It’s hard to believe that the humble door handle first appeared on doors more than 5,000 years ago. While today’s door handles are made from technologically advanced materials such as carbon fibre, titanium and stainless steel, the early handles of the Bronze age were often elaborately carved out of wood, bone or stone.
Although today’s modern door handles are typically off-the-shelf items manufactured in bulk, there are ways to choose ones that reflect your own individual style, adding a touch of style and charm to your doors. Besides making it possible to open and close doors, handles also provide added security to the home.
With more than 50 years in the windows and doors industry, Wideline Windows & Doors knows its hardware. If you want to know the differences between the different types of door handles and how to choose the right ones for your home, then keep on reading – then explore our full range online.
The Different Types of Door Handles
When it comes to choosing door handles for interior and exterior doors, homeowners have a variety of options to choose between. Many internal door handles are highly decorative and designed to complement interior design elements while external door handles are often designed with security and durability in mind. Here are the four most common types of door handles found around the home.
Lever Door Handles
These are the most common type of door handle, offering smooth operation and an ergonomic design that allows for easy gripping and turning. Lever door handles come in a variety of styles, from traditional models with curves and ornate detailing to more contemporary designs such as the Auslock Smart Lock.
Knob Door Handles
Another popular option for both interior and exterior doors as they offer a more classic look that evokes nostalgia. These can be especially useful on bedroom doors if you want a little extra privacy since some knobs cannot be opened from the outside.
Sliding Door Handles
Often used on patio or balcony doors that require an alternative way of opening them aside from traditional door knobs or levers. Sliding handles such as the Yarraview Curve and the Verta D-Pull allow you to effortlessly pull open your patio doors with one hand so you don’t have to worry about straining your back. Tubular deadbolts provide maximum security while still allowing convenient access through keyed entry systems or electronic locksets.
Mortice Lock Handles
Mortice lock handles use an inserted metal plate inside the edge of the door to secure it shut without the need for additional hardware. This kind of system provides superior security while still providing access via a key or combination code and includes the Verta Leverset & Mortice Lock
Door Handle Functionality vs Aesthetic
Door handles come in a range of styles and materials, from contemporary to classic, and it’s essential to select a door handle that will last and perform its intended purpose, as well as look aesthetically pleasing. While aesthetics is a key factor when choosing door handles; it should not be the sole deciding factor. Careful consideration should always be given to both aesthetics and function, opting for handles that meet both sets of criteria.
For instance, some handles require more effort to open than others due to the different mechanisms used in their construction. Lever-style handles are often easier to use than knobs, as they require less effort when opening the door. Additionally, certain materials may provide better protection against corrosion or wear than others.
Ultimately by considering both aspects equally when making your choice you can create an eye-catching entranceway with an ergonomic handle that will keep your doors securely shut and withstand years of frequent use without deteriorating in appearance or function.
Door Handle Security Features For Entry Doors
Entry door handles are an essential part of providing security for a home or business. Many handle designs feature advanced security features that can help to prevent forced entry and provide extra peace of mind. By investing in strong, secure door handles you can ensure the safety and protection of your home or business premises. But what types of door handles are most secure for entry doors?
- Lever handles
- Pull handles
- Smart handles
- Keyless handles
- Self-locking handles
Keyless entry systems, such as those using a code-based access control system, are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and enhanced security. Additionally, many handles come equipped with anti-tamper technology, which prevents people from tampering with the handle itself. Some door locks also come with an integrated alarm system that is activated if someone attempts to force open the door or tamper with the mechanism.
Automatic locking handles are another popular type of handle that locks itself automatically whenever the door is closed. Other important features to look for include reinforcement plates and heavy-duty construction materials designed to resist picking, sawing, drilling and other forms of forced entry.
How To Install An Interior Door Handle
Installing a door handle on an interior door is a relatively straightforward task that can be done in just a few simple steps. Before getting started, you’ll need to gather necessary materials like the correct mounting screws, a screwdriver, and the door handle itself.
- Once you have gathered these materials, start by locating the two pre-drilled holes on either side of the door where the handle will be mounted.
- Following this, insert the threaded mounting screws into the existing screw holes and tighten them with your screwdriver.
- Next, carefully slide the two halves of the handle onto each side of the door until they meet in the middle and then secure them with any necessary screws or bolts if included.
- Finally, use your hands to adjust and make sure that both sides of the handle are flush against either side of the door before tightening all screws completely.
- Make sure to verify that your new door handle opens and closes properly before using it for everyday use.
- Finally, check for any loose screws after each use and tighten them as needed to ensure proper functionality.
Door Handle Finishes
When it comes to choosing the right finish for your home renovation project, brushed nickel or chrome can be a great choice. These materials can provide a modern, fresh feeling to any room. Plus they are durable, easy to clean and almost maintenance-free. But don’t overlook the warm colours of brass – they offer a classic style that will outlast trends while never looking outdated.
From fair neutrals like whites and greys, to statement pieces that add a pop of colour to your entryway, Wideline Windows & Doors is your one-stop shop to find just the right finish and colour combination for your door handles. Choose from different finishes such as stainless steel, brass, bronze and black nickel with an excellent selection of colours and finishes guaranteed to compliment your home.
Where To Buy Door Handles And Hardware
At Wideline Windows & Doors, we offer a great selection of quality door handles and hardware to help you create your desired look and feel in any room. From stylish, contemporary designs to more traditional options, we have an array of colours, finishes and styles to choose from.
If you need help deciding which door handle or lock is best for you, feel free to visit one of our Wideline Windows & Doors showrooms today, where our experienced staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you through making the right decision.
