Stop Painting Your Doorknobs & Do This Instead For A Longer-Lasting Upgrade

If you're a fan of crafty projects, it can be tempting to paint your doorknobs using tips from TikTok, but if you want to help yourself in the long run, resist that temptation. While painting your doorknobs may seem like a quick, money-saving solution if these fixtures have degraded over time (or if you just aren't feeling the style anymore), you may encounter issues while doing so — the process isn't always as convenient as it seems on TikTok.

But if painting your doorknobs is stressful and time-consuming, then what should you do instead? Rather than cutting corners, we recommend treating yourself to new doorknobs, especially because the painted look won't last in the long term. Even if your paint job looks presentable at first, it may look messy and off-putting once the paint inevitably starts peeling off.

Generally speaking, it's a good idea to replace these fixtures for safety and functionality purposes once every seven years. Don't feel like you have to wait that long, though, if you're ready for a change and want to replace your outdated doorknobs for a fresh, new look. A doorknob with a distinctive design can transform the look of any door and can serve as an eye-catching change. Just remember not to be an impulsive shopper when searching for your new items — carefully consider the best option for your home before making your purchase.

Even if you find the most beautiful doorknob you've ever seen, you should make sure it's the right choice from a practicality and safety standpoint, too. When looking for an exterior or interior doorknob, how concerned are you about break-ins, and how much do you value an ultra-secure lock? A doorknob's grade signifies its security, so if you want to prioritize a knob that will prevent break-ins, look for a Grade 1, as this option's bump-proof design will give you the strongest protection. Grade 2 choices are the second-most trustworthy options for preventing burglaries, while a Grade 3 knob should do the job but won't offer advanced protection. Grade 3 isn't ideal for exterior doors but should typically be fine for doors inside the home.

Also, don't forget about aesthetics! If you want to avoid painting your doorknobs, consider which color and finish options you'll like in the long run, and think about which look will best complement your home. Will a futuristic chrome or an old-school bronze appear more attractive on your front (or interior) door? Alternatively, try an eye-catching look with brass doorknobs. Finally, read up on the installation process for your new fixture. As long as you pick a high-quality option, installing it will likely be less stressful than trying to paint your old one.