Making Commercial Doors Accessible with Pull Trims

Pull trims are door attachments that provide a secure grip for opening commercial doors. They are often paired with exit devices to make doors easier to use. CDF Distributors offers a wide selection of pull trims for exit devices to improve accessibility. Our pull trims are ADA-compliant and accessible to all.

Commercial buildings must provide equal access for people with disabilities. Doors must be accessible to individuals with disabilities, as defined by the ADA and related state laws. Pulls, handles, and other accessible hardware make it easier for everyone to operate doors independently. This handle gives patrons something to grip and pull with less effort. This feature is especially helpful for wheelchair users or anyone with limited hand strength.

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that door hardware be usable without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. U-shaped pulls, lever handles, and other easy-to-grip designs are typically compliant with accessibility standards. Round knobs that require wrist turning are not. Under the 2010 ADA Standards, operable parts on accessible doors must be placed no higher than 48 inches above the finished floor. People using wheelchairs or with limited mobility must be able to open doors independently.

Hardware provides sufficient space for a person’s hand to fit behind it. We recommend leaving at least 1½ inches of clearance between the door surface and the grip.

ADA rules are the baseline. You should consider additional features that help people with disabilities (and others) enjoy your business with equal access.

Thoughtful details like these allow easy door operation:

• Textured Grip: Pulls with textured or knurled grips allow for easy turning with minimal force.

• Curved Shapes: Arched or U-shapes fit the contours of the hand for a solid grip

• Wide Designs: Pulls over 4" wide allow ample hand clearance and approach space.

• Offset Centers: Angled pull arms provide wrist clearance at the door’s edge.

• Proper Length: Pulls at least 4" long allow leverage and control when pulling.

• Heavy Base Materials: Solid metals like brass and bronze withstand the elements and everyday use.

Pull trims that go beyond bare minimums create truly welcoming businesses.

CDF Distributors provides a range of ADA compliant pull trims.

• Offset pulls: This compliant curved arm offers easier door operation by allowing wrist clearance and avoiding knuckles catching at the door edge. 

• U-Style models: The 4.5" grip depth meets ADA size requirements. Vertical ends provide leverage when pulling against the exit device's resistance.

• Integrated pulls: This one-piece exit device provides ideal grip profiles and clearance.

• Gasketed models: Available for water-tightness around outdoor openings. Rounded corners aid grip.

CDF also offers pull trim finishes suitable for diverse aesthetics. Stainless steel gives your door a sleek, modern style. Oil-rubbed bronze brings a timeless, classic feel. Satin brass adds a touch of warmth and elegance. Satin chrome offers a clean finish that pairs well with traditional architecture. Whatever your stylistic preference, we have the finishes you need.

You can choose from CDF’s selection of ADA-compliant pulls to match each opening’s needs:

• High-traffic doors benefit from sturdier stainless steel or brass trims to prevent wear.

• Historic buildings often require oil-rubbed bronze finishes that blend with traditional decor.

• Contemporary spaces designed for more dynamic shapes with angled or curved pulls.

• Glass door exit devices pair best with non-obstructive narrow-profile pulls. 

• Outdoor pulls must have a heavy-gasketed construction and be made from corrosion-resistant metals.

The right trim can provide ideal compliance and usability. Our team will help you thoughtfully select pull trims designed to fit your needs.

CDF Distributors knows the best pull trim models for every need. Contact our product specialists today to discuss how pull trims can provide compliance. Your patrons deserve easy access and usable facilities. Keep them happy and stay compliant with trusted hardware solutions from CDF.