How to Install a Storefront Door Handle Set (Pull Handle & Push Bar)

Hey guys, this is Gary with Door Closers USA. Today we’re going to go overhow to install a storefront door handle set on an aluminum storefront door.

The handle set shown here is a double-bend offset pull handle paired with asingle-bend push bar. The pull handle used in this example is a9 in center-to-center model.

Understanding Pull Handle Center-to-Center Measurements

When shopping for storefront pull handles, the most important measurement is thecenter-to-center spacing.

This measurement is taken from the center of one mounting hole to the center of the other.Common storefront pull handle sizes include:

• 9 in center-to-center
• 10 in center-to-center
• 12 in center-to-center
• 8-1/2 in center-to-center (less common)

Because storefront doors are aluminum, drilling new holes is not an issue.As long as the measurements are correct, different handle sizes can be installed.

Handle Configuration Used in This Installation

In this video, we’re installing:

• Offset pull handle (exterior side)
• Single-bend push bar (interior side)

The door shown is part of an Entrance Light storefront door system.If this were a new installation, the door should be glazed first before installing the handle.In the field, however, doors are usually already glazed, so installation is straightforward.

Hardware Included with the Handle Set

The handle hardware kit includes:

• Through-bolt with finish washer
• Long cone head screw that threads into the pull handle
• Smaller cone head screw for the non-meeting side of the push bar

The cone head screw is what allows the push bar to attach to the pull handle assembly.

Required tools for installation:

• Allen wrench
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver

Identifying Door Orientation

The pull handle is always installed on the exterior side of the door,and the push bar is installed on the interior side.

On storefront doors, the exterior side is easy to identify because thepivot hinges are mounted on the exterior face of the door.

Installing the Pull Handle

Both mounting holes in the pull handle are threaded.

• The hole aligned with the push bar uses the longer cone head screw
• The lower hole uses the through-bolt with finish washer

Insert the cone head screw through the door from the push bar side and thread it into the pull handle.Then install the through-bolt and tighten both fasteners securely.

Installing the Push Bar

On the push side of the door, the push bar slides over the mounting points.The bar itself is not threaded, but it includes locations for Allen set screws.

On one side of the door, you’ll typically find a factory-installed rivnut.For this side, use the smaller cone head screw and thread it into the rivnut.

Once the push bar is positioned:

• Align the mounting holes
• Slide the push bar into place
• Tighten all set screws securely with an Allen wrench

Retrofit Handle Option (Heavy-Duty Upgrade)

We also offer retrofit storefront door handle sets.These are ideal for older doors or high-traffic locations where handles frequently break.

Retrofit handles use 3/8-24 heavy-duty hardware instead of standard 1/4-20 hardware.This requires drilling slightly larger holes, but the installation process is otherwise the same.

The benefit is significantly increased strength and durability in abusive environments.

Final Installation Check

After installation:

• The pull handle should operate smoothly from the exterior
• The push bar should be secure and function properly from the interior

This push-pull configuration is standard on most commercial storefront doors.

How to Order the Correct Storefront Handle Set

When ordering a handle set in the field, verify the following:

• Pull handle center-to-center measurement (commonly 9 in or 10 in)
• Push bar length (typically 33 in to 33-1/16 in for a 36 in door)
• Finish color (clear aluminum or dark bronze)

You may also identify the door manufacturer by checking the bottom rail for branding,but sizing should always be verified, as some doors use non-standard dimensions.

Final Notes

If you have questions about sizing, hardware, or compatibility,email us, call us, or send photos of your door and existing handles.

All storefront pull handles, push bars, and retrofit handle setsare available at DoorClosersUSA.com.

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Watch the Video

Prefer to follow along visually? Watch the full video below to see the completestorefront door handle installation process.