Choosing Right Door Handles

 

Consider the following points while choosing handles for your doors. Whilst this might seem a little daunting, it isn’t if you follow the steps below. The important things you will need to consider are:

The style

Approach door handle design in the same way that you would approach any other interior design task. Consider what your overall theme is in the building you are choosing the handles for. Then consider the design of the room it will be used in and, finally, the type of door design that your handles will be used with.

If you’ve taken a traditional design approach throughout your home, then choosing innovative angular handles is unlikely to work aesthetically, and if you’re committed to contemporary curves then a straight chrome door handle may not act as a contrast, it may just look out of place.

You’ll also need to consider the types of door design you have used. Some people use different door designs on different floors of their homes, some prefer the same door design throughout and a few enjoy being completely individual and will have a range of door designs throughout their property. 

When you consider your door handles, you need to take your door decisions into account. For example, if you have all of the same door designs throughout, do you want matching chrome door handles for consistency or do you want to differentiate your floors or rooms with different handle designs to add that design edge? Do you want your door handles to have the same colour and finish but with different designs or the same design with different colours and finishes? 

If you’ve decided to be daring in your door design, do you want a handle that mirrors that bravery or do you want a more classic handle to highlight the difference and individuality of your door designs? 

The front entrance and security

Mortice locks offer better door security. If you are considering what is the most secure lock to install on your front entry then definitely consider using a Mortice lock? Mortice locks offer a higher level of security than a tubular latch. For more information read this.

If you’re looking to replace the locks and entry sets on the doors around your house, you’re really looking at a choice between Mortice and tubular style lock systems. While tubular systems are popular and found in both residential and business applications, you should know why Mortice locks offer higher security for doors in both businesses and homes before making your choice.

Tubular locks gained general popularity because they are quicker to fit and they do not require special tools or training to install, and are therefore seen as a relatively secure, simple entry system. However, it’s exactly for these reasons that Mortice locks offer a greater level of security.

The fact is that most home burglaries happen when the strike plate of the door is kicked in or struck with a heavy object. By weakening the lock, or simply smashing through the door around the entry system, burglars are able to access your home. A tubular latch has far less structural strength than a Mortice lock.

The type of interior handle – lever or knob

The doorknobs you choose depends on the use of each door in your home, as well as the style you prefer. Some people prefer door knobs, while others like door levers (these are easier to open for people with disabilities, the elderly and children).

 The Door Function

Once you’ve decided the type of hardware you need, you’ll need to determine the function. For hallway and closet doors, you will want a non-locking, passage knob or lever. For bedrooms and bathrooms, you may consider a locking, privacy knob or lever. For decorative door pulls, purchase a non-turning, dummy knob or lever and for exterior or higher security needs, a keyed knob or lever. It helps to take a tally of the doors in your home and the function you will need to ensure you purchase the right door hardware. There are four functions a handle provides;

1. Passage set (non – locking)
2. Entry set (has a key and used for the front door)
3. Privacy (has an integrated or separate locking function)
4. Dummy set (a fixed handle without a latch used for cupboards)