DIY Panic Bar Buying Guide

How to choose the correct panic bar (examples).

In this article, we will help you choose the appropriate panic bar for your door, as well as any additional products you may need for a complete solution, such as a lock or an exterior handle.

1. Single-leaf door - Without lock

In this case, we use a panic bar with its own latch mechanism, without the need for a mortise lock inside the door. In the image below, you can see the available options for this setup.
On the outside, you can install either a fixed or movable handle with its own cylinder lock, as shown in the example below, allowing you to lock the door from the outside.

2. Single-leaf door - With standard lock

In this case, the panic bar is installed on a door with a standard lock, meaning without panic function. The panic bar will only operate when the lock is unlocked. If the lock is locked, pressing the panic bar will not open the door.
For exterior access, the door can be opened using a standard handle or a key, as shown in the example below.

*However, during a building safety inspection, this setup may not comply with safety requirements. For proper panic bar operation, you should use a lock with panic function, as shown in case 3 below.

3. Single-leaf door - With panic lock

In this case, the panic bar is installed on a door already equipped with a panic-function lock, similar to the one shown in the image. This allows the door to open by pressing the panic bar even when the lock is locked.
For exterior access, the door can be opened using a standard handle or a key, as shown in the example below.

4. Double-leaf door - Without lock

In this case, a panic bar with its own latch mechanism is installed on the active leaf without requiring a mortise lock, combined with a second panic bar installed on the inactive leaf, as shown below. The image below shows the available options for this type of setup.
On the outside, you can install either a fixed or movable handle with its own cylinder lock, as shown in the example below, allowing you to lock the door from the outside.

*If your door setup differs from the above examples, for better assistance and more information, please call us at +30 2816 008 228 or send us an email at info@avatontech.com