The Best Push Bars to Install on Doors

The Best Push Bar Buying Guide

What Is a Push Bar?

For many of us, a push bar is that metal handle we see on the doors of public buildings. In an emergency, we are told to push the bar and the door will open so we can escape. But what is a push bar, really? A push bar is a device that helps people open doors in an emergency. Made out of metal, this bar is to be placed outside the door; however, there are also multidirectional ones available. In the event of an emergency, this bar pushes the door open and allows for seamless evacuation.

Uses of a Push Bar

There are quite a few situations where using a push bar can be helpful. For example, if you need to get through a door quickly in an emergency or if you’re trying to hold a door open for someone struggling with something heavy.

As panic hardware

Push bars are commonly used as panic hardware on doors in public places. This is because they allow people to quickly and easily get through a door in an emergency without fiddling with a handle or latch.

As a doorstop

Another everyday use for a push bar is as a doorstop. If you’re trying to hold a door open for someone or keep it from slamming shut, you can use one to prop the door open.

As an aid for the disabled

Push bars can also be used as an aid for people with disabilities. If someone has difficulty using a door handle, a bar can make it much easier for them to get through a door.

Types of Push Bars

There are two major push bar types: a touch bar and a crossbar. Let us look at them in detail and find out when you should be using either type:

Touch Bar

A touch bar is a type of push bar that is activated by simply pushing on it. This makes it ideal for use when you need to get through a door quickly, as there is no need to fiddle with a handle, latch, or knob.

Crossbar

A crossbar is a push bar with a horizontal bar that you push on to activate it. This type is often used on heavier or broader doors, providing the user with more leverage.

Picking a Push Bar for Your Door

Traffic compatibility

When picking out a push bar for your door, it is important to consider traffic compatibility. This means that the bar must withstand the amount of traffic that will be using it. If your push bar is not strong enough, it could break or bend under pressure, creating a dangerous situation. Push bars come in different sizes and styles, so make sure you pick one that is right for your needs if you have a heavy traffic door. 

There are two main categories of push bars: single acting and double acting. Single-acting bars can only be used to open the door from one side. Meanwhile, double-acting bars can be used to open the door from both sides.

Door compatibility

For a push bar to be effective, it needs to be compatible with the door it is being installed on. Different doors have different specifications, so it is important to ensure that your bar will fit on the door. Some doors have special requirements that must be met for them to be compatible. For example, some doors may require a particular mounting bracket or hardware. Be sure to check your door’s specifications before purchasing a bar to ensure compatibility.

Material

Some materials are more durable than others and can withstand more wear and tear; so, for example, stainless steel bars are more durable than aluminum push bars. On the other hand, some materials may be better suited for particular environments, like aluminum push bars,  which are more suitable for outdoor use because they will not rust. 

Adjustability

Depending on the door, the bar’s location may need to be adjusted. Some doors have pre-drilled holes for push bars, while others do not. If you find that your door has no pre-drilled holes, you must ensure the bar you choose is adjustable. This way, you can position the bar where it is required on the door. Adjustable bars are also helpful if your door’s specifications change in the future and the bar needs to be moved.

Ease of installation

How easy a push bar is to install is also important to consider when making your purchase. Some bars may require special brackets or hardware, while others may be able to be screwed into the door. If you are unfamiliar with installation, choosing a bar that is easy to install is best. You can always hire a professional if you are unsure how to install the bar properly.

Reversibility

In some cases, like if the door opens outward instead of inward, you may need to reverse the direction of the bar. Reversible push bars are designed for this purpose and can be easily switched from one direction to another. This critical feature can mean the difference between safety and a hazard.

Additional features

Some push bars come with an alarm that sounds when the bar is activated. This can help deter intruders or unwanted visitors. Other bars have a keyed entry function that allows you to lock the bar from the inside, which can be helpful if you want to prevent someone from pushing the bar to enter the building.