Entry Door Hardware Buying Guide

Entry doors are the access point for your home and require door handles that combine security with style. The doors themselves are reinforced to keep out the elements, and any type of front door locks or handles should be just as durable. You need doorknobs and locks for any door with outside access, so it’s important to find the security you need without sacrificing your home’s curb appeal.

With so many different entry sets available, from the types of locks to the design of the levers and handlesets, it can be daunting to find the door hardware that makes the best choice for your home. Understanding the differences between the types of door handle-and-lock sets makes it easy to find the perfect match for a front door, garage access point, or back door.

What’s Included with an Entry Set?

When outfitting the exterior doors with new door hardware, you have the option of buying handles and locks as separate pieces, or as an entry set. The entry set includes the door handle or knob as well as the matching lock. A door entry set adds to the home value by offering uniform design for the curb appeal, as well as the security of a certified lock set. With entry handlesets, there is no mixing-and-matching necessary to find the right security features with the preferred color finish. It’s even possible to get multiple entry sets keyed the same.

One-Piece Entry Sets

One-piece entry sets offer a simple and streamlined look with the knob or handle and the deadbolt lock integrated into a single backplate. This continuous look is popular for both residential and commercial properties. The integrated backplate helps disguise the visibility of the type of deadbolt lock and provides a sophisticated look for the exterior door, inside and out. Many smart home locks are available in one-piece entry sets for a more modern security alternative with classic style. With a one-piece entry set, you have your choice of front door hardware design, from the traditional knobs to stylized levers or pull handles.

Door Lock Combo Packs

For an added level of security, opt for a door lock combo pack. These sets consist of multiple parts, including a locking mechanism and a way to open the door, whether it’s a lever or knobs. These are generally used for exterior doors, including both the front entry and back porch or garage entrance. They may also be found on interior doors that have an outside entrance, such as a basement or cellar with a downstairs access hatch, or windows large enough to use for entry.

Door lock combo sets feature a locking knob or lever-style door handle that is paired with a locking deadbolt. Both locks can be rekeyed to use the same key. The double-keyed design provides two points of connection to secure the door, making it a great choice for commercial businesses and entryway doors for the home.

Typically, these will feature a more basic style than decorative handlesets. However, there are still plenty of stylish options available and these combo packs are often more affordable than other types of entry sets. A door lock combo is easy to install and a great choice for anyone looking to make a quick upgrade.

Tip: If you want to replace your existing entry door sets without getting new keys, it’s possible to have the new set keyed alike when you order. Just ask your local locksmith to identify the individual keycode of the locks before you order a new entry set.

Door Hardware Types

Whether for exterior use or installed inside, door hardware refers to the metal pieces that help the door function as more than just another section of the wall. The most common hardware is some form of a door hinge, door handle, or the locks and strike plates. We looked in detail at hinges in our door hinge buying guide, so now let’s look at locks, knobs, and handles.

Coordinating the latch with the handle or knob, a lock serves as a basic anchor between the door and the door jamb to allow or prevent entry, with the main difference between them being how the bolt movements are set in motion. When you choose a choose a door lock, it’s important to keep in mind that different locks have specific functions depending on what kind of door they’re installed on and where that door is located.

The look and mechanics of home door hardware will vary between brands and designs, with standard, easily recognizable features. Identifying these types of features narrows the categories to find the right hardware when you need to change the front door lock. From doorknobs to handleset styles, there are different designs to match the style and security you expect.

Deadbolts

Deadbolt locks are installed within the door and hold it closed using a bolt that anchors the door to the frame. They rely on the strength of the door paneling between the deadbolt and the door frame to resist movement and hold the door closed; the wood is likely to give out before the metal of a quality deadbolt.

Deadbolts can be built into a one-piece lock with a door knob or handle, or be installed independently. The mechanics are similar among deadbolts, but there are two different cylinder types:

• Single-cylinder locks have a keyed entry on the exterior lock and a thumb-turn on the interior side of the door for easy exit or securing from inside the home.
• Double-cylinder locks utilize a key to engage the bolt to lock or unlock, from both the exterior and interior sides of the door.

Handlesets

For an emphasis on design, keyed entry handlesets incorporate the security of the deadbolt with the ease of a pressure-sensitive thumb-latch rather than the turn of a knob. Handlesets are often decorative statement-pieces all their own and a common choice for exterior front doors. They come in artistic styles and finishes, so you can easily find one that looks good with the door you have in mind.

You can choose a handleset that includes multiple pieces, with matching front and back handles and corresponding locks. Handlesets are often sold as a single piece, or “full plate” unit, with the deadbolt, pull handle, and latch being on the same connecting decorative back panel. Handlesets typically offer multiple locks as part of the set for added security, including both a deadbolt and a thumbscrew lock. Other types of door handlesets are separate lock trims with only one end of the latch handle attached to the panel with the deadbolt.

Keyless Entry Sets

When searching pockets or keyrings for the house key seems like one step too many, a keyless entry set makes a convenient alternative. These smart door locks feature integrated electronic panels with keypads for an entry code or Bluetooth proximity sensors that will respond to the presence of an individual key fob rather than a traditional key.

The best home smart lock technology allows you to securely lock and unlock your home from an app on your phone for those instances where a family member forgets their keys and you’re across town at work. Other electronic locks allow you to unlock the door with a custom code entered on the keypad mounted on the lock plate. Smart keyless entry technology can allow you to individually program and reprogram codes for multiple people, such as house-sitters or repair contractors, making it easy to update the door as permissions change.

Keyless entry sets typically come with a keyed deadbolt as a back-up form of security when you want to disable technological access, such as at night when everyone is home, or when you go out of town for a few days. Because they work on a long-lasting battery, an electronic lock works even in the event of a power outage. Some keyless entry smart door locks are designed for integration with home security systems, such as Nest.

Mortise Locks

Mortise locks are deadbolt locks that contain the locking mechanism in a protected casing, installed in a recessed, mortise cut, within a solid door. The hidden mechanics make this type of entry hardware harder to pick or remove, maximizing the level of security it provides. Mortise locks are generally used for external doors, particularly front doors, and can be found in either knob styles or the classic handleset.

The inner workings of a mortise lock are enclosed in a metal case and embedded in a pocket cut into the door from the edge. The larger size of the lock chassis helps distribute the impact of any force applied to the door and adds strength to the lock. Installation of a mortise lock requires careful cuts and precise measurements along the door and door jamb. It’s a good idea to have a mortise lock professionally installed.

A mortise lock can be a higher-end option, as this type of door lock is more complicated to make, with the internal mechanisms and durable lock body. You may also find that the installation process is more difficult than a standard deadbolt installation. The result is a lock that is harder to pick, harder to bump, and more secure. If security is a high priority, a mortise lock is certainly one to consider.

Privacy Knobs & Levers

Privacy sets are a type of hardware used for internal doors that practically should have the option to lock. These are a good option for bedroom and bathroom doors, or the home office. Privacy knobs don’t offer the same level of security as an exterior lock or a deadbolt. In fact, they are incredibly easy to unlock, and are not recommended for exterior use.  

Passage Knobs & Levers

Not all interior doors need a lock, which is when you install a passage knob. Passage door hardware latches to keep the door closed but does not include a lock of any kind. Simply turn the knob or lever and the door will open. These are very affordable and easy to install. Passage knobs and levers offer zero security and are never recommended for exterior use. Instead, this type of door hardware is great for access to common rooms, such as hallways, closets, laundry rooms, or the pantry.

Electronic Commercial Locks

While electronic locks are a convenient option for residential properties, these types of locks make a great choice for businesses as well.

Commercial locks are larger, more reinforced, and more heavy-duty than the residential version of keyless entry sets and many provide additional features such as alarm connections. Electronic commercial door locks also enable different codes to be used by different employees, making it easy to adjust permissions to a building without locking out other employees with complicated and costly rekeying. Most types of commercial locks can still be found in the common selections of knobs or levers with a few additional options like push bars and latching handles.

For more specific information, check out our commercial door hardware guide.

Understanding BHMA Certification

To find the type of lock that’s best for your front door or other exterior access points, look for quality hardware that can provide top security. Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association sponsors third-party certification of hardware products to create and maintain quality standards that the industry and its customers can rely on. BHMA certified products have been held to verified codes and regulations to ensure consumer safety.

There are three basic grades of BHMA Certification when it comes to entry door sets.

• Grade 1 Locks – Considered to be the best lock, these provide the highest level of security and durability and are ideal for commercial properties.
• Grade 2 Locks – These are still pretty strong and resilient. They’re durable but may not last as long as those that have earned a grade 1 certification. Grade 2 is commonly used in residential and light commercial properties.
• Grade 3 Locks – These work though they aren’t as durable or secure as other locks available. You should not use a grade 3 lock as your primary means of security.

Ensuring a Secure Fit

As you start browsing your options, it’s important to keep in mind whether your favorite entry sets are even compatible with your doors. To ensure you buy hardware that is compatible, we recommend taking a few quick measurements.

Door Thickness

In most cases, your exterior doors will be 1 ¾” thick, and your interior doors will be 1 3/8” thick. However, you should double-check the thickness on your doors just to make sure. If you discover that your doors do not align with the measurements listed above then you will need to look for hardware that will accommodate. Some entry sets will be adjustable or may have an adapter kit available, too.

Backset & Bore Measurements

Most doors have standard measurements, so there’s a pretty good chance that most of the hardware you find be compatible with your door. However, if you’re replacing a lock on an older door, or working with a custom home, there’s no guarantees that it will fit the standard. Grab a tape measure and double-check before you buy.

•  The backset is the measurement from the edge of the door to the hole that’s made for the doorknob.
• The cross-bore is the measurement of the hole in the door itself that the lock and handle pieces fit through.
• The edge-bore is the space in the edge of the door for the latch to catch the jamb.

Taking these measurements only takes a few minutes and will ensure that you are able to find the best hardware for your home.

Know the Door Handing

Door handing is a term that refers to the direction in which the door operates. It is essential that you choose the correct handing for the door for proper installation of the handles.

If you are on the outside of the door, the handing is indicated by the edge on which the hinge is installed.

• Door hinges on the right side of the door are right-handing.
• Hinges that appear on the left side of the door are left-handing.

The correctly handed lock will be installed on the opposite side of the door, so the latch and bolt will have to fit the correct direction into the door jamb to put the key on the intended side of the door facing either in or out. Reversible handing designs are easy to adjust for either handing option, making them a convenient choice.

Selecting a Style and Finish

With so many different designs to choose from, it can be daunting to find the best exterior door lockset and deadbolt for the house. Narrow the search by both style and finish to home in on the look of the property.

Many of the handle color options come in a variety of different finishes, including matte, brushed, polished, oiled, and distressed. If integrating a new handle into an existing home design, reference the existing metal elements as a jumping-off point for selecting a theme and color for the handle.

Door Handle Theme Options

While the door handle may seem like something merely functional, they can also be very decorative. The entry door handleset can help set the first impression of your home, so these types of locks can be found in different themes to match your preferred style.

Some popular style types can include:

• Botanical
• Contemporary
• Craftsman
• Industrial
• Modern
• Traditional
• Transitional
• Vintage

Door Handle Color Tones

The front door handles and locks can be found in a finish that complements the overall look of your front porch as well as the interior of your home entryway. Stainless steel finishes are often very resistant to fingerprints, while the classic look of brass offers a warm greeting at the front door.

Regardless of the type of door lock, the finish options can be influenced by the shine, from matte to brushed presentations, and can include a variety of favorite metal color tones:

• Black
• Brass
• Bronze
• Chrome
• Copper
• Gray
• Nickel
• Pewter
• Silver
• Steel
• White

While the appearance of the handle and lock set is important, there are other features that can help narrow the finish type or color that you choose. Some finishes offer advantages such as superior stain and fingerprint resistance that stay cleaner longer and are easier to wipe clean. There are also finishes imbued with antimicrobial protection to further protect your household from contact germs and viruses. There’s more information on Kwikset’s Microban Antimicrobial Protection in our guide.

Tips to Choose the Best Entry Hardware

Front door entry sets do the double work of keeping the wrong people out and letting the right people in. While the job is simple – allow doors to open or keep them closed – there’s a variety of options available for consumers to choose from. Despite being used daily, the lock on your front door is largely forgotten. Not much thought gets put into it, until something starts to go wrong.

Whether you’re trying to find the best hardware for a new door, or just need to replace the lock on your current door, this purchase is one not to take lightly. It’s important that you get it right with the first purchase.

To help you make the best decision, we’ve put together the following tips to help narrow down your options. Here are the main considerations you should be aware of when buying a new entry set for your front door.

Coordinate Sets Throughout the Home

Front door handles and locks are often part of a bigger collection that makes it easy to match entry door hardware with the hardware of the rest of the interior doors that run throughout the home. Consider the use of each door when deciding whether keyed entry, passage, privacy, or door pull hardware makes the best option for every room and access door.

Once you select an overall style, finish, and brand for your entry door set, look at the rest of collection. From there, add the pieces you need to coordinate bedroom doors, closet doors, pantry doors, and bathroom doors throughout the home. Focus on those closest to the front entry to ensure things match and look orderly. The door hardware further into the house or on other floors can be fit with different coordinating styles as the designs change from room to room.

Match Remaining Home Hardware

Door handles aren't the only items that should coordinate. Cabinet hardware, door hinges, door knockers, door bells, and the other metallic elements throughout the home should all be in the same general style and finish to get a cohesive look out of a space. You can tie the look into door stops, mail slots, and subtle home hardware.

Once you find a hardware brand that works well in your home, you can use the same brand throughout the rest of the doors and decorative hardware in the home to keep things seamless. Consider writing the brand, collection, and finish down in a home design binder for reference when changing up metal elements in future years. Sometimes knowing and trusting the name brand of a door handle can go a long way when making a selection. 

Make the Best First Impression at the Door

A door entry set provides an initial level of security for the home while helping establish the overall style. With the right information, it is easy to discover which entry door set type, style, color, and size makes the best addition to a front door, side-access garage door, back door, or even interior door from the garage into the home. A commercial-grade entry door set makes a great choice for businesses as well.

When selecting between a few final options, make sure to look at the specific features and functions of the sets. The deciding factor may just be in the small offerings of the individual door handle sets.

The Best Hardware is Essential

The lock and hardware on your door play an essential role in keeping you, your family, and your home safe. Take some time to think about which options make the most sense with the doors you have and what your priorities are in your search. Choosing the right entry set can increase your security and privacy and add to the beauty of the doors in your home.