Honestly, I get where you’re coming from. I tried to keep the old brass knobs on my place for the “character,” but after fighting with a sticky lock in the rain, I was over it. Upgrading to a modern deadbolt was way less complicated than I thought—just a screwdriver and about 20 minutes. You can always keep the vintage stuff for cabinets or interior doors if you want that look without the headache. Sometimes practical wins out, and that’s totally fine.
Upgrading to a modern deadbolt was way less complicated than I thought—just a screwdriver and about 20 minutes.
That’s the thing—people always assume swapping out old hardware is some big ordeal, but most of the time it’s just a couple screws and you’re done. I get the love for vintage details, but when you’re standing in the rain, wrestling with a stubborn lock, “character” loses its charm real fast. I’ve seen folks keep the old knobs on closet doors or even repurpose them as hooks—keeps the vibe without the hassle. Honestly, security and convenience should win out on exterior doors, no question.
Totally get what you mean about vintage charm losing its appeal when you’re locked out in the rain. Swapping to a modern deadbolt is one of those quick wins that just makes life easier, and you can always keep those old knobs as quirky hooks or accents elsewhere. Love the idea of blending old and new—security doesn’t have to kill your style. Sometimes function really does have to come first, especially with exterior doors.
LOCKED OUT DRAMA—WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
- Been there, done that... nothing like standing in the rain, cursing at a stubborn old lock.
- Swapped to a keypad deadbolt last year—best $40 I spent. No more hiding keys under fake rocks.
- Kept the old glass knob for a towel hook. Looks cool, doesn’t betray me in bad weather.
- Honestly, I love vintage stuff but if it means less drama (and fewer locksmith bills), I’ll take the upgrade.
Honestly, I love vintage stuff but if it means less drama (and fewer locksmith bills), I’ll take the upgrade.
Can’t blame you there. I’ve seen way too many folks hang onto old locks for the “character,” but after the third time you’re stuck outside, it’s just not worth it. Keypad deadbolts are a game changer—plus, you can still keep the vintage vibe inside, like you did with the glass knob. Best of both worlds, really.
