Door Hardware Guide: Door Lever vs Door Knob
Isn't it the details that matter most? Here are the pros and cons of two kinds of door hardware
Somehow I don’t remember making the choice between a door knob or a door lever when I first moved into my new home. Strange, because if I knew then what I know now, this would not have been a forgotten moment in time. A stylish piece of door hardware can add sophistication and style, enhancing the overall look of one’s home in subtle ways besides performing the important function of opening and closing the door.
Door levers and door knobs are available in many styles and finishes; make sure that your selection is coordinated with the other finishes of your home. Here is a guide to the pros and cons of doorknobs and door levers that will help you to decide.
Door levers and door knobs are available in many styles and finishes; make sure that your selection is coordinated with the other finishes of your home. Here is a guide to the pros and cons of doorknobs and door levers that will help you to decide.
Pros
- The biggest advantage of a door lever is that it is very convenient to use. The handle provides a very easy grip to open and close the door.
- Door levers are popularly available in sleek designs that impart a modern look to the door.
- Some door levers come with an all-in-one option; it comprises a combined back-plate that accommodates the key hole and locking arrangement.
Cons
- Door levers may require some maintenance over time; the springs that hold the lever in position may become loose due to continuous usage. In such a case, professional help is required to repair or change the fixture.
- One concern about a door lever is that it cannot be child-proofed to prevent kids from opening or closing the door.
- Also loose clothing may easily get caught and tear if it gets caught in the horizontal handle of the door lever.
Door knobs
Door knobs have a round opening and closing mechanism. This is one of the main differentiating factors between a door lever and a door knob. Unlike door levers the same door knob is suitable for both right-opening and left-opening doors.
Door knobs have a round opening and closing mechanism. This is one of the main differentiating factors between a door lever and a door knob. Unlike door levers the same door knob is suitable for both right-opening and left-opening doors.
Pros:
- Door knobs have been around since quite some time, and are best suited for homes with a traditional decor.
- Safety covers are easily available for door knobs, which is an effective way to childproof a home.
- Door knobs are easy to maintain.
Door Handles
Cons:
- A door knob does not give as much grip as a door lever. Hence children and some older people may find it difficult to operate.
- Another drawback is that door knobs may be difficult to open with wet or damp hands.
- Some knobs come with a push button that locks the door. As a precaution it is advisable not to use them if you have small children around; they might lock the door of a room (by mistake) and not know how to open the door and come out.
Extra: Door hardware finishes
Can’t decide which finish is most appropriate for your door? Don’t worry…
Read more:
5 Reasons to Get Internal Sliding Doors
9 Door Designs for a Traditional Welcome
Tell us:
What would be your choice – a door lever or a door knob? Tell us in the Comments section below.
Can’t decide which finish is most appropriate for your door? Don’t worry…
- For a space with traditional decor opt for finishes with a golden sheen, such as bright brass or satin brass.
- Silver finishes like bright chrome, satin chrome, polished nickel and satin nickel go well with a modern, contemporary decor.
- If you are looking for a vintage look opt for antique brass.
- A distressed nickel finish is a great way to impart an industrial look.
Read more:
5 Reasons to Get Internal Sliding Doors
9 Door Designs for a Traditional Welcome
Tell us:
What would be your choice – a door lever or a door knob? Tell us in the Comments section below.
A door lever is a horizontal handle that is used to open and close the door. It is important to cross check that the door lever matches with the orientation of the door; a right-hand door (that opens at the right) requires a right-hand lever while a left-hand door requires a left-hand lever.