Cavity Sliders Blog

Choosing the right sliding door hardware for your bathroom

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Cavity sliders are a practical option for bathrooms because they take up less space than traditional swing doors. They slide into a pocket in the wall, which means they don't need any extra space to swing open. Handles for cavity slider doors are available in various configurations and finishes, and it is important to choose the right sliding door lock. There are a few points to consider, including how much use the door will get, the type of lock required and the look desired.

• Who will be using the bathroom?

For bathrooms and ensuites in the home, flush pulls are usually the preferred option as they can match the hardware throughout the rest of the house. The handle sits flush, allowing the door to slide all the way back into the cavity pocket and enabling the widest clear walk-through area possible. Choose a handle with an integrated finger pull, providing an easy grip to retrieve the door from the pocket. Privacy handles such as the CaviLock CL200 or CaviLock CL400 Privacy include a snib button to latch the door closed.

High traffic areas such as public restrooms or commercial spaces require commercial grade hardware to ensure reliability and longevity. A lever handle provides a comfortable grip and is easy to operate with one hand. The CaviLock CL100 LaviLock has been used in commercial projects throughout Australasia since 1986, making it the preferred option for many architects and designers. For accessible solutions, it is important to note that to be council compliant an offset lever handle must be specified, and the door needs to be a minimum width of 1050mm for a clear walk through of 850mm. It is recommended that you consult with local guidelines to ensure you are specifying the correct hardware in commercial installations.

• Type of lock required

Sliding door handles for bathrooms are available in various styles and finishes. Some common options include:

Flush pulls: These are recessed into the door and can provide a sleek and modern look.

Privacy locks: Choose a handle that can be locked from inside the bathroom and unlocked from outside in case of emergency. When ordering the hardware, you will need to specify which side of the handle the locking snib and emergency release are to be fitted.
Lever handles: These provide a comfortable grip and can be easy to operate with one hand or with limited dexterity. They are available in a variety of finishes and designs and provide an accessible solution suitable for everybody.

• Design of the Space

Choose a finish to match your bathroom design. It's important to choose a handle that is made of a material that can withstand humidity, such as stainless steel or brass. Additionally, it's a good idea to choose a handle that is easy to clean and maintain.

There are many finishes available for bathroom sliding door hardware, including:

Satin Chrome: The most popular choice for sliding door hardware in Australia. It is durable, easy to clean and matches most other traditional fittings and hardware.
Satin Nickel: Similar to Satin Chrome but with a warmer tone. It can be a good choice for bathrooms with a more traditional or classic design.
Bright Chrome: A popular finish for bathroom hardware that is shiny, durable, and easy to clean.
Oil Rubbed Bronze: This ‘living’ finish has a dark, mottled appearance that changes over time, adding a rustic or traditional touch to a bathroom.

Matte Black: This finish can give a room a more dramatic and bold look. It is suitable for a range of décor styles.

Overall, cavity sliders provide a great option for bathrooms because they are convenient, stylish and save space. Consideration of the type of handle to be used will ensure a solution that meets everyone’s requirements.