Ironmongery is an everyday essential. While it may seem like a small final detail, the right choice of door, window, or kitchen furniture can totally transform the look, feel, and functionality of any space. When choosing your ironmongery there are three important things to consider; functionality, style and finish.
It's important to think about these three factors simultaneously as they all affect one another. For example, the choice of finish is often determined by the product type, and vice versa. If you're choosing ironmongery for a complete renovation or newbuild then it's vital to consider the functionality, style, and finish at an early stage to achieve consistency throughout a project.
Determine your Window Type
Before choosing the style or finish of window furniture, you must determine the type of windows your property has as this dictates which type of ironmongery is required.
Traditional Casement Windows
If your property has casement windows, a classic fastener is the best choice. Window fasteners are suitable for use on traditional timber windows that don't have an internal locking mechanism. Most fasteners are kept in place using a mortice plate which is recessed into the window frame. Typically, these are partnered with matching window stays which can be used to lock the window.
Multipoint Locking Windows
Multipoint locking systems are usually fitted in UPVC or modern timber and aluminium windows. They consist of a long metal strip on the window edge which usually has three separate locking points operated by a spindle to provide additional security. An espagnolette handle is required to operate this locking mechanism; all From The Anvil espag handles are designed to fit all modern locking systems from leading window manufacturers.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are often found in Georgian or Victorian homes and are made of one or more movable panels, or 'sashes'. The glazed panels slide vertically to open and are usually held in place with counter balance weights in the frame. The panels are operated with sash pulleys and cord, and can be slid open using sash lifts and pulls. Sash windows can be kept in an open position using sash stops and locked using locking fasteners. We offer a wide range of sash window furniture in a range of finishes to complement your existing interior ironmongery.
Step 2
Determine your Door Type
Firstly, think about your entrance doors - what locking systems do they use? Timber doors often feature a lever lock handle in conjunction with a sash lock. uPVC front doors typically use multipoint locking systems for additional security and are characterised by an espagnolette door handle with a longer backplate. It's also important to consider your internal doors - are they ledge and braced, or a thicker panelled door? All these are important factors to assess before selecting your door furniture.
Internal Panelled Door
Typically, panelled doors are hung to the frame with butt hinges and can be fitted with a mortice knob set, a rim lock & knob set, or one of our many varieties of lever handles. It's important to consider the purpose of this door and whether or not it requires a lock. Mortice latches are an appropriate choice for non-locking doors whereas sash locks are better for doors that require protection. Turn & release mechanisms are ideal for internally locking doors, such as bathrooms, which need to lock but without such high security requirements.
Internal Ledge & Braced Door
A ledge and brace door is a traditional option with a rustic appearance, often fitted in barn conversions and timber framed properties. It's a wooden plank door and therefore much thinner than solid/panelled doors, meaning it requires T hinges to be fitted to the surface of the door rather than the plank edge. Because these doors are so slender, they can't fit the typical latches and locks that work with lever handles and instead use thumblatches or other surface-mounted ironmongery such as rim locks and knob sets.
External Doors
The front door has such an impact on a property, so it's important to accessorise it with the correct door furniture! Most exterior doors, particularly front and back, need to be lockable to protect your home. Determing what type of locking system you'll use gives you an idea of the ironmongery you'll require. Sash locks provide excellent security and offer great versatility when choosing lever lock handles or door knob sets. Because sash locks are morticed into the door frame, they are typically used with solid timber doors. For more modern applications, a multipoint locking system can be fitted alongside espagnolette lever handles, such as in uPVC doors. There are various other door accessories available including centre door knobs, cylinfer pull handles, door knockers, letterplates, and more, all of which can be used to customise your door.
Step 3
Choose your Kitchen Fittings & Accessories
From the Anvil manufacture a wide range of cabinetry furniture which caters to all property types, whether traditional, contemporary, or somewhere in between. Often, traditional kitchens are fitted with revealed hinges and cupboard knobs, whereas more contemporary kitchens are suited to cupboard pulls and bar handles. From the Anvil also offer an extensive range of accessories such as lighting, curtain furniture, door stops, shelf brackets, coat hooks, and more, all of which can be matched to your existing furnishing to provide continuity throughout your home.