ALL ABOUT THE DOOR
Concentrating on kerb appeal
» WITH THE LATEST RESEARCH finding 93 % of people pass judgement on a property based on how it looks from the outside *, Sarah Knight , Technical Product Manager at ERA , explores how locksmiths can capitalise on the importance of kerb appeal by recommending and fitting complete suites of high performance hardware that set the standard for both style and substance .
The research by Evolution Money also found that 30 % of individuals would be willing to pay £ 5,000 more for a home with a well-maintained exterior , with a newly painted front door and knocker the fifth most popular exterior element for increasing kerb appeal .
Improving the exterior style of a property has significantly increased over recent years as individuals look to add value to their home and stand apart from their neighbours . It ’ s proven that front doors play a central role in achieving kerb appeal , with the 2022 Dulux Great British Exterior Trends Report finding exterior doors the second most popular exterior trend search term .
So , how can locksmiths get ahead of the kerb appeal curve and maximise sales opportunities ?
By partnering with a hardware supplier that offers a comprehensive portfolio of suited hardware that is available in a breadth of finishes to suit each homeowner ’ s specific tastes , professionals can ensure they meet the specific needs of every customer .
For example , when completing a cylinder replacement or upgrade on an entrance door , by choosing a Euro Profile Cylinder that is supplied in a range of colour options such as chrome , brass and dual coloured , locksmiths can cross-sell handle types in similar finishes with a Euro profile design to create a cohesive installation .
This includes handles such as the Fab & Fix TS 007 Berwick High Security 2 * Door Handle , which can be paired with a 1 * cylinder to achieve a 3 * level of protection . Available in six unique Hardex finishes including on-trend graphite , chrome and gold , the door handles enable professionals to create an instant style upgrade on existing front doors as part of lock replacement projects .
Independently tested and certified in accordance with TS 007-1 : 2014 + A2 Corr 2 and compatible with all euro profile cylinders , the handles are available in both 44mm and 70mm versions to accommodate a wide variety of PVCu , timber and composite door profiles . Supplied with all fixings , including high strength security M6 screws , locksmiths can easily and quickly install the handles as part of a lock replacement .
Whilst style will be a leading consideration for customers , knowing their home is protected to the highest possible standard is equally important . By fitting a High Security 2 * door handle that features a sculptured backplate to discourage unwanted attention from mole grips and prevent the removal of the external handle to eliminate the potential snapping of the cylinder , professionals can provide customers with complete peace of mind .
Taking cross-selling opportunities one step further , locksmiths can also recommend TS 008 certified letterplates that are available in the same finishes . This includes the new Fab & Fix TS 008 Nu Mail Shield certified letterplate , which is supplied in separate internal and external sections to allow homeowners to choose different finishes to complement both interior and exterior door colours .
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MAY / JUN 2023
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