Introduction: Comparing Lever Handles and Push Plates in Commercial Applications
When selecting hardware for commercial doors, one of the most common choices is between lever handles and push plates. Both options are functional, but they serve different needs and come with unique advantages. As a professional with over 20 years in the door hardware industry, I’ve helped many businesses make informed decisions about which type of hardware best suits their commercial projects.
In this article, we’ll compare lever handles and push plates, looking at their features, benefits, and the specific situations where each type of hardware excels. Whether you’re outfitting an office, hotel, hospital, or industrial facility, understanding the differences between these two options is crucial for making the right choice.
Advantages of Lever Handles: Accessibility, Security, and Ease of Use
1. Accessibility
One of the main reasons lever handles are so popular in commercial settings is their ease of use. Lever handles are ideal for ensuring that doors are easily accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.
- ADA Compliance: Lever handles are often ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant, making them an essential choice for spaces that must meet accessibility requirements. This is particularly important in places like hospitals, schools, and public offices where accessibility is a priority.
- Easy Operation: Unlike knobs, which require a twisting motion, lever handles can be easily operated with a push or pull, making them especially beneficial in high-traffic areas where hands may be full, or for individuals with limited dexterity.
For more on ADA compliance, check out the ADA website.
2. Security
Lever handles are also known for offering better security features compared to push plates. Many lever handles are designed with locks integrated into the handle itself, providing an added layer of security for commercial doors.
- Locking Mechanisms: Lever handles can accommodate deadbolts, privacy locks, and push-button locks, offering greater control over who can enter specific areas. This is crucial for office spaces, storage rooms, or any area where secure access is necessary.
3. Ease of Use
Lever handles provide greater control over the operation of a door, particularly in heavy doors or doors that need to be opened by staff or visitors with limited strength. Lever handles can be operated with one hand, making them more efficient in environments where employees are constantly moving or carrying items.
When to Use Push Plates: Situations Where Push Plates Are Preferable
1. High-Traffic Areas
Push plates are often the best choice for high-traffic commercial environments where quick access is needed, and security isn’t a primary concern.
- Hands-Free Operation: Push plates are perfect for places like malls, shopping centers, and hospitals, where people are constantly moving in and out. Visitors can open the door without touching a handle, reducing wear and tear.
- Heavy Doors: In some commercial environments, particularly in high-traffic areas, push plates are ideal for heavy-duty doors that need to be opened quickly by people moving through without requiring precise action.
2. Cost-Effective Solution
Push plates are generally more cost-effective compared to lever handles, especially for large-scale projects. When outfitting multiple doors in a commercial building, using push plates can be a budget-friendly option, while still providing essential functionality.
- Minimal Components: Unlike lever handles that require more intricate mechanisms, push plates are simple to install and operate, making them less expensive in terms of both hardware and installation costs.
3. Industrial and Utility Applications
For industrial doors or doors in utility spaces (like warehouses or garages), push plates are often the preferred choice. These areas usually don’t require the aesthetic appeal or security features that lever handles provide.
- Durability: Push plates are typically made from durable stainless steel, making them ideal for environments where doors are subject to frequent opening and closing.
Conclusion: Why Lever Handles Are Often the Better Option for Commercial Doors
While both lever handles and push plates serve their purpose, lever handles are often the superior choice for commercial doors in environments where accessibility, security, and ease of use are top priorities.
- For accessibility: Lever handles meet ADA compliance, ensuring that everyone can easily operate the door.
- For security: Lever handles allow for the integration of locks, which is essential for secure environments like offices, hospitals, and warehouses.
- For ease of use: Lever handles are intuitive and can be operated with one hand, making them perfect for high-traffic, multi-use commercial spaces.
That being said, push plates still have a place in environments where quick, hands-free access is required, such as high-traffic areas or industrial settings. However, when it comes to providing a comprehensive, secure, and accessible solution for commercial doors, lever handles typically offer the best performance and value.
At Umaylock, we offer a wide range of high-quality lever handles and push plates, designed to meet the unique needs of your commercial space. Our products combine durability, security, and ease of use, ensuring that you have the best hardware for your doors.
For more information on our products and how we can assist with your next project, visit Umaylock’s website. Let us help you select the perfect door hardware solution for your business!
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