Door Handle Replacement
It's worth it to replace door handles if you don't like the way they look, or if they are difficult to use. With a little patience, you can install the new handle in no time.
Most modern door handles have cover plates that hide the screws for an attractive appearance. However, you'll have to attach them separately if the new handle does not already have them.
Remove the handle that was previously used
Door handles are not only essential for aesthetics of your home, but they're also essential for security as they allow you to lock and unlock your door. Over time the door handle can become loose or feel loose. It may be beginning to appear old and worn. This is an indication that it's time for a replacement.
If your door handle is becoming difficult to use, it could be time to replace it. This is a problem since it means that you can not lock or unlock your door which could pose an security risk to you and your family.
It is also recommended to replace your door handle in the event that it's damaged or broken. A broken door handle can be quite dangerous, especially in the event that your children or senior family members have difficulty opening it and end up trapped within. It's easy to replace a damaged handle on a door.
The majority of modern door handles are standard size and so they will fit on any door. If you aren't sure if your new door handle will work, take out the old one and measure the holes in its housing. This will enable you to purchase the correct size door handle.
The easiest way to take off the door handle you have been using is to take it off of the door itself. This is usually done using a screw driver. Some door handles have an enclosure plate that hides the mounting screws. You'll need to remove it to get to the screws. After you have removed the handle that was previously used, take note of the way the spindle has been connected. This will assist you in aligning the new handle.
Alternately, you can take off your door handle by unscrewing it from the latch mechanism. This is usually done with a screwdriver but you'll need to find the small latch, which should be on the edge of the trim piece. After removing the latch, unscrew the handle and the strike plate. Then, you can remove the latch from the door's edge.
The Strike Plate
When you replace your handle, you'll want to replace the latch plate, which holds the hole that the door's latch is inserted into when it closes. The new handles will come with two latch plates that are circular and rectangular plate (see the above diagram that shows the parts of a door handle). If your current latch plate is a rectangular shape, switch it out for the round one, so that the latch hooks onto the strike plate in a way that makes the handle easier to operate.
The first step is to loosen the screw that holds the latch plate that was previously in place. These screws can be quite tight, and may require some force to loosen. It might be beneficial to have a second person help with this part if possible.
After the screws have been removed the latch will slide out of the door with ease. If the latch plate is stuck or doesn't move, use a small hammer to scrape the edges. This may help free the plate up.
Now you can prepare the new strike plate to be installed. With the screws made of wood that were included with your new handles, screw the latch plate onto the inside of the doorjamb. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can cause damage to the strike plate.
If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in the right position Try closing and opening the door to see if it closes and latches correctly. If it does not, you will need to adjust the strikeplate up or down, or forward or back until the door locks properly.
If the door is still moving or jiggles, you may need to increase the size of your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more common for older doors, but could also be caused by wear and tear, hinge mortises that are too narrow or are not sized correctly for the latch, or from damage or a broken strike plate that is damaged or broken. If this is the case, follow the same procedure for adjusting the strike plate, but with the use of a metal file instead a chisel and hammer.
Removing the Latch
The latch is the angled metal piece that moves through the hole that runs along the inside edge of your door. When you turn the handle, it pushes the latch forward and allows you to open the door. It also connects to a hole in the frame of the door to keep the door shut. If your door wiggles when you close it, changing the latch may be all you need to correct the issue.
It's difficult to see the screws that secure the latch to the door, however there's usually a small hole on the trim plate that allows you to insert a screwdriver in order to pry it off. After you've removed your trim plate, it should be simple to take off the latch and the remaining bolts that hold the spindle and latch in place.
If the latch won't release, try using an old-fashioned paper clip or tool to release it from the handle mechanism. Place the item in the slot for the latch that is recessed. gently twist or jiggle it until you feel the latch and handle begin to separate. You may have to do this several times before the latch is loose enough to allow it to be pulled out.
It should be possible to slide the new latch into its slot without problems after you have removed the old one. Make sure that the latch is correctly positioned in the slot and lined up with the screw chambers and then use the new screws to attach it to the strike plate and door frame.
Check the backset of the current handle (the distance between the centre of the large hole in the front of the door and the edge) prior to installing the new handle. Make sure that the size of the latch of the new handle is in line with the measurement.
If you're replacing the latch or handle, or if your old lock cylinder has been damaged, then you'll need an entirely new one. If you're not switching locks the new lock should fit in your existing recess and work with your existing keys. Choose a latch that has rectangular cover plates to match your old handles.
Remove the cover plate
Door handles may begin to look shabby with time, but if you replace them with a contemporary lever on rose design it's a quick and easy DIY project and decorating idea that can improve the overall appearance of your home. You can purchase complete sets that include escutcheons, privacy adaptors and escutcheons.
The first step to replace an internal door handle is to remove the cover plate or rose, which covers the screws and the mechanism within. Use a flathead for removing the cover plate. It could have an opening along one side or be secured by pins.
After the cover plate is removed take off the screw that holds the interior handle in place and set it aside. Take off the screws that hold both the inner and outer plates. You can loosen them with a Philips Screwdriver. Then, remove door handle repairs dover repairmywindowsanddoors and latch plate from the door and put them aside.
Most doors have a gap between the door jamb and the inner edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, but not all do. If it doesn't have a handle, you'll need to drill a hole into the door to install the new handle. This is the same procedure for opening a locked door however, you'll need to be extra careful not to harm the door or frame.
After the holes are drilled after which you'll have to put in new door knob screws. Make sure you purchase the same size as the previous ones, so you won't have an handle that is either too tight or too loose. Installing a new strike rod and latch is also required. They aren't included in most door handle sets.
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