Updating your hardware can be a quick and easy way to improve the look and function of your home. And it doesn't have to be extreme. Here are a few tips to make your makeover as trouble free as possible.  

Cabinet Hardware
If you haven't looked at what is available to open your cabinet doors and drawers lately, you're in for a treat. Modern displays and stocks thousands of cabinet knobs and pulls in every conceivable material finish and shape. Update your kitchen or bath easily by replacing those tarnished brass knobs with something new. Choose from an array of today's fashion focused finishes like satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, weathered bronze, stainless steel and black. Unusual materials like rock, blown glass and pottery may be just the right accent for that special piece of cabinetry that's been begging for a special touch.

Here are a few things to remember when planning to change cabinet hardware:

• Be sure to measure the distance from the center of the screw holes of pulls you want to replace. Better yet bring in one of your old pieces.
• Check the thickness of the door and drawer fronts. Drawers in particular will vary. We will be sure to furnish the necessary screws to attach your new hardware.
• Do your hinges show? If so, you will want to keep that in mind when selecting new hardware finishes. Bring a sample of your hinge with you so we can match the correct style.
• Check the condition of the catches that keep your doors shut. Now is a good time to replace worn catches and bumpers.

Bathroom Accessories
Bathroom fashion doesn't stop with towels. Updating towel bars, tissue holders and robe hooks is an easy way to freshen up your bathrooms. Don't just replace your current pieces; consider adding some robe hooks near the tub or shower to keep those damp towels off the floor. Many of the companies we carry offer suites of matching bath and cabinet hardware, or we can suggest ways to put a complete makeover together.

• Measure the areas where you may want to locate a new towel bar, as well as the size of any current accessories.
• If possible, bring in a sample of the mounting hardware. We will help you select products that will require the least amount of wall repairs.
• Determine the wall material the hardware will be mounted on. We will suggest the right fasteners to keep your new accessories on the wall.

Door Locks and Hardware
Whether you're tired of that tarnished old front door lock or you want to makeover the look and operation of all your doors, Modern has the designs and finishes to do it right. We have hundreds of styles and finishes to chose from, ranging from the classic to rugged hand cast bronze. Try glass or porcelain door knobs for a restoration look or go modern with bold sleek stainless steel levers.

Keep these details in mind when planning your door hardware makeover:

• Measure the backset dimension of each door set. This is the measurement from edge of the door to the center of the hole the lock fits through. It will be either 2-3/8" or 2-3/4". • Measure the diameter of the hole the lock fits in. Most locks require a 2-1/8" diameter hole. We will explain your options if the holes in your doors are smaller. • Measure the thickness of your door. Remember, interior and exterior doors vary.
• Look at the latch edge of the door. Is the latch face a rectangular plate or is it round
• Measure the distance (center to center) between multiple locks on the same door.
• Don't forget the hinges. If you change the finish of the door locks you will want your hinges to match, If possible bring in a sample so we can match the proper size and configuration.

Miscellaneous Hardware
Careful attention to the smail details will make your makeover project stand out. Consider decorative switch plates. Replace those broken door stops with new one that match your new door hardware. Replace those run-of-the-mill wall and floor register grills with new ones in coordinated finishes. Add some decorative hooks in the back hall. Make a statement with new house numbers or address plaques.

Ready to explore your makeover options?

Stop in to either of our showrooms or schedule an appointment with one of our decorative hardware consultants. We'll make it as painless as possible, right down to professional installation if you desire. You'll be delighted with the change a Modern Hardware Makeover can make!