Door Knockers

Door knockers combine curb appeal, durability, and a satisfying knock that welcomes guests and alerts you without wires or batteries. Whether you prefer a classic lion head, a ring profile, a Victorian urn, or a clean contemporary bar, the right piece of front door hardware can set the tone for your entryway and handle years of weather. A well-chosen door knocker doubles as a doorbell backup during outages and offers a tactile, low-maintenance touch that complements any door style.

Materials and finishes matter. Solid brass door knockers offer weighty feel, crisp sound, and long-term corrosion resistance; unlacquered brass will develop a living patina, while polished brass, satin nickel, chrome, black powder coat, and oil-rubbed bronze provide distinct looks. Stainless steel (304 or 316 for coastal areas) resists rust in harsh climates. Bronze and cast iron suit traditional facades. Look for weather-resistant fasteners, through-bolts instead of short wood screws, and an interior strike plate to protect the door and improve tone.

To choose the right front door knocker, match size to door scale (6–8 inch knockers fit most standard entries; oversized pieces suit tall or double doors). Confirm door thickness and the manufacturer’s screw spacing so the hardware seats flush. Typical mounting height is 54–60 inches from the floor to the center. Use the included template, drill clean pilot holes, add a bead of exterior-grade sealant to prevent moisture ingress, and tighten evenly. For privacy, pair a knocker with an integrated viewer or a separate door viewer.

Maintenance is simple: wipe with soapy water, avoid harsh chemicals, polish lacquered finishes, and wax unlacquered brass to slow patina. Whether you want a modern door knocker, an antique reproduction, a brass door knocker, or a black lion head door knocker, this hardware boosts curb appeal, works during power outages, and installs with tools.