Doorstops may seem like a minor accessory, but they play an important role in protecting your walls, floors, and furniture from damage caused by swinging doors. They might even be one of the hardest working pieces of hardware in your home. What else is going to stop your door knob from tearing through your wall when your kids throw the door open too enthusiastically or you're in a hurry and open the door too quickly? With a wide range of options available, choosing the right doorstop can be overwhelming. We've created this door stop guide to ensure that you have all the information you need to make a well-informed decision. 

Evaluate Your Doorstop Needs 

Begin by assessing your specific requirements. You'll need to consider factors such as the weight and size of the door, the type of flooring in your home, and the potential clearance required for the door to open and close smoothly. 

Assess Your Door 

First, determine whether you have an interior or exterior door. Interior doors are any doors inside your home. Exterior doors include entry and outside doors like front and garage doors. Assess your door's material (wood, metal, etc.) as well. This will influence the type of doorstop you require. 

Consider the Door's Swing 

Identify if your door swings inward or outward. This will determine whether you need a floor-mounted doorstop, baseboard doorstop, hinge pin doorstop, or wall-mounted doorstop. 

Evaluate Floor to Door Clearance 

Measure the space between the bottom of your door and the floor. This will help you choose a doorstop with the appropriate height to prevent the door from swinging over the doorstop and damaging your wall. 

Estimate Door Weight 

Check the weight of your door. Heavier doors require a more robust and sturdy doorstop to provide adequate support. Even with a door on its hinges, you can roughly estimate if it's a heavy solid door or a standard, hollow core door. 

Learn the Types of Doorstops 

There are various types of doorstops available, each with its own advantages and applications. Here are a few common types: 

Wedge Doorstops 

These are the most basic and affordable options. They are placed at the bottom of the door, preventing it from closing fully.

• Compact and portable design.

• Suitable for use on various floor surfaces.

• Can be easily placed or removed as needed.

• Does not require installation or hardware.

Floor-Mounted Doorstops 

These are screwed directly into the floor, providing a permanent and sturdy solution. They come in different designs, including those with rubber buffers or magnetic catches. 

• Sturdy and durable construction.

• Provides a fixed stop for the door.

• Offers reliable protection against wall and furniture damage.

• Requires drilling and installation on the floor.

Wall-Mounted Doorstops 

These are attached to the wall behind the door. They are ideal for doors that swing both ways or for situations where floor installation is not possible. 

• Attaches to the wall, preventing the door from swinging too far.

• Protects walls and baseboards from impact damage.

• Allows for adjustable stop positions.

• Requires drilling and installation on the wall.

Baseboard-Mounted Doorstops 

• Mounted on the baseboard or skirting board.

• Offers a discreet and space-saving solution.

• Protects walls and baseboards from damage.

• Requires drilling and installation on the baseboard.

Hinge Pin Doorstops 

These doorstops are installed on the hinge pin itself, preventing the door from opening too wide and causing damage. 

• Attaches directly to the door hinge pin.

• Does not interfere with the door's appearance or movement.

• Provides effective protection for walls and furniture.

• No floor or wall installation required.

Magnetic Doorstops 

• Utilizes magnets to hold the door in place.

• Can be positioned at different heights on the door.

• Easy to install and adjust.

Choose the Right Doorstop for You 

With a more comprehensive understanding of doorstops features and benefits, you are now equipped to make an informed and educated decision. 

Identify Your Installation Requirements 

Here's a breakdown of the key considerations: 

Drilling Requirements: Determine your preference regarding drilling holes for the doorstop. Some doorstops require drilling, while others offer alternative installation methods. Consider your comfort level with drilling and whether you have the necessary tools for the installation. If you opt for a hole-free install, a hinge pin doorstop or a doorstop that comes with 3M mounting tape will be ideal for you.  

Installation Location: Evaluate your ideal placement for the doorstop. Take into account factors such as ornate or intricately designed baseboards that could complicate the drilling process. If preserving the aesthetics of your baseboards is important to you, explore wall-mounted or floor-mounted doorstops. Consider the available space for placing a doorstop. If you have a half wall or limited wall space near your door, a wall-mounted doorstop may not be suitable for your requirements. Conversely, if furniture is positioned behind the door and you prefer to limit the door's opening range, opting for a floor-mounted doorstop or hinge pin door stop would be more appropriate. Consider the type of flooring in the area where you intend to install the doorstop. Floor-mounted doorstops may not be suitable for carpeted floors, as they require a solid surface for effective installation. If you have carpeting, explore alternative doorstop options such as wall-mounted or hinge pin doorstops. 

Visibility: Decide whether you prefer the doorstop to be visible or hidden from view. Some doorstops are designed to be inconspicuous, blending seamlessly with the door or surrounding decor. Others may feature decorative elements, adding a touch of style to your space. 

Stability and Weight Support: Do you need the doorstop to provide stability for heavy doors? Consider the weight and size of the door to ensure the chosen doorstop can handle the load and provide the necessary support. 

Skill Level and Convenience: Assess your own skill level and the level of convenience you desire for the installation process. If you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast, drilling and installing a doorstop may be a straightforward task. However, if you prefer a simpler installation process, look for doorstops that offer quick and easy installation without compromising functionality. 

Determine the Essential Functions of the Doorstop 

Door Protection: Are you looking for a doorstop that prevents the door from hitting the wall or causing damage to furniture or fixtures? Identifying the potential areas of contact will guide you in choosing a doorstop that provides effective protection in the desired locations. 

Portability or Fixed Placement: Determine whether you require a doorstop that can be easily moved from one location to another or if you prefer it to stay fixed in place. This consideration will help you choose between portable doorstops or those that require installation and remain stationary. 

Door Holding: Will the doorstop be used to keep doors open? If you require a door to be held in an open position, look for doorstops specifically designed for this purpose, such as door wedges or magnetic doorstops. 

Durability and Strength: Assess the frequency of door usage and the level of foot traffic in the area. Consider how often the door will be opened and closed, as well as the force applied during usage. This evaluation will guide you in selecting a doorstop that offers the appropriate durability and strength to withstand the anticipated usage demands. 

Aesthetics 

While functionality is key, aesthetics should not be overlooked. Choose a doorstop that blends well with your home's interior style and decor. Many doorstops are available in various finishes and designs, allowing you to find one that matches your personal taste. 

Budget-Friendly Options 

Doorstops are available at various price points. Set a budget and explore options within your range. Remember that quality and durability are important factors, so aim for the best value within your budget. 

By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose the right doorstop for your home. Remember to consider your specific needs, prioritize durability and quality, and take into account the aesthetics of your space. With the perfect doorstop in place, you can prevent damage and enjoy peace of mind as your doors swing open and closed effortlessly.