Your front door is the first point of entry to your home, making a statement about your property before guests even set foot inside. A door knocker is a functional and stylish element that adds a touch of flair and welcomes visitors. Therefore choosing the right door knocker is essential, elevating your entryway’s aesthetic while also reflecting your home’s overall design.
What’s the point of a door knocker?
Even if you primarily use a doorbell, it’s worth buying an attractive door knocker.
Firstly, you can use it if the doorbell breaks down. Secondly, having an ornate or interesting design is something that can add a touch of class to your home exterior.
Whether you’re looking to introduce character to your new build home or authenticity to a period property, the right door knocker is a small but mighty detail.
How to choose a front door knocker
1. Consider Your Door’s Style and Material
Take a cue from your door’s design, whether it’s traditional or modern, cottagecore or quiet luxury, For a classic hardwood door, opt for timeless designs like brass lionhead knockers or ornate ironwork. Modern composite doors may pair well with sleek, geometric shapes in chrome or nickel finishes.
2. Match Your Hardware
Create a cohesive look by choosing a door knocker that complements the finish of your existing door hardware, like your handle and letterbox. As well as any additional features such as door fanlights. This helps maintain a sense of visual harmony within your entryway. To get started, delve into how to choose a letterbox with our dedicated guide.
3. Functionality Matters
Is your door knocker purely decorative or do you want a loud and clear sound? Consider the practicality you need. A larger, heavier knocker will generally produce a more resonant sound. For enhanced functionality, choose a knocker with a built-in strike plate that amplifies the sound and protects the door’s finish.
4. Size is Key
Proportion is essential! Match the size to the scale of your door. Large doors (or grander double front doors) typically warrant bolder, more substantial knockers, while smaller doors look better with more delicate designs.
5. Express Your Style
A vast range of statement door knockers are available, allowing you to express your personality. Look for animal figures, nautical themes, classic ring knockers, hand-shaped knockers or even novelty shapes that reflect your hobbies or interests.
6. Embrace the Age of Your Home
If you live in a period property, choosing a design in keeping with the era of the house can add authentic charm. Opt for antique-style replicas in vintage finishes. Modern homes allow more freedom and a broader range of styles to explore.
7. Don’t Skimp On Quality
Invest in a high-quality door knocker that can withstand the elements and everyday use. Look for solid materials like brass, iron or bronze for long-lasting durability and a beautiful patina over time. Learn more about why quality matters when it comes to front door security and smart home technology for doors.
Antique door knockers with a vintage feel
Bonus tip
If you can’t find the perfect design, visit antique stores or salvage yards. You might find a one-of-a-kind piece that adds a touch of history and uniqueness to your entrance.
How do you measure for a replacement door knocker?
If you don’t have the old knocker, you’ll need to take two measurements on the door itself:
Centre of the Door
Locate the centre point of your door vertically. You can do this by measuring the height of the door and dividing it by two. Mark this point with a pencil.
Desired Height
Decide on the desired height for the new knocker, considering factors like door style and accessibility. Make another mark at this chosen height on the door, directly below the centre point mark.
If you do have the old knocker, measure the distance between the centre points of the mounting holes on the back of the knocker. This is the most crucial measurement, as it ensures the new knocker aligns with the existing holes in your door, minimizing the need for drilling new ones.
Can you put a door knocker on a UPVC door?
Yes, but take care to use screws designed for UPVC (these typically have wider threads and sharper points than standard screws). Before you buy door knockers online, consult your door’s manufacturer or warranty information to ensure installing a knocker won’t void the warranty.
What is the best height for a door knocker?
For solid doors with no features, the ideal height is typically between eye and shoulder level, around 1.5 meters (5 feet) from the ground. This allows for comfortable use by most people.
If your door has glass panels, placing the knocker at eye level might obstruct the view through the glass. In such cases, it’s best to install the knocker slightly lower, at chest or waist height, ensuring easy access for users of different heights.
The key is to find a height that provides easy accessibility and functionality while maintaining a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look on your door.
How to install a door knocker video tutorial
Where is the best place for a door knocker?
While the preferred placement can vary based on your door’s design, there are two main options for installing a door knocker:
Top centre of the door
This is the most common and generally recommended location; creating a visually balanced and classic look, especially on solid doors with a central panel. Placing your door knocker in the top centre ensures the sound resonates most effectively through the door. It also offers easy access for guests of all heights to use the knocker comfortably
Off-centre
If your entrance door has features like windows or panels that obstruct a central placement, you may need to install the knocker off-centre to avoid damaging those features. For a more unconventional aesthetic, you can opt for an off-centre placement, especially with modern or contemporary door styles.
However, make sure to consider optimal functionality and aesthetics. Don’t place the knocker too close to the edge of the door. Aim for a position that maintains a sense of visual balance on the overall door design. And make sure the chosen location is still easily reachable for people of different heights, particularly considering children and elderly visitors.
Make the ultimate first impression
Choosing a door knocker is a fun way to make a statement and enhance the visual appeal of your home. By following these tips and tricks, you’re sure to find a design that’s both practical and beautiful, offering a warm and elegant first impression to all who visit.
Browse our range of beautiful entrance doors. Find the best value front doors, back doors and external doors, made to last and designed to boost kerb appeal. Don’t miss out. Shop now.
