The ultimate buyer's guide to door handles

Looking for a new door handle? Before you start shopping here are some essentials to get to grips with. The Gold Boutique has been helping interior designers and home renovators pick the best accessories for their projects, our team has four key tips.

Understand the basics

Ahead clicking on an online cart, take a deep breath. You need to consider:

Function: Do you need to be able to lock the door?

Front and back doors should have an entry door handle set with a key.  For internal doors requiring locks, use a privacy set with a button or turn-piece locking function. If no lock is needed, try a passage set or “dummy set” in areas like hallways and linen cupboards.

KNOB  vs. LEVER 

Both have advantages. If dexterity and strength are an issue, levers require less grip than knobs. Otherwise, it can come down to personal taste and which style of which you prefer.

HANDING 

Door handing is the way the door swings, usually outwards or inwards. This is critical to take into account. All our door handles can be installed either way. 

Measure up

Measuring the main door elements before buying a handle is important. The most fundamental elements include the following:

BACKSET

This is the distance from the center of the door handle to the edge of the door. Standard options in 2 ½", but some door hardware comes with adjustable versions.

BOREHOLE AND CROSS BORE

The cross bore is the hole going through the door, from one side to the other. This is where the door knob is mounted. Standard measurements are a 2 1/8" bore hole and 1" cross bore. If your doors have different dimensions, 

DOOR THICKNESS

Door thickness varies, with exterior designs typically being thicker than interiors. The standard range is 1 3/8" – 1 3/4" (35mm - 45mm).

Additionally, some knobs work better with different measurements. Taking the time to scope the specs upfront will save you energy and money in the long run.

Select your style

Chrome, brushes, and Matt. Within our range, we have a number of options for door architecture, and design for all tastes and budgets.

For a contemporary flair, consider up-to-the-minute sleek lines and stunning finishes, from satin to matte black, which will style your doors and set the tone for every room or front entrance.

With so many options, you can mix and match throughout your house or go for a uniform look to create cohesion.

Consult an expert

There’s more to doors than you might think. To unlock the possibilities, ask the specialists in door solutions at The Gold Boutique. We’re always more than happy to provide you with reliable advice and guidance.