Architectural Design Service - Architectural Ironmongery
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A Guide to Window and Door Furniture
 
Having spent time and effort, not to mention expense, into building the perfect conversion or extension, ruining it all with the wrong door and window furniture would be heart breaking. The first thing someone notices on entering the room is the door handle; they grasp it to open the door and if it feels or looks wrong it will set the whole tone of the room.
 
A conversion or extension is generally built in keeping with the style and age of the original building or the rest of the house and this is true for the windows and doors. Manufacturers these days can incorporate new modern materials into traditional designs, giving access to a range of styles and a flexibility of choice and the fittings and furniture are available to match.
 
Always pay attention to detail and choose the best quality available within budget. Be conscious of safety as well and take into account how easy it is for a thief to get in and how straightforward it is for the family to get out in an emergency. Window locks should be discreet but strong and simple to open when necessary. Consider the prime user of the room; if it is children ensure the key is not likely to be broken or lost and investigate whether the locks can be accidentally opened. It may be necessary to fit a guard on the windows or a stopper to allow the windows to only be opened a certain distance for safety, particularly for upper floor windows.
 
Furniture for windows and particularly doors can be quite extensive and includes handles, hinges and screws, door closers and fire control, draught proofers, threshold strips and seals, locks, latches and security products, signs and lighting, ventilators and fittings for the less able such as grab rails. Furniture will differ depending on the use and whether the door is internal or external.
 
The first decision is the style and period, so spend time ensuring that the furniture matches the overall presentation. Wrought iron fittings with a vintage design may be more in keeping with an old cottage with solid oak doors, whereas stainless steel or brass in a retro or artistic creation may be more suitable for a modern feel. This is true for all fittings and matching hinges to the door knobs gives a finishing touch.
 
Use draught proofing and threshold strips in older houses, to help prevent heat escaping. This is also true of letter box excluders and again, they are available in various styles to suit the conversion. For external doors choose from a variety of knockers or bells to suit individual preferences.
 
For added security and safety, particularly for draughty areas, include a Door Closer, which aids a safe, gentle closing instead of a slam. These can ensure that the door will automatically close itself without the risk of trapped fingers or other items. There are various designs available to suit internal and external doors, in a range of materials and budgets. Again, as with all the window and door furniture available, choose with care and a long term vision. After all, this conversion has been planned to last so ensure the door and window furniture does too.
 
Our 11,500+ ironmongery products include Clip On Blum Hinges.  Our range offers all the ironmongery needed for windows, doors and cabinets held in stock ready for free next day delivery to site, workshop, office or home. Visit http://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/ for further information.