, etc. 

Materials

Here are some materials that homeowners can choose from:

Cast Iron

Cast iron door knockers were commonly used in the olden days because of their sturdiness and unique yet simple design.

Pewter

Pewter door knockers are made using alloy (a mixture of copper and tin), which provides an alluring gloss. Although it's not as strong as other metals, it is known for the refined finish it gives.

Copper

Copper is well known for its resilience to common (natural) elements. It doesn't rust but rather oxidizes, forming a powerful green finish that people may or may not find attractive. 

Stainless Steel

Believe it or not, it's one of the most popular materials for door knockers. This is because it has a high resistance to corrosion and rust. Moreover, it complements industrial-style homes. In addition, the material also provides antifreeze properties.

Brass

Brass is an alternative to materials like cast iron. It comes in several colours, such as brown, red, bronze, gold, and more. Brass door knockers are known for their durability. 

Styles

Apart from unique door knockers, people add other window and door hardware like door bolts, doorknobs, latches and locks, pull handles, window handles, etc., to enhance the beauty of their front door and windows. 

Here are some popular door knocker styles homeowners can opt for:

• Brass door knockers are perfect for Georgian-styled exteriors. Unlacquered finishes and ornate designs complement such an exterior, so one can go for brass lion door knockers
• Individuals living in a Victorian estate should adorn their front doors with heavier pieces such as cast iron knockers incorporating animals like a fox or other
• Edwardian-style properties ask for antique materials and simple designs. For best results, choose an antique brass ring knocker
• Country-homes should consider nature-inspired accessories because it surrounds them
• For Regency-style houses, people should opt for brass knockers with simple engravings. Add sliding door gear or lever handles to enhance its look
• For traditionalists, plain ring knockers – whatever the material – will suffice 
• Individuals dwelling in modern houses have more freedom when it comes to choosing door knockers. Some popular choices include hand knockers that are best suited for heavier wooden doors. Apart from this, jesters are another common choice, a perfect mixture of simplicity and levity

Other Things To Consider

Apart from the style and material of door knockers, there are several other factors to consider, such as:

Ease Of Installation

Since door knockers don't need to be attached to the home's power grid, they're a lot easier to place compared to doorbells. Irrespective of surface mount or through the door knockers, both are easy to install. A few screws, along with a drill, etc., are all that is required. 

Cost

Compared to doorbells, this will cost people a lot less. This is because homeowners can easily place them without professional help, and they cost less than doorbells.  

Property Type

The door knocker chosen should match the home's overall look. For example, a Victorian-era will seem out of place if one has a post-modern, sleek home. Moreover, a modernist one won't go with a Tudor-style home.

Mounting Type

Homeowners will have to choose between a surface or through-the-door mounted knocker before they buy one. Those more concerned with their door knocker being securely installed should opt for a through-the-door knocker. However, they should also keep in mind that the door may be slightly damaged as they are mounted after holes are drilled through it.

Door Type

When purchasing a door knocker, ensure that it complements the existing door, including the door type and material. For example, for wooden doors, cast iron or brass knockers would be ideal. However, for metal doors, they wouldn't work.