Interior door levers are widely used in both residential homes and commercial buildings. In fact, some homeowner's insurance companies mandate that policyholders install lever locks on all their doors as a basic security measure to protect against break-ins and intrusions. But what exactly is a lever lock?

 

A lever lock, also known as a lever tumbler, uses levers to secure and unlock doors. Lever door handles interior contain multiple levers that must be aligned correctly to open the door. When a key is inserted and turned, it moves the individual levers into the correct positions, disengaging the lock and allowing the door to be opened.

 

Door lever handles are ideal for various environments and come with several advantages. They are especially useful when your hands are full, as they don't require twisting like traditional doorknobs. Lever handles provide easy access and help prevent stains and grime buildup, unlike doorknobs. To learn how and where to install them at home, check out our handy guide.

 

 

Lever handles offer several significant advantages over traditional doorknobs. When paired with the appropriate latches, they provide two main benefits:

 

Easier Grip and Slip Prevention: The lever design offers a more secure grip, reducing the risk of slipping. This is especially beneficial for the elderly and those with physical disabilities. Additionally, lever handles are easier to use when your hands are wet or greasy, as they eliminate the need for the twisting motion required by doorknobs.

 

Hands Free Operation: Lever handles can be operated even when your hands are full. You can simply depress the lever with your elbow, allowing for convenient access without having to free up your hands.

 

Lever handles are becoming increasingly popular in both home and public environments, particularly due to new disability discrimination regulations.

 

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) outlines specific requirements for lever handles on doors used by the public or any areas accessible to able bodied individuals. These regulations ensure that disabled individuals can perform the same tasks or access the same areas as others. Here are the key specifications:

 

Lever Handle Diameter: Minimum of 19mm with a return to the door

Lever Handle Length: Generous length (approximately 140mm)

Distance from Door Face to Inner Side of Lever: Minimum of 45mm

Installation Height: Lever handles should be fitted between 1000mm and 1100mm from floor level

Secure Fixing: Lever handles should be securely fixed using bolt-through fixings and/or secured spindles

It's important to note that private dwellings are not subject to these specific regulations. However, considering these guidelines can enhance accessibility and convenience in any setting.

 

Although there are several types of lever locks, they all share a few basic components. Each lever lock includes multiple levers, which are typically flat pieces of metal, usually made of steel.

 

In addition to the levers, lever locks contain a component called a stump. The stump is attached to the end of a bolt and prevents the bolt from moving until all the levers are correctly aligned.

 

Lever locks also use washers, which are circular pieces of metal placed around bolts or similar fasteners. In a lever lock, washers are positioned between the levers, allowing the levers to rise when the key is inserted and turned.

 

Most lever locks feature either three or five levers. Generally speaking, the more levers a lock has, the greater the security it offers. Therefore, five lever locks are less likely to be picked than five lever locks.

 

Security Level: Moderate

Use Case: Typically used for interior doors within a property where high security is not a primary concern.

Cost: Generally less expensive than 5-lever locks.

Complexity: Easier to pick compared to 5-lever locks due to fewer levers.

 

Security Level: High

Use Case: Often used for exterior doors and high security areas due to their enhanced security features.

Cost: More expensive than 3-lever locks due to increased complexity and security.

Complexity: Harder to pick due to the higher number of levers, providing better protection against unauthorized access.

 

Choosing between a 3-lever and a 5-lever lock depends on the security requirements and the intended use. For high-security needs, a 5-lever lock is the better option, whereas a 3-lever lock is suitable for less critical applications.

 

5-lever locks are recommended for their superior security features, durability, and compliance with insurance requirements, making them an excellent choice for safeguarding your property.

 

Enhanced Security: 5-lever locks provide a higher level of security compared to 3-lever locks. The additional levers make them more complex and difficult to pick, offering better protection against break-ins and unauthorized access.

 

Compliance with Insurance Requirements: Many insurance companies require 5-lever locks on external doors to meet their security standards. Using these locks can help ensure that your property complies with insurance policies, potentially reducing premiums.

 

Durability and Reliability: 5-lever locks are typically built with more robust materials and mechanisms, ensuring they can withstand more wear and tear over time. This makes them a reliable choice for high-traffic areas and exterior doors.

 

Protection Against Drilling and Other Attacks: High quality 5-lever locks often include additional security features, such as hardened steel plates, to protect against drilling and other forms of attack. This adds an extra layer of defense for your property.

 

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your doors are secured with 5-lever locks can provide peace of mind, especially for exterior doors where security is a top priority. This reassurance is valuable for both residential and commercial properties.

 

Internal doors are essential features in any property, serving as privacy dividers and connecting separate living areas. Choosing the best door handle or knob design requires considering the specific needs of your home while maintaining a consistent look with the overall style of your property.

 

Filta offers an impressive range of internal door levers designed to accommodate diverse entry systems. If you're considering the benefits of incorporating modern interior door levers into your setup, explore Filta for a myriad of options. Your future best interior door levers hardware is within easy reach with just a click!