Door Handle Replacement
Door handles seem like something minor but if you aren't happy with the style or design of them, or are finding them difficult to use then it's time to replace them. With some patience, you can put in a new handle in no time.
Most modern door handles have cover plates that conceal the screws to create a stylish appearance. However, you will need to attach them separately if the new handle does not already have them.
Removing the old Handle
Door handles are not only essential for aesthetics of your home, but they're crucial for safety as they allow you to lock and unlock your door. However, as time passes, your door handle may lose its grip, become loose or start to look old and worn out. This is an indication that it's time for a replacement.
If your door handle is becoming difficult to use, it might be time to replace it. This is a serious problem since you won't be in a position to lock or unlock the door and put your family and yourself at risk.
It's also an excellent idea to replace your door handle in the event that it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle is risky, particularly for children and elderly family members who might struggle to open it. They could be trapped. It's a good thing that it's easy to fix a broken door handle by replacing the handle that was broken.
Modern door handles are generally standard sizes and should fit any door. If you're not sure if your new door handle will fit, try taking out the old one and measuring its housing holes. This will allow you to buy the right door handle.
It is the easiest way to take off the old door handle by unscrewing it from the door. This is typically done with a screw driver. Some door handles come with the cover plate, which conceals the screws used to mount them. You will need to remove this to get to the screws. After you have removed the old handle, make a note of the way in which the spindle has been connected. This will assist you in aligning the new handle.
upvc door handles can also remove the door handle by depressing the latch mechanism. You can use a screwdriver to remove the door handle. However, you will have to locate the tiny latch, which is located on the edge trim piece. After taking off the latch, remove the handle and strike plate. Then, you can remove the latch from the door's edge.
Removal of the Strike Plate
You'll have to replace your latch plate after replacing the handle. This is the plate that holds the hole through which the door's latch hooks in when the door closes. The new handles will have two latch plates which are a circular and a rectangular plate (see the image above which illustrates the components of a door handle). If you have an rectangular latch plate, you can replace it with a circular one. This will let the latch hook onto the strike plate and make the handle easier to use.
The first step is to unhook the screw holding the latch plate. The screws are often quite tight and require a lot of force to loosen them. If possible, it may be beneficial to have a second person assist you with this task.
After the screws have been removed and the latch plate should slide out of the door easily. If it's stuck or won't move then use a small nail file to scrape around the edges of the latch plate. This can help loosen the plate.
Now, you can proceed to preparing the new door strike plate for installation. Attach the latch plate to the door jamb using the screws that were included with your new handles. Be cautious not to tighten too much the screws, as this can cause damage to the strike plate.
If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in the proper position You can try closing and opening the door to determine whether it latches and closes correctly. If it doesn't then you'll need to adjust the strikeplate either up or down, or forward or back until the door closes correctly.
If the door still moves or jiggles, you might have to expand your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more common in older doors, however it could be due to wear and tear hinge mortises that are too narrow or are not sized correctly for the latch, or because of damaged or broken strike plate that is damaged or broken. If this is the situation then you should use a filing made of metal instead of a chisel, or hammer to adjust the strike plate.
Removal of the Latch
The latch is a curved metal piece that slides in and out of a hole on the inside of your door. The latch is moved forward when you turn the handle. It also catches an opening in the door frame to ensure that the door stays closed. If your door wobbles when you close, a new latch may be the only thing needed to fix the problem.
The screws that hold the door latch are hard to spot however, you can use a screwdriver to make a small hole on the trim plate, and then pull the latch off. After removal of the trim plate you will be able to pull off the latch, as well as the bolts that hold it in place and the spindle.
If the latch isn't easily removed then use a paperclip tool to take it off the handle mechanism. Insert the item into the slot for the latch that is recessed, and gently twist it or jiggle until you feel the that the latch and handle begin to break off. You may need to repeat this several times before the latch is loose enough to allow it to be pulled out.
You should be able to slide the new latch into its slot without problems after you have removed the old one. Use the new screws to connect the latch to the strike plate or door frame. Make sure it's correctly placed in the slot and aligned with the screw chambers.
Before installing the new handle, be sure to measure your current backset (the distance from the center of the big hole on the front surface of the door to the edge). Also, ensure whether the size of the latch on the new handle is in line with this measurement.
You'll require a brand new lock cylinder if you're replacing the handle and latch, or your old one is damaged. If you're not changing locks, the new latch should fit in your existing recess and will be compatible with your current keys. Choose a latch that has rectangular cover plates that match the handles you have.
Removal of the Cover Plate
Door handles may begin to look shabby over time, but if you replace them with a contemporary lever-on-rose design, it's an easy and quick DIY and decorating project that will enhance the overall appearance of your home. You can purchase complete sets that include privacy adaptors, escutcheons, and escutcheons.
To replace the door handle inside take off the cover plate (or rose), which protects the screws and the inner mechanism. Utilize a flathead to take off the plate. It could have a slot on one edge or be held by pins.
Once the cover plate is off take off the screw that holds the interior handle in place and put it aside. Take off the screws that hold both the outer and inner plates. You can loosen them with a Philips Screwdriver. Remove the inner plates and latch from the door. Set them aside.
Some doors don't have this gap. If yours isn't have a handle, you'll need to drill a new hole through the door. This is the same procedure as opening a locked door however you'll have to be extra cautious not to scratch the frame or door.
Installing new door knob screws is necessary after holes have been drilled. Make sure you purchase the same size as the old ones, so you won't have a handle that's too tight or too loose. Installing a new latch and strike rod is also mandatory. These are not included in most door handle sets.
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