Door hardware includes not only locks, hinges, and anti-burglary pins, but also handles and pulls. Until recently, the most popular way to open a door was with a handle. Today, customers are increasingly choosing external pulls. This is not surprising, as the selection of pulls is definitely more diverse than that of handles, making it easier to match the hardware to the bolder door designs.
In addition to the aesthetic option, there is also a practical variant – fingerprint readers, keypads, and buttons. We will discuss all of this in today’s article.
Differences Between the Grip and the Door Handle
Unlike classic door handles, they are not a mechanism. Door handles are connected to the lock, which releases the bolt when activated, allowing the door to be opened. In contrast, grips do not unlock anything, and opening the door occurs solely through the use of human muscle power and their solid installation.
Concern About Locking (Day and Night Function)
The fact that the grip is not a mechanism sometimes raises concerns among customers who are accustomed to unlocking the bolt of the lock with a handle. With doors that have a grip, we would always need to have the key on hand to release the bolt, avoiding the situation of getting locked out, which is something we don’t have to worry about when choosing doors with handles.
Lack of access to the inside of the house can be quite troublesome during garden work or family barbecues.
Manufacturers of fittings have solved this problem by offering mechanical day/night electric strikes. Setting the electric strike to the daytime function allows us to access the door without a key. The lock bolt then functions like a barrel lock, enabling us free access to the inside of the house.
The door is flush with the plane of the frame, and it only takes a stronger pull or push in the direction of opening to open it.
Typy pochwytów
The basic division of grips will be external grips and flush grips. External grips, as the name suggests, are mounted on the door leaf, visibly protruding from its surface. Flush grips, on the other hand, do not protrude from the door leaf. They appear as elongated troughs where we place our hand to open the door.
Grip Materials (Color Options)
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a universal and reliable material that performs excellently as a construction material for door handles. There are two varieties of stainless steel available: 304 and 316. For areas particularly exposed to harsh conditions, it is recommended to choose 316 stainless steel. This is especially important in areas where chemical substances, saltwater, or chlorine are present. In environments with high humidity and temperature, such as industrial zones, coastal areas, or swimming pools, 316 stainless steel exhibits greater corrosion resistance than 304 stainless steel. Therefore, it is significantly more effective in demanding locations. With proper maintenance and cleaning using dedicated stainless steel products, you can be sure that the handles will serve for many years.
Aluminum
An alternative material for making door handles is aluminum. It is a material that offers unlimited finishing possibilities for the product. Currently, a popular trend in the field of door fittings is black handles. This often involves the use of a complete set of black door fittings, including black hinges, handles, knobs, escutcheons, and of course, black grips. Various shades of black are available in the RAL color palette, ranging from deep black 9005 to warm shades 8077 and gray anthracite 7016. A particularly prestigious finish is black anodizing with an F-40 grind, creating an impressive effect. Black handles feature a matte finish with a pleasant texture. Of course, we are not limited to just black. A variety of powder coat shades are available, covering a full spectrum of rainbow colors.
Manufacturers of grips have prepared a set of standard paint colors based on their experience, but upon request, we can also purchase a handle in any other color. There is also the option to use other coatings, such as stainless steel (INOX) with characteristic discolorations. Continuous experiments with new coatings are being conducted, resulting in materials like copper or onyx, which respond to the latest trends.
Handles with Wooden Elements
Among the most distinguished features are door handles that incorporate a wooden spindle. For centuries, people have cherished the beauty of wood, a material that is both readily available and versatile. Today, wood has gained immense value due to its numerous positive qualities, making it suitable for various applications and purposes. Its natural beauty seamlessly complements any design, symbolizing a connection between humanity and nature. Notably, door handles enhanced with solid oak spindles stand out. This combination of durable, cool stainless steel and warm, tactile wood creates an exquisite balance. Colorful, modern aluminum harmonizes beautifully with the classic strength of wood. This remarkable synergy between human craftsmanship and one of nature’s most beautiful gifts achieves perfect harmony in every detail. Wooden spindles add elegance to both round and square tube handles. The oak used in these handles can be left raw or finished with a stain. A variety of colors is available, including golden oak, walnut, dark walnut, rosewood, and black, each coated with a clear lacquer that enhances their beauty.
Handles with Electronics
Access Control Systems
The primary purpose of using electronics in handles is to restrict unauthorized access to specific areas. They are one of the key components of smart home systems. Devices such as fingerprint readers, numeric keypads, and RFID readers fall into this category. Touch sensors, microsensors, and buttons are also included. This type of electronics often consists of multifunctional elements. Each of them prevents unauthorized entry in slightly different ways while simultaneously facilitating access for authorized individuals. Such electronics represent smart systems that significantly enhance security levels. Typically, access control devices are installed in doors, building facades, or walls. This ergonomic solution allows doors to be unlocked and opened with a single hand movement.
LED Backlighting
There is also the option to illuminate the handle with LED strips or LED points. A door handle with backlighting presents an impressive appearance. It attractively draws attention and adds prestige to the building. It subtly highlights the handle while also serving as an inviting feature, encouraging entry. These handles come in various colors and styles.
Summary
In summary, we can conclude that traditional door handles and knobs are becoming less prominent. It is now time for extraordinary, personalized, and sophisticated handles that, in addition to their aesthetics, are also practical. In the architecture industry, design clearly defines the mastery of simple and futuristic forms. Door handles represent the future of this trend.
