Add Kick Plates for Style and Protection

Kick plates are just what they sound like: a protective plate of metal or plastic the width of your door that attaches along the bottom for looks and protection. Think about how often you boot an exterior door shut as you enter your home with an armful of groceries and you can see whey these attractive door additions came into being.

Do I Really Need a Kick Plate?
Unless your home experiences incredibly high foot traffic, the practical answer is no. Door kick plates are really more suited to public venues when it comes to functional considerations. Also, the rise in popularity of steel exterior doors drastically reduces any damage you might cause by dispensing a quick kick now and then. That doesn't mean these plates don't have a place in your home, however. Available in brass, nickel, copper, bronze, pewter, antique rust, and black steel varieties, door kick plates have become more of a decorative addition than anything else.

Not Just for Exterior Doors Anymore
Because they now serve more of an aesthetic purpose than a protective one, their use has evolved from protecting front and rear wood doors to being an accessory in family rooms, dining rooms and kitchens. If you're looking to add a little something to these areas, think about installing door plates to pantry doors, doors between living areas, and, of course, any exterior doors in the vicinity. You'd be surprised how much character and tradition comes with the simple addition of a plate of antique copper or stainless steel to an otherwise neglected space.

Match Your Plates to Your Décor
While you want your plates to be noticed, you don't want them to stand out. In that respect, install kick plates that match the rest of your home design. For example, if you've got stainless steel countertops and appliances, install stainless steel plates on the doors in your kitchen as well.