As a homeowner, the door handles you choose for your home can have a big impact on its style, functionality, and safety. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which types of door handles are best for your needs. We’ve compiled the 10 most common types of door handles for homeowners to get familiar with, along with an overview of their key features, pros and cons.
Lever Handles
Lever door handles are likely the most common type found in modern homes today. They have a long horizontal lever that you push down or pull up to operate the latch mechanism.
Key Features
- Consists of a spring-loaded horizontal lever attached to a rotating spindle
- Pivoting motion pulls latch into door for opening
- Lever can be lifted up or pushed down with ease
- Comes in a variety of styles and finishes
Pros
- Very easy to operate, even for those with limited mobility or strength
- Intuitive push down or pull up motion to open
- Lever shape provides good leverage for turning mechanism
- ADA compliant and accessible design
Cons
- Not very childproof – easy for kids to open
- Less decorative and ornate than some other options
- Can catch on clothing or tear pockets if protrudes far from door
Whether you prefer a modern, minimal look or something more elegant, there is likely a lever handle style that will complement your home’s decor. They are ubiquitous today because of their easy, universal operation.
Knob Handles
The classic spherical doorknob that rotates to operate a latch is still common in many homes, especially in traditional or old-fashioned settings.
Key Features
- Consists of a round knob attached to a rotating spindle
- Rotating or twisting motion retracts the latch
- Requires grasping and turning of the knob to open
- Available in a wide range of decorative styles
Pros
- Very classic, traditional look preferred by some
- Huge variety of ornamental/decorative designs
- Knob shape provides plenty of leverage in small package
- Often found in antique and period homes
Cons
- Not as easy for those with arthritis or strength limitations
- Grasping and twisting motion can be difficult
- Small knobs not ADA compliant for accessibility
- Can catch on clothing or tear pockets
If you like a traditional vibe and want hardware that makes a statement, ornate door knobs in unique shapes, finishes and materials can be an appealing choice. The trade-off is slightly more difficulty operating than lever handles.
Pull Handles
Pull handles offer a modern, streamlined look while maintaining easy operation. They are attached to the door with two screws and do not operate any latching mechanism.
Key Features
- Surface-mounted handle does not operate latch
- Requires pulling outward to open door
- Sleek, minimalist contemporary design
- Available in range of sizes and shapes
Pros
- Creative contemporary style for modern spaces
- Easy grip and operation by pulling out
- Flush mount fits cleanly against door
- Variety of designs from basic to artistic
Cons
- Does not include any latching mechanism
- Needs pairing with another handle for security
- Very minimal, not for traditional style homes
- Limit functionality compared to other handles
For contemporary homes, pull handles deliver a minimalist look and easy operation. They are often paired with a push or turn latch for security rather than operating any mechanics themselves.
Push Plates
Push plates provide an accessible flat surface to press against to operate a latch and open the door. They are commonly found in commercial buildings.
Key Features
- Flat metal plate surface mounted on door
- Pushing plate retracts latch to open door
- Latch/lock mechanisms are separate
- Provides wide flat area for pushing
Pros
- Allows opening door with elbows, arms, etc
- Easy accessibility and compliance
- Handle-free for hygienic operation
- Durability for high-traffic use
Cons
- Very utilitarian, industrial appearance
- Needs separate latching/locking hardware
- Not much style or decorative appeal
With their highly accessible design, push plates are a practical option for high-traffic commercial doors. The wide flat surface makes opening doors easier when carrying packages or with disabilities.
Door Levers
Door levers consist of a large paddle-shaped lever that moves up or down to operate the latch and open the door. They provide ease of use similar to standard handles.
Key Features
- Paddle-shaped vertical lever
- Moving lever up or down retracts latch
- Opening with elbows or arms possible
- Meet ADA accessibility standards
Pros
- Intuitive up/down motion to operate
- Paddle shape easy to grasp and leverage
- Accessible for disabled users
- Styles ranging from modern to classic
Cons
- Moving lever prone to damage
- Limited style options compared to knobs
- Not as decorative as other options
With their paddle shape and accessibility, door levers offer an easy way to operate doors. They are ideal for both residential and commercial spaces needing to accommodate users of all abilities.
Entry Door Handles
Entry door handles range widely in styles but generally are built durable, provide secure key locking, and give a first impression with decorative designs.
Key Features
- Heavy duty construction
- Features deadbolt locking
- Elaborate decorative styles
- Finishes like bronze, nickel, and brass
Pros
- Durable for heavy use at main entry
- Secure key locking for safety
- Ornate designs for impressive appeal
- Sets tone of home’s style
Cons
- More expensive than standard handles
- Fancy styles not to all tastes
- Requires keeping track of keys
The front door handle provides both security and curb appeal. More elaborate designs and solid construction ensure it endures heavy use and presents the right first impression.
Privacy Door Handles
For bathrooms and bedrooms, privacy door handles allow locking with a switch or button for added security and exclusivity.
Key Features
- Button or switch locks handle
- Usually include deadbolt functionality
- Prevent accidental intrusions
- Offer peace of mind in private spaces
Pros
- Easy way to secure private rooms
- Avoid embarrassing accidents
- Give users control over space
- Often have occupancy indicators
Cons
- More expense than standard handles
- Locking buttons prone to breaking
- Can present accessibility hurdles
Privacy handles provide control over private spaces with a simple button for locking doors. This helps prevent unwanted bathroom or bedroom intrusions for greater peace of mind.
Smart Door Handles
Smart door handles include electronic components to enable keyless entry, touchscreens, fingerprint scanning, and integration with home automation systems.
Key Features
- Electronic push button code locks
- Touchscreens or fingerprint scanners
- Remote smartphone access
- Voice control integration potential
Pros
- Cool high-tech appeal
- Customized access
- No fumbling with keys
- Secure access tracking
Cons
- Requires power source
- Fails if battery dies
- Expensive compared to standard
- Potential hacking vulnerability
For tech-savvy homeowners, smart handles provide keyless convenience, customizable access, and integration with other connected home devices. Just be aware they also come at a higher cost and the risk of dead batteries.
Childproof Door Handles
Childproof handles use clever designs to prevent small children from operating latches and opening doors on their own.
Key Features
- Creative mechanisms to disable operation
- Requires dexterity child won’t have
- Prevents toddlers wandering rooms
- Gives parents control over access
Pros
- Limits child access for safety
- Secures off-limit dangerous areas
- Retains adult easy operation
- Provides supervision peace of mind
Cons
- Can make doors harder for some adults
- Limited style selection
- Kids learn to operate over time
- Must swap out when child older
Parents can breathe easier knowing clever childproof handles keep kids out of restricted rooms. Just be prepared to switch back to standard handles as kids’ motor skills improve over time.
Dummy Door Handles
Dummy handles are completely non-functional and don’t operate any latching mechanisms. They are solely for ornamental purposes.
Key Features
- Inoperable handle for looks only
- No connectivity to lock or latch
- Used on non-opening surfaces
- Variety of decorative styles
Pros
- Purely aesthetic appeal
- Can mirror door handle design
- Affordable non-functional option
- Allows stylized door focal point
Cons
- Not usable for opening doors
- No security functionality
- Handle raises expectations
- Could confuse some users
Dummy handles offer inexpensive decorative flair to dress up cabinet doors or non-opening surfaces matching other functional handles in the space. Just recognize they are solely ornamental without any operable purpose.
Accessible Door Handles
Accessible door handles are designed for easy operation by those with disabilities, limited mobility, or strength impairments.
Key Features
- Meet ADA compliance standards
- Lever, paddle or U-shaped designs
- Opening mechanisms require little strength
- Accommodate handicapped users
Pros
- Allow independent access to disabled
- Equitable usage for all
- Aging in place benefits
- Required in public places
Cons
- Limited style options
- Not the most attractive
- Extra expense not always necessary
- Prone to abuse in public settings
Quality accessible handles allow those with physical limitations to easily open doors without assistance. Their thoughtful designs provide independent access and equity to users of all abilities.
Conclusion
The door handles used throughout a home can have subtle but important impacts on its functionality, safety, accessibility, and aesthetics. Carefully choosing handles that are durable, secure, easy to operate, and styles that fit your decor is an important decision.
By understanding the wide range of handle types available and their key differences, homeowners can make informed choices balancing attractive appearance, security features, accessibility, and performance suitable for each area of the house. Whether your goals are classic charm for entryways, high-tech convenience, easy operation throughout, or just securely keeping little ones out of off-limits areas, there is a door handle style that can meet your needs whilecomplementing your home’s decor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Door Handles
Door handles may seem like a simple component of a door, but they have a big influence on the aesthetics, functionality and accessibility of a space. Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have about choosing the right door handles.
What are the main types of door handles for homes?
The most common residential door handle types include lever handles, knobs, pull handles, entry door handles, push plates, door levers, privacy handles, childproof handles and accessible handles. Each has pros and cons in terms of ease of use, security, appearance, cost and accessibility.
How do I choose handles to match my home’s style?
Consider the architectural and interior design style of your home. Traditional homes tend to use more ornate door knobs, while contemporary spaces default to simple lever or pull handles. Always try to maintain a cohesive look on handles for the same types of rooms.
Why are lever handles so common in homes today?
Lever handles are ubiquitous because they are easy to operate by pushing down or pulling up for nearly everyone, including those with limited mobility or strength. Their accessible, universal design makes them ideal for most homes.
Should exterior door handles be different than interior ones?
It’s smart to use heavy duty entry handles on exterior doors to withstand weather and heavy use. Decorative finishes like bronze, nickel and brass help make a good first impression too. Interior handles can focus more on comfort and aesthetics over durability.
What style of handle is best for bedrooms and bathrooms?
Privacy style handles that allow engaged locking are popular for bedrooms and bathrooms since they prevent accidental intrusions. Childproof handles for kids’ rooms are also a smart idea.
Why would I use dummy handles on cabinets or non-opening doors?
Dummy handles allow you to add decorative flair to surfaces like cabinet doors or non-opening walls while maintaining a cohesive style with functional handles used elsewhere in the room.
How do ADA compliant handles differ from standard ones?
ADA compliant handles like levers, paddles and U-shapes require minimal strength and dexterity to operate, allowing easy access for the disabled. This includes elderly residents aiming to age in place in their homes.
Should I replace old handles or just buff them up?
If the underlying hardware is still functional, you can likely restore antique or tarnished handles with a good polish or refinishing. But upgrading old knobs and latches to newer mechanisms ensures smoother operation.
Do I need to hire a pro for installing new handles?
In most cases, the process of removing old door handles and installing new ones is simple enough for DIYers to tackle. But if you have antique hardware or unique needs, hiring a professional may be wise.