Identifying Common Types of Door Handles

Most Common Door Handles

When it comes to selecting a door handle for your home or office, the variety of options can be overwhelming. From functionality to style, there are several factors to consider. We will explore some of the most common types of door handles, including passage, active, entry, storm door, privacy, keyed, dummy, and inactive handles. We will also look at how to identify and differentiate between handles with similar functions.

1. Passage Handles

Passage handles are used on doors that do not need to be locked. They are typically found on interior doors such as closets, hallways, or rooms that do not require privacy. Passage handles usually have a latch but no locking mechanism.

Identification Tip: Look for handles that have a latch but no keyhole or privacy button. They turn freely and allow passage without restriction.

2. Active Handles

Active handles are equipped with a locking mechanism and are used on doors where security is a concern, such as exterior doors. These handles can lock and unlock with a key or a thumb turn.

Identification Tip: Active handles will have a keyhole on one side or a thumb turn on the interior side. They engage a lock mechanism when turned.

3. Entry Handles

Entry handles are similar to active handles but are specifically designed for exterior doors. They often come in sets that include a handle, a deadbolt, and a keyhole for added security.

Identification Tip: Entry handles are robust and often paired with a deadbolt. Look for a set that includes a handle and a separate locking mechanism, such as a deadbolt above the handle.

4. Storm Door Handles

Storm door handles are designed for screen doors or storm doors that provide an additional layer of protection to the main entry door. These handles are typically lighter and may have a simple latch or a key lock.

Identification Tip: Storm door handles are usually smaller and lighter. They might have a key lock but often just feature a basic latch mechanism.

5. Privacy Handles

Privacy handles are used on interior doors where privacy is desired, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. These handles have a locking mechanism that can be engaged from the inside but can be easily unlocked from the outside with a simple tool or pin.

Identification Tip: Look for handles with a push-button or thumb turn on the interior side. There is typically a small hole on the exterior side for emergency access.

6. Keyed Handles

Keyed handles are similar to active handles but emphasize security. These handles are lockable from both sides using a key and are often found on exterior doors.

Identification Tip: Keyed handles will have keyholes on both sides of the door or a keyhole on one side and a thumb turn on the interior.

7. Dummy Handles

Dummy handles are decorative and non-functional. They are used on doors where no latch or lock is needed, such as double doors or closet doors where one side remains stationary.

Identification Tip: Dummy handles do not turn or latch. They are fixed in place and are often used to match the appearance of functioning handles on adjacent doors.

8. Inactive Handles

Inactive handles are typically used on double doors. One door is active (can open and close), while the other is inactive (remains closed). Inactive handles may look like active handles but do not have a functioning latch.

Identification Tip: Inactive handles look like regular handles but do not operate a latch mechanism. They are usually paired with active handles on double doors.

 

Differentiating Between Similar Handles

• Passage vs. Privacy: Passage handles do not have a locking mechanism, while privacy handles have a lock that can be engaged from the inside.
• Active vs. Keyed: Both can lock, but keyed handles are usually more secure and can be locked from both sides with a key.
• Dummy vs. Inactive: Dummy handles are purely decorative and fixed in place, while inactive handles may look functional but are used on doors that remain closed.

By understanding the different types of door handles and their specific functions, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right handle for each door in your space. Whether you need security, privacy, or just a decorative touch, there's a door handle designed to meet your needs.