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Types of Entry Door Knob

Door Knob

There are many options for front door handles, but the most popular are knobs, levers and handles. Learn the differences to help you choose entry door hardware:

  • Door Knob: The door handle in its most classic form features a distinctive round handle. When turned, this releases the latch between the door frame and the door. A keyed entry door is easy to install, you can pair it with a deadbolt, or if you want a more secure entry, you can use an electronic lock.
  • Door Lever: Operating the door lever is easy - just turn it 90 degrees and the latch will release. Doorknobs are often a better choice for those who have difficulty turning or grasping the doorknob. Some door levers include a digital lock that prevents the latch from releasing and should be paired with a deadbolt lock for added security.
  • Handle: Keyed entry handle combines the security of a deadbolt with the convenience of a thumb latch, which is pressure sensitive. They are supplied as a one-piece handle with the pull handle, latch and deadbolt located on one trim panel. Other handle types have a separate lock trim where only one end of the latch handle is on the panel with the deadbolt.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Door Handles

Door Handles

When shopping for door handles and handles, the correct measurements determine which models are compatible with your door. Choosing the type of room it will fit into – with the appropriate style and finish – will also factor into the decision, as well as building materials and installation requirements.

Type

Doorknobs and handles are divided into three main types: privacy, virtual and access. Each has a different purpose and is more suitable for a specific room.

  • Privacy door handles and knobs feature twist or push button door locks on the front or sides. The locking feature makes this type of knob suitable for bedroom and bathroom doors. These locking door handles provide minimal security and usually have a small hole on the other end that allows the user to unlock the door with a master key.
  • Access door handles and knobs operate the latch assembly, but typically do not include a locking mechanism. They're a great choice for interior closets, hallways, and other rooms that don't require privacy locks.
  • The fake door handle is one-sided and does not include any internal working parts. They are essentially a way of pushing or pulling doors. Some virtual knobs are paired for double doors. They are great for small pantries, bedroom closets or the side of French doors.
  • Pocket door handles often resemble a latch that pulls open pocket doors and pushes them shut. These handles are available with or without a locking mechanism, depending on how much privacy is required.

Measurement

Before choosing a new door handle or handle, three important measurements need to be established: cross hole, setback, and door thickness.

  • The cross hole refers to the large round hole where the fixture is installed. Standard cross-drilled holes are 2⅛ inches in diameter. The cross hole must be smaller than the diameter of the door handle backplate for installation.
  • Back is the distance from the center of the cross hole to the edge of the door. There are two standard setback sizes: 2⅜" and 2¾". The backrest of the door handle must match the backrest of the door, otherwise it will not fit.
  • Indoor residential doors can vary in thickness, which can also affect the fit of the door handle. Older house doors tend to be thinner, only 1⅜ inches, while newer house doors are thicker, usually 1¾ inches thick. Most knobs can be used with a range of door thicknesses.

Material

Interior door handles come in a variety of materials. Door handles include a handle and a back panel, also known as a garland, which can be constructed of the same or different materials. The most common modern door handles are metal, followed by glass and ceramic options.

  • Metal is the most common material for doorknobs and handles. Most are made of brass, with more high-end options in chrome or stainless steel. Metal knobs are the most durable option and may vary aesthetically. The interior parts of the premium door handle are made of steel to withstand heavy use and are nickel plated to prevent corrosion.
  • Cut glass and crystal door handles provide a unique decorative element to the entryway. These fixtures were popular from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries, and many of the fixtures available today have a similar antique look. A variety of designs such as facets, anises, diamonds, grooves, and bubbles can add a captivating old-world aesthetic to a space.
  • Ceramic door handles are often painted for decorative purposes. Most functional patterns and colors add eye-catching visuals to the doorway. Knobs that contain ceramic are usually made of porcelain, which is denser and more durable than other types of ceramics.