Upgrade Your Bifold Doors with The Best Handles
Your bifold doors are more than just room dividers. The handles on these doors play a key role in how well they work day to day. Yet many homeowners overlook this small but mighty detail.
Finding the right handles can be tricky. With so many styles, materials, and placement options, how do you know which ones will work best for your doors?
Good news – I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best handle options for your bifold doors, help you pick the perfect style for your home, and show you how to install them correctly.
Whether you have internal wardrobe doors or external patio doors, you’ll learn everything you need to make a smart choice that looks great and works smoothly.
Top Handle Types for Bifold Doors
1. Pull Handles
Pull handles offer a simple yet useful solution for your bifold doors. Most come in a D-shape design that you pull toward you to close and push away to open. What makes these handles stand out is their basic function – they just work without fuss. Some pull handles can fold flat against the door when not in use, but most have a fixed shape.
You’ll find them in many styles, from brass-plated Victorian designs to solid steel in black finish or even aluminum with a satin look. The best part? These handles look good anywhere you put them, and they’re built to last through years of opening and closing.
2. Flush Handles
Also known as flat handles, flush handles sit completely level with your door surface. This makes them perfect for bi-fold doors in tight spaces like pantries and fitted wardrobes. Since they don’t stick out, they won’t stop your doors from folding back fully.
Flush handles come in many shapes – from round pulls to rectangular designs in materials like brass or brushed steel. They work great on non-leading bifold doors, giving you an extra grip point without getting in the way of the door’s folding action.
3. Lever Handles
Lever handles work by pulling down to retract the latch and open the door. This style is common on many door types but works very well for the main or “lead” door of your bifold setup. Lever handles come in countless designs, from simple modern styles like Brooklyn lever-on rose handles to more detailed options like Brora lever-on plate designs.
These handles are particularly helpful for people who might struggle with door knobs, such as those with arthritis or small children, as they need less grip strength to operate.
4. Door Knobs
Door knobs bring a touch of tradition to bifold doors and typically come in two types: those with mortice latches that you twist to open and roller latch types that simply pull open and push closed. The second type is often found in wardrobes and cupboards.
Available in materials from black glass to white ceramic to antique brass, door knobs add classic charm to your bifold doors. They’re most commonly found in older homes with more traditional decor, where their timeless look fits right in with the overall style.
How to Choose the Right Handle for Your Doors
1. Quality & Durability- Cheap handles may seem like a bargain, but in high-traffic areas, they wear out fast. Invest in sturdy handles that last, especially for frequently used doors like kitchen pantries or family rooms.
2. Finishes & Materials- From chrome to antique brass, finishes impact both function and style. Dark handles pop on light doors, while lighter ones contrast well with dark doors. Matching with cabinet knobs or fixtures creates a cohesive look.
3. Design & Style- Pick a handle that complements your home’s decor. Antique brass suits classic interiors, while sleek chrome fits modern spaces. For utility rooms, a simple flush handle may be best.
4. Size & Proportions- Handles should be proportional to the door—too large looks awkward, too small feels impractical. Choose a size that balances both aesthetics and functionality.
5. Ease of Use & Security- Lever handles are easier for kids and seniors, while some handles integrate with locks for added security. Consider functionality alongside style.
6. Budget & Value- Handles come in all price ranges. Avoid ultra-cheap options that may need frequent replacements; quality often pays off in the long run.
Where to Position Your Bifold Door Handles
Finding the Sweet Spot
Handle placement varies depending on the type of bifold door. For most setups, the best spot is near the edge of the leading door—the one that opens first. This ensures smooth operation and reduces strain on the tracking system.
- Four-panel bifold doors → Place handles at the center of the middle two doors.
- Two-panel bifold doors → Install the handle on the non-fixed door for better functionality.
Height Matters
The standard height for handles is 36 inches from the floor, a comfortable reach for most users. For paneled doors, aim for the center of the middle rail for a balanced and sturdy placement.
Mark First, Drill Second
- Mark the spot with a pencil before drilling.
- Use a 1/16-inch drill bit to create pilot holes—this prevents wood splitting.
- Test handle placement—if opening or closing requires too much force, reposition for smoother operation.
Common Bifold Door Handle Problems and How to Fix Them
| Common Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Handle Feels Loose | Tighten screws with a well-fitting screwdriver. Avoid over-tightening. For wooden doors, check and tighten screws regularly. |
| Handle Sticking | Apply grease or silicone-based lubricant to moving parts. Avoid WD-40 as it attracts dust. |
| Hard to Open or Close | Reposition handle to standard 36-inch height for better leverage. Place it on the leading door near the edge. |
| Screws Won’t Tighten | Fill stripped holes with wood filler, toothpicks, or wood glue. Let it dry before reinserting screws. Use a larger screw for metal doors. |
| Handle Keeps Falling Off | Check for cracks or damage around the handle. Repair with wood filler or replace the section. Consider using a backplate for stability. |
| Misaligned Door Panels | Check and clean the door tracks. Adjust door height using bottom pivot screws for proper alignment. |
Conclusion
Now you know how to pick and install the perfect bifold door handles. Remember, handles aren’t just functional parts—they’re the finishing touch that can make your doors both useful and attractive.
The right handle at the standard 36-inch height will make your doors work smoothly for years.
If you face issues like loose or sticking handles, simple fixes like tightening screws or adding lubricant can solve most problems. Take time to match your handle style to your home’s look for the best results.
Next time you walk through your bi-fold doors, you’ll appreciate the small detail that makes a big difference.
Why not check your current handles? They might be due for an upgrade that could transform how your doors look and function.
