Matching new hardware to old doors is always a bit of a puzzle, especially with those older brass finishes that have their own “patina.” I’ve had some luck with keyless locks that include a backup key slot—Schlage and Kwikset both make models like that. The hidden keyhole is usually under a sliding cover, so it doesn’t mess with the look too much. As for batteries, I’ve seen a few that use rechargeable packs, but honestly, I still stick with regular AAs since they’re easy to swap. Have you noticed any issues with the keypad buttons wearing down or getting sticky over time? That’s the one thing I’m always wary about.
Keypad buttons wearing out is my biggest gripe too—especially when you’ve got a house that’s seen more birthdays than your grandma. I put a Schlage on my 1920s front door last year, and while it blends in better than I expected (the “aged bronze” finish is surprisingly close to the original hardware), the buttons do feel a bit rubbery after a while. Not sticky yet, but I can see how they might get there if you’ve got kids or folks with sticky fingers around.
I’m with you on the AA batteries. Rechargeables sound fancy, but I’d rather not have to hunt for some weird proprietary pack when it dies at 11pm. At least with AAs, I can raid the TV remote in a pinch.
Honestly, the only thing that bugs me more than button wear is when the finish on new hardware just looks too shiny next to all that lovely old patina. Sometimes I wish they’d just make locks that look like they’ve already survived a few decades of Midwest winters...
Sometimes I wish they’d just make locks that look like they’ve already survived a few decades of Midwest winters...
Funny you mention that—on my last flip, I actually tried distressing the hardware a bit myself to get it closer to the door’s original look. Not perfect, but better than the “fresh from the factory” shine. Have you noticed if the Schlage finish holds up over time, or does it start to chip? I’ve had mixed results with bronze finishes in high-traffic spots.
- I’ve actually had Schlage’s aged bronze on my own front door for about three years now.
- In my experience, the finish holds up okay, but it does start to show wear around the handle where hands hit it most.
- Honestly, I kind of like the patina it develops—looks less “off the shelf” and more lived-in.
- On a client’s house, though, they weren’t thrilled when the edges started to lighten after a year or so.
- I’ve tried clear-coating hardware before, but that can mess with the feel... anyone else notice that?
Honestly, I kind of like the patina it develops—looks less “off the shelf” and more lived-in.
I’m with you there—the patina gives it some character, especially on older homes. That said, I’ve had a few clients who expected the finish to stay pristine and weren’t thrilled when it started to fade. Clear-coating can help, but I agree, it changes the texture and sometimes even makes the handle feel sticky in humid weather. I’ve found regular cleaning with a mild soap helps slow down the wear, but nothing really stops it completely. The keyless entry units seem to show wear a bit differently, too—more on the buttons than the handle itself.
