Dummy Lock Handles: What Are They and Where to Use Them

Dummy Lock Handles: What Are They and Where to Use Them

Dummy lock handles are becoming more popular in modern home and business décor. This post explores everything you ever wanted to know about them, including what they are, the benefits they offer, where to use them, and how to install them. 

Understanding Dummy Lock Handles:

Dummy lock handles are one-sided or fake door knobs fitting to the surface of the door. Vendors sell them individually for single doors or in pairs for double doors. 

Dummy lock handles differ from traditional ones because they are non-functional and do not contain a locking mechanism. As such, these fake knobs are a fabulous addition to doors that don’t require a lock or already have one. 

Benefits and Aesthetic Appeal:

The aesthetic benefits of dummy lock handles are considerable. Dummy locks give doors a more polished and sophisticated appearance. Proper placement can enhance symmetry and provide visual cues to assist accessibility. 

Various styles and finishes of dummy door knobs are available, letting you tailor them to the décor of any room. Options include traditional locks with ornate, colonial or classic designs, contemporary versions with sleek lines and minimalist aesthetics, and crystal styles and industrial-looking designs that give them the impression of offering security. Polished brass dummy door locks are ideal for luxurious spaces, while oil-rubbed bronze brings a timeless elegance to classic rooms. Antique pewter finishes add a touch of vintage charm, harking back to Old World craftsmanship. 

Ideal Use-Cases and Locations

Dummy lock handles work in many situations. However, they are more effective in some than others. 

Mainly, people use dummy lock handles on doors that don’t require a secure locking mechanism. For example, you may find them on: 

• Closets to provide a sense of balance and symmetry
• Interior doors to make them more straightforward to open and close
• French doors for attractive transitions between interior rooms
• Double doors on the inactive side of the door
• Doors designed for people living with disabilities or conditions that limit accessibility

These locations are appropriate because they are low-traffic and purely decorative. Users don’t require them to provide real locking functionality.

Fortunately, if you like a particular dummy lock handle design but need a locking mechanism, you can usually find functional equivalents with an identical aesthetic. Manufacturers often make both versions. 

Installation and Maintenance:

Installing a new dummy lock handle is more straightforward than a conventional handle with a lock. You should be able to complete work in less than 60 minutes. Here’s what to do: 

1. Collect your tools.
   You will need the dummy lock handle, a screwdriver, a drill with various drill bits, a pencil, and a level. 
2. Choose the location for the door hand.
   People usually place them on the same side as the working handle, though you might want to put them in a different place for symmetry. 
3. Mark and drill the holes.
   Use your pencil to mark the holes in the door where you will drill, using the door handle’s holes as a template. 
4. Attach the dummy lock handle.
   Place the base plate over the hole markings and twist the screws into the door until they are tight. 
5. Test the handle.
   See if it works how you expected. 

To maintain your dummy lock handle, clean it regularly and polish it if necessary. If it comes loose, retighten the screw. You should also inspect it for damage occasionally and replace it accordingly.

Choosing the Right Dummy Lock Handle:

When choosing a dummy lock handle, you should consider: 

• The design – Does it complement your existing décor?
• The material – Is it strong enough for your application, and does it suit the theme of your room? 
• The compatibility – Does the dummy lock handle work with the existing door and surroundings?

If you aren’t sure whether the dummy lock you want is the right one for your situation, consult with interior designers or hardware specialists. These professionals can guide you in making the best choice based on your setup. 

Conclusion

This article explained how dummy handles can improve the appearance of doors and act as non-functional decorations for your rooms. It also highlighted how simple they are to install and the best places to use them. 

We recommend using dummy lock handles as a stylish and practical option for non-functional doors. Use them to upgrade your closet, interior and French doors and improve your room’s overall appearance.