The 10 Best Push Bars For Doors
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in May of 2020. A push bar converts a regular door into an emergency exit, and allows it to be unlocked from the inside by simply pushing a panel on the front. As a security measure, some are fitted with alarms while others come with a lever and a lock for outside. Usually, they are installed on the rear exit of a building, however, we included a few options that are designed to be used on the main entrance. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. US Deliver Door Push
2. Global Door Controls TH1100
3. Lueur Commercial Exit
Editor's Notes
September 04, 2020:
A push bar, also known as a crash bar or panic bar, was originally conceived as a way to prevent crowd crushing in an emergency situation. Nowadays, they are used as the primary emergency door opening mechanism in many residences and commercial buildings. They are designed to be used on an outwardly opening, external door and are easy to operate by applying pressure with any part of your body. They can include a lever or lock for the outside and some even have a warning alarm if the door is opened.
For the most part, the style of push bar that we are all familiar with is a tried and tested design that functions well under normal circumstances. The models we selected for this ranking all have slightly different features that will be suitable for various needs and situations. The Dynasty Hardware Aluminum is a basic model that includes an external lever and lock. The Fortstrong FH-850A is very similar but incorporates an alarm with a shut-off key. The Lueur Commercial Exit boasts a bright red front panel for easy identification in an emergency, and the US Deliver Door Push is made from stainless steel, and has a fire-resistance rating of 72 minutes. The Taco Trans Atlantic has a slightly different design, with the bar being mounted on two hinges at either side of the door, and is a good choice for use on paneled doors. For added security, the Global Door Controls Vertical and the Yale 7120 both have vertical rod latches, which bolt into the top and bottom of the door, too. The latter is designed for a hollow metal door, with the rods concealed inside, whereas, the former is mounted on the outside, and can also be used on wood or aluminum doors.
Some models are compact and more suitable for glass or paneled doors, and are often used on an entrance rather than an exit. The Pacific Doorware Mortise Deadlatch is designed for use on an aluminum door, and is operated by a push or a pull. Similarly, the Global Door Controls TH1100 has an aluminum paddle with an anodized finish, making it strong and corrosion-resistant. The Detex Alarm Panic Exit is suitable for an entrance or an exit, it has a short arm with a glow-in-the-dark warning sign, and has a 100-decibel alarm that signals when the door is opened.
Special Honors
USA Fire Door Make your emergency exit safer with a fire-rated door. This California-based company has a wide selection of code-compliant products, and provides job-site delivery to nearly all locations within the United States. usafiredoor.com
4. Yale 7120
5. Fortstrong FH-850A
6. Pacific Doorware Mortise Deadlatch
7. Global Door Controls Vertical
8. Taco Trans Atlantic
9. Detex Alarm Panic Exit
10. Dynasty Hardware Aluminum
Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.