How to Choose Interior & Exterior Door Knobs, Mortise Door Knob & Rim Door Knobs?

Door knobs are a simple yet essential part of our everyday lives. They don’t just serve as functional tools to open and close doors but also play a role in the aesthetic appeal of your home or workspace. From securing entrances to enhancing interior design, door knobs are versatile in both purpose and style. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what door knobs are, explore their types, understand their applications, and learn how to maintain them for long-lasting performance.

What Is a Door Knob?

A door knob is a round or cylindrical handle that is securely attached to a door, enabling you to operate its latch mechanism. By turning the knob, you activate the internal mechanism that retracts the latch bolt, allowing the door to open or close smoothly. The design of a door knob typically includes a spindle that connects the knob to the latch, which is housed within the door. Door knobs come in a wide variety of materials, including metals like brass, stainless steel, and bronze, as well as more decorative options such as glass and ceramic. These materials not only contribute to the durability and strength of the knob but also offer a range of aesthetic choices to complement the decor of any space. Whether they are sleek and modern or vintage and ornate, door knobs can be both functional and stylish, adding a distinctive touch to the design of a room or building.

Beyond their decorative appeal, door knobs play an essential role in providing privacy, security, and convenience. They are commonly used in homes, offices, and commercial spaces, acting as both a physical barrier and a means of controlling access. Whether it’s locking a bathroom door for privacy or securing an office door for safety, the right door knob ensures that users have reliable control over their space. Their versatility allows them to be used in both high-traffic areas, such as hallways and entryways, and more private areas like bedrooms and bathrooms. With a range of locking mechanisms and finishes available, door knobs continue to be a key element in both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of doors.

Types of Door Knobs

Mortise Lock Door Knobs

Mortise lock door knobs are an essential part of a more sophisticated locking system, offering higher security and durability compared to traditional door knobs. Unlike standard knobs, which are attached to the surface of the door, mortise lock door knobs are embedded into the door itself, working with a mortise lock that is installed within a pocket or recess cut into the edge of the door. This recessed installation makes the mortise lockset more secure, as it is fully integrated into the door's structure, providing superior protection against tampering, forced entry, and wear over time.

The knob itself is connected to the mortise lock via a spindle. When the knob is turned, it activates the lock's latch mechanism, allowing the door to open or close. Some mortise lock door knobs also incorporate a deadbolt or additional locking features for enhanced security. The complexity of the mortise system makes it ideal for areas that require extra protection, such as commercial buildings, offices, or exterior doors.

As a commercial door handle manufacturer, Camax Hardware specializes in manufacturing high-quality stainless steel door knobs designed for both commercial and residential doors. These door knobs are crafted with durability and style in mind, making them perfect for high-traffic environments like offices, hotels, and public buildings, as well as for homes. Stainless steel provides strength, corrosion resistance, and a sleek, modern aesthetic, ensuring that the knobs not only perform reliably but also enhance the overall look of any space. Whether you're upgrading a commercial property or looking for a stylish and secure option for your home, Camax’s stainless steel knobs offer both functionality and long-lasting appeal.

Rim Lock Door Knobs

Rim door knobs are a unique type of door hardware typically paired with rim locks, which are surface-mounted on the door rather than being recessed into it. This design makes rim door knobs easy to install, as there’s no need to cut into the door to create a pocket or mortise, which is required for more complex lock systems like mortise locks. Instead, the rim lock is simply affixed to the interior side of the door, with the knob on the exterior side.

Rim lock door knobs are most commonly found in older homes, historical buildings, or in spaces designed with vintage-style décor in mind. Their antique charm and classic look make them a popular choice for homeowners or designers aiming to restore or replicate the aesthetics of past eras. The simplicity of the design also makes them an attractive option for decorative purposes, often seen on interior doors where heavy security isn’t a primary concern.

However, while rim lock door knobs are relatively easy to install and offer a nostalgic appeal, they are generally considered less secure than mortise knobs or other modern locking systems. The surface-mounted lock mechanism can be more vulnerable to tampering and offers less resistance against forced entry. For this reason, they are best used for non-essential interior doors where high-level security is not a top priority.

Feature	Mortise Lock Door Knobs	Rim Lock Door Knobs
Mechanism	Recessed mortise lock system	Surface-mounted rim lock
Installation	Requires professional setup	Easier, minimal modification
Security	Requires professional setup	Easier, minimal modification
Aesthetic	Sleek and modern designs	Vintage and classic appeal

Both types have their unique applications, and choosing the right one depends on your security and aesthetic needs.

Door Knobs for Interior and Exterior Doors

Like other door knobs, most of Camax’s door knobs can be used for interior and exterior doors. When choosing door knobs, there are several factors you shouldn't overlook.

For interior doors, the primary focus is often on design, ease of use, and privacy. Bedrooms and bathrooms, for example, require door knobs with simple locking mechanisms, such as push-button locks or turn-knobs. These allow users to lock the door for privacy while maintaining convenience. Since interior doors typically don’t need heavy-duty security, the interior door knobs can be lighter and more decorative, adding a personal touch to the space. Materials like brushed nickel, polished brass, or antique bronze are popular choices, as they complement a variety of design styles, from modern to vintage. A lightweight knob often suffices for interior doors, as these spaces are less likely to face wear-and-tear or security concerns.

On the other hand, exterior doors demand higher security and durability due to their exposure to the elements and potential threats. Mortise locks, which are embedded in the door itself, offer a stronger, more secure locking mechanism than simpler locks. Additionally, knobs equipped with deadbolts are ideal for ensuring that your exterior doors remain secure. Since exterior door knobs are constantly exposed to weather conditions, it’s essential to choose materials that can withstand the elements. Stainless steel, coated metals, and other weather-resistant finishes are often preferred for their ability to resist rust and corrosion, ensuring that the door knob for exterior doors remains functional and aesthetically pleasing over time. Keyed entry knobs are particularly crucial for exterior doors, providing both security and controlled access to the building.

How Do You Clean Door Knobs?

Camax’s door knobs are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to rust. The anti-rust properties of stainless steel ensure that the door knobs maintain their polished appearance and function over time, even in environments with high humidity or exposure to the elements. Whether for interior or exterior doors, Camax's stainless steel door knobs provide a sleek, modern aesthetic while offering reliable performance. Their corrosion-resistant nature guarantees they will continue to serve their purpose efficiently for years. There are still some tips for maintaining your door knobs.

Cleaning Door Knobs

The cleaning process begins with removing any dust or debris that may have settled on the surface. A soft, dry cloth is perfect for this task, as it ensures the knob is free from dirt that could scratch the finish. Once the surface is clear, you can move on to using a cleaning solution. A simple mix of mild soap and warm water or a gentle cleaner works best to avoid causing any damage. Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners can strip away the knob’s finish or cause discoloration, so it’s essential to use a product that’s suitable for the material of the knob. After applying the cleaning solution, wipe down the entire surface of the knob, as well as the surrounding area, with a microfiber cloth to ensure all areas are covered.

Disinfecting your door knobs, especially those that are used frequently, is an important step in the cleaning process. Disinfectant wipes or a disinfecting solution can be used to kill germs, which is particularly important in high-traffic areas like entrances and bathrooms. Once cleaned and disinfected, it's important to dry the knob thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent water spots or potential corrosion, especially if the knob is made of metal.

Tips for Maintaining Door Knobs

Maintaining your door knobs extends beyond just cleaning. Regular lubrication of the mechanism, using a silicone spray or graphite lubricant, ensures that the knob continues to function smoothly. It's also essential to regularly check for signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws or damaged latches, and address any issues immediately to avoid further damage. Protecting the finish by avoiding harsh cleaning tools and materials is another key maintenance step. Lastly, incorporating cleaning into your routine, rather than waiting for visible buildup, will not only ensure hygiene but also prolong the lifespan of your door knobs.

Discover Your Right Door Knobs with Camax Hardware

Door knobs may seem like small details, but they play a crucial role in functionality, security, and design. From understanding the differences between mortise lock door knobs and rim lock door knobs to choosing the right options for interior and exterior doors, selecting the perfect knob enhances both usability and aesthetics. Proper cleaning and maintenance ensure your knobs stay in top condition for years to come.

When upgrading your home or outfitting a commercial space, it’s essential to choose the right door knobs that meet both your functional needs and aesthetic preferences. Camax’s door knobs offer the perfect combination of security and style, ensuring durability while complementing any interior. Contact Camax today for more information about door knobs and to find the perfect ones for your project.