Description

A door knocker is one of the most beautifuland prominent pieces on the front door of a house and reflects alot of information to visitors about what to expect inside. Thesimple addition or replacement of an older knocker can completelytransform the entire appearance of your entryway and add newelegance to the exterior of any home. Although the popularity ofspecific designs changes over time, there are lovely patterns thatare always a classic and welcome addition to any entryway set.

Lions and Animals

Animal door knockers, lions especially, are a timeless patternfor most any architectural style. The dramatic designs offersomething unique to the home and can be coordinated with mostpre-existing door hardware. One of the most wonderful examples isshown below, a hand cast solid brass lion head door knocker.

Doctor's Door Knockers

This pattern may not be as well known today but at one point itwas a method of identifying the profession of the home owner forpotential clients. This design is now used on any home and offers abold example of a classic pattern. Sizes range from 6 inch to 8inches:

Traditional Door Knockers:

Sometimes simplicity is best if you are looking for a classicpattern that will not be a focal point on the door, merely used toaccent existing hardware. The traditional knocker is a basicdesign, most traditional utilizing a ring and plate installeddirectly to the door to prevent damage. These knockers are usuallyunadorned or with a simple roped pattern.

Mythological Door Knockers

Larger doors can support much larger and much more ornatedesigns. The use of Greek or Roman gods and goddesses is animpressive way to add a dramatic knocker to compliment the size ofthe door. Smaller knockers tend to appear inappropriate and awkwardon larger doors - bold patterns offer a wonderful way to balancethe size of the door with the size of the knocker.

Nature or Hobbies

A modern interpretation of door knockers offers a wide varietyof designs never before seen. This can personalize a door and makeit stand out even more. A whimsical touch would include flowersknockers, nautical themes (such as anchors), lizards, tennisrackets, etc. There really is no limit in this genre because theknocker is meant to reflect the homeowners' unique personality.

Installation FAQ

If you are installing a new door knocker the best choice is arear mounted knocker made from solid materials such as brass oriron. These will be more resistant to damage over time and offer awider option of intricate designs. Rear mounting does require thedoor to be drilled for installation but this prevents theft of theknocker and ensures it will not fall off or break away from thedoor.

If you are replacing an existing knocker it is important tomeasure the pre-existing holes and choose a new knocker carefully.This will include determining the center to center distance (spacebetween the holes) and selecting a knocker with this samemeasurement. By doing this there will not be a need to re-drill thedoor for a new knocker.

Choosing a knocker is a very personal experience and there is noright or wrong choices. Pay attention to size and choose a knockerthat will look appropriate on your door. If you are unsure it is agreat idea to cut out a piece of paper that is the same height andwidth of the knocker you are thinking of using and tape it againstthe door (actual shape does not need to be cut out). This will giveyou a frame of reference for what size you would like to use.

A knocker is a wonderful way to add new beauty to any door.Replace other old and worn hardware with beautiful replacementspieces including the door knob, deadbolt, kick plate, doorbell andmail slot. A complete entryway set can be created with a commontheme or finish. Ask questions and search for high qualitymaterials to ensure durability. The entryway of the home is themost prominent feature guests and homeowners will see and aworthwhile investment.