Door Handles: How Do You Choose the Right Door Handles?
What Are Door Handles?
Door handles are hardware fittings designed to help users open, close, and operate a door.
They are available in different shapes, materials, finishes, and locking configurations.
Some door handles work with separate locks, while others are designed with an integrated locking mechanism.
Common door handle styles include:
Lever handles
Pull handles
Knob handles
Handle sets
Locking handles
Non-locking handles
The right style depends on how and where the door will be used.
What Are Door Handles Used For?
Door handles provide a practical way to operate doors.
They can be used for:
Bedroom doors
Bathroom doors
Office doors
Main entrance doors
Shop doors
Apartment doors
Internal doors
Commercial doors
The handle you choose should suit the specific purpose of the door.
What Types of Door Handles Are Available?
Lever Door Handles
Lever handles use a horizontal lever that moves to operate the door latch.
They are commonly used in homes and offices because they are easy to grip and operate.
Door Pull Handles
Pull handles are designed for pulling or pushing a door.
They are often used on larger doors, glass doors, commercial doors, and doors without a conventional latch handle.
Door Knobs
Door knobs have a rounded design that you turn to operate the latch.
They are commonly used on internal doors and some residential applications.
Locking Door Handles
Locking door handles combine a handle with a locking function.
They can be suitable for rooms or doors where controlled access or privacy is required.
Non-Locking Door Handles
Non-locking handles are suitable for doors that do not require a locking function.
They are often used with separate locking hardware where necessary.
How Do You Choose the Right Door Handles?
Several factors can help you choose suitable door handles.
1. Check the Door Type
Consider the material and construction of the door.
Common door materials include:
Timber
Metal
Aluminium
Glass
Composite materials
Different doors may require different mounting methods and hardware.
2. Consider Where the Door Is Located
Think about whether the door is internal or external.
For example, an interior bedroom door may need a simple lever handle, while an entrance door may require a handle that works with a specific security lock.
3. Check Lock Compatibility
If the door has a lock, make sure the handle is compatible with the lock type.
Check:
Lock mechanism
Spindle size
Backplate or rose design
Keyhole position
Handle spacing
This is especially important when replacing existing door hardware.
4. Consider Frequency of Use
Frequently used doors need durable handles.
Office doors, commercial doors, and entrance doors may be opened and closed many times each day.
Choose hardware designed to handle the expected level of use.
5. Choose a Suitable Material
Door handles are made from different materials.
The material can affect strength, maintenance, appearance, and resistance to daily wear.
Choose a material suitable for the installation environment and expected use.
6. Consider the Handle Finish
The finish should match other door hardware.
For example, you may want the handles to match the:
Door locks
Hinges
Door closers
Other visible fittings
A consistent finish can create a more organised appearance.
How Do You Measure for Door Handles?
Measurements are important when replacing an existing handle.
Check:
Distance between fixing points
Spindle position
Backplate dimensions
Door thickness
Lock position
Keyhole spacing, if applicable
Take measurements before purchasing to reduce compatibility problems.
Door Handles for Interior Doors
Interior door handles are commonly used in bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and offices.
The handle should match the door's function.
For example:
Bedroom doors may use privacy or locking handles.
Bathroom doors may use privacy locks.
Passage doors may use non-locking handles.
Consider convenience and compatibility with the existing latch or lock.
Door Handles for Exterior Doors
Exterior doors may require stronger hardware because they are exposed to regular use and changing weather conditions.
The handle should also work correctly with the chosen lock.
Before buying, consider:
Door material
Door thickness
Lock type
Frequency of use
Exposure to weather
Security requirements
Door Handles for Offices and Commercial Spaces
Office and commercial door handles should be durable and suitable for frequent use.
For busy locations, choose handles that can handle repeated operation.
You should also check whether the handle needs to work with an existing lock, access control system, or other door hardware.
How Are Door Handles Installed?
Installation depends on the handle type and door design.
A typical process may include:
Measure the door.
Mark the required positions.
Drill the fixing holes if needed.
Install the spindle.
Position both sides of the handle.
Secure the fixing screws.
Check the handle alignment.
Test the latch or lock.
Avoid overtightening screws, as this may affect the handle's movement.
If the handle works with a lock, test both the handle and locking function after installation.
Common Door Handle Problems
The Handle Feels Loose
Loose screws or worn internal components may cause the handle to move.
Check and tighten the visible fixings where appropriate.
The Handle Does Not Return Properly
This can happen because of:
A worn spring
Incorrect installation
A damaged handle
A problem with the latch
Inspect the handle and latch before replacing components.
The Handle Is Difficult to Operate
The problem may result from door misalignment, a faulty latch, or an incorrectly installed handle.
Check the door and latch alignment.
The Handle Does Not Match the Lock
Compatibility problems can occur when the handle and lock have different measurements or designs.
Always check the specifications before purchasing replacement hardware.
How Do You Maintain Door Handles?
Regular maintenance can help keep door handles working properly.
You should:
Clean the handle regularly.
Remove dust and dirt.
Check fixing screws.
Tighten loose fittings.
Check for signs of wear.
Test the handle movement.
Avoid using excessive force.
Use cleaning products suitable for the handle material and finish.
Door Handles vs Door Knobs
Both door handles and door knobs help operate doors, but they use different designs.
Feature | Door Handles | Door Knobs |
Operation | Push down or move lever | Turn |
Grip | Lever design | Rounded design |
Common use | Homes and offices | Interior and residential doors |
Accessibility | Often easier to operate | Requires turning |
Style options | Many | Many |
The best option depends on personal preference, the door design, and the intended use.
Where Can You Buy Door Handles?
Door handles are available from hardware and building supply businesses.
Jobel Services offers door hardware and related products for different applications.
Before purchasing, check the door measurements, lock compatibility, intended use, and required finish.
Providing these details can make it easier to select suitable door handles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Door Handles
What are door handles used for?
Door handles are used to open, close, and operate doors.
How do I choose the right door handles?
Consider the door type, door thickness, lock compatibility, frequency of use, material, finish, and installation requirements.
Can I replace a door handle without replacing the lock?
Yes, if the replacement handle is compatible with the existing lock and door measurements.
Are door handles universal?
No. Door handles vary in design, size, spindle requirements, fixing positions, and lock compatibility.
What door handles are best for offices?
Office door handles should be durable and suitable for frequent use. The best option depends on the door type and existing lock system.
How do I fix a loose door handle?
Check the fixing screws and tighten them where appropriate. If the internal mechanism is worn or damaged, replacement parts or a new handle may be needed.
Conclusion
Door handles are an important part of any door system. The right choice should match the door type, lock, location, frequency of use, and installation requirements.
Before buying, measure the door and check compatibility with the existing hardware. Choosing suitable and durable door handles can improve daily operation while maintaining a consistent appearance across your doors.
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