What to Consider Before Buying Door Handles
Choosing door handles might seem straightforward, but with hundreds of styles, finishes, and fixing types available in the UK market, it's easy to end up with something that doesn't fit — literally or aesthetically. This guide walks you through every key consideration so you can buy with confidence.
Step 1: Identify Your Door Type
The first question to answer is: what kind of door are you fitting handles to? The most common door types in UK homes are:
- Internal timber doors — the most common type; suited to lever-on-rose or lever-on-backplate handles
- External timber doors — require robust, weather-resistant hardware with appropriate security ratings
- Fire doors — must use CE-marked, tested hardware that complies with the relevant fire door standard
- UPVC doors — require multipoint lock handles with a specific spindle size and backset measurement
- Composite doors — similar to UPVC in terms of handle requirements
Step 2: Understand Handle Styles
The two main categories of door handle are lever handles and knobs. Lever handles are by far the more common choice in modern UK homes and are required under Part M of the Building Regulations for accessible properties, as they are easier to operate than knobs for people with limited hand strength.
Within lever handles, you'll encounter two mounting options:
- Lever on rose — the lever attaches to a circular rose plate; a clean, contemporary look popular in modern interiors
- Lever on backplate — the lever sits on a rectangular backplate, which can incorporate a keyhole, privacy turn, or be plain; suits traditional and period properties
Step 3: Get the Measurements Right
Incorrect measurements are the most common cause of returns. Key dimensions to check include:
- Centres (PZ distance) — the distance between the centre of the lever spindle hole and the centre of the keyhole or cylinder hole; typically 72mm on UK doors
- Backset — the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the spindle; usually 57mm or 44mm
- Spindle size — standard UK spindle is 8mm square, but always verify
- Door thickness — affects the length of spindle and latch bolt you'll need
Step 4: Choose a Finish That Works With Your Interior
Handle finishes broadly fall into these categories:
| Finish | Best For | Durability Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Polished Chrome | Modern, minimalist interiors | Shows fingerprints; easy to clean |
| Satin Nickel | Contemporary and transitional spaces | More forgiving on fingerprints |
| Polished Brass | Period and traditional homes | May tarnish; lacquered versions last longer |
| Antique Brass | Victorian, Georgian, rustic interiors | Warm tone; very popular in period homes |
| Matt Black | Industrial, Scandi, and modern interiors | Highly on-trend; durable powder coat |
| Satin Stainless | Commercial and contemporary residential | Extremely durable; hygienic |
Step 5: Consider Security and Standards
For external doors, look for handles tested to PAS 24 or that form part of a Secured by Design-approved set. For fire doors, hardware must carry appropriate certification — see our guide to UK fire door regulations for full details.
Budget: What Should You Expect to Pay?
In the UK, handle prices vary enormously. Budget lever handles start from around £5–£10 per pair, mid-range quality handles typically fall between £20–£60 per pair, and premium or designer handles can run well above £100. For most internal doors, a mid-range handle from a reputable manufacturer offers the best balance of quality and value.
Final Checklist Before You Buy
- Confirm door type (internal, external, fire door, UPVC)
- Measure PZ distance, backset, and door thickness
- Choose lever or knob based on accessibility needs
- Select a finish consistent across all ironmongery
- Check compliance requirements for fire or accessible doors