What are the safety aspects of door handles with built - in locks?

Hey there! As a door handles supplier, I've seen firsthand how crucial safety is when it comes to door handles with built-in locks. In this blog, I'll break down the key safety aspects of these nifty door accessories, so you can make an informed decision for your home or business.

1. Locking Mechanism Reliability

The heart of any door handle with a built-in lock is its locking mechanism. A reliable lock is non-negotiable for keeping your property secure. High-quality locks are made from durable materials like stainless steel or brass, which resist corrosion and wear over time.

For example, deadbolt locks integrated into door handles are a popular choice. They offer a high level of security because they slide into a strike plate in the door frame, making it difficult for intruders to force the door open. Look for locks with a solid deadbolt throw, which is the distance the bolt extends into the strike plate. A longer throw provides better security.

Another important factor is the number of pins in the lock cylinder. More pins mean more possible key combinations, making it harder for someone to pick the lock. A good quality lock should have at least five or six pins.

2. Resistance to Forced Entry

Door handles with built-in locks need to be able to withstand various forms of forced entry. This includes brute force attacks, where an intruder tries to break the lock or door handle with a tool like a crowbar.

To resist such attacks, the door handle and lock should be made of strong materials. For instance, solid brass or stainless steel handles are much more resilient than those made of plastic or weaker metals. Additionally, the lock should be installed correctly, with proper reinforcement around the strike plate.

Some door handles come with anti-pry features. These can include reinforced plates around the lock area or a design that makes it difficult for a crowbar to get a grip. When choosing a door handle with a built-in lock, look for these features to enhance the security of your doors.

3. Child Safety

If you have children in your home, child safety is a major concern. Door handles with built-in locks should be designed in a way that prevents accidental locking or unlocking by children.

Many modern door handles have a childproof feature, such as a button or switch that needs to be pressed in combination with turning the handle to unlock the door. This adds an extra layer of safety, ensuring that children can't easily open the door and wander outside.

It's also important to consider the height of the door handle. If it's too low, children may be able to reach it and manipulate the lock. Make sure the door handle is installed at a height that is out of reach for young children.

4. Fire Safety

In case of a fire, it's essential that you can quickly and easily open the door. Door handles with built-in locks should be designed to comply with fire safety regulations.

This means that the lock should be easy to operate from the inside, even in an emergency situation. Some door handles have a panic bar or a push-to-open mechanism that allows you to quickly exit the building.

Additionally, the materials used in the door handle and lock should be fire-resistant. This helps to prevent the spread of fire and ensures that the door remains functional during a fire.

5. Weather Resistance

If the door handle is installed on an exterior door, it needs to be able to withstand the elements. Exposure to rain, snow, and sunlight can cause the door handle and lock to deteriorate over time, reducing their effectiveness.

Look for door handles that are made of weather-resistant materials. Stainless steel is a great choice because it is corrosion-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures. Some door handles also have a protective coating that helps to prevent rust and fading.

Proper maintenance is also important to ensure the long-term weather resistance of the door handle. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help to keep the lock working smoothly and prevent damage from the elements.

6. Compatibility with Door Types

Not all door handles with built-in locks are suitable for every type of door. Different doors have different thicknesses, styles, and functions, and the door handle needs to be compatible with these factors.

For example, if you have a thick door, you'll need a door handle with a longer spindle to ensure that it can be properly installed. Similarly, if you have a sliding door, you'll need a door handle that is designed specifically for sliding doors.

Before purchasing a door handle with a built-in lock, make sure to measure the thickness of your door and consider the type of door you have. This will help you choose a door handle that fits properly and functions correctly.

7. Ease of Use

While safety is the top priority, the door handle with a built-in lock also needs to be easy to use. You don't want to struggle to unlock or lock the door every time you enter or leave your home.

The handle should have a comfortable grip, allowing you to easily turn it. The lock mechanism should also be smooth and require minimal effort to operate.

Some door handles come with a keyless entry option, such as a keypad or a fingerprint scanner. This can make it even more convenient to unlock the door, especially if you have your hands full.

Conclusion

When it comes to door handles with built-in locks, safety is paramount. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can choose a door handle that provides the highest level of security for your home or business.

At our company, we offer a wide range of door handles with built-in locks that meet all the safety standards. Whether you're looking for Front Door Hardware, Barn Style Door Handles, or Hardware For Barn Door Hanging, we've got you covered.

If you're interested in purchasing our door handles or have any questions about their safety features, feel free to reach out to us. We'd be happy to help you find the perfect door handle for your needs.

References

• "Residential Door Hardware Security Standards" by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
• "Fire Safety Regulations for Door Locks" by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• "Childproofing Your Home: Door Locks and Handles" by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)