You can quickly refresh dated brass or basic nickel hardware with just a few coats of spray paint, which typically costs less than $10 a can. By painting instead of replacing your door hardware, you can achieve the exact look you want for a fraction of the cost.

Zinc Alloy: Zinc alloy handles are a cost-effective option and can be designed to resemble more expensive materials like brass or bronze. They are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and can be finished with various coatings, such as chrome or nickel.

Here is a list of ways to find out. Option 1: Look for the brand name on the metal plating on the edge of the door. If your door has a 3-point-locking system, the brand name may appear on top or bottom plating. Option 2: Look for the brand name on the escutcheon plate on the front of the door.

Zinc. Another popular door handle material is zinc. Used for both interior and exterior doors, zinc handles are durable, rust and corrosion-resistant, and often very cost-efficient. These handles are usually considered less aesthetically pleasing than other types of handles.