Have you ever thought about the height of your door handles? You might not realize it, but the standard door handle height plays a crucial role in accessibility and can impact the usability of a space, as it ensures that all people, including those using wheelchairs, can easily use it.
But what is considered the “standard” door handle height? From understanding the importance of accessibility to determining the best height for your door handles, this article will provide valuable information for anyone looking to create a more inclusive and user-friendly space.
Standard Door Handle Height in Different Situations
1. Commercial and Public Buildings
When it comes to public doors, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the one that sets the guidelines for door handle height. According to the ADA, door handles should be placed no more than 48 inches from the floor, with a maximum height of 54 inches. This allows for easy access for people using wheelchairs, as well as those who are shorter or have limited reach.
The ADA also specifies that door handles must be operable with a closed fist or with a single finger. This means that handles should be easy to grip and turn and require minimal strength to operate. The door handle should also have a clear and easy-to-use mechanism, such as a lever or a push-pull design.
It’s also important to note that the ADA guidelines apply to new construction and alterations of existing buildings. This means that if an existing building is undergoing renovations, the door handles must be made compliant with this.
The ADA door handle height code also applies to the exterior doors of a building, ensuring that people with disabilities have easy access to the building’s entrance. This includes ensuring that no matter the door type, door knobs are at an accessible height and that the door has a clear opening width of at least 32 inches.
2. Residential Settings
In residential settings, door handle height is not as strictly regulated as in building codes. But it is still important to consider accessibility when installing your door handles. Many builders and architects recommend a standard height of 36 to 40 inches for residential doors, which helps accommodate a wide range of users.
This standard range of doorknob height is designed to be accessible for all people, including those using mobility devices, as well as children and the elderly, and can also be easily accessible in case of emergency.
Another consideration you must think of is the design and style of the door handle. It’s important to select a door handle that is easy to use, such as a lever handle, rather than a round doorknob. Lever handles are often easier for older adults and people with arthritis to operate as compared to a round doorknob.
How to Measure A Door Handle Height?
1. How to measure a regular door handle height?
Measuring door handle height may seem like a small task, but it is crucial in ensuring usability for all. To measure it, grab a tape measure and start by measuring the distance from the finished floor to the top of the door handle.
Compare the measurement to the standard door handle height, which is no more than 40 inches from the floor and a minimum of 36 inches.
2. How to measure a shower door handle height?
Measuring shower door handle height is similar to measuring any regular door handle. Start by measuring the distance from the finished floor to the top of the shower door handle. Place the end of the tape measure on the floor, making sure it’s level, and extend it up to the top of the shower door handle.
Take note of the measurement and compare it to the standard shower door handle height. According to the ADA, shower door handles should be placed no more than 48 inches from the floor, with a maximum height of 54 inches.
3. How to measure a garage door handle height?
The standard height for a garage door is 7 feet (84 inches) tall, which is the most common size for residential garages. However, garage doors can also come in other sizes, such as 8 feet (96 inches) tall for taller vehicles or higher ceilings, or even custom sizes for non-standard openings.
The standard height for a garage door handle is around 36 inches from the ground. This is a common height for most residential garage doors, but it can vary depending on the manufacturer and the design of the door.
If you want to get a new door handle and you need to decide where to place it, the measuring is pretty similar to measuring for another type of door. Use a tape measure or ruler to measure from the ground to the center of the handle. This measurement should be taken when the door is in the closed position. Alternatively, you can measure from the top of the door to the center of the handle.
4. What are the exceptions to the rule?
There are some exceptions to the standard residential garage door handle height of 36 inches. For example, if the homeowner is taller or shorter than average, the handle height may be adjusted to be more comfortable for them to use. Additionally, some manufacturers may have different standards for handle height, and in some cases, the handle may be installed at a different height for aesthetic or design reasons.
The standard door handle height for a kid’s room is typically around 30 inches from the floor. This is lower than the standard height for adult-sized doors, which is around 36 inches from the floor. This is to make it easier for children to reach and open the door.
How to attach a knob to a new door?
Depending on the door material, you can usually attach a handle yourself. For this, you will need a drill, a screwdriver, a level, and any screws or hardware that comes with the door handle.
- Measure the distance from the top of the door to the center of the handle, and mark the location with a pencil.
- Use a drill to make pilot holes for the screws that will hold the handle in place. Make sure that the holes are level and lined up with the marks you made earlier.
- Insert the screws through the handle and into the pilot holes, and use a screwdriver to tighten them.
- Install the latch: If the handle comes with a latch, install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the handle is installed, test it to make sure it is working properly and that it feels comfortable to use.
If the door is made out of metal or heavy-duty materials, it’s recommended to have a professional install the handle, as it may require drilling and cutting which can be dangerous.
Difference between the door knob and door handle – which should you pick
The difference between installing a door knob and installing a door lever is the mechanism for opening and closing the door, which also affects the installation process. A door knob is a round handle that is turned to open or close a door, while a door handle is a flat handle that is pushed down or pulled up to open or close a door.
Installing a door knob typically involves drilling holes, and then attaching the knob to the door with screws. Installing a door lever, on the other hand, typically involves attaching a plate to the door, and then attaching the lever to the plate. The lever mechanism is located on the outside of the door.
When it comes to choosing one for your house, there are a few things you need to take into consideration:
- First, door knobs are typically used for interior doors and do not have locking mechanisms, while door handles are often used for exterior doors and may have a lock built in.
- Second, door knobs can be difficult for people with limited hand mobility to operate, while door handles are generally easier to use.
- And third, some door knobs can be easily unlocked by intruders, while door handles are generally more secure because they have a better locking mechanism.
Conclusion
The standard door handle height is an important aspect to consider when designing and building your dream home. It’s important to make sure that the door handles are at a height that is easily accessible for people of all ages and abilities and that it’s placed in a location that is easy to reach.
By considering these factors, you can create a space that is both beautiful and functional for all of its inhabitants. We hope this article cleared up some of the questions you may have had, but if you are still unsure, let us know in the comments.
