Since their invention in 1878, doorknobs and handles are now a permanent feature on every door, both outdoors and indoors. However, when it comes to standard. Different countries have their standard on the height of placing the doorknob.
Typical Door Handle Height
The typical door handle height varies due to a lot of factors. These factors may include door handle height code in a particular country, purpose, and type of handle.
Even though different countries have their standards. The International Building Code provides a standard for a doorknob height. The code prescribes that the height of a doorknob be approximately between 34 and 48 inches from a finished floor.
It, however, suggests that if the door leads to a swimming pool the doorknob be placed 48 to 54 inches from the finished floor. High enough from the reach of children
It also requires that all projection leading to the doorway, hallway or other means of access be favorable and compatible with wheelchair use. Allowing wheelchair users free access without obstruction by the handles.
For a doorknob hole, they are no speciation or regulation around them. This depends on the size of the doorknob.
A 2-1/8-inch hole saw is a sufficient tool to drill a hole for a standard doorknob dimension. A hole saw is usually aggressive and you should have a proper back up to avoid splintering of the veneer
Some notable and varying standards include;
Australia and UK Standard Doorknob Height
The standard doorknob height in Australia and Uk considers other factors besides the International Building Code. Each installer or builder must take into account children’s safety and the intention of the handle. Wheelchair users are also considered before new handles are installed
The doorknobs should be placed 35.5-41.5 inches above a finished floor. They should also be operated by free moving slide action.
BS 8300 which is a British Standard requires that doorknob be placed between 31.5-41.5 inches from the floor. BS 8300 code of practice is to ensure that buildings can be accessed by disabling people. It covers the Equality Act, formerly the Disability Discrimination Act
Door Handle Height in the United States
Across the US different bodies have varied regulations on the standard door handle height. These regulations are captured in different sets of codes that govern the design, construction, and accessibility of a building. The Department of Housing and Urban Development, Defence, Postal Services and the General Services Administration have different regulations.
Different Types of Door Handles
Door handles are an integral part of a door. They provide a mechanism used to close or open a door. Different countries use different standards on how high to fix door handles. They are three major types of door handles .pull handles, lever handles, and doorknobs. Let’s have a look at each type
Pull handles
Door pull handles are suitable for passage doors. They are available as the following:
Pull handles on rose.
They are fitted into a round rose. They have a modern and elegant look on doors.
Pull handles on a backplate.
They feature a more traditional look. They can be used for both internal or external doors
Back to back pull handles.
Lever handles
This is the most common type door handle used in residential houses, public and commercial buildings. Lever handles can be further subdivided into two;
Lever handles on a backplate
Lever handle on rose
Lever handles on a backplate
Lever handles on a backplate have three operating mechanisms .lever bathroom, lever latch, and lever lock
Lever bathroom.
Often used where privacy I required, such bathroom or bedroom doors. This mechanism involves a thumb turn lock that can easily be locked or unlocked from inside. In case of an emergency, it can easily be unlocked from the outside by turning the coin slot.
Lever latch.
This is used for interior doors. They involve a simple mechanism where you only push the handle down to open the door
Lever lock.
These provide both security and privacy. Their mechanism feature key-operated door handles and has a keyhole mostly combined with a mortice lock
.
Lever handles on rose
This is more modern door handles that sit on either a square rose or a round square. They are much smaller than backplates. They are typically operated with a latch. However, for added security, they can be paired with a locking mechanism.
Doorknobs
They round handle which rotate either to open a door. Mainly used for internal doors. They are also used for decoration and pulling entry doors closed from outside. Here are some of the types:
Dummy doorknobs.
This type pull the doors open without rotation
Passage doorknobs.
They are used for doors of rooms that don’t require privacy. They feature a latch mechanism and the handle is rotated to open the door.
Privacy doorknobs.
They feature a twist-lock which only functions from one direction. They are suitable for bathroom and bedroom doors. In an emergency, they can be unlocked from the outside.
Keyed entry doorknobs.
They have a lock and key mechanism on either side of the door. They can be used for rooms that require to be secured
What to consider when choosing door handles and knobs
1.Door style and finish
This is an important factor to consider when deciding on the door handles and knobs.in this you consider if the door is:
Paneled
Boarded
Veneered
Painted
2.Handle shape
The shape is another key element to consider. For example: Oval, round, angular, classic, contemporary
3.Other doors in a room
In a house that is heavily populated with doors. You might consider using matching handles across all doors, or you may decide to create a contrast.
4.Function
You should consider the function of the door handle or knob before installation.
For example::
The size and weight of the doors
How frequently are the doors going to be used?
How suitable are they children,disabled and the elderly?
Final Word
A door handle height is an important factor for it determines how accessible a building is and the safety children. As such, it is upon the builder to determine the correct height for fixing the door height based on the door type and use. That said the builder should always adhere to universal standards like the International Building Code and the United Nations recommendations on standard door height
