Buying Guide for the Best Door Levers
Choosing the right door lever is essential for both functionality and aesthetics in your home or office. Door levers come in various styles, finishes, and functionalities, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision when selecting a door lever.MaterialThe material of a door lever affects its durability, appearance, and maintenance. Common materials include brass, stainless steel, and zinc alloy. Brass is known for its classic look and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for traditional settings. Stainless steel offers a modern appearance and high resistance to rust, suitable for contemporary designs. Zinc alloy is a cost-effective option that provides decent durability and a variety of finishes. Choose a material that complements your decor and meets your durability requirements.
FinishThe finish of a door lever determines its color and texture, impacting the overall look of your door hardware. Popular finishes include polished chrome, satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black. Polished chrome offers a shiny, reflective surface that suits modern interiors. Satin nickel provides a smooth, brushed look that works well in transitional spaces. Oil-rubbed bronze has a dark, aged appearance, perfect for rustic or vintage styles. Matte black is a trendy choice for a sleek, contemporary look. Select a finish that matches or complements other hardware and fixtures in your space.
FunctionDoor levers come with different functions to suit various needs. The main types are passage, privacy, and keyed entry. Passage levers are non-locking and used for hallways or closets. Privacy levers have a locking mechanism, ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. Keyed entry levers provide security with a key lock, suitable for exterior doors or rooms requiring extra security. Determine the function based on the door's location and the level of privacy or security needed.
StyleThe style of a door lever can enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. Styles range from traditional to modern, with various designs such as curved, straight, or ornate levers. Traditional styles often feature intricate details and curves, suitable for classic or vintage interiors. Modern styles are typically sleek and minimalistic, fitting well in contemporary settings. Consider the existing decor and architectural style of your home when choosing a door lever style.
HandingHanding refers to the direction the door lever operates, which can be left-handed, right-handed, or reversible. Left-handed levers are used on doors that open towards you and have the hinges on the left. Right-handed levers are for doors that open towards you with hinges on the right. Reversible levers can be installed on either side, offering flexibility. Ensure you know the door's handing before purchasing to avoid installation issues.
BacksetThe backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole where the lever is installed. Common backset measurements are 2-3/8 inches and 2-3/4 inches. It's important to measure your door's backset to ensure compatibility with the door lever. Most door levers are adjustable to fit both standard backset sizes, but double-checking this specification can prevent installation problems.