Share Whether you're renovating a residential home or office, you'll need a wide array of products to get the job done. While internal door handles may not be the first thing you think about, they're as essential to the project as any other component.
Looking online for types of door handles can be a little overwhelming, not least because of the sheer amount of choice available.
Of course, you're likely to have doorknobs and door handles in place already that you'd like to replace, but that doesn't necessarily mean that like-for-like substitution will work.
To help you in this regard, here we're going to be detailing the types of door handles that exist and the other considerations that need to be made. So, in this blog, we'll be covering the three main varieties:
- lever handles
- door knobs
- pull handles.
Type #1 - Door Knobs
Typically designed with a circular handle, door knobs need to be rotated in either direction for the door they're installed in, to either open or close.
Employed primarily internally, in bathroom doors and other connecting internal doors, door knobs are often chosen as an alternative to lever varieties.
That said, they can also be used decoratively, with a range of different types existing in this sub-category of door handles that includes the following:
Key Entry Door Knobs
Featuring a key-operated lock mechanism that can be accessed from both sides, this option is ideal for rooms that need to be kept secure, such as offices and storerooms.
Privacy Door Knobs
With a twist lock that can only be operated from one side, privacy door knobs are popular for use on toilet doors, bathroom doors, and bedroom doors. They're also able to be opened from the outside if the person inside experiences an emergency.
Passage Door Knobs
When privacy isn't an issue, passage door knobs are a suitable option and can usually be found on doors that line hallways and that allow access to connecting rooms.
The door knob still needs to be turned to open the door in question and will typically also feature a latch.
Dummy Door Knobs
When the main requirement is aesthetics and a basic open-close function, then a dummy door knob can be the ideal choice.
There's no real point in rotating this particular type of door handle, as it's not connected to any lock or turning mechanism. All you get is something to pull in order to open and close the door.
You'll also find this type of doorknob being used on internal doors, cabinet doors and other types of furniture like wardrobes and cupboards.
A Wide Selection of Finishes & Styles
When purchasing any of the door handles mentioned above, you'll also get to choose between a wide range of different styles and finishes.
For example, you could go for a chrome mortice door knob, an antique brass oval design, or even a white ceramic option with a floral pattern.
Type #2 - Lever Door Handles
Also often referred to as door levers, lever door handles are by far the most common type you'll find being used in interior doors, both in commercial and residential properties.
This sub-category of door handles can also be broken down into those that come with a rose and others that come with a backplate.
Lever door handles can be used with a number of different operating mechanisms, with the ideal choice most often being determined by the type of door they're used on.
Lever Bathroom Door Handle
When it comes to a bathroom door, then privacy is something that anyone using it is going to need, whether using the toilet or taking a bath.
This particular mechanism will include a thumb turn lock that's locked from the inside of the door. There is a 'coin slot' on the other side, which can be used for emergency access if required.
Lever Latch Door Handle
If there's no need for the interior door in question to be secured by the door handle, then a lever door latch is sufficient. A lever latch can be used on a bathroom door, so long as a bolt is there to take care of the privacy aspect.
Lever Lock Door Handle
Our last type of lever door handle is the lever lock, which is frequently combined with a mortice lock to provide security.
Requiring a key to open the door lock, this is the most secure all the lever door handle options that can be used for storerooms and other areas where controlled access is needed.
Styles & Finishes to Suit Any Setting
Again, when researching the market for a lever door handle set, you'll find a staggering amount of choices to suit any setting or purpose.
For instance, you have traditional styles of door handle like an Elpis Lever in matt black or a Berkley Lever in satin nickel.
Whatever the job calls for, there will be a lever door handle to suit all kinds of inside doors in a stunning array of attractive designs and styles.
Type #3 - Pull Door Handles
Now we complete our examination of the three main categories by looking at pull handles, which are usually found on patio doors, sliding doors, as well as regular hinged doors.
As with the other two alternatives, you can sub-divide pull door handle products into a selection of different categories.
Pull Handles on Rose/Backplate
As is the case with lever handles and door knobs, pull handles come with both backplates and roses, with the best option depending on style requirements.
Another consideration that needs to be made when choosing a style is whether any drill holes and other marks from previous handle installations need to be covered up neatly.
Bolt-Through Pull Handles
Another type of door handle from this category is the bolt-through pull handle that is notable due to having a bolt that passes right through the door it's attached to, which is then secured in place by a bolt on the other side.
This is a great option for high-use scenarios and all but eliminates the chances of anyone accidentally pulling the door handle off.
Back-to-Back Pull Handles
When in a commercial setting like an office or restaurant, back-to-back pull handles represent a popular choice for interior door purposes.
Installed on double doors with the handles positioned adjacent to each other (hence the name), you'll also see them widely used in libraries, shops, and other commercial interior doors.
Needless to say, back-to-back pull handles are also available in a wide range of styles, finishes, and designs to suit any decor or purpose.
Choosing the Right Option For Your Needs
When you're trying to choose the best door handle option for your needs from lever handles, door knobs, and pull handles, it's simply a matter of design and purpose.
Door knobs can be the more practical option, given that when installed with the right latches, they can be rotated both ways, irrespective of door position.
Levers can be operated by the elbow, making them easier to use for people with disabilities or those with their hands full.
Then there are pull handles that are great for big commercial double doors, as well as for sliding doors and patio door purposes.
Essentially, there is no right or wrong option, so long as they perform the intended purpose well and adhere to the overall aesthetic.
That's it from us for this time. We hope that after reading our article, you've gained some clarity on door handle selection and empowers you to find the perfect solution.
