Types Of Door Handles For Internal Doors
Lever On Rose
The most popular choice for internal doors in the UK. A lever handle mounted on a circular rose plate. Clean, modern look. Available in every finish. Works with most internal door locks and latches.
Lever On Backplate
Similar to lever on rose but with a rectangular backplate. Offers a more traditional or architectural look. Covers more of the door face — good if your door has an older mortice hole that needs covering.
Knob Handles
Spherical or D-shaped knobs. Traditional aesthetic. Not recommended for fire doors as they can be harder to operate in an emergency — always check fire door certification requirements before using knobs.
Pull Handles
For doors that don't need a latch — typically room dividers, sliding doors, or doors operated from one side only.
Standard Door Handle Sizes UK
| Measurement | Standard Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Backset (latch to door edge) | 64mm or 44mm | Must match your latch — check before ordering |
| PZ distance (centres) | 72mm standard | Distance between handle centre and keyhole |
| Lever length | 130–150mm typical | Longer levers feel more premium |
| Spindle size | 8mm square | Standard UK — check before buying |
Most Common Sizing Mistake — People buy handles without checking their backset — the distance from the door edge to the centre of the latch. UK latches are either 64mm or 44mm backset. Buy the wrong one and your handle won't line up with the latch. Doorz always checks this before sourcing hardware.
Door Handle Finishes — Which Lasts Longest?
| Finish | Durability | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Satin Stainless Steel | Excellent | ££ | Modern homes, HMOs, rentals |
| Polished Chrome | Good | £ | Contemporary properties |
| Matt Black | Good | ££ | Modern/industrial interiors |
| Satin Brass | Good | ££ | Period and traditional homes |
| Polished Brass | Poor (tarnishes) | £ | Not recommended for rentals |
| PVD Coating | Excellent | £££ | Premium properties |
Fire Door Handles — Special Requirements
Fire doors have specific handle requirements that differ from standard internal doors:
- Must be part of the certified assembly — not all handles are tested for fire doors
- Self-latching required — fire doors must latch automatically on closing
- No knobs on escape routes — lever handles required for safe emergency egress
- Grade 304 stainless steel minimum — must withstand heat without deforming
- Check manufacturer's specification — some fire doors specify exact compatible hardware
⚠️ Warning: Many cheap handles sold online are not suitable for fire doors. Using non-certified hardware on a fire door invalidates the door's fire rating and your compliance certificate. Doorz London only installs fully certified hardware on fire doors.
How Doorz London Handles Hardware
When you book Doorz to fit your doors, we bring all hardware to the job. We source at trade price and show you the invoice — you pay cost price plus a small sourcing fee. No hidden markup. No trips to B&Q. No wrong sizes.
For HMO landlords and property developers, this saves hours of research and multiple trips to hardware suppliers. One call — everything sorted.
Let Us Handle The Hardware
Doorz London supplies and fits all door hardware correctly. Free quote, no obligation, same day response.
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The information on this page is provided as general guidance only and may contain errors or inaccuracies. Doorz London Ltd makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content but cannot guarantee it is complete or up to date. UK building regulations, fire safety law and industry standards change regularly. Nothing on this website constitutes legal, professional or regulatory advice. Always consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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