Door Handles
Wiki Article
Door handles are mechanical devices installed on doors to enable opening,
closing, and securing them. They are commonly used in residential,
commercial, and industrial buildings and are an integral part of door
hardware, often combined with locks, latches, and other access control
systems.
Door handles serve both functional
and aesthetic purposes, providing usability while contributing to the
overall interior or exterior design.
Overview
A door handle is designed to manipulate
the door latch or bolt to allow access. Handles may be operated by
turning, pushing, pulling, or sliding, depending on the mechanism. Modern
door handles are made from various materials and are available in multiple styles,
finishes, and locking options to suit functional needs and architectural
design.
Door handles can generally be
categorized as:
- Lever Handles:
Horizontal handles that push down to operate the latch, commonly used for ease
of use and accessibility. - Knob Handles:
Rounded handles that turn to operate a door, often used in residential
interiors. - Pull Handles:
Fixed handles that require pulling to open doors, typical in sliding
doors and commercial entrances. - Thumb Latches and Push Plates: Traditional or decorative mechanisms often used in heritage
or rustic designs.
Materials
and Finishes
Door handles are constructed from a
variety of materials, chosen for durability, aesthetics, and resistance to
wear:
- Brass:
Classic material, corrosion-resistant, often polished or antique-finished - Stainless Steel:
Modern, strong, and ideal for high-traffic areas - Zinc Alloy:
Cost-effective, versatile for decorative designs - Aluminum:
Lightweight and corrosion-resistant - Wood:
Traditional or rustic appearance
Finishes such as chrome, matte black, satin nickel, antique bronze,
and brass plating allow door handles to complement different interior or
exterior designs.
Functional
Categories
Door handles can also be classified
based on their locking and security features:
- Non-locking Handles:
For passage doors without privacy or security needs - Privacy Handles:
Often used on bathroom or bedroom doors; can lock from the inside - Locking Handles:
Integrated with key locks or multi-point locking systems for external
doors or secure areas
Handles are frequently paired with latches,
deadbolts, or mortise locks to provide complete access control.
Applications
Door handles are used in a variety
of settings:
- Residential Buildings: Front doors, interior doors, wardrobes, cabinets
- Commercial Buildings:
Offices, hotels, hospitals, retail spaces - Industrial Facilities: Security doors, storage units, and gates
- Heritage & Restoration Projects: Antique-style handles for historically significant
buildings
Maintenance
Proper care ensures longevity,
smooth operation, and aesthetic appeal:
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild detergent
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage finishes
- Lubricate moving parts periodically
- Inspect screws and fittings and tighten if necessary
Notable
Brands and Suppliers
Several brands specialize in premium
door handles and hardware, offering a combination of style, quality, and
durability. Examples include:
- Webironmongery
– Known for high-quality lever, knob, and pull handles(Webironmongery) - Hoppe, Baldwin, and ASSA ABLOY – Manufacturers of residential and commercial door
hardware - Local and international suppliers providing custom
or heritage-style handles
These brands provide options for
both modern and traditional designs, ensuring functionality and
aesthetic consistency.