Folding pull handles offer a convenient, space-saving alternative to traditional pull handles. They are characterized by their ability to fold. After using a folding pull handle, you can fold it down to conserve space. Some folding pull handles feature hinges, whereas others feature a “floating” bar. Regardless, they can all be folded. Here are five things to consider when choosing a folding pull handle.
#1) Mounting Plate vs No Mounting Plate
Folding pull handles are available with and without mounting plates. Mounting plates consist of a flat piece of metal at both ends of the handle. To install a folding pull handle, you can drive fasteners through the mounting plates and into the adjacent material. If a folding pull handle doesn’t have mounting plates, however, you’ll typically have to drive fasteners through the handle itself.
#2) Recessed vs Non-Recessed
Do you want a recessed or non-recessed folding pull handle? While both styles can be folded, only recessed will lie flush with their respective mounting hardware. This creates a clean and sleek design appearance that many people prefer. If you choose a non-recessed pull handle, on the other hand, it will protrude out of its mounting hardware.
#3) Material
Don’t forget to consider the material when choosing a folding pull handle. Some folding pull handles are made of plastic, whereas others are made of aluminum, steel or other metals and alloys. Plastic handles are lightweight, inexpensive and offer protection against corrosion. Metal handles are strong, durable and support greater loads.
#4) Folding Angle
Something else to consider when choosing a folding pull handle is the folding angle. This is the angle at which the handle will fold. Handles with a high folding angle will fold farther than those with a low folding angle. Common folding angles include 90 degrees and 180 degrees.
#5) Grip Style
Folding pull handles are available in different grip styles. The grip is the part of the handle that you grab and hold when using a folding pull handle. Some of them are rectangular, whereas others are oval or rounded. The size of the grip may also vary, with some of them being longer or wider than others.
#6) Load Rating
Some folding pull handles are loaded rated. They are designed to withstand heavy loads. Most load-rated folding pull handles come with mounting plates. You’ll need to use a set of heavy-duty screws to install them. Once installed, they will withstand the weight of the load for which they are rated.