Interior Door Handles Schlage

Schlage Interior Door Handles: A Comprehensive Overview

Schlage is a prominent name in the residential and commercial security hardware industry, recognized for its diverse selection of door hardware. Among their product offerings are interior door handles, designed to provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal to interior spaces. This article will delve into the specifics of Schlage interior door handles, exploring their types, features, considerations for selection, and installation aspects.

Types of Schlage Interior Door Handles

Schlage offers a variety of interior door handle styles to suit different architectural designs and functional needs. The primary types include: levers, knobs, and electronic options.

Levers: Lever handles are characterized by their horizontal handle design, allowing for easy operation with minimal hand strength. This makes them a suitable choice for individuals with limited dexterity or mobility challenges. Schlage lever handles are frequently encountered in accessible spaces and residential homes seeking a modern aesthetic.

Specifically, Schlage offers several series within their lever handle category. The Accent lever features a wave-like design that complements various interior styles. The Latitude lever presents a clean, minimalist appearance with a rectangular shape. The Bowery lever showcases a more streamlined and contemporary design, often favored in modern homes.

Knobs: Knob handles feature a rounded or shaped grip that rotates to engage the latch mechanism. Traditionally, knobs were ubiquitous in residential settings, though their popularity has somewhat waned in favor of levers due to accessibility considerations. However, knobs remain a cost-effective and aesthetically viable option for many homeowners.

Schlage's knob selection includes the Plymouth knob, known for its simple, rounded design and versatility. The Georgian knob presents a more ornate, traditional appearance with subtle detailing. The Greenwich knob offers a modern take on the classic knob, featuring clean lines and a cylindrical shape.

Electronic Options: Schlage also provides electronic interior door handles, typically incorporating keypad or biometric entry for enhanced security and convenience within the home. These handles often feature programmable codes, allowing for keyless access and enabling the homeowner to grant temporary access to guests or service personnel. These are often used in interior spaces where privacy and security are of greater concern, such as home offices or storage rooms.

These smart handles include features like Z-Wave or Zigbee connectivity to integrate with existing smart home systems. Remote locking and unlocking capabilities can be managed through a smartphone app, offering added convenience and control. Audit trails provide a record of entry attempts, enhancing security monitoring.

Beyond these primary types, Schlage further categorizes handles based on their function, including passage, privacy, and dummy handles.

Passage Handles: These handles are used on doors that do not require locking, such as closet doors or hallways. Passage handles activate the latch mechanism, allowing the door to open and close, but they do not have a locking mechanism.

Privacy Handles: Privacy handles are designed for use on bathroom or bedroom doors, where privacy is required. They feature a locking mechanism, typically a push-button or turn-button, on the interior side of the handle. They also often include an emergency release mechanism on the exterior side to prevent lockouts.

Dummy Handles: Dummy handles are purely decorative and do not engage any latch mechanism. They are typically used on inactive doors in a pair or on closet doors where a pull is desired but locking is not necessary. They offer a consistent appearance with functional handles throughout the home.

Key Features and Considerations

When selecting Schlage interior door handles, several features and considerations should be taken into account to ensure the chosen handles meet the specific needs of the space and the homeowner's preferences. These include finish, material, durability, accessibility, and style.

Finish: Schlage offers a wide array of finishes to complement various interior design styles and hardware aesthetics. Common finishes include polished chrome, satin nickel, aged bronze, matte black, and bright brass. The finish should be selected to coordinate with other hardware in the space, such as light fixtures, cabinet pulls, and hinges. The durability of the finish is also a factor, as some finishes are more resistant to scratches and tarnishing than others.

Material: The material of the door handle affects its durability, feel, and overall appearance. Schlage primarily uses brass, zinc, and stainless steel in their interior door handles. Brass offers a classic look and is known for its corrosion resistance. Zinc is a cost-effective option that provides adequate durability. Stainless steel is a durable and modern choice, often favored for its resistance to corrosion and wear.

Durability: The durability of the door handle is crucial, especially in high-traffic areas. Schlage door handles are generally manufactured to meet ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards for durability and security. These standards define performance requirements for various aspects of the handle, such as cycle testing (the number of times the handle can be operated before failure), resistance to corrosion, and security features. Homeowners should consider the expected usage of the door and choose handles that are rated appropriately.

Accessibility: As mentioned earlier, lever handles are generally more accessible than knob handles, particularly for individuals with limited hand strength or mobility challenges. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides guidelines for accessible door hardware, specifying requirements for handle shape, size, and operating force. Schlage offers several lever handles that meet ADA requirements, ensuring that homes can be made accessible for all occupants.

Style: The style of the door handle should complement the overall interior design of the home. Schlage offers a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary, to suit different tastes. Consider the architectural style of the home, the existing hardware, and the homeowner's personal preferences when selecting the style of the door handle. A well-chosen door handle can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.

In addition to these features, the backset and door thickness should be considered. The backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole for the handle. Standard backsets are 2-3/8 inches and 2-3/4 inches. The door thickness is the thickness of the door itself. Schlage door handles are typically designed to fit standard door thicknesses, but it is essential to verify compatibility before purchasing. An improper fit can affect the functionality and security of the handle.

Installation of Schlage Interior Door Handles

Proper installation is crucial for the functionality and security of Schlage interior door handles. While many homeowners can install door handles themselves, professional installation is recommended for complex installations or when replacing existing hardware. The following is a general overview of the installation process:

Preparation: Before beginning the installation, gather the necessary tools, including a screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on the screws used), a drill (if new holes need to be drilled), a measuring tape, a pencil, and safety glasses. Review the installation instructions provided by Schlage carefully. Ensure that the door is properly aligned and swings freely before installing the handle.

Removal of Existing Hardware (if applicable): If replacing existing hardware, carefully remove the old handle and latch. Unscrew the screws holding the handle in place and gently pull the handle away from the door. Remove the latch plate from the door jamb. If the existing latch is compatible with the new handle, it can be reused; otherwise, remove the old latch from the door.

Installation of the Latch: Insert the new latch into the bore hole in the edge of the door. Ensure that the latch is oriented correctly, with the beveled side facing the direction that the door swings. Secure the latch with the screws provided. Install the strike plate on the door jamb, aligning it with the latch. The strike plate should be flush with the surface of the door jamb to ensure proper latch engagement.

Installation of the Handles: Insert the spindle (the rod that connects the two handles) through the latch mechanism. Attach the interior and exterior handles to the spindle, ensuring that they are properly aligned. Secure the handles with the screws provided. Tighten the screws firmly, but avoid overtightening, which can damage the handle or the door.

Testing: After installation, test the functionality of the handle. Ensure that the latch engages and disengages smoothly. Check the locking mechanism (if applicable) to ensure that it functions correctly. If the handle does not function properly, review the installation instructions and make any necessary adjustments. Check the alignment of the strike plate and adjust as needed to ensure smooth operation.

For electronic handles, the installation process is more complex and typically involves wiring and programming. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for wiring and programming the handle. Test the electronic features, such as the keypad or biometric scanner, to ensure that they are functioning correctly. Consult a qualified electrician if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process.

Proper maintenance is also essential for extending the lifespan of Schlage interior door handles. Regularly clean the handles with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and fingerprints. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, which can damage the finish. Lubricate the latch mechanism periodically with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation. Inspect the handle regularly for loose screws or damage and make any necessary repairs promptly. By following these maintenance tips, homeowners can ensure that their Schlage interior door handles continue to function properly and look their best for years to come.