Finger Plates

Beeswax 400mm Plain Fingerplate, from our current range.

What is a finger plate?

A finger plate, sometimes written fingerplate, is a slim protective plate fitted to a door close to the handle, on the side the door is pushed from. It protects the paint or varnish underneath from the marks, grease and wear caused by fingers pushing the door open over time, which is particularly noticeable on light-coloured doors. Finger plates are a simple, low-cost way to keep a door looking presentable for longer, and are also a decorative feature in their own right, especially on period doors.

They are sold in a range of lengths and widths, from plain rectangular plates to more decorative shapes matching a period door furniture set.

Where finger plates are used

• Internal doors – particularly useful on light-coloured or painted doors where marks show up easily
• High traffic doors – kitchen and hallway doors that are pushed open frequently benefit most from the protection
• Period properties – decorative finger plates are often chosen to complement other traditional door furniture

Choosing the right finger plate

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Length – finger plates are sold in a range of lengths; a longer plate gives more coverage on doors that are pushed anywhere along their width
• Plain or decorative – plain plates suit contemporary doors, while decorative or Art Deco style plates suit period properties
• Positioning – fit on the push side of the door, roughly level with the door handle, for the best protection
• Finish – see our Hardware Finishes Guide to match your handles and other door furniture

Related products

Browse our current range of Finger Plates via search, or see the related categories in our Door Furniture Guide, including Kick Plates.

Frequently asked questions

Which side of the door does a finger plate go on?

A finger plate is fitted on the side of the door that is pushed to open it, positioned roughly level with the handle where marks are most likely to appear.

Can I fit a finger plate to an existing painted door?

Yes, finger plates simply screw or stick to the surface of the door and can be added to an existing door at any time, including over painted or varnished finishes.

Do finger plates come in different lengths?

Yes, finger plates are sold in a range of lengths, and choosing a longer plate gives wider protection if the door tends to be pushed in different spots.

Back to the Door Furniture Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.