When project budgets get tight, hardware is often one of the first areas where cuts are made. At first glance, choosing lower-cost levers, pulls, or locks might feel like a smart way to stretch resources. But those short-term savings can come at a steep price. Hardware is one of the most frequently used elements in any building, and when it fails, the consequences are immediate and costly, ranging from replacement expenses to project delays and even reputational damage.

The Real Risks of Low-Cost Hardware

Inexpensive hardware rarely holds up under the pressure of daily use. Finishes wear down quickly, levers loosen or break, and products that lack compliance with UL or ANSI/BHMA standards can leave projects vulnerable to safety and code issues.

The visual impact matters just as much. A mismatched lever in a hotel suite or a finish that fails in a luxury condo lobby can undermine the design intent of the entire space. These are not abstract risks. They can lead to dissatisfied tenants and unhappy owners.

Why Vendor Reliability Matters as Much as the Product

Even well-made hardware won’t deliver value if it doesn’t arrive on time or with the proper documentation. Because hardware is often installed near the end of a project, any delay in delivery can throw off an entire construction schedule. This can mean frustrated contractors, added labor costs, and openings that don’t meet deadlines.

Equally damaging is the lack of proper specifications. Without clear documentation, architects and contractors are left guessing about compatibility or compliance, increasing the risk of errors. A reliable vendor should provide support, communication, and clarity that keeps projects moving forward.

Frascio’s Approach: Value Beyond the Price Tag

Frascio’s philosophy is simple: you should not have to choose between price and quality. Our catalog offering covers a wide range of functions, designs, and finishes to meet different budgets and every product is engineered with the same durability, precision, and performance standards. That means developers and designers get the long-term value of hardware that lasts, without paying premiums that inflate project costs.

We also back our products with a proven record of reliability. From landmark projects like the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas to Old Parkland in Dallas, Frascio has delivered on-time, specification-ready solutions that meet the high expectations of both architects and developers. The combination of design breadth, technical support, and dependable logistics ensures that projects avoid the hidden costs that inexpensive alternatives often create.

Investing in Quality Protects the Project

Door hardware may seem like a small detail, but it directly impacts the performance, safety, and perception of a property. Cutting corners often means paying more later—in replacements, repairs, and reputational damage. Choosing Frascio helps safeguard your investment by combining durable, tested hardware with the support and reliability needed to keep projects on schedule.

For specifiers, developers, and designers, the message is clear: partner with a manufacturer who treats hardware as a cornerstone of project success, not an afterthought.