For many of us, the allure of a vibrant, thriving garden is a constant companion, a peaceful escape we long to cultivate. Whether you’re dreaming of a bountiful vegetable patch or a riot of colorful blooms, the foundation of any successful garden often starts with smart design and sturdy components.
This is where the right garden structures can truly transform your outdoor space. Consider how raised garden beds not only offer better drainage and soil control but also create a defined, aesthetically pleasing focal point. They are a fantastic way to tackle challenging terrain or simply bring your gardening to a more accessible height.
Achieving that dream garden is within reach when you have the right elements in place, creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional. These essential additions can simplify your planting, improve your harvest, and bring a sense of accomplishment to your outdoor endeavors. We’ve gathered the best options to help you grow with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Explore modern entry door locks in sleek matte black, offering enhanced security with Smartkey systems and versatile installation.
- Discover aged bronze handlesets for a classic cottage charm, featuring decorative Georgian knobs and durable construction.
- Consider satin nickel handlesets for a timeless aesthetic, ideal for garden gates or side entrances, complementing various exterior styles.
- Ensure compatibility with existing deadbolts and maintain finishes through regular cleaning for optimal performance and appearance.
- These exterior door hardware options balance security, functionality, and sophisticated design to enhance your home’s entryway appeal.
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| Product | Kwikset Casey Entry Door Handle with Lock and Key, Secure Keyed Reversible Lever Exterior, For Front Entrance and Bedrooms, Matte Black , Pick Resistant Smartkey Rekey Security and Microban Kwikset | Schlage FE285 CAM 716 GEO Camelot Front Entry Handleset with Georgian Knob, Lower Half Grip, Aged Bronze SCHLAGE | Kwikset San Clemente Front Door Handle No Lock, Entry Handleset Exterior with Interior Reversible Handed Lever, Non-Locking, Matte Black, Deadbolt Not Included, with Microban Protection Kwikset |
| Link | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Material | Metal | Metal | Metal |
| Size/Capacity | Fits standard doors 1-3/8″ to 1-3/4″ thick; Latch backset adjusts to 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″ | Fits doors 1-5/8″ to 1-3/4″ thick; Latch backset 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″ | Fits standard doors 1-3/8″ to 1-3/4″ thick; Latch backset adjusts from 2-3/8″ to 2-3/4″ |
| Key Features |
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| Depth/Height | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Best For | Front entrance and bedrooms | Entry doors requiring security and curb appeal | Front doors |
1. Smart Black Entry Door Lock
Elevate your home’s entrance with a touch of modern refinement, where clean lines meet enduring function. This piece offers a sleek, matte black finish that beautifully complements the texture of a natural stone path, creating a sophisticated welcome that feels both secure and stylish. The cool metal provides a pleasing tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway, grounding the space with an understated elegance.
This component embraces a modern simplicity design philosophy, focusing on clean aesthetics and purposeful utility. Its dark, sophisticated hue draws the eye, promising a sense of calm and order. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, enhancing the overall mood of your outdoor sanctuary and inviting a sense of peace.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable, pick-resistant Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Kwikset Casey Entry Door Handle with Lock and Key, Secure Keyed Reversible Lever Exterior, For Front Entrance and Bedrooms, Matte Black , Pick Resistant…
2. Aged Bronze Entry Handleset Charm
This antique bronze handleset bestows a warm welcoming aura onto your garden path.
Embrace a touch of classic cottage charm with this piece, its aged bronze finish evoking a sense of timeless appeal. The intricate Georgian knob design adds a decorative flourish, beautifully complementing the rich texture of a weathered wooden border. Imagine stepping through your gate, the tactile coolness of the metal a subtle yet grounding sensation, enhancing the overall mood of tranquil seclusion and inviting a feeling of enduring grace.
Pros
This entry hardware offers a beautiful aged bronze finish that develops a unique patina over time, enhancing its decorative appeal. Its robust construction ensures durability, and the Georgian knob design provides an ergonomic grip for ease of use.
Cons
As an outdoor product, the aged bronze finish may require occasional cleaning to maintain its luster in varying weather conditions. Compatibility with existing door preparations should be verified prior to installation for a seamless fit.
Best for: Adding a decorative and inviting touch to traditional or cottage-style garden entrances.
3. Matte Black Entry Handleset
This streamlined entry handleset anchors your porch with its striking matte black finish.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. This piece beautifully complements a gravel path, its dark, sophisticated hue drawing the eye and promising understated elegance. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, grounding the space with a tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Kwikset San Clemente Front Door Handle No Lock, Entry Handleset Exterior with Interior Reversible Handed Lever, Non-Locking, Matte Black, Deadbolt Not…
4. Sleek Black Door Handle Entry
A striking matte black statement piece anchors your porch.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. This component beautifully complements a gravel path, its dark, sophisticated hue drawing the eye and promising understated elegance. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, grounding the space with a tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Brightify Black Front Door Handle, Modern Exterior Door Handle with Passage Lever, Front Entry Door Handle No Lock, Reversible for Left & Right Hand Door,…
5. Matte Black Entry Handleset
Anchoring your garden gate, this striking piece offers a modern silhouette.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. This component beautifully complements a gravel path, its dark, sophisticated hue drawing the eye and promising understated elegance. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, grounding the space with a tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Schlage FE285 CEN 622 LAT CEN Century Front Entry Handleset with Latitude Lever, Lower Half Grip, Matte Black
6. Matte Black Door Lock
Framing your garden gate, this piece introduces a modern coastal vibe.
Embrace a streamlined aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. This component beautifully complements a pea stone path, its dark, sophisticated hue drawing the eye and promising understated elegance. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, grounding the space with a tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
7. Modern Black Front Door Handle
This striking piece anchors your porch with its modern silhouette.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. This component beautifully complements a gravel path, its dark, sophisticated hue drawing the eye and promising understated elegance. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, grounding the space with a tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
RAFECIEE Black Front Door Handle No Lock, Modern Exterior Door Handle with Passage Lever, Reversible for Left & Right Hand Door, Front Door Handleset
8. Keyless Entry Smart Door Lock
This smart lock welcomes guests with its sophisticated matte black finish.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. This component beautifully complements a gravel path, its dark, sophisticated hue drawing the eye and promising understated elegance. Imagine stepping out to greet the day, feeling a quiet confidence in the seamless integration of security and sophisticated design, grounding the space with a tactile contrast to the varied surfaces of your entryway.
Pros
This entryway hardware boasts a durable matte black finish for lasting visual appeal and includes a reliable Smartkey security system for enhanced peace of mind. Its reversible lever design offers versatile installation options, adapting to the unique needs of your front door or interior spaces.
Cons
While highly adaptable, ensuring precise compatibility with existing deadbolt mechanisms is key for a smooth installation process. Regular cleaning to maintain the matte finish’s pristine appearance is advisable, particularly in environments prone to dust or moisture.
Best for: Enhancing the security and modern aesthetic of a home’s primary entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Zowill Keyless Entry Door Lock with 2 Lever Handles, Zowill Electronic Keypad Deadbolt, Auto-Locking, Anti-Peeping Password, Digital Code Door Lock, Front…
9. Satin Nickel Entry Handleset
Brilliant satin nickel gleams alongside your garden stone pathway. This piece offers a sophisticated foundation, its cool metallic sheen providing a grounding contrast to the earthy textures of your entryway. Consider it as a refined anchor for your garden gate, setting a tone of quiet elegance.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. Its subtle reflectivity catches the light beautifully, promising an understated elegance that elevates your outdoor space. Imagine stepping through your gate, the tactile coolness a subtle yet grounding sensation, enhancing the overall mood of tranquil seclusion.
Pros
The satin nickel finish offers a timeless appeal and complements a wide range of exterior styles. Its non-locking, reversible lever design ensures ease of use and versatile installation for any door configuration.
Cons
As this is an exterior handleset without a locking mechanism, it is intended for decorative purposes or to complement an existing deadbolt. Regular cleaning may be needed to maintain the luster of the satin nickel finish in outdoor environments.
Best for: Enhancing the welcoming aesthetic of a garden gate or side entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Kwikset Prescott Front Door Handle No Lock, Entry Handleset Exterior with Interior Reversible Handed Lever, Non-Locking, Satin Nickel, Deadbolt Not Included,…
10. Secure Entry Door Lock
Brilliant satin nickel gleams alongside your garden stone pathway. This piece offers a sophisticated foundation, its cool metallic sheen providing a grounding contrast to the earthy textures of your entryway. Consider it as a refined anchor for your garden gate, setting a tone of quiet elegance.
Embrace a modern simplicity aesthetic where clean lines define purposeful utility, creating a sense of calm order. Its subtle reflectivity catches the light beautifully, promising an understated elegance that elevates your outdoor space. Imagine stepping through your gate, the tactile coolness a subtle yet grounding sensation, enhancing the overall mood of tranquil seclusion.
Pros
The satin nickel finish offers a timeless appeal and complements a wide range of exterior styles. Its non-locking, reversible lever design ensures ease of use and versatile installation for any door configuration.
Cons
As this is an exterior handleset without a locking mechanism, it is intended for decorative purposes or to complement an existing deadbolt. Regular cleaning may be needed to maintain the luster of the satin nickel finish in outdoor environments.
Best for: Enhancing the welcoming aesthetic of a garden gate or side entrance.
View this product’s details and availability on Amazon.
Kwikset Tylo Entry Door Knob with Lock and Key, Secure Keyed Handle Exterior, Front Entrance and Bedroom, Satin Nickel, Pick Resistant SmartKey Rekey…
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FAQs
Q: What materials are typically used for exterior door handles?
A: Exterior door handles are commonly made from durable materials like brass, stainless steel, wrought iron, or aluminum, chosen for their strength and resistance to weathering.
Q: How do I determine the correct size for an exterior door handle?
A: Measure the distance from the center of the spindle hole to the edge of the door and from the center of the spindle hole to the center of the deadbolt hole. Standard backsets are usually 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches.
Q: Are exterior door handles affected by extreme heat or cold?
A: High-quality exterior door handles are designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures, but extreme heat can make metal handles hot to the touch, and extreme cold can make them feel very cold.
Q: How do I prevent rust and corrosion on my exterior door handles?
A: Opt for corrosion-resistant materials like solid brass or stainless steel. Regular cleaning and applying a protective coating or wax can further prevent rust and maintain the finish of exterior door handles.
Q: Do exterior door handles require special installation or lining?
A: Most exterior door handles are designed for straightforward installation with standard tools. No special lining is typically required, though a good quality gasket or seal around the mounting points can enhance weatherproofing.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of an exterior door handle?
A: With proper care and material selection, a quality exterior door handle can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or even longer, depending on the climate and usage.
Q: Are there specific care instructions for different exterior door handle finishes?
A: Yes, for example, polished brass handles can be cleaned with a mild soap and water, while oil-rubbed bronze finishes often require specific care products to maintain their appearance. Always check manufacturer guidelines for your specific exterior door handle finish.
Top 10 Exterior Door Handles
Conclusion
Entryway hardware significantly impacts a home’s first impression, blending security with aesthetic appeal. Options range from sleek, modern matte black locks and handlesets designed for enhanced security to charming aged bronze handlesets that evoke a traditional feel. Durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with existing mechanisms are key considerations for any choice. Choose a matte black option for modern security; opt for aged bronze for classic charm; select satin nickel for a timeless look.
Recommended Products
- Smart Black Entry Door Lock – Features a durable matte black finish and a reliable, pick-resistant Smartkey security system.
- Aged Bronze Entry Handleset Charm – Offers a unique patina over time with robust construction and an ergonomic Georgian knob design.
- Satin Nickel Entry Handleset – Provides a timeless appeal with a non-locking, reversible lever for versatile installation.
Ethan Carter is an auto enthusiast and reviewer with over 8 years of experience helping drivers upgrade and personalize their vehicles. He believes your car should be a confident extension of your lifestyle, blending performance, comfort, and style. Through AutoGearReview, Ethan shares practical tips, honest reviews, and fresh insights on everything from performance parts and interior upgrades to exterior accessories and driving gear. His mission is to inspire smarter, bolder choices for every ride.