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BlogWe independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products-learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.Boost Your Security With the Best Push Bars
Last updated: 28 Feb 2023Be it your car, home, or office, security is of paramount importance. And, when it comes to the workplace, ensuring the safety of employees should be the top priority for any employer. There are quite a few ways to beef up security at the workplace and one of the most effective and affordable ways is to install push bars on exit doors.
Push bars are devices that are fitted to doors and help push them open quickly in an emergency. They are useful in offices, factories, warehouses, shops, restaurants, and other commercial establishments, and can help people exit the building quickly and safely in a fire or any other crisis.
But, with multiple brands flooding the market with different models, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of the highest-rated push bars of 2023. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Show contentsComparing the Top-Rated Push Bar of 2023Buying Guide: Push Bars
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.
In addition, 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.
Consider the material of the bar when making your selection to ensure it is durable and appropriate for the intended use.
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.
Comparing the Top-Rated Push Bar of 2023
1Dynasty Hardware Push Bar
– Best OverallWhen it comes to hardware, it’s difficult not to mention Dynasty Hardware, the top professional in the business. Their push bar is made from durable aluminum and is 31 inches long, making it perfect for 30 to 36-inch wide doors. The bar is also reversible so that it can be used on either right or left-hand doors.
Dynasty Hardware’s 500 series push bar is also an excellent choice for those looking for a product with a dogging feature because it comes with a dogging key, strike plate, and screws. Best of all, the company offers a limited lifetime factory warranty to guarantee your satisfaction.
Pros- Durable, long-lasting build
- Fits a variety of door widths
- Reversible for right or left-hand doors
- Limited lifetime warranty included
Cons- Exterior lever trim not included
- May arrive with missing/incorrect hardware
2Happybuy Push Bar
– Runner UpThe Happybuy Push Bar is a top-quality, durable panic exit device that’s perfect for wood and metal doors. It is easy to install and can be quickly reversed to work with exterior opening doors. Meanwhile, the bar features a solid cored spring bolt that resists sawing and destruction, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious business owners.
The push bar is also fire-proof, with fire resistance up to 1,760 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a reliable way to help ensure a safe and successful exit in an emergency. Further, it features high corrosion resistance, making it a durable choice that will last for years. Thanks to its top-quality construction and easy-to-use design, this bar is an excellent choice for any business owner.
Pros- Durable, high-quality build
- Reversible for exterior opening doors
- Solid cored spring bolt resists sawing
- High corrosion resistance
Cons- A bit pricey
- May not stay locked
3Fortstrong Push Bar
– Honorable MentionExit doors can be a lifesaver in an emergency, and with the Fortstrong Push Bar, you can ensure that your employees can get out quickly and safely. This top-rated bar is grade 1 certified and ADA approved to work in medium to high-traffic areas. It’s made of durable materials that have been tested for over half a million cycles, so you can trust that it will stand up to heavy use. This push bar is also fully adjustable so that it can be used on a variety of door types and it has everything you need for installation, including a detailed fitting guide.
Additionally, it features a retractable dogging key, roller strike, and shim, all while being suitable for both wood and metal doors. Every bar is tested before it leaves the factory to ensure that it meets the highest quality standards. Furthermore, the push bar comes with three security keys, so you can be sure that only authorized personnel can use it.
Pros- Grade 1 certified and ADA approved
- Comes with everything you need for installation
- Tested before it leaves the factory
Cons- May not fit all doors
4Prime Line Push Bar
– Also ConsiderNot everything has to be fancy when it comes to home security. The Prime-Line Push Bar is perfect for those who want an easy-to-install, convenient way to keep their homes safe. Simply attach the bar to your door and you’re good to go! The steel reinforcement will ensure that the bar lasts through years of use, while the vinyl coating gives it a sleek look. Plus, the double stick tape makes installation a breeze.
Additionally, this push bar comes with installation fasteners and an instruction insert to ensure you get it right the first time. You can also cut it down to size, just in case your door is a little smaller. For a budget-friendly and effective way to secure your home, it doesn’t get much better than this push bar.
Pros- Easy to install
- Convenient, durable design
- Very budget-friendly
- Can be cut down to size
Cons- May not fit all doors
People Also Asked
Q: Can I use a push bar for a sliding door?A: Although push bars are typically used for doors that swing open, some models can be used for sliding doors. Be sure to check the door compatibility before purchasing a push bar to ensure it will work with your door type.
Q: How do I know what type of push bar is suitable for my door?A: First, determine the door handing or which way the door opens. Right-hand doors open towards you when you're standing in front of the door, while left-hand doors open away from you. Second, check the door's width to ensure the push bar will fit. Finally, decide which style of bar you prefer. Some models are designed for doors with or without glass panels.
Q: Can a push bar be used on a double door?A: Yes, push bars can be used on double doors. Be sure to check the width of the door to ensure the push bar will fit; then, simply select a model designed for use with double doors.
Q: Do I need to install a push bar on my door?A: While push bars are not required by law, they are recommended for businesses and other commercial buildings. Push bars make it easy for people to exit a building in an emergency and can also help prevent injuries.
The Pop Wood Review Team’s product reviews and comprehensive guides are here to help you select the best gear and tools to efficiently complete top-quality woodworking projects. The content is created by The Pop Wood Review Team. Popular Woodworking’s editorial staff is not involved. Popular Woodworking is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Questions about product testing or a specific articles should be sent to aimperiapt@gmail.com