Door Handle Height: Guidelines and Tips

You might be reading this article because you're installing a new door or replacing old hardware. Either way - even if it seems like a small detail, the door handle does affect a door's functionality and ease of use, and it needs to be installed correctly, at the right height.

So, what's the best door handle height? Let's find out!

Key Takeaways

• The standard door handle height is 36 inches (915 mm) from the finished floor, though anything between 34 and 48 inches (864 and 1220 mm) is acceptable.
• Accessibility standards like the ACA and ADA require handles to be easily accessible, operable with minimal efforts, and mounted within the 34-48-inch range (864-1220 mm).
• Handle height can vary slightly depending on door size, aesthetics, and function, with optional deadbolts typically placed 4-6 inches (102-152 mm) above the main handle for security.

Standard Door Handle Height

The standard door handle height is 36 inches (915 mm) from the finished floor. Most doors measure 80 inches (2023 mm) tall, which means that the door handle is installed just below the middle of the door.

However, some people prefer installing the doorknob at the door's vertical center, at 40 inches (1016 mm) high, for a vertically balanced appearance.

On the other hand, many door slabs are typically pre-drilled with bore holes set at the standard height of 36 inches (915 mm), which simplifies the installation process if you're using a standard interior or exterior door handle installation kit.

Keep in mind that, according to the Ontario Building Code, "door release hardware shall be installed not more than 1200 mm above the finished floor."

Furthermore, according to the International Fire Code, "door handles, pulls, latches, locks, and other operating devices shall be installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor. Locks used only for security purposes and not used for normal operation are permitted at any height."

Height of a Deadbolt on a Door

The deadbolt is an additional security lock, installed alongside other locks like self-latching devices. It is typically installed approximately 4-6 inches above the door handle, roughly 40-42 inches (1016-1067 mm) high.

It is important to install the deadbolt at least a few inches from the handleset, so that it remains clear of the handle. Many key entry systems have quite large escutcheons, so if you want to install both a deadbolt and another key system, keep this in mind.

If you're looking for locking mechanisms with deadbolts, choose deadbolts rated grade 1 by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). These are usually built with anti-pick key-ping configurations and anti-drill metal, so they're highly secure.

Door Handle Height Exceptions

• The standard door handleset height is 36 inches. However, it usually varies between 34 and 48 inches (864 and 1220 mm).
• The standard garage door handle height is between 32 and 49 inches (813-1245 mm) above the finished floor.
• The standard pool, spa, and hot tub door handle height is between 34 and 48 inches (864 and 1220 mm) above the finished floor. However, it is sometimes installed higher. It should not be higher than 54 inches (1372 mm), though.
• Security locks can be installed up to 54 inches (1372 mm) above the floor.
• The standard door handle height on sliding doors is usually between 36 and 42 inches (915 and 1067 mm), depending on track placement.
• The standard door handle height for eight-foot interior doors is 36 inches (915 mm), but most people prefer installing the handle slightly higher for visual proportions and a cohesive look.

ACA Door Handle Requirements

Compliance with the Accessibility Canada Act (ACA), similar to the United States' ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), is crucial for ensuring accessibility in both public and private spaces. According to ACA guidelines:

• Door handles in bathrooms should be D-shaped, mounted horizontally, and located between 31.5 and 39.4 inches (800 mm and 1,000 mm) above the finished floor surface.
• Door handles and locks on exterior doors must be accessible from a sitting position. They must be easy to operate and installed at approximately 37 inches (939 mm) above the floor surface.
• Door handles on interior and exterior doors should not be located higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) above the floor.

Keep in mind that, according to the ACA, door handles must also require minimum grasping strength and motion. D-shaped handles, door levers, and push bar exit devices are acceptable door handle styles. Furthermore, door handles with integral locks must have a lever handle that is at least 3 inches (75 mm) long, requiring only a downward force to open.

ADA Door Handle Height

ADA door handle height requirements range from 34 inches to 48 inches ((864 to 1220 mm) . According to ADA guidelines, it should be measured from the floor, not from the door's bottom edge.

Keep in mind that strictly private homes do not need to comply with ADA standards. ADA door guidelines are generally for places of public accommodation.

Factors that Affect Door Handle Height

While 36 inches from the finished floor is the standard door handle height, there are practical and aesthetic reasons to adjust this slightly. Here are the factors that can affect door handle height:

• Door height and type. For standard 80-inch doors, a handle at 36 inches (915 mm) sits just below the midpoint. However, eight-foot high doors often have their handles installed slightly higher for better visual proportions.
• Pre-hung units. Most pre-hung units come with pre-drilled holes for both the handle and latch, usually set to the standard height.
• Function and accessibility. In commercial or access door applications, handle height must comply with accessibility codes. Handles should be easy to reach and operate without excessive strain. According to accessibility standards, the handle must not require tight grasping and must require a maximum force of no more than 5 lbf (pound-force) or 22 N to operate.
• Door hardware type. Lever handles, knobs, and self-locking devices have different clearance and ergonomic needs and may require several inches of space for the best fit. Most keyless entry systems also include electronic components or escutcheons that affect handle placement, often requiring additional space between the latch and any separate security lock, such as a deadbolt.

How to Measure and Install a Door Handle at the Correct Height

Follow these steps to measure door handle height and install your hardware:

1. Measure from the bottom edge of the finished floor. Pull the tape measure upward and mark the 36-inch-high point (or your desired height) on the edge of the door where the handle will be installed.
2. Find the door’s vertical center if you have an eight-foot-high door or a taller door. Make sure the handle placement looks visually balanced.
3. Mark for both handle and lock if your door includes a separate security lock or self-locking device. Leave 4-6 inches (102-152 mm) of vertical space between it and the main handle.
4. Drill the holes. Use the manufacturer’s template to mark the location of the handle. Use a hole saw from your door handle installation kit to drill smooth, clean holes.
5. Install the hardware. Attach the latch, then mount the exterior and interior handles. Make sure that the latch aligns properly with the strike plate on the frame and the handle operates smoothly with minimal effort.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard height for door knobs in Canada?

In Canada, the standard height for door knobs is typically between 34 and 48 inches (864 to 1220 mm) from the finished floor, with 36 inches (915 mm) being the most common.

Why is door handle height important?

Door handle height is important because it affects ease of use, accessibility, and safety for everyone, including children and people with disabilities.

How low is too low for a doorknob?

A doorknob positioned below 34 inches (864 mm) from the floor is generally considered too low. At this height, it can be awkward to reach and may not comply with most building or accessibility standards.

What is the standard height for a door handle?

The standard height for a door handle is typically 36 inches (915 mm) from the finished floor. This measurement ensures accessibility and convenience for most users.

How can I ensure my door handle is ADA compliant?

To ensure your door handle is ADA compliant, it should be installed between 34 to 48 inches (864 to 1220 mm) high and designed for one-handed operation, requiring no more than 5 pounds of force to operate. This will facilitate accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

What is the recommended height for a deadbolt installation?

The recommended height for deadbolt installation is between 40 to 42 inches (1016 to 1067 mm) from the finished floor, typically positioned 4 to 6 inches (102 to 152 mm) above the door handle. This ensures optimal accessibility and security.

Can I adjust the handle height for eight-foot doors?

Yes, you can adjust the handle height for eight-foot doors, and doing so can enhance the visual balance, especially in homes with higher ceilings.