Why are American door handles so low?

Doors are either left-handed or right-handed, depending on which way they open. Doorknobs can be installed on either side of the door.

Handles are normally designed for either the right or left side of the door (i.e. you need a left/right pair for each door, one on this side of the door, the other on the other side of the door). (This appears to be a topic of confusion, and it seems that this confusion is wide-spread.... There happens to be a door-handle company that has run in to this, and they have put together a detailed description/diagram of the problem.... Unfortunately, Wikipedia disagrees about door handing .... i.e. there is lots of confusion. The point remains though, that the handles (often) have a 'handing')

You will likely find that less material is needed for a doorknob as well, so they are cheaper. The handle on a handle provides leverage, which means it takes less weight/force to operate the latch mechanism (and less force to overload the mechanism too), so a Handle's mechanism needs to be stronger to support the same forces a doorknob would be exposed to. Also, just the shape of the lever means there is more metal..... A knob would have much less raw-material than a handle.

If you expand the UX scope to include the sticker-shock when you purchase one, then knobs have a better UX ;-) (and, also probably a smaller 'carbon footprint', environmental cost....)

Here's a google-search images for 'door handle'.

Note how almost all the handles are specifically shaped.

Why are American door handles so low?

Those that are not specifically shaped, often have a base-plate that makes the mounting different for different door-sides.

Why are American door handles so low?

Only a few of the handles have a round/ambidextrous handle and mounting plate.

Why are American door handles so low?

Out of interest, door handles normally have a 'stop' built in to the handle which limits the handle's travel to avoid stressing the actual bolt mechanism in the door (on the other hand, knobs don't have that leverage, so they let the mechanism in the door be the 'stop'). This mechanical stop requires the handle to be securely fastened to the door, so handles (with their additional leverage) need a stronger mounting (the mechanical stop in the handle also often prevents you from being able to reverse the handle on the mounting plate).

With the ambidextrous mounting plates on some of the handles, you would probably use a stronger door/lock in order to support the leverage on the handle, which transfers the cost to be elsewhere....

A NASTY prediction. Within a couple of years it will be illegal to install conventional round or oval doorknobs in any new or renovated buildings in Australia.

In some cases, particularly in government buildings, existing doorknobs will be scrapped and replaced by the lever-style lock release.

Before you accuse me of going stark raving mad I point out that laws banning doorknobs have already been passed in Vancouver in Canada. It is a growing trend in the United States. It's only a matter of time before some lazy, unimaginative, meddling politician introduces parallel laws in Australia.

The logic behind banning round door knobs and replacing them with levers has some merit - levers are easier and safer for disabled or aged people and small children to operate.

But banning doorknobs seems to be taking the nanny state to new heights of absurdity. Cynics might argue it is a good idea in theory but will never actually happen.

Oh, yeah?

Try to buy a good, old-fashioned incandescent light bulb. A few years ago politicians decided that it was best if we all used the modern, energy-saving LED or fluorescent globes. The old globes were phased out. The public was not consulted. Big Brother just told us what was best for us.

What about the dual flush toilet? For 200 years it was good enough to pull a chain on an overhead cistern and, in more recent times, to press a single button. Then Big Brother decided it was best for us all to have dual flush cisterns to conserve water.

Now it's illegal to install a single-flush cistern.

What about round taps? They are destined for the scrap heap of history, replaced by the lever style which are so much easier for aged, arthritic or disabled people to use.

Fire alarms are fitted with flashing lights to aid people with hearing difficulties. "Rain wave" lawns sprinklers are relics from an era of cheap domestic water. Cyclists must wear helmets. And so it will be with doorknobs.

Our two-bedroom apartment is 12 years old. Until this minute I had not realised that all but one of the apartment's 12 doors have lever door handles. One rarely-used door to a small utility courtyard has a round knob.

So the trend has started. All that is required now is legislation to make it punishable by law to install round doorknobs. The Vancouver legislation does not apply to existing structures. Lever handles will only be compulsory in new or comprehensively renovated structures.

But to comply with the spirit of the legislation and set a civic example, the doorknobs in some government buildings are being voluntarily replaced with levers. The Vancouver City Hall had superb brass knobs embossed with the letters VCH and worn shiny by decades of twisting. They've since been scrapped and replaced with ergonomically-preferred designs. Inevitably, well-intentioned change has unintended consequences.

What will happen to stores with existing stock of round door handles? What about stores with period, antique or reproduction door knobs used in faithful renovation of old buildings?

It's easy to appreciate the comfort, convenience and safety that lever door handles offer the aged, the disabled and the young.

But do we really have to pass laws to make it happen?

Why not a bit of trust and education to slowly phase out the traditional handshake of a home or commercial building.

Open a door, and you’ll be pulling down the handle for a matter of seconds. For a four-bedroom home, there’s at least 12 internal doors. It can be exhausting thinking about the number of times you’ll be opening and closing a door and pulling down door handles!

While door handles are relatively small items, they need to be fit for their purpose to function. 
We’ve come up with a handy (excuse the pun) guide to help, so you are aware of the difference between cheap and expensive door handles.

Design 

Cheap door handles are often poorly designed. The quality of the hardware depends on materials, internal components and the way it’s manufactured. You can get a good idea of the quality knowing where it’s made. Australia, Europe and the USA are known to produce door levers of a high-standard.

Inexpensive handles may be difficult to grasp because of the shape and material. Latches may get stuck, and the hardware may be obtrusive.

We’ve all walked past a door handle that has become caught on your clothing. Who hasn’t knocked themselves on the hip from a door handle that juts out too wide? 

Smooth rounded designs with no sharp corners or edges that may snag are a good choice.

Too light and flimsy

A cheap, lightweight handle may not give you enough leverage to open a heavier door. There’s a trend for grander entrance doors so your choice of door handle needs to be sturdy enough to perform its function.

Door hardware should be certified to standard ISO 9001. With handles produced overseas, sometimes quality assurance can lapse. You should be able to open a quality door handle with an elbow when carrying several bags of groceries.  

Door handle material 

Door handles are made from different materials such as brass, bronze, aluminium, stainless steel – to provide a great finish and longevity.

For entrance doors, especially if you live on the coast, you’ll want a door handle finish like chrome, nickel, and high-grade stainless steel. These types of materials will withstand all the weather elements. From heat and humidity, heavy rain to the salt coming off the sea air. 

Solid metal may be more expensive and last longer than plated metal and retain its finish longer and won’t peel or flake. Hollow products are more prone to damage. 

Is it the door handle or something else?

Finally, many door handle problems are down to the latch or installation – not the door handle itself. A poor quality latch will cause a door handle to sag. Nearly 90% of problems with door handles arise from shoddy DIY and poor installation. Door handles are touched more than anything else, so it might be worth getting them installed by a professional.

Do you have a better grasp on door handles now?  If you need further advice, come and talk to the experts at Door Stop. We have a no quibble seven-year warranty on all our doors and offer 0% interest.

We have two showrooms, one in Osborne Park, the other in Joondalup - and exceptional Google reviews  - a near-perfect 4.9 out of 5.
 

Have you ever wondered why English door knobs are so high? Now, this question may seem random, but it has a very fascinating answer. 

According to historians, these high door knobs were meant to give a cosy look to rooms with high ceilings. It was also an optical trick to make the ceiling height look less than it was. To fit into this theme, it made sense to have high door knobs. 

Door knobs are actually a very unique subject and there’s so much to learn about them. Keep reading to find out some fun facts about door knobs in England.

Why are American door handles so low?

We’re an affiliate: We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Thank you if you use our links, we really appreciate it!

Why Are Door Knobs So High In England?

Many people have noticed that door knobs on old doors are typically placed higher in England. Well, a higher door knob is simply more practical and convenient, especially for taller people. 

Having a deadbolt placed near chin level also has advantages. This makes it much harder to kick in the door or break it down. 

Why Are Door Knobs In The Middle Of The Door In England?

Doors in England typically have a four way lock system with lock rods coming out on the top, bottom, and both sides of the door. So, it makes sense to have the knob in the middle. 

Plus, it also looks more visually appealing and adds to the symmetry. 

Why Do Old Houses Have Low Door Knobs?

According to Mimi Miller, the Director of Programs at the Historic Natchez Foundation, there was a very simple reason for having low door knobs. The structure of the doors required the door knob to be lower. 

The door knob was placed on the sturdiest part of the door, which is where the rail and the stile meet. 

How Much Are Old Glass Door Knobs Worth?

The worth of vintage old glass knobs mostly depends on the condition, style, color, and of course, rarity of the design. Generally, an antique door knob could cost you anywhere between $10 to $200. 

One particularly unique and desirable type are Victorian door knobs. The most common 12-sided molded-glass knobs will usually cost $30 to $50 a pair. 

A pair of cut-crystal ball knobs can cost as much as $500. We really like these – plus they’re a lot cheaper than that!

Types Of Door Knobs

By definition, a door knob is a round handle that rotates in a clockwise or anti-clockwise motion to open a door. Door knobs are usually used for interior doors as a more aesthetic and sophisticated alternative to lever handles.

There are many styles and finishes of door knobs including mortice door knobs, polished nickel door knobs, as well as satin brass, porcelain, chrome, and crystal door knobs. 

Plus, there are several different door knob types, including:

Dummy door knobs:

A dummy door knob does not have to be rotated, rather it is simply pulled. These door knobs are most commonly used on wardrobe or cabinet doors.

Passage door knobs:

These door knobs work with a latch and are rotated to open the door. They are usually used on hallways or in rooms that don’t need privacy.

Privacy door knobs:

A privacy door knob comes with a twist lock that will only work from one side, making it perfect for bedroom and bathroom doors. If there is an emergency, there are ways to open it from outside.

Keyed entry door knobs:

These door knobs function with a lock and key on both sides of the door. So, you can use them in any room that requires more security.

How Tall Are Average Doors In UK?

The height of a standard door in England and Wales is 1981 mm or 6’6 feet. In Scotland, the average door height is slightly taller at 2040 mm. 

For internal and external doors in the UK, the standard door size is 762 x 1981 mm. In comparison, the standard interior door size in America is usually 762 x 2032 mm. External doors in America are usually 910 x 2030 mm in size.  

What Is The Minimum Height For A Door?

On average, the minimum clear height for a door opening should be a minimum of 6 feet 8 inches. Most interior doors are referred to as “6/8 doors” for this reason. However, some codes do allow for 78 inches doors. 

You can check your building or area’s regulations for a more definitive answer depending on where you live. 

How Thick Is A Standard Door In UK?

Most external doors are usually 44mm to 54 mm thick. However, some double glazed patio door sets can have a thickness of up to 70 mm.

Metric sized interior doors are also quite popular and common in Europe and Scotland. These doors can be extremely specific when it comes to measurements. 

What Types Of Door Knobs Are In Style?

Some of the most trending and stylish door knobs nowadays come in finishes of Rustic Brass, Vintage Pewter, Graphite Nickel and Satin Brass. 

These door knob finishes have an elegant, antique touch with a timeless look. 

Final Words

So, now you know why some door knobs are high and why some are placed in the middle. It’s also fascinating how door knobs and door sizes vary in different countries and regions.

We hope this article was an interesting and informative read for you.