Door Hardware

Top Door Hardware Picks in the US: Where to Buy, What to Choose, and How to Install

Door hardware might seem like small details, but it’s the jewelry and safety system of your home—knobs, locks, thresholds, and closers all shape how a house looks and how it performs. Whether you’re swapping out a tired knob, upgrading to a smart deadbolt, or installing a barn door with a 40-inch track, knowing where to shop and what to look for makes the difference between a weekend project and a long, frustrating afternoon. In this guide I’ll walk you through top U.S. retailers, standout product types (including items like Grandeur knobs, LCN door closers, and 72-inch thresholds), and practical buying and installation tips that save time and money.

Why Door Hardware Matters More Than You Think

Think about the last handshake you had—door hardware is like that first impression for your home. It affects curb appeal, energy efficiency, and security. A solid deadbolt keeps would-be intruders out, a tight threshold keeps drafts at bay, and a smoothly sliding barn door can transform a room’s flow. Investing in the right hardware pays off in comfort, safety, and resale value.

Where to Buy Door Hardware in the US

There are several reliable places to shop for door hardware depending on your priorities: budget, style, or professional-grade components. Big-box retailers like Walmart, Home Depot, and Lowe’s offer wide selections for everyday homeowners, while specialty suppliers and online marketplaces provide premium brands and hard-to-find items. Knowing what each retailer specializes in helps you strike the right balance between price and performance.

Walmart — Value and Accessible Selection

Walmart is a go-to for many homeowners looking for affordable and dependable hardware. If you want popular brands and quick in-store pickup, Walmart stocks a range of knobs, deadbolts, and entry-level accessories. You’ll also find specific items like Grandeur brand knobs and basic threshold pieces. If convenience and cost are top priorities, Walmart often provides the fastest route to a replacement part or a basic upgrade.

Home Depot — Depth for DIY and Pros

Home Depot blends retail convenience with a pro-focused selection. You’ll find heavy-duty closers, commercial-grade exit devices, and a wide variety of finishes from classic brass to matte black. Home Depot is great when you need a broader range of sizes—like a 72-inch threshold—or specialized industrial products. Their in-store experts and online how-to guides make complex installs more approachable.

Lowe’s — Style and Service for Home Projects

Lowe’s offers curated style options and installation services that appeal to DIYers who want a polished outcome. From decorative knobs to smart locks and barn door kits, Lowe’s makes it easy to match hardware to a room’s aesthetic. If you prefer having an installation option available, check Lowe’s services when planning a larger upgrade like multipoint deadbolt installations or commercial-grade door closers.

Specialty Retailers and Online Marketplaces

For brands like Grandeur and LCN, or for unique barn door hardware kits (for example, a 40-inch T-shape hanger kit), specialty suppliers and online marketplaces such as Build.com, Amazon, and manufacturer websites offer the deepest selections. These outlets are ideal when you need a particular model, finish, or a commercial-grade device that big-box stores might not carry.

Key Door Hardware Types and When to Choose Them

Understanding the main categories of door hardware helps you select the right pieces without overbuying. Let’s break down the most common types and their typical use cases.

Door Knobs and Levers

Knobs and levers are the face of your door. Knobs like those from Grandeur come in decorative profiles with solid-brass construction for long life and a tactile feel. Choose knobs for traditional rooms and levers for accessibility—levers are easier to operate if you’re carrying groceries or have mobility concerns.

Deadbolts and Smart Locks

Deadbolts are the core of entryway security. Look for ANSI Grade 1 or 2 ratings for strong protection. Smart locks add convenience—remote locking, guest codes, and activity logs—without sacrificing security if chosen carefully. Match the deadbolt backset and bore size to your existing door, typically 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches from edge to center.

Door Closers and Exit Devices

Door closers like the LCN 2033 series provide controlled closing force for heavy or commercial doors. These concealed overhead springs and hold-open options ensure doors close quietly and securely. Exit devices (panic bars) belong in commercial settings where code requires quick egress. For home use, an overhead closer is useful for garage entry doors or heavy front doors that need a controlled closing action.

Thresholds and Weatherstripping

Thresholds seal the gap under doors and reduce drafts. A typical aluminum threshold might be 72 inches long and 3-3/4 inches wide for double doors or wide patio openings. Choose thresholds and door sweeps that match the floor height and the amount of foot traffic. Good weatherstripping improves energy efficiency significantly, like adding an insulated threshold to slow down heating and cooling loss.

Barn Door Hardware and Sliding Systems

Barn doors add style and functionality in tight spaces. Kits like a 40-inch T-shape hanger provide smooth gliding on a track and can handle interior doors up to a certain weight. Measure your opening and plan for track overhang—typically 1 foot to 2 feet beyond the door width—to ensure full clearance when the door is open.

Spotlight Products to Know

Let’s highlight a few examples you might encounter while shopping—these represent common quality tiers and use-cases found at retailers across the US.

Grandeur Decorative Knobs

Grandeur knobs—available in finishes like brass and gray—offer solid-brass roses and classic silhouettes. These are great when you want a finish that patinates gracefully over time and hardware that feels substantial in the hand. They’re frequently sold through major retailers and specialty shops.

LCN Overhead Concealed Door Closer

The LCN 2033 series is a concealed overhead closer with a spring mechanism sized for medium-weight doors—often listed as Size 3. These closers provide durability for high-use doors and come in finishes like dark bronze. For homeowners converting a heavy entry to a safer, self-closing door, a closer like this is a pro-level solution.

National Guard / Aluminum Thresholds

Aluminum thresholds measuring 72 inches long and about 3-3/4 inches wide are commonly used for wide openings. Durable and corrosion-resistant, they serve well for exterior doors, sliding patio entries, and garage transitions. Match the threshold height to flooring to prevent tripping while keeping the seal tight.

Barn Door Kits (40-inch Track Options)

Barn door kits with a 40-inch T-shape hanger are popular for interior sliding doors. They combine aesthetics and function—smooth rolling, quiet operation, and a modern industrial look. Ensure the kit’s weight rating matches the door slab and plan for proper mounting clearance above the opening.

How to Choose the Right Finish and Style

Finish choices—brass, satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black—define the personality of a room. Brass adds warmth and a traditional touch, while matte black brings modern contrast. Consider the finishes of your lighting and plumbing fixtures for a cohesive look. If you can’t match perfectly, balance using complementary tones across a room rather than matching every single piece exactly.

Measuring and Compatibility Checklist

Before ordering, measure carefully. Common measurements to confirm are bore hole diameter (often 2-1/8 inches), backset (2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches), door thickness (most hardware fits 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inch doors), and threshold length (e.g., 72 inches). Check door swing direction and whether a left-hand or right-hand closer is required. These details prevent returns and install delays.

Tools and Parts You’ll Likely Need

A basic toolkit for door hardware includes a screwdriver set, drill with 1/8-inch to 1/2-inch bits, chisel, measuring tape, and a level. For thresholds and heavy closers you may need a drill bit for masonry or a stud finder for secure mounting. If your project involves electrical components (smart locks), add a voltage tester and wire connectors to your list.

Installation Tips That Make the Job Easier

Start with the right preparation: read instructions from the manufacturer, pre-fit hardware on a spare board if possible, and mark screw locations clearly. When installing heavy overhead closers, use a helper or a temporary support to hold the closer while attaching it. For barn door tracks, double-check that the header board can support the load or add blocking behind the drywall.

When to Call a Pro

If you’re working with metal frame doors, fire-rated doors, or commercial exit hardware, hire a licensed locksmith or contractor. Complex situations—like retrofitting a 3-inch-thick modern door for an antique lockset—are best handled by professionals to meet local codes and ensure proper function.

Budgeting and Value: Where to Save and Where to Spend

You don’t have to break the bank to get durable, attractive hardware. Save on decorative knobs and levers from big-box stores when you’re matching a style. Spend more on critical security and longevity items: a Grade 1 deadbolt, a quality overhead closer for heavy doors, or a robust threshold for exterior entries. The right balance protects your investment and reduces the need for early replacements.

Final Thoughts: Make Every Door Count

Updating door hardware is one of the most cost-effective ways to refresh your home’s style and security. From shopping at Walmart for quick, economical options to sourcing professional-grade closers and thresholds from specialty suppliers, there are solutions for every project. With the right measurements, a clear plan, and the proper tools, you’ll have doors that look great and perform reliably for years.

Conclusion: Upgrade your doors with intent—pick hardware that matches the function of the door, the style of the home, and the level of security you need. Whether you’re replacing a worn knob, installing a 72-inch threshold, or fitting a barn door with a 40-inch T-hanger, the right choice makes a noticeable difference in everyday life.