What Is the Correct Height for a Door Handle?

Not only the type but the size and positioning of door handles can significantly influence the ambiance of a room. Door handles can be focal points that tie together elements and create a cohesive look, enhancing the aesthetic around them.

Dive right into our guide and learn how to pick the best door handle height.

Standard height for door handles

A standard height for residential and internal doors is 36 inches high, below the vertical midpoint 40 inches of the door. The handle must be accessible to all to hold. For most types of door knobs, the average height is between 34-48 inches. The height is measured from the door's bottom edge to the handle's middle.

ADA Door Handle Height

If you have a commercial or corporate building that must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, there are also specific heights and rules for door handles. All doors must be mounted between 34 and 48 inches above the finished floor. Measurements should be made from the center of the door handle to allow those with disabilities to easily use the handle without having to stretch or reach.

Standard Height for Deadbolts

Deadbolts add extra security to your door due to their strong locking mechanism. To ensure they function properly, the standard height for installing them is 6-12 inches above your doorknob.

Pro Tip: Always install the deadbolt so it is visible from the door handle.

Other Door Handles

In addition to the ones mentioned above, here are some other types of door handles which have specific rules and heights:

Door Handleset Height

The height requirement for a door handle set is usually 36 inches;, it, but it can vary between 34 and 48 inches. The height is usually measured from the bottom edge to the center of the handle set.

8 Foot Door Handle Height

With tall doors such as those that are 8 feet, the height does not typically change and remains consistent with typical practices. Generally, for an 8-foot door, the height should be 36 inches from the floor. Your height must remain consistent with other doors so the handle is ergonomically convenient and easily accessible when opening and closing.

Shower Door Handle Height

Shower door handles are usually installed at a convenient height between 36-42 inches above the bathroom floor. This height is typically comfortable for those who need to enter the shower, allowing easy access. Most of the time, the handle should be positioned 3 inches from the edge of the door to ensure it maintains an aesthetically balanced appearance.

Pool and Spa Door Handle Height

The installation height for pool and spa doors should be between 34 and 48 inches above the finish floor. When installing, you have to be conscious of the height. Adults should be able to easily access the doors, yet they should still be high enough to prevent children from accessing and reaching these areas unsupervised. Handles should be installed around 3 inches from the edge of the door.

Barn Door Handle Height

The standard height for barn handle doors is 34-48 inches from the ground. Alongside this, barn door handles are typically 10-13 inches long.

Garage Door Handle Height

The standard height for garage doors is between 32 and 48 inches from the finished floor. This is an ergonomic height range that allows for easy access. The handle of the garage door should be placed in the center.

Pro Tip: Given that garage doors are typically larger and heavier than standard doors, handles must be installed at a height that requires leverage. This ensures easy opening and closing, providing a sense of security and control.

How to Measure Door Handle Height

To effectively measure the right height for a door, get a tape measure, square, and pencil. Then do the following:

1. Hook the tape measure from the bottom edge of your door.
2. Pull it upwards to 36 inches and mark it with a pencil. If you add a deadbolt, please make another mark at 40-42 inches high. If you need to adhere to ADA guidelines, move the measure between 34-48 inches and make a mark.
3. Remove the tape measure.
4. Add the square to the door, using one side flush with the edge
5. Slowly extend each mark for 4 inches along the other side of the square.

Pro Tip: To effectively install the door handle, use a door installation kit, template or boreholes for the door handle.

Open the Door to a Modern Home with Mod Lighting

Overall, picking the right door handle and knowing the installation height is crucial to the aesthetic and functionality aspect of your home. While the standard door height is 36 inches and door knobs between 34-48 inches, there are some exceptions to the common rule.

For instance, if you have a building that needs to comply with ADA guidelines, the height should be between 34 and 48 inches. Similarly, if you have rooms where you wish to restrict access to children, the handles need to be a little higher so they can’t reach them.

So take time to think about the room the door handle requires, its usage, and its comfortable reach. Door handles aren’t the only little things that can profoundly impact the overall aesthetic of your home; light pieces do, too.

Explore our most popular modern LED pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard height or a handle on a door?

The standard height for a door handle is 36 inches; however, it can reach up to 48 inches. The handle's height is measured from the bottom of the door to the center.

What is the ADA height for door handles?

The ADA height for door handles is 34-48 inches above the finished floor. If you have a door that needs to align with these guidelines, you should make measurements above the center of the door handle to ensure those with disabilities do not stretch or struggle to open.

How high should a door handle be on an 8-foot door?

Generally, doors that are 8 feet or higher in height do not typically change. On average, the handle should be 36 inches high or wherever is accessible to reach in order to open and close.