Why install a tubular door handle?

Tubular handles: design and functionality for your doors!

Tubular door handles, quintessentially Anglo-Saxon handles, are enjoying growing success in France. Their clean design, combining minimalist aesthetics and functionality, makes them a perfect solution for contemporary interiors but also commercial spaces.

Let us discover together the characteristics and advantages of these "all-in-one" handles as well as our advice for choosing them well! 

What is a tubular door handle?

A compact handle

A tubular door handle is characterised by its compact cylindrical shape, typically manufactured from metal, notably stainless steel, chrome or aluminium. Unlike more traditional lever handles, tubular handles with round knobs or tulip knobs offer a modern, industrial look that adapts to different interior design styles.

This type of handle is suitable for all doors in the home: front door or interior door such as kitchen, bedroom, office or bathroom door.

Handle with integrated lock?

A tubular handle does not always have an integrated lock. There are two main types of tubular handles:

• Simple tubular handle 

This version does not have an integrated lock. It is often used for interior doors, cupboards, or offices where increased security is not necessary. It simply serves to open or close the door.

• Tubular handle with integrated lock

This type of handle includes a locking mechanism, often in the form of an internal privacy button or a keyed lock. It is generally found on entrance or communicating doors where locking is required, for example in bathrooms or offices.

Some models offer mixed locking: turn button from the inside and key from the outside

For what door thickness?

Most tubular handles are designed for doors with a standard thickness, generally between 33 and 45 mm, which corresponds to common interior doors.

However, some models can adapt to thicker doors thanks to adjustable bolt spindles (for example, 60 mm or 70 mm). If the door is much thicker or thinner than this range, it will be necessary to choose a model specially designed for these dimensions or provide an adaptation kit.

For installation on non-standard size doors (thicker or thinner), it is advisable to check the product specifications or choose adjustable or bespoke handles.

Where to install tubular handles?

Tubular handles are extremely versatile and can be used in a multitude of contexts:

• Residential use: They are perfectly suited to interior doors, bathrooms and bedrooms, where their modern design and ease of maintenance are major assets.
• Commercial use: In offices, public buildings or hotels, they bring a sophisticated touch whilst remaining practical and resistant.

Originating from Anglo-Saxon countries, these handles have evolved thanks to the enthusiasm for minimalist and contemporary design. They bring a touch of elegance whilst being functional, which makes them popular in both residential and commercial spaces.

Main characteristics of a tubular lock handle

A tubular lock handle is equipped with a type of lock generally used on interior doors, particularly bathrooms and bedrooms. Its mechanism is distinguished by its simple and quick installation, thanks to a compact form integrated into the door handle itself. Let us focus on its main characteristics:

Integrated locking mechanism 

• Internal cylinder: The tubular lock is equipped with a lockable cylinder located in the centre of the handle or knob. This cylinder operates the latch, which retracts or engages to open or close the door.
• Spring system: The tubular lock mechanism operates using an internal spring that allows the latch to retract when the handle is activated. When released, the latch automatically returns to its initial position.

Compact design 

• Tubular shape 

As its name suggests, the tubular lock has a cylindrical structure. It is often integrated into the door handle itself, which limits the elements visible from the outside.

• Round handle or lever

Often paired with round knobs or tubular levers, this type of lock can be discreet and functional, adapting to the overall design of the door.

Types of tubular lock 

• Push-button lock (or locking push-button) 

This type of lock locks by pressing a button located on one of the handles, often inside the room. To unlock, simply turn the handle or push the button from the outside with a small tool.

• Lock with key 

In some cases, a tubular lock may include a key cylinder, allowing the door to be locked and unlocked with a key. This model is more common on bedroom doors or secondary entrance doors.

Common use 

• Interior doors 

Mainly used for bathroom doors, bedrooms and wardrobes, where moderate security is required.

• Commercial doors 

Due to their robustness and simple installation, tubular locks are also popular in commercial environments (offices, public toilets).

Advantages of a tubular handle

Simplicity of installation: Easy to install, it is a common choice for those seeking a simple locking solution without complex work.

Durability: The spring mechanism and latch ensure smooth and durable operation, even in high-traffic environments.

Versatility: Available in different styles, finishes and designs, it adapts to both modern and classic handles.

Disadvantages 

Moderate security: Tubular locks are designed primarily for interior security and are not as resistant as mortice or multipoint locks for exterior doors requiring a high level of security.

The tubular lock is a practical, discreet and easy-to-install solution, ideal for interior doors requiring moderate security and smooth operation. Its compact design and simple installation make it a common choice for bedroom, bathroom or office doors, with push-button or key versions depending on requirements.

Comparison table between tubular handle and lever handle

Here is a comparison table between tubular handles and classic lever handles, highlighting the main differences in terms of design, functionality and installation:

In summary:

• Tubular handles 

Ideal for those who want a clean and contemporary design. They are particularly suited to modern, minimalist or industrial interiors and commercial spaces. Their maintenance is easy and they offer great durability.

• Classic lever handles

The Euro profile integrates well into all interior styles (classic, rustic, modern or vintage). Available in a wider variety of styles and finishes, these handles are often at more affordable prices.

                  Lever handle from the Mandelli brand available as a tubular handle on request

Tubular handle and design?

Door hardware offers beautiful ranges of door handles and locks whose design makes them essential accessories for interior decoration! 

A modern handle

In a design interior, a tubular handle brings both functionality and modern aesthetics. Its clean design and chrome steel or golden brass finish blend perfectly with minimalist lines and contemporary materials. 

Its cylindrical and simple shape echoes an industrial or modern style, whilst remaining discreet and elegant. Moreover, it integrates easily with various types of doors (wood, glass, metal), which allows creating a visual coherence throughout the space. 

In addition to its design aspect, the tubular handle is very ergonomic and easy to handle, thus offering a perfect combination of style and comfort of use.

The material 

Tubular handles are manufactured from different materials, depending on the design and intended use. Here are the most common materials:

Stainless steel: Highly resistant to corrosion and wear, stainless steel is ideal for handles used in indoor or outdoor environments. It also offers a modern and clean appearance, often available in brushed or polished finish.

Aluminium: Lighter than stainless steel, aluminium is also used for tubular handles. It is often preferred for its lightness and rust resistance, especially in outdoor applications.

Brass: This material offers a more classic and elegant look. It is often covered with a protective finish to prevent tarnishing. Brass is popular in interior spaces where aesthetics play an important role.

The finish 

Tubular handles are available in brushed steel, polished brass, chrome, matt black, lacquered gold or white etc. Choose a finish that complements the style of your space.

Installation and maintenance of tubular handles

Simple installation 

Unlike mortice locks (recessed), which require wider drilling into the door, the tubular lock is much easier to install. It only requires standard diameter round drilling, often 2.5 cm.

Tubular lock kits generally include a tubular latch, a faceplate, a striker plate and a handle or door knob, making installation easy without the need to modify the door structure.

Installing a tubular handle is relatively simple. You will need a few basic tools such as a screwdriver and a drill. Assembling the individual parts remains within everyone's reach. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for hassle-free installation.

Take advantage of our video tutorials on handle installation to perfect your technique!

Maintenance

Clean the handles regularly with a soft cloth and warm water to avoid fingerprints and maintain their shine. For stainless steel models, a specific cleaning product can be used to remove stubborn stains. Refer to the handle material to adapt the products to use.

Tubular handles, very popular in the United States and the United Kingdom, are arriving in force on the French market. With their simple shape and manufacture from robust materials, this type of handle perfectly embodies a clean and functional aesthetic. The growing popularity of the loft style, with its large open spaces and raw finishes, has encouraged the adoption of these handles in residential and commercial interiors.

Tubular door handles combine modern style and durability. Whether for a renovation project or for a new building, they offer an aesthetic and practical solution that meets the needs of contemporary interiors.

Discover our range of handles from the Mandelli brand which offers handles with tubular locks! Take advantage of a complete range of industrial handles to complete your décor! Changing the handle or installing a new lock (smart lock or mechanical lock) contributes to the styling of your exterior and interior doors!

Other articles on the same theme:

.Why choose a pull handle?

. How to install a door handle?

See tubular lock