The door handle is one of the most commonly used hardware items in daily life, and understanding its components and mechanism can be quite helpful. In case of damage or wear to any parts, it’s easier to identify and fix the issue. In this article from Nice, we will introduce the components of the door handle and everything related to its mechanism. At the end, we will also cover how to install the parts and important maintenance and replacement tips.
What is a Door Handle and What is its Function?
A door handle is a vital component that is installed on various doors to open and close them. These essential hardware items come in various types and are used in different spaces depending on their function. When combined with a lock, a door handle plays a crucial role in ensuring building security. In addition, door handles are available in various designs and colors, offering decorative value and enhancing the aesthetics of the surrounding environment.
The Most Important Components of a Door Handle
Generally, the main structure of different door handles consists of the following parts:
1. Handle Lever (Handle)
The handle lever is one of the essential parts of the door handle, mounted on the backplate or rosette. It is used for opening and closing the door. When you push the lever down, a spring mechanism inside the handle returns the lever to its initial position. In springless rotating handles, the door opens by turning and releasing the handle.
2. Backplate (Rosette)
The backplate or rosette is another critical part of the door handle, where the handle lever is installed. It hides the internal components of the door handle, including any connections and internal mechanisms, giving the door an aesthetic appearance. The application of the backplate differs from the rosette. The backplate is used for older handles with keyholes, like the plaque handle. The rosette is used for modern door handles and is often round or square in shape.
3. Rotating Shaft (Spindle)
The spindle, also known as the rotating rod or crossbar, is a metallic rod, usually made of steel. It is inserted into the square hole on the lock and connects two door handles on opposite sides of the door. When you turn the handle, the spindle rotates, activating the lock mechanism and allowing the door to open.
4. Latch and Deadbolt
The latch and deadbolt are other components located in the lock frame. The latch is a tongue that enters the door when the handle is pressed down, allowing the door to open. When you release the handle, the latch tongue moves forward to close the door.
The deadbolt is a tongue that moves outward when the key is turned in the lock cylinder, entering the strike plate on the door frame to secure the door.
5. Lock and Cylinder
The lock and cylinder are important components of the door handle mechanism and come in various types. The lock is installed within the door frame and is responsible for locking and unlocking the door, ensuring security. Locks are available in different varieties such as wooden door locks, key locks, switch locks, anti-theft locks, and more, with a key or cylinder inside.
The cylinder is the part where the key is inserted. It contains pins and grooves that match the teeth of a specific key, allowing the lock to open or close when the key is turned inside the cylinder. Cylinders come in different types such as single cylinder, double cylinder, or deadbolt, depending on the type of handle.
Lock Mechanism in Door Handles
The lock mechanism is an essential part of the door handle, installed on the latch part of the door. The latch, spindle, and lock cylinder are mounted on this mechanism. The main function of the door handle relies on the proper installation and condition of the lock mechanism.
When you press the handle down, the spindle rotates on the lock mechanism, causing the latch to retract, which opens the door. When you release the handle, the latch moves forward to close the door. Turning the key in the cylinder moves the deadbolt in or out, locking or unlocking the door.
Material and Finish of Different Door Handles
Door handles come in various materials and finishes. The most common materials used for door handle finishes include brass alloy, zinc, aluminum, stainless steel, and more. Non-metallic door handles, such as ceramic or crystal handles, are also available and are used based on the decor of the space.
Generally, brass and zinc handles are more expensive due to their higher hardness and resistance, while aluminum and steel finishes are more economical options in the market.
What is the Difference Between a Plaque and Rosette Door Handle?
In terms of appearance, door handles can be divided into two types: plaque (single-piece) handles and rosette (two-piece) handles. The rosette handle is a newer model where the handle lever and the lock/key mechanism are separate. Rosette handles come in various designs and colors and are available in both keyed and keyless versions. The keyless version is often used in anti-theft doors and bathrooms, while the keyed version is used for entry doors, rooms, etc.
In contrast, the plaque handle is an older and more affordable model where the handle and key mechanism are mounted on a single backplate. This type is generally used for interior doors, gardens, etc., and is not suitable for main entry doors due to its lower security.
What is the Spindle in a Door Handle?
The spindle (rotating rod) is a metallic component with a square cross-section that connects two door handles. This rod can be installed in various types of plaque, room, switch, and bathroom door handles. After placing the lock tongue in the door, insert the spindle horizontally at a 90-degree angle into its designated place on the lock. Then, align the handle lever with the spindle.
Ensure that the spindle is free from corrosion or damage, as a damaged spindle will not fit into the lock mechanism properly, causing the door to malfunction.
Internal Mechanical Components of a Door Handle
The internal components, such as springs and gears, play a significant role in the proper functioning of the handle. The spring mechanism connects the door handle components to the lock body, making the door open easily and returning the handle to its initial position.
Role of the Lock Cylinder in Locking Door Handles
The cylinder is one of the most important mechanical components in keyed door handles, where the key is inserted to lock or unlock the door. Both the cylinder and key have matching grooves and pins. When the key is inserted, the pins inside the cylinder shift, activating the locking or unlocking mechanism. If the grooves do not match, the key will not fit into the cylinder.
Cylinders come in various types such as Euro, smart, and in-handle versions. The quality of the lock cylinder is crucial for security. If the cylinder is of poor quality, burglars can easily tamper with the pins and unlock the door, or break the cylinder with a hammer to gain access.
How to Install the Different Door Handle Components
Proper installation of door handle components is essential for its proper functioning and building security. Here’s how to install a door handle:
– First, mark the installation locations for the handle components on both sides of the door. Usually, door handles are installed at a standard height of one meter from the ground, but you can adjust it based on the height of other door handles in the building.
– Use a template from the handle installation kit to mark the positions for screws, lock cylinder, and handle lever on both sides of the door. Ensure the door does not move by placing a wedge under it.
– Use a power drill and a 2mm bit to create initial holes at the marked locations.
– Then, use a larger drill bit to deepen the holes. Be careful not to drill through the other side of the door.
– Use a 25mm drill bit to make the hole for the handle lever and lock cylinder installation. Also, create a hole for the latch. Then, use a screwdriver and hammer to enlarge the hole to fit the lock.
– Drill holes for the lock screws on the door latch side.
– Insert the lock into the hole and tighten the screws.
– If you’re installing a plaque handle, first insert the lock cylinder.
– Then, insert the spindle into its designated place and attach the door handle to it.
– Finally, tighten the screws on the handle using a screwdriver.
Maintenance and Replacement Tips for Door Handle Components
Since door handles are used frequently, over time, they may wear out or become damaged. This can affect their performance. Therefore, it is important to follow the maintenance and replacement tips below to extend the life of the handle:
– Make sure the door handle components and screws are securely fastened. Improper installation can increase the likelihood of damage.
– Replace worn-out or rusted keys and parts. Damaged keys with rough edges or broken parts can harm the mechanism of the door handle. It is recommended to consult a professional repair technician for replacements.
– Clean the handle and lock monthly with a non-acidic cleaner and a soft cloth to prevent dirt and dust from affecting the internal mechanism.
– Handle the door gently. Avoid turning the handle forcefully or inserting the key roughly, as this can cause wear and damage to the internal parts.
– Regularly lubricate the handle and lock with specific grease to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust and wear.
Conclusion
The door handle, as one of the main components of a building’s door, plays an essential role in opening and closing the door. In this article, we’ve examined the most important parts of a door handle, including the lever, rosette, spindle, lock, and cylinder, as well as their functions. We’ve also provided information on the lock mechanism, material
