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Door Handle Buying Guide

Exploring all the best styles, colours, and finishes available, this door handle buying guide makes it simple to choose the right option for any property. In this door hardware buying guide, we explore all the important planning considerations to help you choose. Complete a full renovation or quick refresh by picking the best door handles for any home or commercial property.

What are the different types?

Garda Polished Chrome Lever on Rose Door Handle Pair

Door handles

With a horizontal lever fixed onto a backplate, door handles are pulled up and down to open or close a door. This easy-to-use design is good for both domestic and commercial premises, while large sizes create a statement in any space.

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Door knobs

The circular design of a door knob offers an understated look, while the twist mechanism can be fitted on either side for added flexibility. This style is often used in heritage or streamlined schemes, thanks to its timeless appeal.

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What are the different styles?

Lever on rose

Featuring a metal bar attached to a backplate, lever on rose designs have a compact style, handy for interiors lacking in space or with a simple style. Choose from round or square backplates to create custom looks.

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Lever on backplate

The large backplate on these handles can easily hide marks and scuffs from old hardware, making it a great option for refreshes. The large size also offers extra grip - a good choice for multi-generational homes.

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Pre-finished Linear Smooth 2'6" Internal Moulded Door

Bathroom handles

Bathroom handles operate a deadbolt system that securely closes rooms to unwanted visitors. A door handle with lock is useful for creating secluded areas, where showers and baths can be enjoyed in peace.

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Pull handles

Spreading the weight over a larger area, pull designs are commonly used on heavier doors, making them effortless to operate. The simple design is easy to clean, making it a practical option for commercial or public settings.

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Installation

When fitting furniture for multiple doorways, specialist handle packs save time. They include accessories that speed up fitting, such as latch spacers, which position the fixings.

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Unlock Fuller & Forge

Unlock more with Fuller & Forge, a premium collection of door furniture exclusive to Howdens. The brand embodies quality craftsmanship combined with luxurious texture and form, for a high-end look that leaves a lasting impression.

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What colours are available?

Chrome

With a polished tone, chrome fixtures are a favourite among households because of their versatility and long-lasting style. Pair with matching accessories for a co-ordinated look.

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Aluminium

A metallic tone often found in industrial schemes, aluminium is a way to introduce engineered style. This colour works well in a brushed finish, creating a tactile feature that softens a design.

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Brass

With a gold-like appearance, brass adds a luxe look. This metal also adds warmth to a room to make a space cosy and welcoming.

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Stainless steel

Stainless steel spans changing trends, making it a practical choice for those looking for an enduring style. The understated shade also means it complements a variety of decors.

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Black

Bold, black hues can be used to punctuate pale schemes for a monochrome look. Or, add to a monochrome scheme for a seamless finish.

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Nickel

Replicating the appearance of silver, nickel fixings add a premium look inspired by the finer things. It also has a yellow undertone that makes it warmer than many other metals.

See nickel door handles

Fire Door DFM2240_06 closed 5k Metro Smooth

Fire rated

To comply with regulations, fire-safety fixtures need to be installed on fire-resistant doorways. They must also be fitted with fire-rated products, like hinges or closers, to be compliant.

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