Residential Hardware Choices

Most locksmith shops stock a limited variety of residential hardware. The stock will probably range from locks similar to the common Kwikset Tylo knobs in bright brass, Schlage F-Series knobs and levers (also in bright brass) and some bright brass deadbolts. Not much of choice, is this?

The most common residential hardware sells, but why not offer more choices to your customer? The different manufacturers of residential hardware make more products available today. The fact is most people will make their residential hardware buying decision based on what you show them or what they see in your showroom.

To be different, scout out the local big box stores and make a list of products they have on display. Choose a group of products that they don't offer. We all know you've got them beat on service. Sell a package of product and service that makes you stand out as the Security Professional that you are!

This fact bolsters the argument expressed in recent Locksmith Ledger articles in favor of stocking your showroom with mounted samples and display boards. The wider the choice of hardware, the better the chance you have of having a product the customer wants to purchase. In addition, there is a good chance of upselling to a better looking and/or higher level of security. By showing your customer new knob, lever and entry handle styles and suggesting alternate finishes, you may sell additional hardware.

For example, if the customer likes the antique nickel finish on a new entry handle for the front entry, you may ask them about other doors in the same room, or even throughout the residence. If they have closet, bedroom or bathroom doors that are off the entry area, they may decide to upgrade that hardware as well.

Another consideration is increased security. Upgrading to better hardware can be accomplished in a number of ways, but to be able to inform your customer, you need to keep informed of what is available.

Following is a review of what some of the major door hardware manufacturers have been working on to offer your residential customers an expanded choice of hardware:

DEXTER
The Dexter name has been synonymous with residential hardware for more than 50 years. Over the course of time, the company was sold to Master Lock Company and was eventually purchased by Ingersoll-Rand. All packaging and advertising now states "Dexter by Schlage." The other big difference is that all Dexter products are supplied in the Schlage 'C' keyway. Although the key blank retains the earlier bow design, the keyway is not compatible with older Dexter hardware.

The line includes JD-Series deadbolts, JH-Series handlesets, J-Series knobs and levers, and a group of Builder Basics. The Basics group includes door stops, handrail brackets, pocket door locks, cabinet hardware, flush & surface bolts, door viewers, window sash locks, door knockers, house numbers and hinges.

All Dexter by Schlage locks provide dependable security that exceeds all ANSI/BHMA Grade 3 standards. They are produced to the same specifications as other Schlage locks. Dexter locks can be keyed to Schlage locks for convenience and can also work with Schlage's Residential Construction Keying Systems. Available in six standard finishes including bright brass, antique brass, satin nickel, antique pewter, bright chrome and satin stainless, they are consistent in finish appearance with other Schlage hardware. This allows a customer to mix and still match.

The two handlesets compliment many existing locks for a ready replacement. The four lever styles offer your customer a choice.
For more information, visit www.dexterbyschlage.com .

KWIKSET
Pictured right: Kwikset UltraMax.
Kwikset has long been a leader in residential door hardware. Their product offering has been set in a good, better, best format. It starts with 'good' Kwikset Security. This series of knobs, deadbolts and handlesets offer ANSI Grade 3 deadbolt security, a full 1" solid core deadbolt. They also feature a pick-resistant 5-pin keying system and a Kwik-Install design with pre-installed screws. The two most recognized knob styles offer a lifetime mechanical and 5-year finish warranty.