A Complete Guide to the Best Material for Door Handles

Choosing the right material for your door handles is an absolute must, not just for the aesthetics of your space but also for the longevity and functionality of the handles themselves. 

With so many options available, understanding the best material for door handles can make a significant difference in how they perform over time, especially in different environments. 

This guide is designed to walk you through the various materials used for door handles, highlighting their unique advantages and the most suitable applications for each. 

Whether you’re renovating your home, working on an interior design project, or simply updating your fixtures, knowing which materials are most durable, cost-effective, and stylish is key. 

We’ll cover everything from the sleek resilience of stainless steel to the classic charm of brass, meaning that you can make informed choices that meet both your practical needs and design preferences.  

1. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel door handles are a popular choice due to their exceptional durability and sleek, modern appearance. 

This material is well-known for its corrosion resistance, making it ideal for both interior and exterior use. 

Whether you’re fitting handles on a kitchen cabinet or an exterior door, stainless steel offers a reliable solution that stands the test of time.

Advantages of Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is highly durable, which means it can withstand daily wear and tear without showing signs of damage. 

This makes it perfect for high-traffic areas in your home or commercial properties. Additionally, its corrosion resistance is one of the key reasons it is often chosen for kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture is a common issue.

Maintenance is another significant advantage. Stainless steel handles require minimal upkeep—usually just a simple wipe with a damp cloth to keep them looking pristine. 

The material also complements a wide range of design styles, particularly contemporary and industrial interiors, thanks to its clean and polished finish.

Best Uses for Stainless Steel Handles

Stainless steel handles are particularly well-suited for exterior doors due to their excellent weather resistance. 

They are also ideal for areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where they can resist moisture and maintain their appearance over time. 

In addition, these handles are a favourite in modern and industrial-style designs, offering a sleek, minimalist look that improves the overall aesthetic. 

In high-traffic areas such as entryways, stainless steel handles provide the longevity and resilience needed to maintain their appearance and functionality for years.

2. Brass

Brass door handles are known for their classic and elegant appearance, making them a preferred choice for those who want to bring a touch of sophistication to their interiors. 

This material offers not only aesthetic appeal but also practical benefits, such as durability and natural antimicrobial properties, which are particularly useful in maintaining hygiene.

Advantages of Brass

One of the most notable features of brass is its timeless appeal. The warm, golden hue of brass door handles fits well with both traditional and modern interiors. 

In addition to its attractive look, brass is a durable material that can endure frequent use without losing its charm. 

Its natural resistance to corrosion makes brass handles suitable for both interior and exterior doors, providing long-lasting performance in various environments.

Brass also possesses naturally antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms on the handle’s surface. 

This quality makes brass an excellent choice for homes and businesses where hygiene is a priority. 

Furthermore, brass handles are easy to maintain; regular polishing can keep them looking new, preserving their shine over time. 

Best Uses for Brass Handles

These are particularly well-suited for traditional and vintage-style homes, where their classic look complements the overall design. 

They are also ideal for both interior and exterior doors, offering a combination of durability and elegance.  

These handles are commonly used in high-end residential and commercial properties, where their refined appearance adds value to the space. 

Additionally, brass handles are perfect for decorative applications, such as on statement doors or furniture, where their polished finish can stand out. 

3. Aluminium

Door handle materials like aluminium offer a blend of strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for a variety of applications. 

Aluminium is particularly valued for its lightweight nature, which does not compromise on durability. 

This makes it an ideal option for both residential and commercial spaces, especially where a modern and minimalist aesthetic is desired.

Advantages of Aluminium

Aluminium is known for being lightweight yet strong, which makes it easy to work with during installation and suitable for a range of door types. 

It is also highly resistant to corrosion and rust, allowing aluminium handles to maintain their appearance and functionality over time, even in environments prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or coastal areas.

One of the key benefits of aluminium is its versatility. The material can be easily shaped and customised into various designs, offering flexibility in both form and finish. 

Additionally, aluminium is generally more cost-effective compared to other metals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious projects without sacrificing quality.

Best Uses for Aluminium Handles

Aluminium handles are well-suited for modern and minimalist designs, where their clean lines and smooth finishes can complement contemporary interiors. 

They are also ideal for lightweight doors and cabinets, where their strength and ease of use are significant advantages. 

In commercial and office spaces, aluminium handles are commonly used for their durability and professional look. 

Moreover, aluminium’s resistance to corrosion makes it an excellent choice for coastal areas or other environments where exposure to the elements is a concern. 

4. Bronze

Bronze door handles are celebrated for their rich, warm appearance and unique character. This material develops a patina over time, adding depth to any space. 

Bronze is highly durable and resistant to wear, making it a favourite for both interior and exterior applications, especially in high-end residential and commercial properties.

Advantages of Bronze

Bronze offers a distinctive look that evolves as the material ages. 

The natural patina that forms on the surface gives bronze door handles a vintage feel, making them ideal for properties that aim to capture a sense of history or luxury. 

Beyond its aesthetic qualities, bronze is also known for its durability. It can withstand frequent use and is resistant to the elements, which is why it’s often chosen for exterior doors in heritage properties or premium developments.

One of the practical benefits of bronze is its low maintenance. 

While the patina itself is part of the charm, bronze handles require minimal polishing to keep them looking their best. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want a sophisticated look without the need for constant upkeep.

Best Uses for Bronze Handles

Bronze door handles are particularly well-suited for historic and heritage properties, where their aged appearance adds to the overall authenticity of the design. 

They are also ideal for both interior and exterior doors, providing a durable option that can handle the demands of daily use. 

In high-end residential and commercial projects, bronze handles are often chosen for their luxurious appeal. 

Additionally, they are perfect for decorative and statement pieces, where their unique finish can truly stand out.

5. Zinc Alloy

Zinc alloy is a versatile and cost-effective material, making it a popular choice for a wide range of door handles.

 It offers good corrosion resistance and can be easily cast into various shapes and designs, providing flexibility in both form and finish. 

This makes zinc alloy an excellent option for both residential and commercial settings where budget and style are major considerations.

Advantages of Zinc Alloy

One of the primary benefits of zinc alloy is its affordability. It provides a cost-effective alternative to more expensive metals while still offering solid performance in terms of durability and appearance. 

Zinc alloy is resistant to corrosion, making it a suitable choice for interior applications where it may be exposed to moisture. The material’s ability to be easily cast into different shapes also means it can be used to create a wide variety of designs, from simple to intricate.

Zinc alloy handles can be plated with different finishes, allowing for a customised look that can mimic more expensive materials like brass or chrome. This versatility makes zinc alloy an attractive option for projects that require a balance of style and cost.

Best Uses for Zinc Alloy Handles

Zinc alloy handles are ideal for budget-friendly projects where cost is a significant factor but quality cannot be compromised. 

They are particularly well-suited for interior doors and furniture, offering a reliable and stylish option that doesn’t break the bank. 

In both residential and commercial settings, zinc alloy handles are commonly used for their versatility and the wide range of finishes available. 

They are also perfect for decorative applications, where the ability to customise the finish allows for a personalised touch.

6. Iron

Iron is a material that has been used for centuries, valued for its strength and durability. 

Iron door handles bring a rustic, traditional look to any space, making them a popular choice for homes with a farmhouse or period style. Iron is also highly resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Advantages of Iron

Iron is known for its exceptional strength, making it a reliable choice for doors that see frequent use or need to withstand significant force. 

This durability means that iron handles can last for many years without losing their functionality or appearance. 

Additionally, iron can be crafted into intricate designs, allowing for a level of detail and craftsmanship that adds a unique character to each handle.

Iron handles are particularly resistant to wear and tear, which is why they are often used in environments where durability is a priority. 

While iron does require some maintenance to prevent rust, particularly in outdoor settings, the effort is often worth it for those seeking a strong and long-lasting option.

Best Uses for Iron Handles

Iron handles are particularly well-suited for rustic and farmhouse-style homes, where their traditional look complements the overall aesthetic. 

They are also ideal for heavy wooden doors, providing the strength needed to support larger and heavier door structures. In historic and period properties, iron handles are often chosen for their authentic appearance and durability. 

Additionally, they are perfect for decorative gates and outdoor furniture, where their strength and intricate designs can truly shine.

7. Glass and Crystal

Glass and crystal door handles are often chosen for their elegant and luxurious appearance. These materials can add a touch of sophistication to any interior, reflecting light beautifully and creating a sense of refinement. 

Available in various shapes, colours, and designs, glass and crystal handles are perfect for those looking to make a statement with their door hardware.

Advantages of Glass and Crystal

Glass and crystal handles offer a distinct, high-end look that is hard to replicate with other materials. 

The way these materials catch and reflect light can brighten up a room, adding a sense of space and elegance. 

Glass and crystal are also available in a wide range of designs, from simple, clear knobs to more intricate, coloured options, making them highly versatile in terms of style.

One of the key benefits of choosing glass or crystal is the luxurious feel they bring to a space. 

These materials are often associated with high-end interiors, and their presence can elevate the overall design of a room. While they require careful handling to avoid chips or cracks, the visual impact of glass and crystal handles is undeniable.

Best Uses for Glass and Crystal Handles

Glass and crystal handles are ideal for high-end residential projects where a touch of luxury is desired. 

They are particularly well-suited for interior doors and cabinets, where their delicate appearance can be showcased without the risk of exposure to harsh elements. 

These handles are also commonly used in luxury hotels and commercial spaces, where their sophisticated look can contribute to an upscale atmosphere. 

For those looking to create a statement piece, glass and crystal handles are perfect for adding a unique and elegant touch to furniture and doors.

8. Porcelain and Ceramic

Porcelain and ceramic door handles bring a classic charm and smooth, polished finish to any space. 

Known for their durability and resistance to scratches, these materials are ideal for creating elegant and vintage-inspired interiors. 

Available in a variety of colours and patterns, porcelain and ceramic handles can add a distinctive touch to your doors and furniture.

Advantages of Porcelain and Ceramic

Porcelain and ceramic handles are prized for their smooth, glossy finish, which adds a refined look to any room. 

These materials are highly durable, resisting scratches and wear, which makes them a practical choice for busy areas like kitchens and bathrooms. 

The ease of cleaning is another advantage; a simple wipe is usually all that’s needed to maintain their pristine appearance.

Porcelain and ceramic handles also offer a wide range of design possibilities. Whether you’re looking for a classic white finish or a more colourful, patterned option, these materials can be customised to fit various styles. 

This versatility makes porcelain and ceramic handles suitable for both traditional and contemporary settings.

Best Uses for Porcelain and Ceramic Handles

Porcelain and ceramic handles are particularly well-suited for vintage and traditional interiors, where their classic look complements the overall design. 

They are ideal for use on cabinets and furniture, providing a decorative touch that is both functional and stylish. In kitchens and bathrooms, porcelain and ceramic handles are a popular choice due to their resistance to moisture and ease of maintenance. 

For those looking to add a unique and personalised element to their home, these materials offer endless possibilities in terms of colour and design.

9. Comparative Analysis

In this section, we’ll compare the different materials discussed to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs. We’ll look at key factors such as durability, maintenance, cost, and aesthetics to provide a clearer picture of which material might be best for your door handles.

Durability and Maintenance

When it comes to durability, stainless steel and iron are among the strongest materials, both capable of withstanding significant wear and tear. 

Stainless steel, in particular, is highly resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms. Bronze is also very durable and develops a patina over time that can protect the material from further wear, while brass is robust but requires regular polishing to maintain its appearance.

Aluminium offers good durability while being lightweight, which can be advantageous for certain applications. Zinc alloy is more affordable but still provides decent durability and is easy to shape into various designs. 

Glass and crystal handles, while elegant, require more careful handling to avoid chips or cracks. Porcelain and ceramic handles are durable and resistant to scratches, but they can be prone to chipping if not handled carefully.

In terms of maintenance, stainless steel and aluminium are low-maintenance options, requiring just a simple wipe to keep them clean. 

Brass and bronze may require more upkeep, particularly polishing, to maintain their appearance. Iron needs protection from rust, especially if used outdoors, while glass, crystal, porcelain, and ceramic require careful cleaning to avoid damage.

Cost and Aesthetics

Cost is often a determining factor when choosing door handle materials. Zinc alloy is typically the most cost-effective option, offering good performance at a lower price point. 

Aluminium is also relatively affordable and is ideal for projects with budget constraints. Stainless steel and brass tend to be more expensive but offer higher durability and a sleek or classic appearance. 

Bronze is generally on the higher end of the price spectrum due to its unique patina and durability.

Glass and crystal handles are often associated with luxury and, therefore, come at a higher price. 

Similarly, porcelain and ceramic handles can vary in price depending on their design and finish, with more intricate patterns or colours costing more.

In terms of aesthetics, glass, crystal, and porcelain offer a range of decorative possibilities, making them ideal for those looking to add a unique touch to their interiors. 

Brass and bronze provide a more traditional, elegant look, while stainless steel and aluminium are perfect for modern and minimalist designs.

Choosing the right material for your door handles is used for functionality and style. 

Whether you prefer the durability of stainless steel, the elegance of brass, or the unique character of bronze, each material offers distinct benefits. 

Consider your needs—whether it's affordability with zinc alloy and aluminium or a luxurious touch with glass, crystal, porcelain, and ceramic. 

Evaluate these factors carefully to find the perfect fit for your project.

For more guidance or to explore our range, feel free to contact us.