Accessories

• How to choose the right door
• Exterior doors
• Internal doors
• Accessories
• Useful contacts

HANDLES AND HINGES
Front door detail The current trend is for plain, brushed stainless-steel knockers, letterplates and numbers. Try SDS London or Architectural Components. For an alternative to metal house numbers, try a contemporary Perspex or stainless-steel plaque by Abode Plaques.
Multi-textured handles For internal doors, HAF Designs and Turnstyle Designs have unusual handles combining sleek metals such as steel and bronze with wood and stitched leather details. Holloways of Ludlow is a good source for traditional knobs, knockers and locks. B&Q supplies a collection of good-value, contemporary and traditional door handles

DECORATIVE TOUCHES
Use decorative film for a quick, modern update on glass panels. It can be cut to provide interesting patterns, words or numbers. ‘The opaque finish of frosted film gives privacy while still allowing light through, and really makes your door stand out,’ says Karen Lansdown, co-founder of decorative film company Brume.

REPAIR OR REPLACE?
‘Doors are key to the energy conservation, security and aesthetics of your home,' says Mark Roberts, product manager for Jeld-Wen. Consider its condition – if moisture has entered the door, it may have caused it to expand, discolour and crack. A carpenter can assess whether it has weakened the door beyond repair, or whether a sand, varnish (or paint) and re-alignment can sort it. A good door also helps energy efficiency: if there is a draught, it may need to be re-aligned or a frame improved, or a weatherstrip at the top or bottom might help. Ensure glass is double-glazed and fitted well.

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