Antiques -> Architectural & Garden -> Doors

The look of antique furniture and hardware can lend such old-fashioned charm to a room, so it’s no wonder than an antique door lock is a popular item that can look great in all but the most modern décor. Someone searching for this specific type of antique hardware may be in for a few challenges, but you have choices between the actual antique pieces themselves or very authentic reproduction pieces that probably cost a fraction of the price and are more readily available. Replicas also automatically come in good, working condition without the problems that can be found in some antique locks like rust and wear.

One of the most important things you need to do before you purchase an antique door lock is to know the measurements of your door, and the size of your current doorknob. You’ll need to do a lot of research to find locks that match the style and finish you have in mind. Find some examples online and print the photos for reference, especially if you plan on shopping locally and/or in person rather than online. Cruise collector and antique sites and you’ll probably find people with similar interests, maybe even looking for the same type of lock you are. And if you’re lucky, you’ll find someone who has purchased one and installed it, and can give you advice from experience to make the process easier for you.

It’s important to know the kind of door you have and whether an antique door lock of your choice will even work with your door. Sometimes it’s necessary to replace your door with something that will work. If you don’t want to go that far, then research antique locks a little more and you’ll probably find hardware and fittings that are very close to your original vision that will work with your existing set-up and fit into your budget. The compromise will likely be minimal.

Places like Craigslist for your area and online auctions, specifically eBay, are a great place to look for antiques, especially if you don’t live in an area with a wide variety of antique and vintage shops to choose from. Don’t just search on the term “antique” though, or you’ll be faced with thousands of choices. Try “antique door lock” and then narrow it down from within those results to the specific type you’re looking for. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find it at first. Auctions are dynamic, with new ones going up every day. Keep trying.

Call ahead to antique shops, especially those that are quite a drive, to see if they have what you’re looking for. Know exactly your desired design and finish to make your searching easier, both in person and online. If you can’t find the exact antique door lock you want or it turns out to be more than your budget can bear, replica and reproduction door locks are a popular choice. Many of the reproductions can’t be distinguished from the originals with anything less than a thorough examination.

Photo Credits: AdamCaudill

Originally posted 2008-10-30 05:00:29. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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