Sprung vs Unsprung Lever Handles: What's the Difference?

Introduction: Choosing the correct lever door handle is a small decision that has a big impact on function, aesthetics and compliance. Among the most common choices are sprung and unsprung lever handles. Tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts need to understand the practical differences, where each type should be fitted, and how to install and maintain them. This guide explains the differences clearly and helps you pick the right lever door handle for any internal or external application.

What is a sprung lever door handle?

A sprung lever door handle has an internal spring mechanism that returns the lever to the horizontal or neutral position after being used. The spring action means the lever sits flush and doesn’t sag on the spindle when not in use. Sprung lever handles are commonly used on internal doors with latch mechanisms where the lever should return to a resting position automatically.

• Typical use: internal doors with latch and keep setups; fire doors that require self-centring levers.
• Benefits: prevents lever sag; reduces wear on latches; improves appearance; complies with some building regulations for self-closing doors.
• Considerations: not suitable for use with sprung roses unless specified; the spring must match the door thickness and spindle length.

What is an unsprung lever door handle?

An unsprung lever door handle lacks the internal spring. The lever simply moves on the spindle and stays in the position it is left in, relying on the latch mechanism to return the bolt. Unsprung handles are straightforward and often preferred on doors with heavy or multi-point locks where an internal spring could interfere with the lock operation.

• Typical use: external doors with multipoint locks; doors with heavy latches or locks; areas where the lever should remain down until the latch resets.
• Benefits: simpler mechanism; fewer moving internal parts; generally more robust for heavy-duty locking systems.
• Considerations: levers may sag over time if spindles or fixings are loose; not ideal where a self-returning lever is required.

How to choose between sprung and unsprung lever handles

Selecting the right lever door handle depends on the door type, locking system and user requirements. Use this checklist to decide quickly on site:

1. 1Identify the lock type: latch-only internal doors usually take sprung lever handles; multipoint and sashlocks often need unsprung handles.
2. 2Check door usage: high-traffic areas benefit from sprung levers to avoid sagging; external security doors prefer unsprung for durability.
3. 3Consider regulation: fire doors and self-closing doors may require sprung handles to ensure lever returns to a neutral position.
4. 4Assess aesthetics and ergonomics: sprung levers maintain a neater appearance and can be easier for end-users to operate.
5. 5Verify the spindle and backset dimensions: ensure compatibility with the chosen lever door handle to avoid loose or stiff operation.

Installation tips for trades and DIYers

Installing a lever door handle correctly ensures long service life and trouble-free operation. These practical tips work for both sprung and unsprung lever door handle installations.

• Measure twice: check door thickness, backset and spindle length before ordering a lever door handle.
• Choose the correct spindle: a solid square spindle with the right length prevents wobble and reduces sag on unsprung levers.
• Fit roses or backplates tightly: loose fixings allow movement that can make a lever door handle sag or fail to return.
• Align latch and strike plate: poor alignment increases wear and can make sprung mechanisms work harder.
• Test operation: operate the handle and latch several times to ensure smooth action; for sprung levers ensure the lever returns cleanly every time.
• Replace worn components: springs and spindles can be replaced separately on many lever door handle models to extend life.

Maintenance and common faults

Both sprung and unsprung lever door handle types require periodic maintenance to remain reliable. Here are common issues and quick fixes that tradespeople will appreciate:

• Loose handles: tighten screws; if movement continues replace the spindle or bushings; check for stripped threads on the handle or rose.
• Sagging lever on unsprung handles: usually a worn spindle or loose fixings; replace or shorten the spindle and secure fixings.
• Spring failure on sprung handles: replace the spring mechanism or the entire lever set if the spring is integral; lubricate with a dry graphite or light oil suitable for locks.
• Stiff operation: check latch alignment and lubricate moving parts; ensure backset and strike are correctly positioned.
• Corrosion: choose stainless steel or corrosion-resistant finishes for external use; regular cleaning prevents salt or grime build-up that impairs operation.

Practical examples: where each type is commonly used

To make the selection easier, here are quick examples of typical installations for each lever door handle type:

• Sprung lever door handle: internal WC doors, office doors, bedroom doors and fire doors that must re-centre after use.
• Unsprung lever door handle: front and back doors with multipoint locks, commercial external doors and utility rooms with heavy latch mechanisms.

Conclusion: Understanding the difference between sprung and unsprung lever handles is essential for the right install and long-term performance. A sprung lever door handle is best for internal, high-traffic or self-closing doors where a neat, returning lever is required. An unsprung lever door handle suits heavy-duty locking systems and external doors where simplicity and robustness are paramount. Always check door thickness, spindle length and lock type before purchasing a lever door handle, and follow the installation and maintenance tips above to keep doors working smoothly for years.

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